Kerala reopens for tourism; beaches to stay shut till November 1

Kerala has started welcoming tourists once again after remaining under lockdown for the past six months. The decision was taken in order to revive the tourism industry in the state. However, the government has decided not to open beaches for the public as of yet, but rest of the tourist hotspots will remain open for visitors.

State Tourism Minister Kadkampally Surendran said, "The state has decided to reopen its tourist destinations in a phased manner in the wake of the crisis being faced by various stakeholders dependent on tourism, said. The unlock-4 guidelines of the Center has allowed the tourism sector to be reopened after taking precautions. Taking note of this, the state has decided to reopen the tourism sector and this would be a big relief for the ailing sector."
All the hill stations, adventure and backwater spots started welcoming travellers from October 12. As far as beaches are concerned, the tourism minister said they’ll open beaches for tourists from November 1. The news comes after Kerala recorded a spike in Coronavirus cases in the last couple of days.

Guidelines to enter Kerala
1) Tourists who wish to visit Kerala for over seven days must carry their COVID-19 negative certificate or undergo a test after entering the state. If not, then they will have to remain in quarantine for seven days.

2) For trips less than seven days, tourists are not required to carry a negative Coronavirus certificate.

3) Face mask, sanitisers and social distancing are mandatory.

4) Tourists must follow health protocols at all the tourist hotspots.

5) Registration on www.covid19jagratha.kerala.nic.in is a must for each tourist.

6) If a person develops COVID-19 symptoms during their stay in Kerala, they must immediately contact DISHA helpline.

Till now, Kerala has recorded 287,202 COVID-19 positive cases and 742 deaths.