Can India actually become a global destination for tourism?

[Walter White]

I always wanted to write about it once #BoycottMaldives started to trend. India has no shortage of options when it comes to good places for tourism. The challenge has always been lack of necessary infrastructure.

Having visited 20+ states in the country for work and leisure, I decided to have an analysis on some of the factors that any person looks for in a city. I have restricted the research towards some of the bigger cities (which have an airport) in India that I have travelled to in the past 4-5 years based on certain parameters.

• International Connectivity: International flights operating from the airport
• Domestic Connectivity: Connectivity to other parts in India including air, rail and road
• Intra-City Connectivity: Travelling within the city which includes metro, local train, buses, trams
• Hospitality Infrastructure: Availability of 4 and 5 star hotels in a location

Based on the parameters, I rated the places on a scale of 0 to 10 with 10 being the best. The ratings are based upon personal experiences and therefore can be subjective.



Outside of metro cities (ones in green), the difference in quality of public transit is quite significant. The tourism business relies heavily on transportation. Better transportation systems enable tourism to grow. Tourism in India has underperformed in comparison to the country's natural heritage.

Mobility is an important issue for tourists visiting large cities because it is critical to their comfort. It is critical for a city to have numerous modes of transportation. Travelers want a transportation system that is safe, comfortable, efficient, and integrated, as well as an easy payment option. To capitalize on its tourism potential, India must construct a good public transportation system in major cities and strengthen its transit system. The country should invest more in its public transportation system.

 

[credit_debit]

Tourism as a culture is lacking in India. Look at SE Asian countries. Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore provide the best hospitality experience, which we lack.
Tourists want to enjoy with the local people, local food, and culture at a reasonable cost. I find Indian tourist place prices with decent facilities highly inflated. You can book a very good bungalow in Bali for less than 100 dollars.
I had a great experience in Vietnam on a bike tour of Ho Chi Minh City for $50. They took us to all the city districts, and we enjoyed local markets and street food. They generate a lot of employment for locals. We lack such affordable and safe facilities. Not everyone can afford the Deccan Odyssey.

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In short, we are in a nascent state as far as tourism development is concerned. Connectivity is one part, but unless we practice "Athithi Devo Bhava" from our heart, tourism development with local employment is difficult.

 

[pothi]

Politics have a huge impact on tourism. Sri Lanka and Pakistan are great examples. Both lost their tourism due to policies / politics directly and indirectly.

Also one country shouldn't depend on tourism. Once Sri Lanka had over 50% of their foreign funds came from tourism. COVID destroyed the inflow from tourism. It was the political policies that made the country depend largely on tourism before COVID that came as the final nail in the coffin.

 

[HumorSimpson]

Our movies are to be blamed too.
As if there is no place in India, the so called big movies shoot a fight in swiss, song in uk etc. This is systematically making us to think less about our own destinations.

 

[MrunalMehta]

India, with its diverse cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and rich history, holds immense potential to become a global tourism destination. From the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra to the vibrant markets and palaces of Jaipur, each region offers a unique experience for travelers. The tranquil Kerala Backwaters provide a peaceful retreat, while Goa's beautiful beaches and lively nightlife attract visitors from around the world. Varanasi, one of the oldest cities, is renowned for its spiritual significance and the ghats along the Ganges River. Hampi's ancient temples and ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase India's rich architectural past. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Ranthambore National Park, known for its tiger population, or marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Leh-Ladakh, with its high-altitude mountain passes and Buddhist monasteries. With the right infrastructure and sustainable tourism practices, India has the potential to captivate travelers and emerge as a top global destination.

 

[HumorSimpson]

India, with its diverse cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and rich history, holds immense potential to become a global tourism destination. From the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra to the vibrant markets and palaces of Jaipur, each region offers a unique experience for travelers. The tranquil Kerala Backwaters provide a peaceful retreat, while Goa's beautiful beaches and lively nightlife attract visitors from around the world. Varanasi, one of the oldest cities, is renowned for its spiritual significance and the ghats along the Ganges River. Hampi's ancient temples and ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase India's rich architectural past. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Ranthambore National Park, known for its tiger population, or marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Leh-Ladakh, with its high-altitude mountain passes and Buddhist monasteries. With the right infrastructure and sustainable tourism practices, India has the potential to captivate travelers and emerge as a top global destination.

@DocFixIt she is back 🔙

 

[Vasuki]

@DocFixIt she is back 🔙

@DocFixIt she is back 🔙

This time won't give her/ him / they / them the hype