Farming-Latest Tourist Attraction

Pulse

oi-Staff

By Staff

Tuesday, February 3, 2009, 11:19

Kerala has has emerged with a brand new attraction to enhance its tourism and hospitality. The traditional method of farming is the latest craze for the American students. Termed 'Farm Tourism' has attracted 24 students from the university of United States.

Already a leading world tourist destination with its backwaters and natural beauty, the 'God's own country' now promotes its lush countryside as a tourist attraction.

The Kuzhoor village in Kerala is brimming with activities as the visiting students toil their day ploughing the fields using oxen, fill water with the help of wooden rollers wheels, spray fertilizers and sow paddy saplings. The students Virginia University are here on a three day trip to learn the art of traditional farming. However they seem to be happy with all the experience they are getting in hand.

"Its very interesting to actually get experience in another country because we talk a lot about it but its important actually to do hands on work and talk to people and understand their lives more," said Andrea bowman, a student.

The idea was conceptualized by New Indian Voyages, a tour operating company. It has received inquiries from various other universities as well.

"Because of University courses like this the villagers are planning to replant this paddy field because they are expecting more people to interact with foreigners again and again," said Francis Paul Kandamkulathy, New Indian Voyages.

These tours are proving to be beneficial for the locals, apart from the tourism industry, however the concept is more popular with foreign students than the domestic ones. AGENCIES