Tourism is more than travel — it is a bridge between cultures, a channel for growth, and a force for sustainability. This year, The Yuva Tourism Club of Govt VHSS, Kumarakom, is celebrating World Tourism Day 2025 with a week-long event called Hexa Celebrations, bringing students and the local community together to reflect on tourism’s role in shaping our world.
The Inaugural Event
The celebrations will officially kick off on Monday, 22 September 2025, at 2:30 PM, at Govt VHSS, Kumarakom. The inauguration will be graced by Mr. Salim Das, BCom LLB, a respected name in Kumarakom’s tourism sector. Mr. Das is the promoter of Illikkalam Lakeside Cottages, one of the most serene and eco-conscious stays by the Vembanad Lake, and he currently serves as the President of the Chamber of Vembanad Hotels & Resorts (CVHR), Kumarakom.
About World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day is observed every year on 27 September to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the Statutes of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1970. Since 1980, this day has been dedicated to highlighting tourism’s importance as a driver of social, cultural, political, and economic progress.
The 2025 theme is “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” This theme emphasizes how tourism can be a catalyst for positive change, driving innovation and helping communities adapt responsibly to global challenges.
About Mr. Salim Das, Illikkalam & CVHR
Mr. Salim Das is deeply committed to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism. His property, Illikkalam Lakeside Cottages, is known for its focus on preserving the natural beauty of Kumarakom while offering guests an authentic Kerala backwater experience. Under his leadership, CVHR advocates for improved infrastructure, better environmental practices, and stronger collaboration between local stakeholders to make Kumarakom a model tourism destination.
What to Expect During Hexa Celebrations
Throughout the week, students will engage in a variety of activities including:
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Cultural programs showcasing Kerala’s heritage.
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Quizzes and exhibitions on sustainable tourism.
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Talks and interactive sessions with tourism experts.
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Local environment initiatives such as clean-up drives and awareness campaigns.
Why It Matters
Tourism in Kumarakom is not just about scenic boat rides or houseboats — it is about sustaining livelihoods, protecting the backwaters, and showcasing Kerala’s unique traditions. Events like the Hexa Celebrations remind us that the future of tourism lies in balancing growth with respect for nature and culture.
This World Tourism Day, let’s celebrate not just the journey but the responsibility we share in shaping tourism for tomorrow. Kumarakom is showing the way forward — and you’re invited to be part of it.