PROSPECTIVES OF KADALUNDI ISLAND AS A

ECOTOURISM DESTINATION

PROJECT REPORT

Submitted to university of Calicut in the partial fulfilment of the requirement for the
award of the degree of
Bachelor Of Travel and Tourism Management
Undertaken by

JAFRIN FATHIMA C
(Register No: PWAUATTR44)

Under the guidance of

Ms. ANAGHA SATHEESAN T M
(Assistant Professor)

Department Of Travel and Tourism Management Providence Women’s College,

Calicut
2020-2023
 DEPARTMENT OF TRAVEL AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
PROVIDENCE WOMEN’S COLLEGE, CALICUT KERALA-673009

Lecturer: Ms. Anagha Satheesan T M (MTTM)

Email: [email protected]

CERTIFICATE

Date:

I hereby certify that the project entitled “PROSPECTIVES OF KADALUNDI ISLAND

AS A ECOTOURISM DESTINATION” is a bonafide work carried out by Ms. JAFRIN
FATHIMA C under my guidance and supervision in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Travel and Tourism
Management.

She is permitted to submit the project report

External Examiner Supervising Teacher

Ms. Anagha Satheesan T M

 DECLARATION

I JAFRIN FATHIMA C, hereby declare that the project report entitled

PROSPECTIVES OF KADALUNDI ISLAND AS A ECOTOURISM DESTINATION
is a bonafide work carried out by me under the guidance and supervision of Ms. Anagha
Satheesan T M Department of Travel and Tourism Management, Providence Women’s
College, Calicut. I also declare that this project report has not been submitted previously
for the award of any academic qualification or fellowship.

PLACE: CALICUT

DATE:

JAFRIN FATHIMA C
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my deep-felt gratitude to my supervising teacher Ms. Anagha

Satheesan T M for her valuable guidance, constant encouragement and advice given for
the preparation of this project report. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to
Dr. Sr. Ashmitha A.C and all the others who had corporated with me in this journey.
Above all, thanks to almighty God and my parents as without their help, support and
blessing this project would not have been a success.

JAFRIN FATHIMA C
 Contents

CHAPTER -1: INTRODUCTION………………………………………….(1-4)

1.1 INTRODUCTION (1)
1.2 OBJECTIVES (4)
1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY (4)
1.4 PRIMARY DATA (4)
1.5 SECONDARY DATA. (4)

CHAPTER-2: REVIEW OF LITERATURE ……………………………(5-22)

2.1 ECOTOURISM (6)
2.2 ECOTOURISM IN KERALA WITH DESTINATIONS (6)
2.3 ECOTOURISM IN KOZHIKODE WITH DESTINATIONS (6)
2.4 HISTORY OF KADALUNDI (7)
2.5 CULTURE OF KADALUNDI (8)
2.6 Enchanting Kadalundi with mangroves, birds an ideal spot to unwind (10)
2.7 KADALUNDI BIRD SANCTUARY (12)
2.8 KADALUNDI MANGROVES ECOTOURISM (13)
2.9 TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS IN KADALUNDI (14)
2.10 ECOTOURISM PROGRAMS (15)
2.11 KADALUNDI VALLIKUNNU COMMUNITY RESERVE (16)
2.12 Major Environmental Issues in Kadalundi River Basin (18)
2.13 Local investors tap Kadalundi’s tourism potential (18)
2.14 Evaluation of Groundwater Development Prospects in Kadalundi River
Basin (20)
2.15 New tourism projects for Kadalundi (20)
CHAPTER-3:…………………………………………………………… (22-26)
3.1 Introduction to data analysis .(23)
3.2 Types of data (24)
3.3 Procedure of data collection .(25)

CHAPTER-4: DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION…………(27-37)

Interpretation of data collected.

CHAPTER-5: FINDINGS, SUGGESTIONS AND CONCLUSION…....(38-46)

5.1 Findings (39)
5.2 Suggestions (40)
5.3 Conclusions (41)
APPENDIX
BIBLIOGRAPHY (42)
QUESTIONNAIRE (43)
 LIST OF DIAGRAMS
DIAGRAM NO. NAME OF DIAGRAM PAGE NO.

3.1 STATUS OF TOURIST 35

3.2 TRAVEL MOTIVE 36

3.3 MORE LIKELY TO 37

VISIT
3.4 ATTRACTIONS 38

3.5 BOATING THROUGH 39

MANGROVES AND
THE BIO DIVERSITIES
3.6 HOMESTAY 40
EXPERIENCE
3.7 CLEANLINESS OF 41
THE DESTINATION
3.8 GOVERNMENT 42
SERVICES AND DTPC
PROJECTS
IMPLEMENTED
3.9 SERVICES PROVIDED 43
BY THE LOCALS
3.10 FACILITIES AND 44
STATUS OF GUEST
 CHAPTER – 1
INTRODUCTION

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1.1 INTRODUCTION

Tourism is the movement of the people from their normal place of residence to another
place (with the intention to return) for a minimum period of twenty four hours to a
maximum of six months for the sole purpose of leisure and pleasure. It could be
international or domestic; travel from one country to another or travel within the country.
Nowadays people not only just go to a destination, but also make a thorough research
before planning the tour.

India is a country that attracts millions of tourists every year and is considered one of the
most popular tourist destinations in the world. These visitors are attracted to its natural
beauty and cultural heritage. It has many historic sites as well like the Taj Mahal, Golden
Temple, Red Fort, etc. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that tourism is one of the
main sources of revenue for the country.

Tourism in india has been seen as a major tool to bring about socio-economic
development to the people of the country. India’s tourism industry also provides
employment opportunities to several people from all parts of the world. There are ample
number of hotels, resorts, food joints and various other amenities available for tourists
arriving in india.

