Thailand has already waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists in September to attract more visitors…reports Asian Lite News
Thailand has decided to waive visa requirements for travellers from India and Taiwan from next month to May 2024, a government official said on Tuesday, as the country is keen to attract more tourists in the peak season to rev up its economy.
According to Thai government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke, arrivals from India and Taiwan will be permitted to stay in Thailand for 30 days.
India has emerged as Thailand’s fourth-largest source market for tourism this year with about 1.2 million arrivals. Malaysia, China and South Korea constitute the first three respectively.
Thailand has already waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists in September to attract more visitors.
From January to October 29, there were 22 million visitors to Thailand, generating 927.5 billion baht ($25.67 billion), the latest government figures showed.
The country aims to attract 28 million tourists as its new government hopes bring a slowing economy back on the growth path.
Winter flight schedule
This winter, India is set to experience a significant boost in international connectivity, with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) granting approval for a schedule of 2,336 weekly flights operated by 80 airlines.
This marks a notable 9.4 per cent increase compared to the previous winter, when 75 foreign airlines operated 2,136 flights.
As of October 29, the approved schedule for these 80 airlines now provides 5.9 lakh seats per week, a noticeable rise from the 5.5 lakh seats available during the last winter season, according to data from the DGCA.
According to the civil aviation regulator, a total of 2,336 departures per week have been approved to/from 23 stations in India – Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Calicut (Kozhikode), Chennai, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mumbai, Nagpur, Thiruvananthapuram, Tirchy, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam.
The direct international airlines will connect to 50 countries – Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bhutan, Canada, Egypt, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, the UK, the US , Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Air Peace Ltd, Batik Air, Belavia, ITA Airways, Neos S.P.A. NOK AIR and Uganda Airlines are seven new airlines which will be operating during Winter Schedule 2023, however, El Al of Israel have postponed its operations due to the ongoing situation there.
The launch event and celebration was attended by Lu Yingchuan, Chines Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism; Li Xuhang
Lu Yingchuan, Chines Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism, has said that the People’s Republic of China and the United Arab Emirates are strategic partners with a long history of tourist cooperation. He expressed his hope to welcome more tourists from the Middle East and North Africa to China.
This came on the sidelines of a celebration held by the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism to mark the launch of the China tourism brand in Dubai: ‘Welcome to China’, for the Middle East and North Africa region.
The celebration was attended by Lu Yingchuan, Chines Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism; Li Xuhang, Consul General of China in Dubai; Issam Kazim, the CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM); and representatives of Chinese and foreign media, in the UAE.
Tourism Minister P.A.Mohammed Riyas said the investor meet will be held in Thiruvananthapuram on November 16…reports Asian Lite News
In what’s billed as a first of its kind, Kerala is to organise a investor meet in the tourism sector, it was announced on Thursday.
Tourism Minister P.A.Mohammed Riyas said the investor meet will be held in Thiruvananthapuram on November 16.
“Tourism sector is a highly promising area for Kerala, whose full investment potential is yet to be tapped effectively. The investors meet will make major strides in that direction,” he said.
“Tourism sector is a highly promising area for Kerala, whose full investment potential is yet to be tapped effectively.” – P.A. Mohammed Riyas, Tourism Minister
Ahead of it, he said they have identified the thrust areas and locations that need more investments and will be unveiled before the investors and other stakeholders from India and abroad. He said the event will be attended by around 350 investors.
Students Summit in TVM
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated an international students summit in Kanakakunnu palace, Thiruvananthapuram. A total of 162 students from 42 countries studying in different educational institutions under Kerala University attended the summit. The summit was organised as part of Keraleeyam programme.
While addressing the students Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, “As you all have probably already experienced, Kerala’s peaceful and secular environment, the hospitality of our people, and the state’s natural beauty are its hallmarks. You may also know that Kerala is at par with several developed countries in multiple human development indices. The Kerala model of development which enabled such feats, is a term that has been acknowledged around the world.”
Over the last two centuries, our renaissance movements, progressive forces, agricultural struggles, labour advances and progressive governments have together paved the way for transforming Kerala into a modern society that is the beacon of progressive ethos, communal harmony and peaceful co-existence. Yet, we recognise the need to further enhance our standing in many sectors.
