The nuanced elements of community based forest management as triggers in tourists’ perception - a study on Soochipara, Kerala Dr. Mathew Ravish*, Dr. Chandran Anu**, Ms. Sumija M.S.*** *Post Doctoral Fellow, Dept of Tourism Studies, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India **Assistant Professor, Dept of Tourism Studies, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India ***Master of Tourism Administration, Dept of Travel and Tourism, Pazhassi Raja College, Pulpally, Wayanad, Kerala, India Online published on 2 July, 2015. Abstract Visitor perception is a strong determinant of the success of any tourist destination. But as tourism activities are intangible in many respects the visitor perception cannot be measured properly in many cases. An eco-tourist has many expectations before visiting a destination and in this connection the tourist‘s expectations have to essentially match with the outcomes and offerings. That is precisely where a study of this nature on visitor satisfaction through understanding the perception is imperative in ecotourism, and a clear gap can be identified in the tourism industry today. The present study is confined to the ecotourism zone of Soochipara Waterfall which falls under the Meppadi Forest Range in Wayanad, Kerala. Soochipara Waterfall is one of the invigorating ecotourism destinations in Kerala visited by hordes of tourists who visit Wayanad. The rock formations at Soochipara are unique for its needle shaped rock also called as Sentinel Rock Formation. Tourists spend considerable amount of time at the destination. The premier eco- destination is currently managed by the Forest Department with the active participation of Vana Samrakshana Samiti (VSS).Paradoxically, there are several bottle necks that Soochipara is facing that will directly affect the visitor satisfaction level. Seasonality is one of the major factors that affect the tourism economy at the eco-destination. Lack of Proper Roads, Parking Lots, Interpretation Centre, Vibrant Ecotourism Activities, Facilities for differently abled tourists, skilled man power, wash rooms and other amenities along with littering and antisocial activities are some of the excruciating problems that are faced by the tourists visiting Soochipara. A Survey on 120 respondents was conducted to find out the visitor perception as regards community-based ecotourism at Soochipara. The present research work attempts to uncover some of the important factors pertaining to the visitor satisfaction level at Soochipara. The findings of the study may be utilised for the long term sustainable improvement of this iconic eco-destination in Wayanad. Top Keywords Community Participation, Community Benefits, Ecotourism, Perception Protected Area, Visitor Satisfaction. Top |