THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Keralam is giving a new direction to its forest and eco-tourism sector with the introduction of workation facilities in Gavi and Suryanelli and a new premium pod-stay project in Vagamon.

The initiatives are part of the Kerala Forest Development Corporation's (KFDC) efforts to create new tourism experiences while promoting nature-based travel and sustainable economic opportunities around forest destinations.

The new SHOLA workation programme — which stands for Seek, Hike, Observe, Lodge and Absorb — has been introduced at KFDC facilities in Gavi, Pathanamthitta, and Suryanelli, Idukki. The programme allows visitors to combine remote working with a stay surrounded by forests, hills and natural landscapes. The Kerala government has described it as the first workation initiative introduced in the government sector in the state.

Work from the forests of Gavi and Suryanelli

The SHOLA concept is designed for professionals who can work remotely and are looking for an alternative to conventional offices or urban workspaces.

Existing accommodation facilities have been adapted for the programme rather than relying on extensive new construction. The facilities provide work-friendly spaces along with internet connectivity, allowing visitors to continue their professional commitments while staying close to nature.

At Suryanelli, the workation facility is located at the Anayirankal camp, offering views of the surrounding tea-growing landscape and hills. Gavi, meanwhile, provides a forest-based setting with opportunities for activities such as boating, nature walks and birdwatching outside working hours.

The initiative reflects the growing demand for travel experiences that combine work, nature and wellness, particularly among remote professionals and creative workers.

Premium pod stays coming to Vagamon

Another major component of the new forest tourism push is the premium pod-stay project at Vagamon.

Construction of four accommodation pods has begun, with completion targeted for December 2026. The pod concept provides compact, temporary accommodation that can be introduced at eco-tourism destinations with comparatively limited impact on the surrounding landscape.

Vagamon is already a popular destination for hill tourism and adventure activities. The addition of premium pod accommodation could introduce another stay option for visitors seeking distinctive nature-based experiences.

Focus on sustainable tourism

The new projects have been launched with an emphasis on balancing tourism development with environmental protection. Kerala's government has stressed that the state's biodiversity and forest ecosystems should be protected while their tourism potential is responsibly utilised.

The initiatives form part of a broader “Premium Biodiversity Experience” approach aimed at creating higher-value tourism products around forest destinations while supporting local economic activity.

Alongside the workation and pod-stay projects, KFDC has also introduced new initiatives involving locally produced tea and coffee, eco-guide training and flexible payment options for tourism packages.

A new opportunity for Kerala's nature tourism

The expansion of workations and pod stays signals a shift in Kerala's tourism landscape, where visitors are increasingly looking beyond conventional sightseeing and accommodation.

For destinations such as Gavi, Suryanelli, Vagamon and other forest-fringe locations, carefully managed tourism products could create new reasons for travellers to stay longer while generating additional opportunities for local communities.

With remote working becoming an established part of professional life and demand increasing for outdoor experiences, Kerala's forest destinations could increasingly become attractive not only for holidays but also for workations, wellness breaks and immersive nature experiences.

The challenge will be to ensure that this expansion takes place within the ecological limits of each destination. If managed responsibly, the new initiatives could strengthen Kerala's position as a leading destination for sustainable and experiential tourism.