Accordingly, we are in the process of transforming Kerala into a knowledge economy and innovation society. We are building Kerala anew, so as to realise a Navakeralam (New Kerala). It will be sustainable and inclusive. In our transformative journey forward, we are learning from and sharing our experiences with the world. We stand at the threshold of ‘Keraleeyam’, a unique event designed to showcase the marvels of Kerala before the world.
Kerala has a rich tradition of welcoming visitors and cultures with open arms. The Kerala that we see today has been shaped by the interactions that we have had with various peoples, languages, cultures and nations spanning millennia. 450 foreign students from around 40 nations are currently studying in Kerala. It is a testament of the fact that pluralism and multiculturalism are part and parcel of our very existence.
CM also added that it is heartening to see the students adorned in their national attires, creating a global ambience here at Kanakakkunnu and many of these students who are representatives of our diverse world, will serve as an ambassador of Kerala.
CM further added that Kerala stands apart in a world of turmoil and turbulence with its unique sense of fraternity and camaraderie which the world at large is grossly lacking. The situation prevailing in Kerala which is marked by the rare unity of minds is something distinctive at a time when various parts of the world are quickly turning into hot beds of friction and hatred.
Therefore, it is no surprise that Kerala is one of the top choices in India as far as international students are concerned. It is to cater to them that international hostels are being set up, including a 43,500 sq. ft. complex. Students from other Indian states to find Kerala appealing. Dr. Visazo Kikhi, a young surgeon from Nagaland who is here with us today, can attest to this. He completed his MBBS and MS from Government Medical Colleges in the state. His recent reflections on his decade in Kerala have resonated far and wide.
The movement of students between states and countries will certainly continue. Such exchanges between people and places have historically been beneficial for mankind as a whole. In today’s scenario, we should all strive to ensure that such exchanges help to make the world a better place for all those in it.
The Life Sciences Park, Institute of Advanced Virology, Ayurveda Research Institute, Medical Technology Consortium and so on, are our initiatives to aid this transformation. Kerala was the first state in India to set up an IT Park, over 3 decades back. Now, we have the country’s first Digital University and Digital Science Park. Four more such parks will come up shortly.
The Kerala Genomic Data Centre, a pioneering high-capacity data center dedicated to harnessing genomic data and Kerala’s rich biodiversity, was inaugurated last year. Once fully operational, it will be the world’s premier center focusing on both humans and non-human organisms. India’s first Graphene Innovation Centre is also coming up in Kerala. Our goal is to utilise science and technology for human progress and social transformation, CM said. (IANS/ANI)
Eminent travel bloggers and travellers from Kuwait also shared their India experiences during the event. Ambassador of India, Adarsh Swaika, highlighted the enormous potential for tourism to India…reports Asian Lite News
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait organised an event titled ‘Exploring Incredible India’ to promote tourism to India. The event on Wednesday saw the participation of leading travel agents and hoteliers from India and over 150 travel operators from Kuwait.
Eminent travel bloggers and travellers from Kuwait also shared their India experiences during the event. Ambassador of India, Adarsh Swaika, highlighted the enormous potential for tourism to India. He underlined the ‘complete tourism experience’ that India offers. “Embassy of India organized ‘Explore Incredible India’ tourism event today with participation of leading travel agents and hoteliers from India and over 150 travel operators from Kuwait. It showcased ‘the complete tourism experience’ that India offers,” the Indian Embassy in Kuwait posted on the social media platform, X.
Embassy of India organized ‘Explore Incredible India’ tourism event today with particpation of leading travel agents and hoteliers from India and over 150 travel operators from Kuwait. It showcased ‘the complete tourism experience’ that India offers.@kuna_en@TheLeelaHotelspic.twitter.com/J7TAulApLp
The event was also live-streamed on the Embassy’s social media platforms for maximum outreach. Three days ago, Ambassador Swaika met Kuwait’s Minister of Electricity and Water, Jaseem Muhammad Abdullah Al-Ostad and discussed bilateral cooperation in energy and agriculture sectors between the two countries. Taking to X, the Indian embassy in Kuwait shared the information regarding the meeting saying, “Amb @AdarshSwaika1 called on the Minister of Electricity and Water H.E Dr Jassem Muhammad Abdullah Al-Ostad. Discussions pertained to potential bilateral cooperation in the field of renewable energy and agriculture. India has one of the largest renewable energy programmes.”
The bilateral trade between India and Kuwait has touched an all-time high of USD 12.5 billion, Swaika said last month. Trade between the two countries has seen a 90 per cent yearly jump and currently, it is skewed towards hydrocarbon exports from Kuwait and exports of mainly food products from India. The bilateral trade has the potential for diversification, the envoy said.
