Role of Responsible Tourism in Improving Community Well-Being of Destination – Evidence from Kumbalangi Village of Ernakulam District, Kerala

Abstract

With increased awareness of host communities and environmental responsibility in tourism, Responsible tourism has gained popularity in the tourism sector as strategy for environmental conservation and community development. Responsible tourism is considered as one of the tools for applying sustainability practices in tourism destinations. It based on the fact that participation and acceptance of local community is critical for development of tourist destinations. Tourism development in any destination would benefit local community on economic, social and environmental fronts. Keeping these objectives in mind Kerala has developed and implemented many Responsible Tourism programs. This paper focus on such responsible tourism programs implemented for the upliftment of local community in Kumbalangi a tiny island village of Kochi in Kerala. Present study gives importance to the perception and participation of local community on account of responsible tourism.