---
title: "Kerala Forest Development Corp. Trains Guides to Boost Ecotourism"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/kfdc-enhances-ecotourism-with-guide-training-ovh5c
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Business
published: 2026-08-12T15:30:29.418Z
modified: 2026-08-12T18:30:07.184Z
language: en-IN
---

# Kerala Forest Development Corp. Trains Guides to Boost Ecotourism

The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) has launched a training program for eco-guides to enhance visitor experiences. Guides will be certified based on their knowledge of local biodiversity, aiming to elevate ecotourism.

## Key takeaways

- The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) has started training eco-guides to enhance ecotourism.
- Guides will be evaluated and certified into platinum, gold, and silver tiers based on their knowledge of local biodiversity.
- The training program, currently a pilot at Meeshapulimala, is set to expand to other KFDC ecotourism centers.
- Ecotourism revenue for KFDC recently surpassed income from plantation crops.

The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) has initiated a specialized training program for its eco-guides to improve the quality of ecotourism experiences at its managed destinations. The initiative aims to equip guides with in-depth knowledge of the rich flora and fauna present in these areas.

The training commenced at Meeshapulimala, a prominent KFDC destination located in Munnar. According to KFDC Managing Director Raju K. Francis, the corporation's sites are noted for their unique biodiversity, but guides often lack the specific expertise to convey this richness to visitors. The program seeks to bridge this knowledge gap.

This effort aligns with the vision of Forest Minister Shibu Baby John to position ecotourism as a premium biodiversity experience. Guides participating in the program will undergo an evaluation process and receive certifications as platinum, gold, or silver tier guides, reflecting their depth of knowledge about specific destinations.

Initially a pilot project at Meeshapulimala, the training is planned for expansion to other KFDC ecotourism centers. Francis highlighted the significance of educating tourists about rare species, such as the gopher tree found at the Gavi center, which is referenced in the Bible. Botanist Jomy Augustine is leading the training, emphasizing the unique biodiversity of sites like Meeshapulimala, which includes the Neelakurinji flower, and the distinct characteristics of local plant species.

Akhil Das, manager at KFDC Meeshapulimala, noted that this training will transform guided treks by enabling guides to actively explain the ecological importance of local flora and fauna, fostering a deeper understanding of conservation among tourists. The KFDC operates ecotourism centers in Munnar, Gavi, Arippa, Nelliampathy, Wagamon, and Wayanad. Notably, revenue from ecotourism recently exceeded income from the corporation’s plantation crops for the first time.

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/kfdc-enhances-ecotourism-with-guide-training-ovh5c
Reported from: Multiple Sources