PEPPER spices up rustic charm

Launched in November 2017, the Pepper project focuses on community-driven tourism, transforming areas into responsible travel destinations.

Here’s its progression:

• Phase 1: Eight local bodies in Vaikom taluk-initiated activities such as Special Tourism Gram Sabhas, Resource Mapping, and the creation of a Resource Directory. Meetings with stakeholders and investors marked this phase.

• Phase 2: Pepper moved to Velloor and Thalayolaparambu, adding seven local bodies. Tour packages showcased the region’s culture and environment. Skill training programs were also introduced.

• Phase 3: Ten more local governments joined, adopting responsible tourism practices and offering travel experiences.

• Phase 4: Anchuthengu Panchayath joined the project. By September 2020, Vaikom and Ponnani were designated as international tourism centers due to the influence of the Pepper project.