The World Tourism Organisation defines ecotourism as: all nature-based forms of
tourism in which the main motivation of the tourists is the observation and appreciation
of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas. ecotourism is
tourism that centers around awareness of the environment and the local community. As
eco-tourists, the goal is to visit an area with the well-being of the local people
and nature in mind.

Kerala was a relatively unknown destination, with most tourism circuits concentrated
around the north of the country. Aggressive marketing campaigns launched by the Kerala
Tourism Development Corporation the government agency that oversees tourism
prospects of the state laid the foundation for the growth of the tourism industry. In the
decades that followed, Kerala Tourism was able to transform itself into one of the niche

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holiday destinations in India. The tag line Kerala, God's Own Country was adopted in its
tourism promotions and became a global superbrand. Kerala is a popular destination for
both domestic as well as foreign tourists. Kerala is well known for its beaches,
backwaters in Alappuzha and Kollam, mountain ranges and wildlife sanctuaries.

Kadalundi is a village in Kozhikode district, Kerala, India. It is a coastal village close to

the Arabian Sea. Kadalundi is famous for its bird sanctuary, which is home to various
migratory birds during certain seasons and has been recently declared as a bio-reserve.

The Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu community reserve is the first community reserve in Kerala.

The Kadalundi River and the Chaliyar river, two of the longest rivers of Kerala, merges
with the Arabian Sea at Kadalundi.

The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary lies in Vallikunnu Grama Panchayat of Malappuram

district in Kerala, India. It spreads over a cluster of islands where the Kadalundipuzha
River flows into the Arabian Sea. The Sanctuary hill is around 200 m above sea level. It
is located 19 km away from the Kozhikode city centre.

3
1.2 OBJECTIVES
● To study about the potential of kadalundi tourism as an ecotourism destination
● To study about the future possibilities in kadalundi
● To bring out major developments in kadalundi island
● To identify promote economic wealth in kadalundi tourism
● To identify the impacts in kadalundi and bring out the applicable solutions

1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research methodology is a term that means the science of how research is done
scientifically. It is the way to systematically and logically solve a problem. It helps us
understand the process, not just the product of research, but also the analytical methods
in addition to the information obtained by them.

1.4 PRIMARY DATA

For the conduct of this research Primary data was collected from the Online
questionnaire by the method of Google form.

1.5 SECONDARY DATA

Secondary data was collected from the books , websites, journals etc.
Secondary data is second-hand information collected by investigators from the
previously published one, it includes books, magazines ,internet sources etc. The review
of literature is the research based on secondary data. Secondary data analysis can save
time that would otherwise be spent collecting data and particularly in the case of
quantitative data, which can provide larger and higher quality databases that would be
unfeasible for any individual researcher to collect on their own.

4
 CHAPTER – 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

5
2.1 ECOTOURISM

The World Tourism Organisation defines ecotourism as: all nature-based forms of
tourism in which the main motivation of the tourists is the observation and appreciation
of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas. As defined by the
International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism refers to “responsible travel that conserves
the environment and improves the well-being of local people”. Also called “nature
tourism”, the objective of ecotourism is to minimize the impact brought about by tourism
on the environment. ecotourism is tourism that centers around awareness of the
environment and the local community. As eco-tourists, the goal is to visit an area with the
well-being of the local people and nature in mind.

2.2 ECOTOURISM IN KERALA WITH DESTINATIONS

Kerala ecotourism aims to let people have an insight into the local culture. Most of the
foreign tourists choose eco-friendly areas to visit because Kerala has many destinations
known for their natural beauty and exquisite landscape. Kerala Tourism claims that
Thenmala is the country's first planned eco-tourism destination. Located at distance of 72
km from Thiruvananthapuram, in the Kollam district, the place owes its natural beauty to
the adjacent Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary at the foothills of the Western Ghats.

Ecotourism destinations in kerala are mind blowing. some of them are;

• Gavi
• Alappuzha
• Kumbalangi
• Thommankuthu
• Aralam wildlife sanctuary etc .

2.3 ECOTOURISM IN KOZHIKODE WITH DESTINATIONS

A nature lover's delight, the Janakikadu Eco-Tourism Project at Kozhikode offers bird
watching, butterfly tracking and trekking through the thick forest range of Kozhikode. A
trek through this pristine greenery would give you glimpses of rare avian species and
multitudes of vivid butterflies. A casual stroll under a canopy brings one across to
exquisite medicinal herbs while raft rides on the river bring a part of the beautiful shore
into view.

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 • Kuttiady
• Peruvannamuzhi
• Kakkad
• Thusharagiri etc are some of the ecotourism destinations in kozhikode.

2.4 HISTORY OF KADALUNDI

Kadalundi-Chaliyam-Beypore region had trade relations with foreign countries like
Rome and Arabia. Tyndis was a major center of trade, next only to Muziris, between the
Cheras and the Roman Empire. Pliny the Elder (1st century CE) states that the port of
Tyndis was located at the northwestern border of Keprobotos (Chera dynasty). The North
Malabar region, which lies north of the port at Tyndis, was ruled by the kingdom of
Ezhimala during the Sangam period. According to the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, a
region known as Limyrike began at Naura and Tyndis. However the Ptolemy mentions
only Tyndis as the starting point. The region probably ended at Kanyakumari; it thus
roughly corresponds to the present-day Malabar Coast. The value of Rome's annual trade
with the region was estimated at around 50,000,000 sesterces. Pliny the Elder mentioned
that Limyrike was prone pirates. The Cosmas Indicopleustes mentioned that the
Limyrike was a source of peppers.

According to the Legend of Cheraman Perumals, the first Indian mosque was built in 624
AD at Kodungallur with the mandate of the last the ruler (the Cheraman Perumal) of
Chera dynasty, who converted to Islam during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (c.
570–632).According to Qissat Shakarwati Farmad, the Masjids at Kodungallur, Kollam,
Madayi, Barkur, Mangalore, Kasaragod, Kannur, Dharmadam, Panthalayini, and
Chaliyam (just opposite to Kadalundi), were built during the era of Malik Dinar, and they
are among the oldest Masjids in the Indian subcontinent. It is believed that Malik Dinar
died at Thalangara in Kasaragod town.

