Oyster Opera Resort: Field Visit Report

The objectives of the trip were:

1. To understand the importance of sustainability in business practices

2. Understand how all aspects of ecotourism can be implemented in a profitable way

3. Get a real-life example of community inclusive business practices

The resort at Kasaragod was primarily started as a mussel-farming practice which involved the local population in the production. It was then expanded to include oyster farming at later the resort was started to accommodate tourists. The whole practice is environmentally friendly and inclusive of the local population and is sustainable. Hence it’s one of the few places in India that are recognized as eco-friendly destinations.

The team was welcomed personally by the owner, Mr Gul, who then gave a brief introduction of himself and the place. He outlined the milestones and challenges that he faced while setting up the place. He also mentioned the main objectives that he had in mind while starting the place and how by just applying ethical practices to his business he managed to easily get the eco-tourism certification.

The star attraction of the resort is the floating cottage and oyster and mussel farming. Activities included canoeing, rafting, boating, visit to oyster and mussel farm followed by Team building games. Students experienced a local food trail including mussels, prawns, pearl spot and lady fish, cultivated at the backwaters.

It was truly an enlightening experience. The location is truly environment friendly and sustainable.  In today’s age of huge concrete jungle and massive hotels, oyster island is truly a testament that tourism doesn’t need to drain the resources of the destination but it can be a positive force helping to sustain the local way of life.

Students were escorted by YG Tharakan and P Valsaraj, Faculty of Tourism Studies.