Ernakulam tops in domestic tourist arrivals post-COVID

Ernakulam has topped the State in domestic tourist arrivals post-COVID, Minister for Tourism and Public Works P.A. Mohamed Riyas has said.

“Kochi is receiving the highest number of visitors in the State. Therefore, the growth of Kochi’s tourism sector is intrinsically linked to Kerala’s overall tourism development. The State’s tourism prospects rise in proportion to the advancement of Kochi. Kochi will feature prominently in programmes aimed at attracting more international tourists to the State,” the Minister said.

He was speaking after inaugurating a modern toilet block, a newly installed interactive play area, and an open-air gym at Subhash Bose Park in the city.

Kerala’s tourism growth is steadily approaching an all-time high post-pandemic. Over 1.19 crore domestic tourists visited the State in the first six months of 2025, marking a 10.50% increase compared to the previous year. This figure also represents a 33.75% rise over pre-COVID levels. The number of international tourists reached 3.83 lakh during the same period, reflecting a 6.87% increase from the previous year, Mr. Riyas said.

Subhash Bose Park serves as a model for modernising public spaces across the State, the Minister said. The renovation of the park marks a significant milestone, following the Tourism department’s design workshop focussed on developing public spaces. The project plan, prepared by the Kochi Corporation, was handed over to the department. The government’s policy of creating differently abled-friendly spaces has been fully implemented in the modernisation of the park.

“The toilet complex, which includes a toilet for the differently abled, feeding room, reading room, and a mini cafeteria, sets a benchmark for other parks in the State. Amenities previously seen only in foreign countries will now be made available in Kerala’s public spaces. Waste from the toilet complex will be treated and reused through an organic treatment facility established with financial assistance of ₹35 lakh from Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited. The interactive play area for children and the open gym are being developed at the park with an investment of ₹2.50 crore in collaboration with the Tourism department,” Mr. Riyas said.

Mayor M. Anilkumar inaugurated the mini cafeteria at the park. T.J. Vinod, MLA, and Deputy Mayor K.A. Ansiya were among those present.