Kerala ecotourism centres go cashless; payments now via UPI apps

In a significant move towards streamlining tourism, ecotourism centres managed by the Kerala Forest Department will no longer accept cash payments. Visitors can pay for tickets, canteen meals, and accommodation using UPI apps or through advance online bookings.

The forest department, overseeing 40 ecotourism centres across the state, has already started implementing these reforms. Centres like Konni Anathavalam, Adavi Kuttavanchi Ride, and Mulamkudil are among those adapting to this new cashless system.

This decision follows recent inspections by the forest department's vigilance team, which uncovered discrepancies in cash handling at some ecotourism centers. Six months ago, an inspection highlighted irregularities, leading the department to introduce stricter payment protocols.

Thenmala, an exception

Exceptions to this cashless policy include the Thenmala Eco-tourism Centre, where both cash and digital payments will be accepted. Situated in a popular tourist destination, Thenmala attracts numerous visitors, particularly from neighbouring Tamil Nadu.