Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics

Tourism is today recognized as a social phenomenon which brings mankind closer to different social values, cultural heritage and customs. Successful tourism development imbibes the values of recognising the sustainability of natural resources and the socio-cultural ethos of the land.

Kerala has inculcated several measures to be followed by tourists to sustain the pristine beauty of God's Own Country and to conserve and protect its natural bounty. The focus of promotion of tourism in Kerala is channelised with a vision that aims at sensitising and educating tourists/visitors on various measures that has to be followed to preserve God's gift to man - Nature.

The importance of responsible tourism based on conservation-preservation is the key to Kerala's tourism policies and this is made evident in the guidelines set by Kerala Tourism for tour operators and the tourists who visit this land that has lured travellers through the centuries.

Travellers Guidelines for Responsible Tourism

Do an in-depth research on the customs and practices of God's Own Country before you plan your visit

Appreciate the culture of the land and its tradition

Be polite to the native people and appreciate their habits

Learn a few basic words of greetings and polite phrases in the native language before your visit

Respect the diverse religious and social customs of Kerala

Observe the local laws and codes of the land

Try to actively involve yourself in the cultural and environmental concerns of Kerala and cooperate accordingly

Avoid trying to purchase or own things which are not legally permissible or might be protected

Do not force entry into prohibited or restricted areas that will disrupt the ecology or the cultural sentiments of the land

Conserve energy by minimising the use of fans, lights, geysers etc. whenever not required

Avoid overuse, wastage and pollution of water, contributing to the global conservation of water resources

Avoid littering public places and ensure that waste is disposed only in bins earmarked for the purpose

Pre-Departure Guidelines for visitors to Sanctuaries

Maximum size of visitors group for trekking will be 9

Guests shall not bring pets, i.e. dogs, cats etc. inside any park or reserve

Do not collect any form of fauna or flora from any sanctuary or park

Be aware of the negative aspects of insensitive behaviour, such as taking photographs of people without their consent or failure to observe local customs

Do not interfere with scientific research, facilities or equipment

Be aware of your capabilities and the dangers posed by the trip

Dress codes to be followed

Do not damage plants - for example by walking, driving, or landing on extensive moss beds or lichen-covered areas

Keep noise to the minimum to avoid frightening wildlife

Do not bring non-native plants or animals into the park

Be aware of the location of areas that have been accorded special protection and of any restrictions regarding entry and activities that can be carried out in and around the area

Be aware of applicable restrictions and regulations of the site

Do not damage, remove or destroy historic sites or monuments, or any artifacts associated with them

Please ensure that necessary permission is obtained before visiting

Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife

Do not stray from group

Do not disturb any animal by making noises, flashing lights or making any sudden movements that may frighten animals

Do not chase animals

Be aware that too much noise disturbs the wildlife and can antagonize other visitors

Do not damage vegetation or any fencepost, gate or signpost in the park

Be aware that plant damage can be irreplaceable resulting in loss of feeding and breeding grounds

Do not remove flora and fauna. Removal of these seriously disrupts the ecosystem and is illegal

Do not buy animal products as souvenirs as this encourages further plundering of these species

Always remain inside your accommodation at night

Be aware that the animals are wild and can be dangerous

Do not remain in the parks or reserves between 7 pm & 7 am unless accommodation is provided

Do not discard any foodstuff or litter the land and water bodies

Do not hand-feed fish and animals

Do not feed, touch or handle birds and animals; do not approach or photograph them in ways that may cause them to alter their behaviour

Take special care when animals are breeding or moulting

Jungle Rules - General Do's and Don'ts

Total silence and discipline is required to spot wild animals

Small groups are preferred

Early mornings and late afternoons are the ideal time to visit forests

Travelling alone is prohibited especially in the Elephant Reserves

Do not wear colourful clothes or perfumes. Khakis, browns and greens are best suited

Always carry drinking water, tea/coffee, snacks etc.

Seek the assistance of a forest guard while going into the forests

Do not disturb or tease animals

Trekkers are advised to use jungle boots to ensure safety

Carry a first aid kit with medicines for common ailments

Avoid smoking

Radios and tape recorders are to be avoided

Do not litter the surroundings

Respect animals and their habits

Do not remove anything from the Sanctuary

Carry a note pad, flash light, road maps, bus, train and airline time-tables

Do not try to explore unfamiliar things

Be careful during boat rides. Don't do anything that will rock the boat or endanger lives

Do not expect to see animals all the time. Be patient