Kerala tourism hits record 2025 visitors, Idukki leads followed by Ernakulam and TVM

Kerala's tourism sector witnessed a landmark year in 2025, with Idukki district attracting the largest number of visitors. According to Tourism Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas, the state welcomed over 2.58 crore (25,880,365) tourists throughout the year, breaking previous records celebrated during Kerala Piravi day.

The figures represent a 12.64 percent rise in international tourists compared to the previous year. Idukki emerged as the top destination for both domestic and international travellers, hosting over 46 lakh visitors. Following Idukki, Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram ranked second and third in visitor numbers.

Meanwhile, Malabar accounted for just six percent of total tourist arrivals. Overall, Kerala saw an 11 percent increase in international visitors compared to 2024.

The minister stated that Kerala is poised to become a leading tourist state. When the current government assumed office, the tourism sector was struggling due to the COVID-19 crisis. However, the state government successfully navigated the challenges and launched several initiatives to revitalise tourism. Technology has been effectively leveraged, and the sector has been developed as a complete product, highlighting both Kerala’s attractions and the hospitality of its people, the minister added.