Kurisumala, meaning 'Cross Hill', is a renowned Christian pilgrimage center and a captivating tourist attraction located in Vagamon, Kerala. Its history as a place of worship is intertwined with the spread of Christianity in the South Indian state of Kerala.
The seed of tourism in Kurisumala can be traced back to the arrival of Christian missionaries in the region. The beauty of the place, coupled with its religious significance, started drawing in pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike. However, it wasn't until the latter half of the 20th century that Kurisumala began to be recognized as a tourist destination beyond its religious appeal.
With the establishment of the Kurisumala Ashram in the 1950s by a Belgian Cistercian monk, Fr. Francis Acharya, and Fr. Bede Griffiths, an English Benedictine monk, the hills saw a unique blend of Indian and Christian monastic traditions. This ashram became a beacon for spiritual seekers from around the world and further put Kurisumala on the map as a place of international interest.
Over the years, the serene landscape of Kurisumala, characterized by rolling hills, tea gardens, and mist-covered valleys, started gaining popularity among trekkers, campers, and nature lovers. The government and local community began developing infrastructure to cater to the growing number of visitors.
In recent years, Kerala Tourism has tapped into the potential of Vagamon and Kurisumala, promoting its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and tranquil environment. The construction of better roads, establishment of resorts, as well as efforts in preserving the natural habitat, have made it easier and more appealing for tourists to visit this hidden gem.
The latest trends in tourism at Kurisumala involve a variety of activities that cater to different interests. Adventure tourism, including trekking, rock climbing, paragliding, and mountain biking, has seen a growing interest. Alongside, there is a focus on sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Agri-tourism and eco-tourism are rising trends, with visitors showing a keen interest in understanding and experiencing the local way of life and culture. Homestays and organic farm visits are common elements of the tourist experience now in Kurisumala.
Another form of tourism that is becoming increasingly popular is wellness tourism, with visitors seeking the serene ambiance of the hills for yoga and meditation retreats—drawing from Kerala's strong Ayurvedic roots.
The Government of Kerala and local bodies have also been organizing cultural festivals and events, such as the International Paragliding Festival in Vagamon, to further boost tourist footfall in the area.
While tourism has certainly benefited Kurisumala, there are ongoing challenges related to ecological conservation and ensuring sustainable visitor practices. The area continues to develop, with stakeholders looking to strike a balance between development and preservation.
With continuous efforts from the local government, tourism departments, and private entities, Kurisumala stands as a shining example of a tourist destination that offers a spiritual, adventurous, and ecologically mindful escape. The future likely holds further integration of technology, such as virtual tours and advanced booking systems, to enhance the tourist experience while safeguarding the environmental sanctity of the region.
