Muziris to be made international heritage tourism destination, says Satheesan
The Muziris Heritage Project (MHP) will be developed into an international heritage tourism destination, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan announced on Sunday, launching water taxis and kayaks in the region as part of a broader plan to revive and expand water-based tourism and cultural experiences.
Water-based tourism services launched and set for expansion
Unveiling the new services on Sunday, the Chief Minister said the government would scale up operations across the wider Muziris region. The expanded network is planned to cover Ezhikkara, Kottappuram and Azheekode, with connectivity proposed to key heritage and coastal locations including Kodungalloor, Azheekode, Kaipamangalam and Vypeen.
“The Chavittunatakam centre of Gothuruth and restaurants serving traditional cuisine will be developed further as part of the heritage project. New museums and water sports facilities will be launched. New star hotels and restaurants will also be brought to Paravur, Kodungalloor and neighbouring areas for tourists. Public participation will be ensured in the project to generate more job opportunities and promote local businesses,” Mr. Satheesan said.
Building a global model in heritage tourism
Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunadh, who chaired the meeting, said the Muziris Heritage Project would be shaped into a global model for tourism. He noted that boating services, which had been suspended, were revived in a time-bound manner as part of the government’s 100-day programmes, restoring crucial links across backwaters and heritage corridors and improving visitor access.
Cultural infrastructure and hospitality upgrades
As part of the project’s cultural and recreational infrastructure, authorities will focus on strengthening the Chavittunatakam centre at Gothuruth to showcase traditional performing arts, enhancing culinary tourism through restaurants serving regional cuisine, and introducing new water sports facilities. The plan also envisions the establishment of new museums and the addition of star-category hotels and restaurants in Paravur, Kodungalloor and nearby areas to boost tourist amenities.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the project would ensure broad public participation to create employment opportunities and nurture local enterprises, reflecting a community-driven approach to sustainable tourism development.
KSRTC push: New services, donations and inter-State routes
Earlier in the day at North Paravur, Mr. Satheesan said his government was working to transform the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) into a professional entity equipped with advanced facilities. He inaugurated seven new KSRTC services from North Paravur to various routes and opened a new bus bay, underlining efforts to strengthen public transport alongside tourism initiatives.
Highlighting public support for the corporation, the Chief Minister said three individuals had already donated ₹40 lakh each to purchase new buses, and more donors had expressed interest. In addition, 33 MLAs had granted permission to procure buses using their development funds. “The government is committed to improving public transport facilities,” he added.
To bolster regional and inter-State connectivity, the KSRTC is also set to introduce new services to destinations including Palani, Madurai and Velankanni, expanding travel options for pilgrims and other passengers.
Outlook
The combined thrust on heritage tourism through the Muziris project and the expansion of public transport services signals a coordinated strategy to enhance connectivity, revive traditional waterways, strengthen cultural institutions and foster local employment. With new attractions, revived boating, and additional bus routes on the anvil, the government’s plans aim to position Muziris as a standout international destination while improving mobility for residents and visitors alike.
