The evergreen forests, lagoons, long stretch of backwaters, mountains, grass lands, wetlands, rich wildlife, sacred groves, rivers, cultural heritage, the serenity and bountifulness of natural resources makes Kerala one of the most favourite destinations. Each and every corner of Kerala has strong potential for ecotourism concept. In the limelight of climate change and conservational aspect, ecotourism is more sensible and suitable for Kerala. The potential of Ecotourism in Kerala is yet to be utilized.
Like information technology, ecotourism could be one of the avenues for the economic development of the State, otherwise not specked with many huge industrial projects.  Ecotourism aims at economic benefit through environmental protection. The role of tourism, in global economic activity and development, has grown beyond boarder and it has got considerable influence in the local economy of the States like Kerala.
Kerala is endowed with several products for ecotourism such as backwaters, the long stretch green forests laden mountains, multi-faced rural landscapes, etc. Tourism in general is popularly known as the non-polluting industry but of late it has been recognized as one of the most polluting industry, both on resources and culture. The importance of ecotourism and its propagation is thus increasingly critical in this context.
The concept of ecotourism got evolved during the later part of the 20th century. David L. Anderson described it as the entrance to the natural world. Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and improve the well being of local people (The International Ecotourism Society, 1990). But at the same time the term has been misinterpreted in many ways. One of the bleak definitions which is being largely used in our country is ‘ecotourism means watching wildlife in the forests’.  According to David Western, ecotourism should aim in protecting the natural resources and support the sustainable development of local communities through viable economic activities.
Ecotourism actually aims in reducing negative impacts on the environment and helps to understand the local cultural heritage and riches and preserves the same for posterity. It has got a strong linkage to the local society. In order to promote ecotourism, there should be strong linkages between public and private partnerships integrating economic and cultural cooperation.
In countries like Kenya and Costa Rica, ecotourism become instrumental in increasing the number of wildlife reserves. The Yellowstone National Park of Unites States, Annapoorna of Nepal Himalayan region, Serengeti of Africa are some of the pioneer efforts in this regard. Even visiting Antartica for documenting Penguin is also termed a best example of ecotourism.
The genesis of Nature oriented tourism in India might have started since the formulation of wildlife protection acts and the resultant ban on hunting in the forests of the nation since 1970s. Traditional tourism activities are largely centered on beaches and sunbaths, but forests, backwaters and rural landscapes became objects for tourism activities in the ecotourism initiatives. These objects transpires enormous amount of mental refreshing and knowledge about such habitats in addition to protection.
The physical set up of Kerala is much appropriate for ecotourism activities. In addition to the existing tourist attractions we make use of the culturally rich (rituals and festivals) and agrarian dominated rural landscapes as a good object for ecotourism activities. Our rich cultural and folk art form really support such ventures.