India and Kuwait share historically warm and close bilateral ties and the relationship has been nourished by sustained cultural and civilizational linkages. There are around one million Indians in Kuwait. India is amongst the largest trading partners of Kuwait and the Gulf country is a major supplier of oil. (ANI)
The report also explores two profound changes in travel behaviour since the pandemic: the dispersal of tourism away from urban areas, and long-term stays driven by the emergence of flexible work arrangements…reports Asian Lite News
New research from Oxford Economics found Airbnb is an important pillar of India’s tourism industry, contributing over USD$920 million (INR 72 Billion) to Gross Domestic Product and supporting over 85,000 Indian jobs in 2022 alone. The GDP contribution and jobs supported in India has more than doubled since 2019 despite the Covid-19 outbreak and international border restrictions.
The report also highlighted the powerful multiplier effect Airbnb guest spending has within local communities. In 2022, Airbnb guests spent a total of USD$815 million (INR 64 billion) in India in areas like purchases on transportation, restaurants, retail stores, and retail stores. The guests spent in 2022* more than doubled the 2019 levels.
In India, Airbnb’s presence was the highest in Goa, where Airbnb guests spending amounted to almost USD$190 million ( INR 14.8 billion), this was followed by Bangalore and Delhi, Mumbai and Manali.
It details the significant contribution made by Airbnb guests to domestic tourism across the nation. In 2022, domestic Airbnb guest spending totalled USD$670 million (INR 52.6 billion), and accounted for approximately 82 percent of total Airbnb guest spend in India, around a three-fold increase from 2019.
The report also explores two profound changes in travel behaviour since the pandemic: the dispersal of tourism away from urban areas, and long-term stays driven by the emergence of flexible work arrangements.
James Lambert, Director for Economic Consulting in Asia for Oxford Economics said, Airbnb has clearly played a major role in the resilience and rebirth of the Indian travel and tourism sector in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Airbnb has been at the heart of some of the trends reshaping the nation’s travel and tourism industry, including the shift in travel away from cities and towards more rural communities, and the increase in demand for long-stay trips, exemplified by the live and work anywhere phenomenon, Lambert said.
“Domestic travellers have been crucial to the tourism sector’s resilience over the past three years as Indian guests saw opportunities in domestic travel as a substitute for international holidays, with self-drive and regional trips increasing in popularity which led to a wider dispersion of tourism spend outside the traditional or ‘popular’ destinations in India.”
Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan said, “The economic contribution to both GDP and jobs driven by travel on Airbnb in India has created powerful economic ripple effects that have enabled the growth of local businesses, such as shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes — which are often central to how travellers experience a destination — and created job opportunities for the locals.”
Travel is now more dispersed, and so the economic benefits are being shared across more destinations, enabling a valuable economic contribution to rural and regional areas. This dispersal is being driven by Hosts on Airbnb and in turn creating economic opportunities for various communities.”
“As destinations across India continue to recover, we are committed to partnering with governments and communities to rebuild their tourism economies in a way that is equitable, inclusive, and sustainable.”
This report explores the twelve months to March 2023 — representing a year since travel restrictions started to be removed across India.
All months surpassed the previous year’s figures, with the highest increase recorded in January (45 per cent) and February (27 per cent)…reports Asian Lite News
The EU tourism industry is experiencing a strong recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first half of 2023, the number of nights spent in tourist accommodations reached its highest level in the past decade, signalling a notable resurgence in the industry’s performance in many countries, according to Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.
In the first half of this year, there were 1,193 million nights spent in tourist accommodations, marking an increase of nearly 11 million compared to the same period in 2019 (1182 million, +0.9 per cent). Additionally, there were 136 million more overnight stays than in the first half of 2022 (1057 million, +12.9 per cent). In comparison to 2021 (406.8 million), this year recorded 786 million more overnight stays, and compared to 2020 (474.7 million), 718 million more overnight stays were recorded.
All months surpassed the previous year’s figures, with the highest increase recorded in January (45 per cent) and February (27 per cent).
