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KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Kerala to Introduce the Sabarimala Virtual Travel Assistant and 'Islam in Kerala' Microsite

Kerala Tourism is about to launch a range of microsites dedicated to promoting the state's diverse heritage, with a special focus on highlighting key religious destinations. As part of this initiative, a redesigned microsite featuring Sabarimala, the hill shrine in Pathanamthitta, will be introduced in five languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada and Telugu. This project, costing Rs 61.36 lakh, has the primary goal of simplifying the pilgrimage experience, and it will also offer e-brochures, in addition to a promotional film.

Through the renovated site, pilgrims can access enhanced information on the temples they wish to visit, travel routes, and rituals to be followed for their Sabarimala visit. Highlighting their intention to bolster Kerala's reputation as a key pilgrim tourism state, the authorities mention that YouTube videos will play a crucial role in supporting the provided details.

The site will encompass not just route information but also details on transportation and nearby lodgings, all designed to appeal to larger pilgrim groups. Through the microsite, pilgrims can access current information about Sabarimala darshan timings, the unique topography of the hill shrine, its cultural values, and traditions. These resources are valuable for pilgrims looking to plan their itinerary.

As part of a Rs. 93.81-lakh digital initiative, the Kerala Tourism microsite will showcase the Islamic traditions, art forms, festivals, and religious sites of Kerala. Among the key attractions of the site are esteemed pilgrimage locations like the Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur, the Jama-at Mosque in Malappuram, the Mishkal Mosque in Kozhikode and a variety of others. This microsite with six in-depth chapters will have content in English, Hindi, Malayalam and Arabic. In an effort to promote pilgrimage tourism in the state in a holistic manner, Kerala Tourism has already designed similar digital resources for the state's Hindu, Christian, and Jewish pilgrimage sites.