Founded in 1988 by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS) is a leading institution committed to providing high-quality education and training in the Travel, Tourism and Hospitality sector. As an autonomous body registered under the Travancore-Cochin Literary, Scientific, and Charitable Societies Registration Act of 1955 (Act 12 of 1955), KITTS plays a vital role in fulfilling the HR requirements of the sector by offering a broad spectrum of career-oriented programmes tailored to the needs of the sector.
Affiliated to the University of Kerala and accredited by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), KITTS offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate courses, all recognized by the University of Kerala. In addition to these degree programmes, the institute provides short-term, industry-driven courses and training programmes aimed at enhancing skills for the Tourism and Hospitality sector. KITTS also focuses on capacity-building, research, and consultancy services that support the sustainable development of Kerala Tourism.
KITTS is an affiliate member of UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO), an authorized training centre of International Air Transport Association (IATA) and a member of several prominent organizations, including the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) Society, South Kerala Hoteliers' Forum (SKHF), and the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI).
With its main campus in Thiruvananthapuram and additional study centers in Malayattoor and Thalasserry, KITTS has consistently achieved cent percentage placement for its successful and needy students, ensuring that they are well-equipped to pursue triumphant careers in the tourism and its allied sectors. The institute's dedication to providing exceptional education, conducting impactful research, and offering capacity-building programmes has solidified its position as a leader in shaping Kerala's tourism future.
To establish as Centre of Excellence in Tourism by developing quality human resource of international standards through tourism education and providing training, research and consultancy services for global tourism and hospitality industry.
The heritage building "Residency" which houses the administrative block of Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies ( KITTS) is a two centuries old building. The history of "Residency" dates back to 1815 when Col. John Munroe was the Resident and Diwan of Travancore . In 1838, William Henry Horsely in his Memoir of Travancore mentions this building as "The British Residency, a plain and moderate sized structure, sandstone, an elevated spot, 2-3 miles east of the fort, commanding a view of the Thycaud Valley and surrounding country". This building also housed the first PWD department in Travancore under the orders of General Cullen who became the Resident of Travancore in 1840's. This bungalow has been used by several prominent guests who visited Thiruvananthapuram including the then Viceroy and Governor General of India Lord Curzon and leading statesmen in the post independence era .