Looking at the country data, all member states have seen an increase in overnight stays compared to 2022, with Hungary being the sole exception, experiencing a slight decrease of -0.3 per cent. Cyprus (39.3 per cent), Malta (30.5 per cent), and Slovakia (28.7 per cent) stand out with the most substantial increases in overnight stays. However, about half of the countries have yet to reach the figures recorded in the first half of 2019. Notably, Latvia (-23.8 per cent), Slovakia (-16.0 per cent), Hungary (-12.2 per cent), and Lithuania (-11.7 per cent) are still to get close to 2019 figures.
A strong boost to this year’s numbers came from the recovery of international tourism. In comparison with 2022, there was a 22.5 per cent increase in the number of nights spent by foreign tourists, while domestic tourism saw a 5.8 per cent increase.
In total, foreign tourists accounted for 545 million nights in the first half of 2023 or 46 per cent of all overnight stays. In recent years, the proportion of foreign tourists has been significantly impacted by the pandemic. Starting at 47 per cent in the first half of 2019, it dropped to 36 per cent in the first half of 2020, and further decreased to 21 per cent in 2021, before demonstrating a strong rebound in 2022, climbing to 42 per cent. (ANI/WAM)
To kickstart this transformative journey, a high-level meeting was convened under the able guidance of UT Adviser Dharam Pal…reports Asian Lite News
The Union Ministry of Tourism has announced the launch of Swadesh Darshan 2.0, a significant initiative aimed at transforming more than 55 cities into exceptional tourist destinations in the country. Among these selected cities, Chandigarh stands out as a prominent choice, ready to warmly embrace visitors, reports Khalsa Vox.
Taking charge of this exciting project is L&T Infra Engineering in association with PwC, handpicked by the ministry to serve as the project development and management consultant. Their primary objective is to unlock and maximize the tourism potential of the city, making it a memorable experience for visitors from far and wide.
As per Khalsa Vox, to kickstart this transformative journey, a high-level meeting was convened under the able guidance of UT Adviser Dharam Pal. During the meeting, the team reviewed the meticulously crafted inception report submitted by the project development and management consultant. The enthusiastic participation of various departments of Chandigarh made the meeting even more fruitful. They were encouraged to share their insights, concerns, and interests to ensure that the city’s tourism development caters to the needs and desires of the tourists.
The joint presentation by the L&T and PwC team shed light on the core concepts of the project. The inception report, a solid foundation for further progress, will soon be followed by comprehensive master plans for tourism encompassing both physical infrastructure and intangible offerings. The project development and management consultant team will be stationed right here in Chandigarh, actively engaging in on-ground work to bring the vision to life.
The gathering at the meeting was graced by the presence of prominent officials, including Hargunjit Kaur, Secretary of Tourism, Home Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav, Secretary of Culture Vinod P Kavle, MC Commissioner Anindita Mitra, DC Vinay Pratap Singh, CITCO MD Purva Garg, Chief Architect Kapil Setia, and Chief Engineer CB Ojha. Their combined efforts and dedication will play a pivotal role in transforming Chandigarh into a tourism paradise.
With the Centre’s resolute push and the diligent efforts of the project development and management consultant team, Chandigarh is all set to blossom as a prime tourist destination in India. The city’s rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality will soon be showcased to the world, inviting travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and delight. As the project takes shape, tourists can look forward to a rejuvenating and immersive experience in Chandigarh, leaving them with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
To start with, Mani Ratnam will participate in a show planned at Bekal Fort in Kasaragod district, where exciting scenes of his film ‘Bombay’ were shot…reports Asian Lite News
As part of promoting tourist locations in Kerala which have been featured in numerous films, ace filmmaker Mani Ratnam has extended his support to the efforts of the tourism department which has named it Kerala’s ‘Cinema Tourism Project’.
On Tuesday at a meeting with Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, Mani Ratnam promised to endorse locations that left a deep impression in people’s mind after getting featured in box office hits.
To start with, Mani Ratnam will participate in a show planned at Bekal Fort in Kasaragod district, where exciting scenes of his film ‘Bombay’ were shot.
Through the cinema tourism initiative, Kerala aims to attract tourists to such locations.
Mani Ratnam expressed his deep appreciation of the pioneering project besides recalling Kerala’s scenic landscape which had been locations for a number of his films, especially for song sequences.
Riyas, who is the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, said the support and presence of Mani Ratnam will be a big boost for the Cinema Tourism project.
