Launch of New Tourism Circuits
Kerala Spice Route Tourism Circuits: Kerala has announced the launch of up to 10 Spice Route-based tourism circuits within a year. These circuits will link ancient ports, heritage structures, and spice trade locations. The project is being spearheaded by Muziris Projects Limited, focusing on reviving cultural and historical experiences tied to Kerala’s maritime past.
Static GK fact: Kerala was historically called the “Land of Spices”, exporting pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon across global trade routes.
Spice Route Initiative
The Spice Route Initiative aims to highlight Kerala’s role in the global spice trade. By connecting ports, cultural sites, and heritage monuments, the circuits will integrate both tangible structures and intangible cultural practices. This will set it apart from conventional heritage tourism circuits.
Revival of Intangible Heritage
The project emphasizes the preservation of traditional skills, knowledge, and practices. This includes food traditions, arts, crafts, and architecture linked to the spice trade era. Communities will contribute their expertise, which will be archived through repositories and museums.
Static GK Tip: UNESCO recognizes several intangible cultural heritages in India, including Kutiyattam theatre from Kerala.
Educational Collaborations
To strengthen heritage-based learning, Muziris Projects Limited will work with Mahatma Gandhi University and other institutions. Short-term courses will focus on sustainability, heritage interpretation, and museum management. Partnerships with universities from spice-trade-linked countries will encourage international cultural collaboration.
Museums on Heritage and Cuisine
Two new museums are planned in Kozhikode. A traditional knowledge museum will preserve artisanal heritage, while a food museum will showcase Kerala’s spice-rich cuisine. Modern features like 3D recipe projections will make the exhibits more interactive for visitors.
Static GK fact: Kozhikode was historically known as Calicut, the landing site of Vasco da Gama in 1498, marking the start of European trade in India.
International Conference and Future Scope
The circuits will be inaugurated through the Spice Route International Conference in January. The event will bring together global experts to discuss Kerala’s spice trade history and maritime relations. It is expected to create a strong foundation for positioning Kerala as a global heritage tourism hub.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Kerala Spice Route Tourism Circuits:
| Topic | Detail |
| Tourism circuits | 10 Spice Route-based circuits in Kerala |
| Project lead | Muziris Projects Limited |
| Focus | Revival of spice trade heritage and culture |
| Key collaborations | Mahatma Gandhi University and global universities |
| Museums planned | Traditional knowledge museum and food museum in Kozhikode |
| Technology use | 3D projections of recipes in food museum |
| Historic city | Kozhikode (Calicut) – Vasco da Gama’s landing site |
| Launch event | Spice Route International Conference in January |
| Cultural element | Preservation of intangible heritage like crafts and cuisine |
| Objective | Promote Kerala as global spice heritage hub |