After the breakdown of the Chera Kingdom dynasty rooted in Kadalundi, Parappanad
Kovilakam became the rulers of Kadalundi. They gave permission for the Dutch to build
a fort in Kadalundi. Even though the fort collapsed after a war with Zamorians, we can
see the remnants in Mulla in Kadalundi. Later the British became the rulers of Kadalundi
and they built railway lines up to Chaliyam for the purpose of business. Later when
Calicut became the center of trades the railway lines were removed but there are
remnants such as the railway well, lighthouse, and forest depot.

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Thundi is an ancient seaport and harbor-town north of Muziris (Muchiri) in the Chera
Kingdom (Keprobotos), modern day India on the Malabar Coast.The exact location of
the port is still unknown, modern day Kadalundi, Ponnani, Tanur, and Pantalayani
kollam are often identified as Tyndis located in the Sangam age Tamil kingdom of the
Cheras. Tyndis was a major center of trade, next only to Muziris, between the Cheras and
the Roman Empire in the early centuries of the Christian era. A branch of the Chera royal
family is also said to have established itself at Tyndis. It is also speculated that Tyndis
(along with ports such as Naura, Bakare and Nelkynda) operated as a satellite feeding
port to Muziris.

Kadalundi was the site of the Kadalundi train derailment, which was one of the biggest
accidents on the Indian railway network in 2001.

2.4.1 POLITICAL HISTORY

Kadalundi, on the southern bank of Chaliyar river and the northern bank of Kadalundi
River, was a part of the kingdom of Parappanad during the medieval period. The rulers of
Parappanad were vassals to the Zamorin of Calicut.The headquarters of Parappanad
Royal family was the coastal town of Parappanangadi in present-day Malappuram
district. In the 15th century CE, Parappanad Swaroopam was divided into two - Northern
Parappanad (Beypore Swaroopam) and Southern Parappanad (Parappur Swaroopam).
Kadalundi, Vallikkunnu, and Parappanangadi, were included in Southern Parappanad.
Beypore, Cheruvannur, and Panniyankara, on the northern bank of Chaliyar, became
Northern Parappanad.

2.5 CULTURE OF KADALUNDI

Kadalundi is a small village in Kozhikode district, Kerala, India. It is situated between

Beypore and Vatakara ports. This little village has a rich cultural heritage and the people
of Kadalundi are known for their hospitality and friendly nature. The village has a
number of temples, churches and mosques, which are still in use and are visited by local
people and tourists alike.

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The people of Kadalundi are very proud of their culture and they celebrate several
festivals and events throughout the year. The most important festival celebrated in
Kadalundi is the Vishu festival which marks the beginning of the Malayalam year. This
festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and the people of Kadalundi gather to sing
and dance. The traditional art forms of Kadalundi include Yakshagana, Theyyam, and
Kolam. Yakshagana is a dance drama which is performed in the night and is based on
mythology. The Theyyam is an ancient ritual art form in which people perform a unique
dance and wear traditional costumes. Kolam is a form of art which involves drawing
beautiful patterns on the ground with rice flour.

Kadalundi, about 25 kms from Kozhikode, is a place of much historical significance.

References to Kadalundi can be seen in documents of the Sangham era during which it
was known as Thondi. Thondi was the headquarters of the Chera dynasty.

In ancient times, Kadalundi was a major port that had trade relationships with the Arabs
and Romans. By the 12th century, the region came under the authority of the local rulers
of Parappanad Kovilakam. The Parappanad ruler allowed the Dutch to build the
Chaliyath Fort here, which was later demolished by the Zamorin. At a later period, the
area came under British rule.

2.5.1 KADALUNDI RIVER

Kadalundi River (Kadalundi puzha) is one of the four major rivers flowing through
Malappuram district in the Indian state of Kerala. The other three are the Chaliyar, the
Bharatha puzha and the Tirur River. This rain-fed river is 130 kilometers (81 mi) long
and is one of the most important rivers in the district. Kadalundi River is also the sixth
longest River in Kerala. Kadalundi River passes through [Karuvarakundu, Tuvvur
[Melattur, Kerala|Melattur], Pandikkad, Manjeri, Malappuram, Panakkad, Parappur,
Vengara, Tirurangadi, Parappanangadi, Vallikkunnu, and empties itself into Arabian sea
at Kadalundi Nagaram in Vallikkunnu on the northwestern border of the district.It is
formed by the confluence of the Olippuzha River and the Veliyar River.The Kadalundi
originates from the Western Ghats at the western border of the Silent Valley and flows

9
through the district of Malappuram.It has two main tributaries namely Olipuzha and
Veliyar. Olipuzha and Veliyar merge together to become Kadalundi River near Melattur.
Kadalundi River traverses through the historical regions of Eranad and Valluvanad. The
Kadalundi River drains an area of 1274 km² and has a length of 120 km. The ancient port
of Tyndis, which was the second-largest trading port of Chera dynasty, only after to
Muziris, is identified with the mouth of this river at Vallikunnu.The Kadalundi Bird
Sanctuary spreads over a cluster of islands where the Kadalundi puzha River flows into
the Arabian Sea.There are over a hundred species of native birds and around 60 species
of migratory birds in large numbers annually.

2.5.2 RELIGION

It follows the religion of Hinduism. The majority of the people are Hindus, with a small
minority of Muslims, Christians, and Jains also present. The main Hindu temple in the
area is the Kadalundi temple, located on the banks of the Kadalundi River. The temple is
dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu. The temple is visited by many devotees
throughout the year and is a popular tourist attraction. The other religious sites in
Kadalundi include a mosque, several churches, and a Jain temple.