The Bekal Fort in Kasaragod, which featured in ‘Bombay,’ starring Aravind Swami and Manisha Koirala, has been included in the project. This location also featured in his Malayalam film ‘Unaroo.’ To launch this project he will be present at the Bekal Fort along with the actors of ‘Bombay’
The government has put in determined efforts to revive the tourism sector and dispel the negative image surrounding the region…reports Asian Lite News
The successful ‘Tourism Working Group Meeting’ of G20 delegates held in Srinagar from May 22 to May 25 this year marked a turning point for the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
The summit, which saw the participation of representatives from the world’s most influential economies, has not only strengthened international relations but also served as a catalyst for the resurgence of tourism in the Himalayan region. In the first six months of this year, as per official figures, over 15000 foreign tourists arrived in Kashmir, which was more than the last year. The visitors also included tourists from European countries.
Pertinently, after 1990, when a Pakistan-sponsored insurgency broke out in J-K, tourists stopped visiting Kashmir as the gun-totting terrorists wreaked havoc in the region.
Kashmir, once known for its picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality, became shrouded in a cloud of fear, with concerns about terrorism and instability dominating global perceptions.
Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha along with Director General of J&K Police Dilgah Singh and senior officials presenting awards among the winners during the closing ceremony of Jashn-e-Dal organised by Jammu and Kashmir Police to promote tourism in the Valley, on the Banks of Dal lake in Srinagar on Monday. (Umar Ganie)
Abduction of five Western trekkers:
Abduction of five Western trekkers–two American nationals, Don Hutchings and John Childs, two Briton Keith Mangan, and Paul Wells, and a Norwegian national Ostro in 1995 from Pahalgam in South Kashmir–by a terror outfit, Al-Faran led to most of the countries issuing advisories to their residents to stay away from visiting the terrorism hit region.
Among the five kidnapped foreign nationals, only John Childs could escape from the clutches of his captors while four others were murdered by the terrorists.
Till August 5, 2019 — when the Centre announced its decision to abrogate J&K’s so-called special status and bifurcate it into two Union Territories — countries like the US, Australia, Britain, and others used to issue advisories to its citizens, asking them to refrain from visiting J-K.
However, during the past three years, the scenario has changed. J-K has witnessed the arrival of millions of domestic tourists, who have become unofficial ambassadors of the region. They have showcased the region’s rejuvenated tranquillity to the world.
Determined efforts:
The government’s sincere and dedicated efforts in restoring peace and stability to Kashmir after decades of Pakistan-sponsored turmoil have not gone unnoticed. As a result, tourists are now venturing into far-flung areas, including the frontier regions, which were once considered out of bounds due to the fear of terrorists.
The government has put in determined efforts to revive the tourism sector and dispel the negative image surrounding the region.
For the past three years, the authorities have worked tirelessly to restore peace and stability, ensuring the safety and security of both locals and tourists. Their efforts have yielded positive results.
The fear of Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and separatists that used to prevail in Kashmir has diminished significantly.
G20 summit renews interest:
The improved security situation combined with the successful hosting of the G20 summit has instilled confidence in foreign countries.
The positive message conveyed by the participants of the G20 meeting has had a far-reaching impact, generating a renewed interest in the region.
The G20 summit in Srinagar served as a platform for international delegates to discuss important global issues, including economic cooperation, climate change, and international security.
Srinagar hosting such a prestigious event not only highlighted the beauty and cultural heritage of J-K but also showcased the region’s potential as a tourism destination.
The participants had the opportunity to experience the warm hospitality and scenic landscapes firsthand, leaving them with a positive impression to share with their respective countries.
The increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting Kashmir post the G20 summit has elated the stakeholders. They are hoping that foreigners would revive their connections with Kashmir in the coming days.
Following the successful conclusion of the G20 summit, the government has launched an aggressive marketing campaign to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and desirable tourist destination.
The Tourism Department has been in touch with top travel agencies, embassies, and global media outlets to showcase the rejuvenated Kashmir to the world. Social media platforms are being effectively utilized to spread captivating visuals and stories of the region.
The mega G20 tourism meet in Srinagar caught the attention of international media, with many of them highlighting India’s efforts of showcasing the restoration of stability and normalcy in Kashmir.
Tourism revival:
The tourism sector, which suffered a major setback due to the decline in arrivals after 1990, has experienced a revival post abrogation of Article 370, a temporary provision in the Constitution of India.
The surge in tourist activity has created numerous job opportunities for the local population, leading to increased income and overall economic growth.
To sustain and further capitalize on this positive trend, the government is working hard to improve infrastructure, ensure the safety and security of tourists, and promote J&K as a tourist-friendly destination.
