Ahmedabad: A treasure trove of ayurvedic herbs, Kerala is attracting people with a penchant for these from Gujarat. In addition to this, tourists wanting to learn more about farming are visiting Kerala, with small paddy, herb and spice farms forming attractive destinations.



"We have had people coming in for spas and wellness tours, wildlife and adventure tours as well as for luxurious, relaxing honeymoons and vacations. However, many in recent times are coming in for 'farm tourism'," said Satheesh KN, additional director general of the Kerala Tourism Board.



The people interested in 'farm tourism' want to know more about ayurvedic herbs and spices that grow in Kerala and the methods and techniques used by the farmers there, he said.



Kerala, termed as 'god's own country', was listed among the '50 places you must see before you die' in a worldwide survey of Travel and Living, in 2008. It was the only Indian state to make it to the list.



Athipotta, Kakkayur and Vaikom are some of the places where tourists can learn about farming; backwater areas like Thalavady, with small paddy and herb farms, are also of interest to them.



"It was enchanting to see spices like black pepper, nutmeg and turmeric, which have strong essence. I wanted to learn how they are grown in such fine quality in Kerala, which was why I decided on the trip," said spice merchant Raval Trivedi.



Though not the most-popular tours, these agricultural trips are gaining in popularity among Gujaratis. "Many people combine such trips with spa and wellness packages as they are then able to understand the importance of the herbs better," said city-based private-tour operator Jainik Biwas.



The state capital, Kochin, has places such as the Gujarati village, where many Gujaratis stay and offer accommodation and home-grown food. The agriculture tours are informative and educative, and many youngsters wanting to learn about this at the

grassroots level have taken such trips.



"During the peak season, from March to November, we organise a cultural festival called Ulsavam, which promotes the dying arts and crafts of Kerala. This is a learning experience for visitors," said Satheesh.



Credit : http://www.dnaindia.com