Mapping the Heritage Tourism Potential in Thazhathangadi

Thazhathangadi, once a bustling trade centre through its waterways, is a historic stretch along the banks of the River Meenachil in Kottayam, Kerala, and is rich in culture and architectural heritage. This paper aims to explore the potential of heritage tourism in Thazhathangadi and identify the opportunities that promote heritage conservation and tourism and benefit the community. The present tourism landscape is assessed, and the existing infrastructure and amenities are analysed to identify conservation challenges as Thazhathangadi’s assets prove its potential as a heritage tourism attraction. The study focuses on these heritage structures’ historical and architectural significance, showcasing a blend of Hindu and foreign styles unique to the region. Most religious structures and residences date back to more than five hundred years of rich architectural heritage and craftsmanship. The study found Thazhathangadi’s unique heritage underutilized due to improper infrastructure, lack of planned tourism strategies, and community involvement. This research proposes infrastructure augmentation, improvement of accommodation and transportation facilities, provision of better amenities, heritage packages, heritage walks, guided tours, and engaging local communities through training programs. This paper underscores the importance of branding for destination marketing and promotion, attracting visitors, and enhancing image and competitiveness. The paper suggests green and eco-friendly practices for better management, monitoring visitor masses, and protection of heritage sites, through case studies that have adopted tourism initiatives with conservation. The study concludes with the significance of a holistic approach to heritage conservation and tourism initiatives in Thazhathangadi, to preserve its rich legacy of a glorious past.