Efforts are being put in to enhance connectivity, improve accommodation facilities, and provide quality services to visitors.
Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel perform during the closing ceremony of Jashn-e-Dal organised by Jammu and Kashmir Police to promote tourism in the Valley, at Dal lake in Srinagar (Umar Ganie)
After 2019 the government has invested in enhancing the region’s infrastructure and connectivity. Roads have been upgraded, and transportation facilities stand modernized to provide convenient access to tourist destinations.
These improvements have contributed to enhance the overall travel experience for visitors. The ease of transportation and improved amenities are allowing tourists to explore the enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures of Jammu and Kashmir.
Frontier areas become tourist hotspots:
For 30-years places like Gurez, Karnah, Uri and Kupwara near the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, were inaccessible due to the prevailing security situation. However, these areas have experienced a remarkable transformation after J&K’s transition from a State into a Union Territory.
These areas were relatively unknown to tourists but now they are emerging as popular destinations. Gurez, known for its picturesque valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and vibrant meadows has become a tourist hotspot.
Uri, situated in the Baramulla district, is another area that has witnessed a surge in tourist arrivals. This town, located near the LoC, is blessed with natural beauty and a serene ambience. The mesmerizing views of the snow-capped mountains and the glistening Jhelum River make Uri an enchanting place to visit.
The town is also home to historical sites such as the famous Baramulla Fort and the ancient town of Salamabad.
Kupwara district, with its scenic beauty and untouched landscapes, is also attracting a growing number of tourists.
Surrounded by dense forests and majestic mountains, Kupwara offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. The Lolab Valley, one of the prime attractions in the district, is renowned for its meadows, streams, and captivating beauty.
The Bangus Valley, famous for its grassy meadows and sparkling lakes is also becoming a must-visit destination in Kupwara.
The surge in tourist arrivals to these areas is a testament to the peace and stability that has been restored in Jammu and Kashmir.
Travellers from across the country and even abroad are now venturing into these once-untouched territories to experience their natural beauty and cultural diversity. The echoes of tourism and development are reverberating through the valleys and mountains of Gurez, Karnah, Uri, and Kupwara.
Homestays, a new addition:
In 2022, J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha launched 75 home-stays in rural areas owned by Self Help Group (SHG) members of Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM) in partnership with OYO Group under the project ‘Crown of Incredible India’.
Since then there has been no looking back as more than 200 homestays have come across Jammu and Kashmir.
Seventy-five villages in J&K known for their unique landscape, cultural diversity, and heritage value have been selected to expand the tourism ecosystem to rural areas of the Union Territory.
The homestays have all the basic room amenities, and great views, and provide an opportunity for travellers to experience beautiful rural landscapes and nature in its truest form.
All records broken:
Notably, Jammu & Kashmir recorded its highest influx of tourists in 2022, with official figures recording the numbers at 1.88 crore.
The record-breaking tourists visiting the Union Territory was the highest in 75 years of India’s Independence.
Introduction of international flight connectivity and night landing facilities at Srinagar International Airport and expediting the work on the 270-km long Srinagar-Jammu National Highway has brought Kashmir closer to the world during the past three years.
A comprehensive Film Policy announced to lure filmmakers back to J&K and its picturesque locations for film shooting has led to Bollywood returning to the Himalayan region.
Foreign countries maintain silence:
In recent years, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the return of peace and stability. The government’s relentless efforts to restore the pristine glory of J&K have not gone unnoticed.
As a result, foreign countries have maintained a noticeable silence and refrained from issuing any advisories against their citizens visiting the region.
For a long time, Jammu and Kashmir faced security challenges that led many foreign countries to issue travel advisories, cautioning their citizens against visiting the region.
However, in the backdrop of the peace that has returned to Kashmir and the concerted efforts of the government, the situation has taken a positive turn.
The restoration of peace has not only been acknowledged by the locals but has also garnered attention on the global stage.
The reduction in incidents of violence and the improved law and order situation has been instrumental in changing the perception of Jammu and Kashmir as a risky destination.
The silence of foreign countries in not issuing travel advisories can be seen as a vote of confidence in the efforts made by the government.
