ADAK farms to get a tourism makeover

The Agency for Development of Aquaculture Kerala (ADAK) under the Department of Fisheries is opening its farm gates to the public in a whole new way.

The quiet hatcheries will soon become sanctuaries of sustainable tourism as the agency is repurposing its aquatic landscapes into recreational hubs.

Spanning five key districts from Thiruvananthapuram to Kannur, the initiative reimagines traditional fish farms as eco-friendly retreats that blend community livelihood support with a mission to educate the public on Kerala’s vital fisheries heritage. While the private sector will handle the planning, development, and daily management of the sites, the Department will get a steady share of the revenue.

“The initiative requires zero capital investment from the government. With each farm possessing immense tourism potential, we anticipate generating between ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore from every unit,” he stated. These aqua-eco-tourism projects are on a fast track and the department expects them to be operational within a three-to-six-month time frame,” says Ignatius Mandro B, managing director, ADAK.

One major project site is the Odayam farm, nestled along the scenic beaches of the Varkala cliff, which already features an aquarium, a 3D theatre, a dedicated children’s area, and an open-air theatre.

Another key location is the Poyya farm in Thrissur district, distinguished as Kerala’s largest brackish water aquaculture farm, sprawling across an impressive 49.24 hectares.

Further developments are slated for the farms in Ayiramthengu (Kollam), Edakochi (Ernakulam), and Eranholi (Kannur) - all picturesque sites with ponds, winding canals, and natural water resources perfectly suited for diverse aqua eco-tourism ventures.

Most of these farms are cradled by serene backwaters and dense, lush vegetation, offering immense potential for activities such as recreational angling, boating and kayaking, educational farm tours, live aquaculture demonstrations, and a variety of other water-based recreational pursuits.

“Our Odayam site sits in a premier tourism corridor, and Edakochi offers a massive, scenic footprint right in the city centre. All our farms offer a combination of scale and connectivity that is hard to find elsewhere in the State,” says Mr. Mandro. He further adds that the project follows a non-intrusive model, utilizing only idle land to ensure that primary aquaculture activities remain entirely unaffected.

A key feature of the project is the farm-to-table culinary experience, allowing visitors to savor authentic Kerala ethnic fish delicacies while soaking in the scenic farm views. These projects are designed as eco-friendly, carbon-neutral models that strictly adhere to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) mandates by utilizing self-sustaining systems and advanced in-house water purification system. To ensure a minimal environmental footprint, all power requirements for the tourism facilities are met exclusively through green energy initiatives.