Kerala Guide Licence Programme 2026: Last Date Extended, Check Eligibility and Course Details
The Kerala Institute of Tourism & Travel Studies (KITTS), functioning under the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, has released an important addendum to its Guide Training and Licence Programme 2026 notification. Aspirants interested in building a professional career in Kerala's rapidly growing tourism industry now have additional time to apply, as the last date for online application submission has been officially extended.
The extension provides a valuable opportunity for eligible candidates who wish to obtain professional guide training and become licensed tourist guides in Kerala. Successful candidates completing the prescribed training programme and qualifying in the final assessment process will be considered for the issuance of State Level Guide or Local Level Guide Licences as per the rules of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala.
This programme has been launched to enhance tourist experiences, strengthen tourism services, and create a pool of professionally trained guides capable of representing Kerala's rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage before domestic and international visitors.
KITTS Guide Training Programme 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Kerala Institute of Tourism & Travel Studies (KITTS) |
| Department | Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala |
| Programme Name | Guide Training and Licence Programme 2026 |
| Courses Available | State Level Guide & Local Level Guide |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 19 October 2026 |
| Extended Last Date | 23 November 2026 (05:30 PM) |
| Selection Method | Written Test and Interview |
Application Deadline Extended
The latest addendum issued by KITTS has revised the application submission deadline. Earlier, candidates were required to submit applications by 09 November 2026. The institute has now officially extended the last date to 23 November 2026 up to 05:30 PM. All other conditions of the original notification remain unchanged.
This extension offers additional preparation time for candidates to gather documents, review eligibility conditions, and complete the online application process accurately.
About KITTS
Established in 1988 by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, KITTS is one of the state's premier institutions specializing in tourism, travel, hospitality education, research, consultancy, and capacity-building programmes. The institute is affiliated with the University of Kerala and approved by AICTE.
Over the years, KITTS has played a significant role in developing skilled tourism professionals who contribute to the growth of Kerala's tourism sector, popularly known as "God's Own Country."
Courses Offered Under the Programme
State Level Guide Training Programme
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Duration | 09 Weeks |
| Total Seats | 27 |
| Course Fee | โน32,745 (Including GST) |
Educational Qualification
- Any Graduation from a UGC-recognized University or Institution.
- OR 10+2 qualification with at least six months of regular foreign language training from a recognized university, institution, embassy, or cultural center.
Additional Eligibility
- Must be a Native of Kerala.
- Fluency in English is mandatory.
- Minimum age: 20 years as on 01 January 2026.
Local Level Guide Training Programme
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Duration | 04 Weeks |
| Total Seats | 141 |
| Course Fee | โน20,355 (Including GST) |
Educational Qualification
- SSLC / SSC / CBSE 10th Pass.
Additional Eligibility
- Must be a Native of Kerala.
- Minimum age of 20 years as on 01 January 2026.
Selection Process for State Level Guide
The State Level Guide category selection process consists of a written examination followed by an interview.
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| Knowledge of Monuments | 50 |
| History | 50 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
| Interview | 50 |
| Total | 250 |
Candidates must secure at least 50% marks in the written examination to qualify for the interview stage. Selection will be strictly merit-based.
Selection Process for Local Level Guide
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| Knowledge of Local Monuments | 25 |
| History | 25 |
| General Knowledge | 50 |
| Interview | 50 |
| Total | 150 |
Candidates must obtain 50% marks in the written test to become eligible for the interview stage. Final selection is based entirely on merit.
Application Fee
The application fee for both programmes has been fixed at โน590 plus applicable transaction charges. The application fee must be paid online while submitting the application form.
Police Clearance Certificate Requirement
Submission of a valid Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is mandatory for joining both the State Level Guide and Local Level Guide training programmes. Candidates should make arrangements to obtain this document well in advance.
District-Wise Vacancies for Local Level Guide Programme
| District | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Important Instructions for Applicants
- Applications must be submitted online before the extended deadline.
- Candidates applying for Local Level Guide must apply only under their district of residence.
- Applications submitted under another district quota will be rejected.
- Only original certificates or provisional certificates are accepted for educational qualification verification.
- Mark sheets alone will not be accepted as qualification proof.
- Applicants must maintain an active email ID and mobile number.
- Blurred photographs, signatures, or certificates may lead to rejection.
Career Opportunities After Certification
Successful completion of training and qualification in the final written examination and viva voce may make candidates eligible for issuance of the relevant tourism guide licence under the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. Licensed guides play an essential role in promoting tourism, cultural heritage, historical interpretation, and visitor assistance throughout the state.
With Kerala continuing to attract domestic and international tourists, professionally certified guides can enjoy growing opportunities in heritage tourism, ecotourism, cultural tourism, destination management, and tourism entrepreneurship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the new last date to apply for the KITTS Guide Training Programme 2026?
- The application deadline has been extended to 23 November 2026 up to 05:30 PM.
- How many seats are available for the State Level Guide Programme?
- There are 27 seats available for the State Level Guide training programme.
- How many seats are available for the Local Level Guide Programme?
- A total of 141 seats have been announced for the Local Level Guide category.
- Who can apply for the State Level Guide course?
- Graduates from recognized universities or candidates fulfilling the alternative foreign language qualification requirement may apply, subject to eligibility conditions.
- What is the minimum qualification for Local Level Guide training?
- Candidates must have passed SSLC, SSC, CBSE, or equivalent 10th standard examination.
- Is Kerala domicile mandatory?
- Yes, applicants must be natives of Kerala.
- What is the minimum age required?
- Candidates must be at least 20 years old as on 01 January 2026.
- Is a Police Clearance Certificate required?
- Yes, a valid Police Clearance Certificate is mandatory for joining the programme.
- How are candidates selected?
- Selection is based on written examination performance and interview, followed by merit ranking.
- Can Local Level Guide applicants choose any district quota?
- No. Applicants must apply under the district corresponding to their place of residence.