2.5.3 ARTS AND CULTURE

Vavutsavam

Vavutsavam is one of the grand religious celebrations in Malabar, especially in

Kadalundi region. “Vavu Bali’ is a extensively offered ritual throughout kerala.
Vavutsavam otherwise ‘vav’ is celebrated in the month of October and always comes
coupled with ‘Deepavali’. The deity worshipped in the festival is ‘Pediaattu Bagavathi’.
The goddess is known in different names like Amma, Neelavatteri Amma, Devi,
Pediaattu Amma, or even as Kadalundi Amma. The attraction of the festival is the
message of social harmony it sends out. It is not a festival by a committee , but it is a
celebration by the whole people of Kadalundi region. It is not Onam or Vishu,
Vavutsavam is the most important festival for everyone in Kadalundi. It is the time of get
together for them.

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The vavu is taking place in sanctimonious and colourful way because of the joint efforts
of various communities and moreover by the people of the region. This community
close-work breaks all the boundaries of cast, creed and other impervious systems which
were prominent in olden days. It is amazing fact that this tradition of harmony for the
goddess is started long long ago, then Kerala was governed by ‘savarnar’ in the aspect of
Varna System, that is, in the present-day context, the forward class.

2.6 Enchanting Kadalundi with mangroves, birds an ideal spot

to unwind

Mangroves are abundant in estuaries, where a river meets the sea. Such places are
picturesque and offer pleasing views to visitors. Moreover, mangrove forests are home to
a wide variety of birds as well.

One such spot in Kerala where mangroves and winged creatures can be observed at close
quarters is Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu Community Reserve. The ideal time to visit the place
is between November and April, when the migratory birds arrive in large numbers.

Every traveller to Kozhikode can take a detour into the nearby Kadalundi Reserve,
which is one among the first such facilities in India. Participation of local people is
ensured to protect nature at these reserves, where they can also earn a livelihood. The
reserve at Kadalundi, opened in 2007, functions under the supervision of the Forest
Department.

Visitors to the kadalundi reserve can meet p Sivadasan, chairman of its management
committee, who would be eager to guide them. The scenery at the reserve can be enjoyed
best in a boat. Local oarsmen like Siddique would take travellers around in their small
boats, which are covered with tarpaulin sheets.

As soon as you start the trip, the sea mouth can be observed in the distance. The railway
bridge also comes into view along which trains pass regularly. However, the river flows
calmly and the boat ride is smooth. True to the eco-friendly nature of the reserve, no
motorised boat ply here. The boatmen can not only provide pleasing views of the
mangroves but also brief you about different species of the greenery. The

11
Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu Community Reserve is located in two districts, Kozhikode and
Malappuram. While Kadalundi is in Kozhikode, Vallikkunnu is in Malappuram. The
management committee has a Forest Department official and the local people as its
members.

Interestingly, there are some tiny islets in the mangroves with human habitats in the
reserve, which is spread over an area of 1.5 square km. Mangroves grow densely at the
reserve, but there are narrow creeks between them which can be accessed by boat only
when there is high tide.

According to Sivadasan, there are eight types of mangroves at Kadalundi. Birds, the
other attraction, offer themselves in a much wider variety. According to birdwatchers, the
reserve is home to around 110 species of birds, of which 53 are migratory. Some small
birds like Sand Plover consider Kadalundi as their favourite location and are seen in huge
numbers.

The area offers good opportunities, which are utilized fully by local nature photographers
like Vijesh Vallikkunnu. Some rocks seen near the wharf form a piictursque scenery and
the sight of the setting sun from the spot is stunning. Family groups as well as couples
can head to Kadalundi to spend a pleasant time. The office at the site also arrange
daylong study tours for students as well.

2.7 KADALUNDI BIRD SANCTUARY

The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary lies in Vallikunnu Grama Panchayat of Malappuram

district in Kerala, India. It spreads over a cluster of islands where the Kadalundi puzha
River flows into the Arabian Sea. The Sanctuary hill is around 200 m above sea level. It
is located 19 km away from the Kozhikode city center.

The Kadalundi bird sanctuary in Kozhikode district is spread over a cluster of islands in a
scenic area surrounded by hillocks where the Kadalundi River flows into the Arabian
Sea. This land has over 60 species of migratory birds that visit it during different times of
the year. One can see seagulls, terns, sandpipers, sand plovers, red and greenshanks,

12
turnstones and so on with November to April being the ideal viewing time. This is
indeed a paradise designed especially for bird lovers.

Between November and April, one will be able to see flocks of Terns, Gulls, Herons,
Sandpipers, Whimbrels, Brahminy Kites and Cormorants. A wide variety of fish, mussels
and crabs, and snakes like the Cobra, the Krait and the Viper also inhabit this wetland
habitat.

The hillocks that surround the sanctuary provide a magnificent view of the estuary and
the sea. Kadalundi, with its captivating wild beauty, is a popular destination for trek
wildlife photographers and picnickers.

2.8 KADALUNDI MANGROVES ECOTOURISM

The kadalundi panchayat launches its first eco-friendly tourism project that would give
the travelers the glimpse into the mangrove forest and famed bird sanctuary along the
banks of Kadalundi river in kozhikode. The mangrove ecotourism helmed by the
panchayat has packages with boat services to the lush green islets on kadalundi river and
to the bird sanctuary near the kadalundi community reserve and mangrove forest along
the estuary where the river meets the sea. There are around nine mangrove varieties in
the forest. The ecotourism unit has also included a variety of food prepared with the local
catch from the river in the tourism package. Local fish varieties like pearl spot, crab,
shrimp, clam and mussel dishes are served with steamed tapioca, pathiri and wheat
chapathi.

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2.9 TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS IN KADALUNDI

2.9.1 SEA FOOD

Seafood is the main highlight of the cuisine of Malabar. kari¬meen pollichathu, pearl spot
fish baked over coals, karimeen curry and viral fry are some of the main seafood dishes
available in kadalundi.It is all about how you enjoy your food in a Boat, if you really
wanna have some good fish curry meals with fish fry, kallummakaya, muru, prawns,
crabs etc..

