Kumarakom, a serene backwater haven in Kerala, India, has garnered significant recognition for its exceptional tourism initiatives and experiences. Here’s a detailed list of the awards it has won:
World Travel Mart Responsible Tourism Award: Kumarakom received this prestigious award in London, recognizing its commitment to responsible tourism. The destination has actively promoted sustainable practices, including waste management, conservation of local ecosystems, and community engagement.
National Tourism Award: Kumarakom has been honored with the National Tourism award for Best Responsible Tourism initiative. This recognition highlights the efforts made by the local community and authorities to create a harmonious balance between tourism and environmental preservation. The awards were received in 2008-09 and 2015-16.
WTM Highly Commended Award: In 2017, Kumarakom was highly commended at the World Travel Mart for its responsible tourism initiatives. This acknowledgment further solidified its position as a destination committed to sustainable practices and community welfare.
Awards for Tourism Excellence
- Kerala Tourism has been awarded for its path-breaking Responsible Tourism project in Kumarakom, which successfully linked the local community with the hospitality industry and government departments, thereby creating a model for empowerment and development of the people in the area while sustaining eco-friendly tourism.
Awards for Individual Establishments
While Kumarakom itself has won several accolades for its tourism initiatives, individual resorts and hotels in the region have also received recognition:
- Kumarakom Lake Resort:
- India’s Best Hotel in the 5-star category at the National Tourism Awards.
- Best Five Star Hotel in Kerala by the Kerala State Tourism Award.
- Coconut Lagoon: Best Heritage Hotel in Kerala by the Kerala State Tourism Award.
- Vivanta by Taj Kumarakom: Award of Excellence for Best Four Star Hotel in Kerala by Kerala Tourism.
- ILLIKKALAm Lakeside Cottages Kumarakom: LLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages is a winner, for addressing the Challenge of COVID-19, in the WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards, in 2020
Despite these accolades, Kumarakom faces challenges in attracting a significant number of tourists. Efforts are ongoing to enhance waste management practices and promote Kumarakom as a Responsible Tourism destination.