It reflects the growing trust and belief that the region is now safe for tourists to explore and enjoy its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The government’s relentless efforts have focused not only on security but also on restoring the pristine glory of Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
Tourists enjoy peaceful Shikara boat rides, explore floating gardens, and witness the harmonious coexistence of nature and architecture through the favourite Mughal Gardens…reports Zehru Nissa
Summer capital Srinagar continues to captivate the hearts and minds of tourists from around the world, despite newer attractions being added every year for the explorers and leisure seekers.
Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Srinagar has long remained on top of travelers’ itineraries.
Despite the challenges posed by high travel and boarding costs Srinagar is a must-visit destination for those seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience, tourism operators and planners say. Nihal Sharma, a tourist from Mumbai, shared his experience, saying, “Visiting the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar was like stepping into a dream. The meticulously manicured gardens, vibrant flowers, and the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas created a surreal and serene ambiance”. Sharma summed up his experience by saying, “Srinagar is a destination that surpasses all expectations. Its natural beauty, architectural wonders, and warm hospitality create an unforgettable journey that lingers in your memories long after you leave.”
Nestled in the picturesque Valley, Srinagar boasts awe-inspiring landscapes that seem straight out of a fairy tale. With the serene Dal Lake as its centerpiece, Srinagar’s beauty is unrivaled and has been the center stage of hundreds of Bollywood movies.
Tourists enjoy peaceful Shikara boat rides, explore floating gardens, and witness the harmonious coexistence of nature and architecture through the favourite Mughal Gardens.
Srinagar’s architectural wonders reflect its diverse cultural influences and historical significance. The majestic Jama Masjid, built in the 14th century is a traet for those interested in history of the City. Mohsin Khan from Meerut shares his excitement, saying, “As a history enthusiast, visiting Jamia Masjid in Srinagar was a dream come true. The intricate architecture and the sense of serenity within the mosque left me in awe of the city’s rich historical legacy.”
The Hazratbal Shrine, revered as one of the holiest Muslim shrines, attracts devotees and tourists alike. Khan said it was his long cherished wish to visit all the shrines and mosques in Srinagar and experience the spiritual exhilaration.
For many tourists, the Shankaracharya Temple, situated atop a hill, provides a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings, apart from providing a religiously significant experience.
In addition, the architectural marvels blend seamlessly with the city’s natural beauty, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Sonali Thakkar is one such tourist who arrived from Bulandshahar to visit Shankaracharya temple before she went on her journey into the mountains of Sonamarg.
Srinagar has been called a melting pot of cultures, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Barkha Guha from West Bengal shares her enthusiasm, saying, “Since childhood, I had dreamt of traveling on a Shikara boat in Srinagar. It was a surreal experience gliding through the tranquil waters of Dal Lake, surrounded by floating gardens and the majestic Himalayas. Srinagar has truly lived up to my expectations.” The traditional Kashmiri cuisine, with its aromatic flavors and delectable delicacies like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao, is a culinary delight that leaves a lasting impression on the taste buds, says Guha.
Over 13,000 perform Amaranth Yatra on day 4
Over 13,000 have performed the ongoing Amarnath Yatra on its 4th day while another batch of 6,107 pilgrims left Jammu for Kashmir on Wednesday.
Officials said over 13,000 Yatris had ‘Darshan’ inside the Amarnath cave shrine on Tuesday, and since the Yatra started on July 1 a total of over 50,000 had performed the pilgrimage so far.
“Another batch of 6,107 Yatris including 4,680 males, 1203 females, 31 children, 154 Sadhus and 39 Sadhvis left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in an escorted convoy of 244 vehicles for the Valley this morning,” officials said.
Yatris approach the Himalayan cave shrine either from the traditional south Kashmir Pahalgam route which involves an uphill trek of 43 Kms from Pahalgam base camp or from the north Kashmir Baltal base camp which involves 13 Kms uphill trek.
Those using the traditional Pahalgam route take 3-4 days to reach the cave shrine while those using the Baltal route return to the base camp the same day after having ‘Darshan’ inside the cave shrine situated 3888 metres above the sea-level.
Helicopter services are also available for Yatris on both routes.
The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that devotees believe symbolises mythical powers of Lord Shiva. The ice stalagmite structure wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon.
This year’s 62-day long Amarnath Yatra started on July 1 and will end on August 31 coinciding with the Shravan Purnima festival.
To protect the pilgrims from high altitude sickness, authorities have banned all junk food at the free community kitchens called the ‘Langars’ that have been set up along both the routes of the Yatra. The banned items include all bottled drinks, halwai items, fried foods and tobacco based products.