2.9.2 HOME STAY

A private house offering accommodation to paying guests. A home stay in the cap of the
scenic Cheruthuruthi island. Live in the lap of nature surrounded by the lush green of
kadalundi Mangrove.

2.9.3 WILDLIFE SAFARI

The place is a mangrove reserve. There is a boat service through the Kadalundi river that
takes is through the mangrove. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary provides shelter and ideal
conditions to a number of migratory birds.

2.9.4 BOATING
The boating through the Kadalundi River gives the visitors a closer view of the
mangrove forests and the bio diversities. you can hire a boat from sanctuary office for a
closer look of the birds. Boat ride in the traditional style is a must do
through the sanctuary.

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2.9.5 MANGROVE FOREST
Mangroves are abundant in estuaries, where a river meets the sea. Such places are
picturesque and offer pleasing views to visitors. Moreover, mangrove forests are home to
a wide variety of birds as well. One such spot in Kerala where mangroves and winged
creatures can be observed at close quarters is Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu Community
Reserve. The ideal time to visit the place is between November and April, when the
migratory birds arrive in large numbers.You can have a close view of the mangrove and
its biodiversity from the places like Mannarmad, C P Thuruthy, Panayammad,
Balathiruthy etc. All the plants are depicted in the ‘horthus malabaricus’ which is
situated in a garden near Chaliyam.

2.10 ECOTOURISM PROGRAMS

The ecotourism destination is attracted by the scenic beauty of Kadalundi estuary, rivers,
backwaters, mud flats, mangrove islets. Various visitors are arriving at Kadalundi to
observe the avifauna, Mangrove Forests and the local fishing methods adopted by the
local community .Shore birds are eye catching sights for the visitors to Kadalundi, a
birds paradise to spot rare and endangered species. Hundreds of Gulls, Terns and Plovers
are not uncommon sight in Kadalundi. The ethnic way of capturing fish by using
Bamboo wall traps and nets give the visitors long lasting memories. Manual collection of
bivals by local men and women is again a very rare sight for the visitors. Overall a slow
and steady ride by a country Boat with an oar man is unforgettable experience from
Kadalundi. Other important sightseeing centers focused on tourism are KadalundiKadavu
bridge area which hosts a large population of local and migratory birds and different
islets like Mannanmad, Balathuruthy and Cheriyathuruthy which have thick mangrove
vegetation and can be accessed through country boats.

2.10.1 COUNTRY BOAT SERVICE FOR SIGHTSEEING

Kadalundi Vallikkunnu Community Reserve offers you a unique experience on the

scenic Kadalundi River, boating in a Country Boat with all safety measures through lush

15
green mangrove patches watching flocks of birds, schools of fish and life on idyllic
islands lined with swaying coconut palms. Kadalundi river touches the Kozhikode and
Malappuram districts, of history dating back to the Ist century AD, when Greek traders
came here, calling it Tyndis. Our experienced boatmen recall many riverine stories as
they take you safely around passing under rail, road and foot bridges. They will
familiarize you with local flora and fauna, which includes 8 species of Mangroves, many
varieties of fishes, crabs, oysters, mussels, crustaceans and even otters sighted with
flooding and ebbing tides.

Watching the sunset as flocks of birds fly past, is a mesmerizing experience here. During
the migratory season from September to April you could spot winged visitors from far
flung lands. Even the trains that thunder past and the aero planes that fly over the
Reserve offer a memorable sight. There are enough boats here with adequate safety
catering to Group tours for Schools,Colleges and other organizations.

The inhabitants of the Community Reserve owning the country boats are engaged in
eco-tourism activities under the supervision of CRMC having necessary certificates and
are equipped with safety measures suggested by the authorities, licensed drivers,
supporting staff, Rescue Team etc. as prescribed in the Kerala Inland Vessel Rule 2010.

2.11 KADALUNDI VALLIKUNNU COMMUNITY RESERVE

It was one among the first three community reserves in India declared on 18th October
2007. Being the community reserve 150 hectares of estuary area will be protected. The
specialty of this Community Reserve is the participation of people to protect the rare
forests and birds. The movement is a very good step for Bio-conservation.The Kadalundi
Vallikkunnu Community Reserve (KVCR) is located on the western side of the northern
Kerala in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts on the river mouth of Kadalundi River
spreading in the estuary. It extends in Kadalundi of Kozhikode Taluk of Kozhikode
district and in Vallikkunnu of Tirurangadi Taluk of Malappuram district. Area of KVCR
extends up to 153.84 Ha. Kadalundi Panchayat has an important place in the tourism map
of our country. It is estuarine land caressed by coastal tides. The area is winter haven to

16
numerous migratory birds. The natural beauty of Kadalundi estuary, mangrove
vegetation and the water splendid areas which reflect the coconut palms and nearby trees,
are really splendid and matchless.The mangrove vegetation seen on these coastal lands
are one of the rich repositories of the country’s mega biodiversity. The mangrove
vegetation seen in Kadalundi areas supports the species like Acanthus,
Avicenniaofficinalis,Excoecariaagallocha, Rhizophora, Sonneratia alba etc. which
attracts botanists and nature enthusiasts across the nation.The mangroves play an
important role as a nursery ground in the early stages of fish, shellfish and other
crustaceans making this an important area for fishing. In addition to crabs, prawns and
mussels, fish species like Mangrove red snapper (chembally), Large scale mullet
(Malan), Grey mullet (Thirutha), Brown shrimp (chudanchemmen),Tiger Prawn and
solea are so common here.One of the main attractions of Kadalundi estuary and
mangrove vegetation is the numerous migratory birds visiting seasonally from faraway
places. The important birds are different species of gull and herons. Gulls, Reef herons,
Pond herons, Terns, Plovers, Sandpipers, Sunbirds, Bee eaters, Mynas, Pigeons,
Parakeets etc can be sighted at close vicinity. This is an ideal place for the public to
enjoy their leisure time in the lap of the pristine green nature and to observe them at close
vicinity

