Improving the Potential of Ecotourism in Kerala by Practicing Sustainable Architecture

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that has been gaining more popularity because of increased sensitivity towards nature among people. Ecotourism is the most complete form of sustainable tourism. It means responsible travel to natural, pristine, and protected areas, conserving the environment and culture, and improving the well-being of the local people and local economy. Kerala is one of the fastest-growing states of the country in terms of tourism and has been applauded over the decades for its sustainable tourism model. The state boasts of 56 ecotourism spots and is working towards their protection, and local & tourist awareness. The aim of this study is to identify and improve the relationship between ecotourism & architecture, the factors that exert influence on this interaction, and uncover the knowledge gap in relevant policies and strategies for the development of ecotourism and its related architecture through sustainable strategies. The core idea of ecotourism lies in architecture as it has the power to express the environment and culture through space. This study uses different methods of research to establish and analyze its aim and discover new possibilities for ecotourism with the help of architecture. Qualitative and quantitative methods of research have been used to establish the meaning of ecotourism, sustainability, and architecture. The research is exploratory and descriptive in nature. Two types of surveys have been used to collect data for analysis – Closed surveys and open-ended surveys along with one-to-one interviews. Through such methods, the research critically reviews the status & ecotourism policies in Kerala. It establishes the need for mindful design interventions to support the infrastructure required. Use of locally sourced natural materials, passive solar and energy-efficient strategies, improving cultural identity through space, and minimal environmental impact are some of the ways in which design can make ecotourism better. Eventually, this will help generate more local employment, foreign currency in the local communities, and state, cultural, and environmental awareness.