📋 Overview of the Programme
The Kerala Institute of Tourism & Travel Studies (KITTS), under the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, has announced the Guide Training and Licence Programme. This initiative aims to train professional tourist guides to enhance visitor experience and service quality across Kerala. Successful candidates will be eligible for State Level Guide Licence or Local Level Guide Licence, subject to Department of Tourism rules.
🏢 Course Details
| Course | Duration | Seats | Qualification | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Level Guide | 09 weeks | 27 | Any Graduation OR 10+2 with 6‑month foreign language course | ₹32,745 (incl. GST) |
| Local Level Guide | 04 weeks | 141 | SSLC/10th pass | ₹20,355 (incl. GST) |
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be natives of Kerala.
- Minimum age: 20 years as on 01.01.2026.
- Fluency in English is mandatory for State Level Guides.
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is compulsory for both categories.
📅 Important Dates
- 🖊️ Start of Online Application: 19 October 2026 (10:00 AM)
- ⏰ Last Date of Submission: 09 November 2026 (05:30 PM)
- 📍 Application Link: Apply Online Here
📝 Selection Process
| Criteria | State Level Guide | Local Level Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Knowledge of Monuments | 50 Marks | 25 Marks |
| History | 50 Marks | 25 Marks |
| General Knowledge | 100 Marks | 50 Marks |
| Interview | 50 Marks | 50 Marks |
| Total | 250 Marks | 150 Marks |
Note: Only candidates scoring 50% or above in the written test will be called for interview. Selection is strictly merit‑based.
📊 District‑wise Vacancies for Local Level Guides
| District | Seats |
|---|---|
| Thiruvananthapuram | 15 |
| Kollam | 10 |
| Pathanamthitta | 10 |
| Alappuzha | 10 |
| Kottayam | 10 |
| Idukki | 10 |
| Ernakulam | 10 |
| Thrissur | 10 |
| Palakkad | 10 |
| Malappuram | 06 |
| Kozhikode | 10 |
| Wayanad | 10 |
| Kannur | 10 |
| Kasargod | 10 |
📢 Application Fee
₹590/- (plus transaction charges) for both State and Local Level Guide categories.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 📌 What is the duration of the training programmes?
- State Level Guide training lasts 9 weeks, while Local Level Guide training lasts 4 weeks.
- 🗓️ What is the last date to apply?
- The last date for online application submission is 09 November 2026.
- 🎓 What qualifications are required?
- Graduation or 10+2 with foreign language course for State Level Guides; SSLC/10th pass for Local Level Guides.
- 💰 What is the course fee?
- ₹32,745 (State Level) and ₹20,355 (Local Level), inclusive of GST.
- 📍 Where will the training be conducted?
- At KITTS Headquarters, Thiruvananthapuram.
- 🚫 Can candidates apply under any district quota?
- No. Local Level Guide applicants must apply under their district of residence quota only.
- 📄 Is Police Clearance Certificate mandatory?
- Yes. PCC is compulsory for both State and Local Level Guide training programmes.
✅ Conclusion
The KITTS Guide Training & Licence Programme 2026 offers a unique opportunity for aspiring tourist guides in Kerala to gain professional training and official recognition. With structured courses, merit‑based selection, and district‑wise quotas, this programme ensures high‑quality guide services across the state. Interested candidates should apply online before 09 November 2026 to secure their place.