2.11.1 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE AREA

● Kadalundi is an estuary with unique mangrove vegetation and associated

fauna. A large portion of the shallow wetland is exposed with intertidal
fluctuations which attributes to the unique characteristics of this wetland. The
upriver margins contiguous to the estuary are perhaps the best abodes of
mangroves.
● The estuarine marshland areas display the functional characteristics and
role of a mangrove wetland system. The tidal flood waters recede during the low
tides, exposing the open area of the estuary up to the eastern end, delimited a little
westward, creating the vast forage ground of mudflats for innumerable numbers of
living organisms including migratory birds.
● The diversity in resource utilization is a great phenomenon of this area.
This ranges from sand mining to shell mining, fishing oyster catching, mussel
farming, peat collection, coir retting etc. Nowadays the boundless possibilities of

17
 tourism are also being tapped by inhabitants. The area provides immense
opportunities for research and education, recreation and livelihood support.

2.12 Major Environmental Issues in Kadalundi River Basin

The major driving forces of environmental change are fisheries, acquaculture ,small
industries,household shell mining, sand mining, services like water supply and
sanitation, activities of researchers and academicians and to a certain extent tourism.
There are about 200 persons engaged in fishing and around 50 families are involved in
mussel cultivation usually in high saline waters. These issues become more severe due to
lack of cooperation from local residences and government officials. Based on the
secondary data collected from newspapers, journals and social media and pilot visits to
the study area, the following are the major issues threatening the environmental condition
of Kadalundi river basin.

2.13 Local investors tap Kadalundi’s tourism potential

Domestic tourists enjoying a country boat ride around the Kadalundi community reserve.
Sensing the emerging tourism potential of the Kadalundi community reserve and its
popularity among domestic and international sightseers, more numbers of local
entrepreneurs have come forward to offer low-cost sightseeing packages to tourists to
take advantage of the opportunity.

Affordable sightseeing by traveling on country boats covering the two-km stretch of the
mangrove forest is among the offers made by new investors.

Interestingly, some local sand mining workers too are part of domestic tourism ventures.

They have secured membership in local country boat operators’ groups to guide tourists
and explain to them the features of the rich mangrove forest and the popular bird
sanctuary.

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“Our eight-member group has two traditional country boats to operate sightseeing trips.
It is with financial aid from Kadalundi grama panchayat that we managed to form the
group,” said M. Krishnakumar, the team leader.

He added that there were also sand miners who were experts in rowing country boats.

Now, there are eight country boats available for sightseers. Each group offers customized
packages to families, students, and corporate groups.

Serving local cuisines too adorns the list of services. For a 10-member group, the
twohour trip without food costs ₹1,500. A.P. Sudheesh, an entrepreneur, said the region
was yet to attract the attention of tourists despite innovative initiatives by local investors.
“The region has to be promoted for better exposure. Kadalundi is equipped with facilities
to host even business meets, family functions, get-togethers, and entertainment parties,”
he added.

Meanwhile, members of the Community Reserve Management Committee (CRMC) said

as many as five eco development committees were functional in the area under the
control of Kadalundi and Vallikkunnu grama panchayats to monitor and promote tourism
activities in the area.

The committee also looks into the scope of incorporating local development funds for the
conservation and promotion of the area.

“This year, we witnessed a surprising increase in the number of migratory birds visiting
the sanctuary. For more than 10 years, the number had been on the decline,” said CRMC
secretary M. Sivasankaran.

He also attested that nearly 500 tourists, including domestic and foreign tourists, visited
the community reserve in the last one week.

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2.14 Evaluation of Groundwater Development Prospects in Kadalundi
River Basin

Evaluation of groundwater development prospects has been done with the river basin as
the unit. The study has been carried out in the Kadalundi Basin in Malappuram district of
Kerala state, India. The pattern of water level fluctuation in different physiographic
regions, the depth to water level and saturated thickness in different seasons, the
hydrogeological properties of the rocks within the basin, the groundwater assessment, the
groundwater quality, etc, were studied. All these were integrated to evaluate the
groundwater condition in the river basin in terms of groundwater potential, present draft
and future groundwater development prospects. The annual groundwater availability has
been estimated as 108 MCM and the gross annual groundwater draft has been estimated
as 44.7 MCM for the Kadalundi Basin. The stage of groundwater development has been
computed as 41%. There is no significant rise or fall of water levels during both the
preMonsoon and post-Monsoon intervals in the basin. Considering the stage of
development
and the trend of water levels, it has been categorized that the Kadalundi Basin
is 'SAFE' for future groundwater development

2.15 New tourism projects for Kadalundi

2.15.1 Floating restaurant, development of community reserve, and

Oceanus Chaliyam projects on the anvil

Minister for Tourism P.A. Mohammed Riyas recently announced three major projects in
Kadalundi panchayat in Kozhikode district, which would raise Kadalundi to the status of
a major tourism destination in the district. The panchayat comes within the Beypore
Assembly constituency, and hence, the new projects become an integral part in the
recently launched Comprehensive Responsible Tourism Development Project for the
constituency.

It was the floating restaurant planned near the Kottakadavu bridge, that connects
Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, that got the administrative sanction at first. The

20
restaurant, with a capacity to seat 82 people, is being built at a cost of ₹3.94 crore. A
team from the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras had analyzed the blueprint and
assured that it would be perfectly safe and secure. Besides, Kerala Shipping and Inland
Navigation Corporation will undertake the construction. The department plans to start the
construction of the restaurant in June and complete it in nine months.

The project for a walkway through the Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu Community Reserve,

which also houses the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, has also received administrative
sanction. The Community Reserve that spreads across the borders of Kozhikode and
Malappuram districts, is the only one of its kind in the State and the demand for a
walkway through the reserve is a longstanding one.

