KABANI – the other direction is a non-profit entity, working and campaigning against the negative impact of tourism on local communities and their resources. Named after the Kabani River, one of the rivers in Kerala flowing in the “other direction” to most of the rivers in Kerala, we are promoting an “other direction” in the present form of tourism.

The past one and half decade’s of advocacy experience in tourism as researchers, social activists and campaigners forced us to rethink the way we were thinking and working. This facilitated more in-depth discussions and debates and thus a new combination of an “Oppose and Propose” approach evolved in our activities. We started facilitating better tourism and development models in Indian villages along with our campaigns.  Further we realized the need for a more structured effort to strengthen our networks and attempts.

Thus “KABANI – Community Tourism & Services”, a private limited company promoted by “KABANI – the other direction” emerged.

It is not just a business project; rather this combination addresses the larger political system, sustainability and self sufficiency. We carry an ‘unusual business’ approach rather than a ‘business as usual approach’ in our activities. Our prime objectives are sustainable socio–economic development of local communities and conservation of natural resources that provide the basis of community livelihood.

In order to achieve these objectives, we are carrying out research about the side-effects of mass tourism and the ways to change it, advocacy and campaigns about these issues and both international and local networking to increase our audience and impact. “KABANI – the other direction” also provides education activities to promote sustainability in the context of tourism and development. We foster community tourism initiatives finding their roots in local populations, and focusing on socio-economic security and sustainability.