Thiruvananthapuram, October 2026: Kerala Tourism is exploring the development of joint tourism circuits linking the state with popular destinations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and potentially Sri Lanka, as part of efforts to expand travel opportunities and attract more visitors.

The proposal was highlighted at a tourism partnership meeting held in New Delhi on October 13, where Kerala showcased its diverse tourism offerings, including beaches, hill stations, backwaters, heritage sites and traditional festivals. The event, themed “A Wonderful World,” brought together tourism stakeholders to promote the state as a destination offering varied travel experiences.

The proposed circuits could connect Kerala with destinations such as Coorg and Mysuru in Karnataka and the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu. The initiative aims to encourage multi-destination holidays by linking places with complementary natural landscapes, cultural traditions and historical attractions. Sri Lanka has also been identified as a potential partner for wider tourism circuit development.

Kerala's domestic tourism sector has continued to record growth. According to the state's Tourism Department, domestic tourist arrivals increased by 10.98% in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the corresponding period in 2025.

The meeting also highlighted the Brand Wayanad initiative, which promotes the district's natural beauty, agricultural traditions, cultural heritage and biodiversity. Kerala's Kochi–Muziris heritage network, reflecting the state's historic maritime and spice trade connections with West Asia and the Mediterranean, was another key attraction presented to tourism stakeholders.

Improving accessibility, upgrading tourism infrastructure and adopting artificial intelligence to simplify travel planning are among the other areas receiving attention. Kerala is also considering a policy framework to grant industry status to tourism, a long-standing demand from stakeholders that could help encourage investment in tourism and hospitality.

The proposed cross-border circuits could provide travellers with more integrated holiday options while creating opportunities for tour operators, accommodation providers and other businesses across participating destinations. Further details regarding implementation and the routes to be included are yet to be announced.