The ₹1.44-crore project comprises an arch bridge, viewing deck, railing and fencing
around the reserve besides the walkway. There will also be utility services such as a
snack bar, toilet blocks, sitting area and lighting to make the place more appealing to the
visitors.

Chaliyam, which used to be a major port in the district, is now a busy fishing harbour.
The breakwater at Chaliyam is a favoured destination for the local people. The
department plans to renovate the breakwater under the new project 'Oceanus Chaliyam'.
The ₹8 crore project also includes a walkway, electrification of the breakwater, toilets, a
project office, food shacks, restrooms and a watch tower in the first phase, for which
₹98.75 lakh have already been sanctioned.

The tender proceedings for the project are completed and the works are to start
immediately. Chaliyam and Beypore are two opposing harbors on both banks of the river
Chaliyar near its estuary. With Beypore already developed considerably infrastructure
wise, 'Oceanus Chaliyam' is expected to develop Chaliyam in a similar manner.

2.15.2 Kadalundi to developed into ‘street tourism’ destination

-The project envisages development of streets based on the speciality of the locality-

Kadalundi in Kozhikode district is all set to become one of the destinations for Street
Tourism, a novel concept that the Department of Tourism is planning to implement.

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STREET is an acronym for Sustainable, Tangible, Responsible, Experiential, Ethnic
Tourism Hubs, developed by the Responsible Tourism Mission following the new slogan
of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’.

Accordingly, the STREET project is being implemented in several parts of the State
laying stress on village tourism.

Kadalundi, with its thick mangrove forests, bird sanctuary, and the Kadalundi river, has a
lot to offer in many of these categories. The grama panchayat is also part of the
Comprehensive Responsible Tourism Development Project for Beypore. The project is
all about setting up streets in each of these destinations based on the speciality of the
locality.

There will be cultural streets, green streets, ethnic cuisine street, food street, village life
experience street, experiential tourism street, agri-tourism street, water street, and art
street.

Each of the destinations will have at least three of these different kinds of streets, and the
decision will rest with the local bodies. The project will be implemented in four years,
and around 1,000 units will be set up by then.

It was Minister for Tourism P.A. Mohamed Riyas who announced on Saturday that the
project would be implemented in Thrithala, Pattithara (Palakkad), Pinarayi,
Ancharakandy (Kannur), Maravanthuruthu, Manchira (Kottayam), Valiyaparamba
(Kasaragod), Kanthallur (Idukki), and Chekadi (Wayanad), besides Kadalundi in the first
phase.

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 CHAPTER – 3

INTRODUCTION TO DATA ANALYSIS

23
3.1 INTRODUCTION TO DATA ANALYSIS

Data analysis is the process of inspection, cleaning, transformation, and modeling

data to highlight useful information, suggestion, conclusions, and supporting
decision making. It is a process with which several phases can be distinguished.
Data analysis is a process of finding the right data to answer your question,
understanding the process underlying the data, discovering the important pattern in
the data, and then communicating your result to have the biggest possible impacts.

3.2 TYPES OF DATA

1. Primary data

2. Secondary data

3. Qualitative data

4. Quantitative data

3.2.1 PRIMARY DATA

Primary data means the actual data or original data that have been collected for the
first time from the source. Primary data analysis is the original analysis of data
collected for research study.

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3.2.2 SECONDARY DATA

This analysis of data that were collected by someone else for some other purpose is
called secondary data analysis. Unlike primary data analysis, in which the
investigation collect and analyse their own data for a specific purpose, secondary
data analyses are typically board in scope. They are potential more efficient in time
and money compared to the cost and complexity of a new study that could
otherwise take several years and considerable funding to collect.

3.2.3 QUALITATIVE DATA

Qualitative data is the descriptive and conceptual findings collected through

questionnaires, interviews, or observation. Analyzing qualitative data allows us to
explore ideas and further explain quantitative results.

3.2.4 QUANTITATIVE DATA

Quantitative data is data that can be counted or measured in numerical values. The
two main types of quantitative data are discrete data and continuous data. Height in
feet, age in years, and weight in pounds are examples of quantitative data.

3.3 PROCEDURE OF DATA COLLECTION

Data required for the research has been collected through primary and secondary
sources of data. In this project, first-hand information was collected through
Google forms. The questions asked in the questionnaire were close-ended and
open-ended. Close-ended questions can only be answered by selecting from a

25
limited number of options, usually multiple-choice, 'yes' or 'no', and open-ended
questions that allow the respondents to give a free form answer. There were about
two hundred and sixteen respondents. The google form was distributed to our
friends and relatives. The information collected based on the Google form is
graphically represented using pie charts. Each pie chart is analysed and explained
with an inference. Secondary data are collected from magazines, books, the
internet, newspapers, etc.

26
 CHAPTER – 4
DATA ANALYSIS AND
INTERPRETATION

27
FIGURE 3.1

STATUS OF TOURIST

Inference :
From the above pie chart it is clear that 50% of tourists are
students,41.2% tourists are employees and the rest 8.8% includes of
entrepreneurs, employers and self employers.

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FIGURE 3.2

TRAVEL MOTIVE

Inference :
From the above pie chart it is clear that 61.8% tourists comes to have fun
with relatives and friends, 26.5% to enjoy nature and 11.8% to meet
people with similar interests.

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FIGURE 3.3
MORE LIKELY SEASON TO VISIT

Inference :
From the above pie chart it is clear that 38.2% of tourists visits at
monsoon, winter and summer.32.4% visits at winter,17.6% at summer
and 11.8% at monsoon.

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FIGURE 3.4
ATTRACTIONS

Inference : From the above pie chart it is clear that 50% tourists likes
forest visiting,29.4% likes to visit for special sea food at boat
mangrove,11.8% for traditional boating and 8.8% for bird
sanctuary visit.

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FIGURE 3.5

BOATING THROUGH MANGROVE AND THE BIO DIVERSITIES

Inference :
From the above pie chart it is clear that 85.3% says that boating through
the Kadalundi River gives the visitors a closer view of the mangrove
forests and the bio diversities and 14.7% says no.

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FIGURE 3.6

HOMESTAY EXPERIENCE

Inference : From the above pie chart it is clear that 55.9% has
experienced the homestay and 44.1% hasnt yet.

33
FIGURE 3.7

CLEANLINESS OF THE DESTINATION

Inference :

From the above pie chart it is clear that 50% of tourists says that it is
average cleaned,44.1% for good cleansed destination and rest poor.

34
FIGURE 3.8

GOVERNMENTAL SERVICES AND DTPC PROJECTS

IMPLEMENTED

Inference:
From the above pie chart it is clear that 70.6% average,20.6% good and
8.8% is least in implementing govermental services and DTPC projects.

35
FIGURE 3.9

SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE LOCALS

Inference:
From the above pie chart it is clear that 55.9% locals helps in
guidance,17.6% provides meals,14.7% helps in transportation and the
rest 11.8% in providing accommodation facilities

36
FIGURE 3.10

FACILITIES AND STATUS OF THE GUESTS

Inference:
From the above pie chart it is clear that 41.2% treated equally,41.2%
treated based on status and the rest 17.6% says no.

37
 CHAPTER – 5
FINDINGS, SUGGESTIONS AND
CONCLUSIONS

38
5.1 FINDINGS

• Most of the tourists are satisfied with kadalundy mainly as an ecotourism destination.

• Almost all the tourists agrees that monsoon is the best time to
visit kadalundi.

. More than half of the tourists are visiting kadalundi to have naturally pleasing moments
and to get entertained.

• Most of the tourists prefer private mode of transportation to visit kadalundi.

• Local people and natives of kadalundi are helping the tourists

mainly as a guidance.

• Most of the tourists in kadalundi are domestic tourists.

• Many of the tourists are choosing homestays than hotels for

their accommodation.

• Some of the tourists have an opinion that the service and

facility given to them are based on the tourist status.

• Some of the tourists have a slight dissatisfaction with the

cleanliness of the destination.

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5.2 SUGGESTIONS

• Provide proper security and safety measures to the tourists during

adventure sports and other activities.

• Provide clean, hygiene and neat facilities.

. Increase tourism promotional activities and innovative methods for the

tourists.

• Prepare warning boards at dangerous and hazardous areas to prevent

accidents and harms.

• Make the local people much more motivated to help the tourists and
to start small sacle trades at the destinations.

• Provide equal facilities and services to all the guests.

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5.3 CONCLUSION

Ecotourism has been embraced as a tool for generating economic benefits from forests
and other natural resources while simultaneously conserving those resources. The
objective of ecotourism is to minimize the impact brought about by tourism on the
environment. The idea is to focus on uniting conservation, communities and sustainable
development through the means of travel.
Ecotourism is increasingly being used as a conservation tool worldwide and is effective
in preserving threatened biodiversity.

Kadalundi, the "lush green" is an inevitable monsoon destination in Kerala which is

becoming popular with various programs initiated by DTPC.Kadalundi being blessed
with its lush green mangroves is yet to be given a lot of importance. Kadalundi is famous
for its bird sanctuary, which is home to various migratory birds during certain seasons
and has been recently declared as a bio-reserve which makes kadalundi a potential tourist
destination in Kerala. Kadalundi island is one of the blessed place in Kozhikode . It is a
destination yet to be explored among people wide here and the study revealed that the
role of DTPC and Department of Tourism is playing a crucial role in the
development of tourism in kadalundi island.

41
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

https://www.kadalundirivertourism.com/ https://www.indianholiday.com/kadalundi/
https://www.justdial.com/Kozhikode/Tourist-Attraction-in-Kadalundi/nct-10596038
https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/kadalundi-bird-sanctuary/6
https://www.thrillophilia.com/attractions/kadalundi-bird-sanctuary-kozhikode
https://traveltriangle.com/kerala-tourism/kozhikode/places-to-visit/kadalundi-bird-
sanctuary http://www.keralaculture.org/kerala-festivals/kadalundi-
vavutsavam/105/2 https://indianchacha.com/kadalundi-bird-sanctuary/
https://www.india.com/travel/calicut/things-to-do/wildlife-kadalundi-bird-sanctuary/
http://eprints.cmfri.org.in/15122/1/CMFRI%20SP%20139_2021_Kadalundi%20V
allikunnu.pdf https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/three-new-tourism-
projects-for-kadalundi/article6
5379199.ece/amp/

42
 QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Current Status of Tourist

• Student
• Employee
• Unemployed
• Other:

2. What is your travel motive?

• Enjoy nature
• have fun with friends and relatives
• Meet people with similar interests

3. At which season does the tourist prefer to visit kadalundi?

• Summer
• Winter
• Monsoon
• All of the above
4. Among these attractions which seems more likely to you

• Traditional Boating
• Special Seafood at Boat Mangroove
• Forest Visiting
• Bird Sanctuary Visit

5. Does the boating through the Kadalundi River gives the visitors a closer view of
the mangrove forests and the bio diversities?

• Yes
• No

6. Have you experienced the homestay in the lap of nature surrounded by the lush
green of kadalundi Mangrove?

43
 • Yes
• No

7. What is your opinion about the cleanliness of the destinations?

• Good
• Average
• Poor

8. Mention your opinion about the governmental services and DTPC projects
implemented in destinations

• Good
• Average
• Poor

9. What are the benefits or facilities

get by the tourists from the locals?

• Guidance
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Meals

10. Do all the guest get equal type of service/facility or it differs with the guest
status. what is your opinion?

• No
• Treated equally
• Based on status

44
PICTURES

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