The colorful vibrant state of Rajasthan in north India has mounted a massive campaign to promote domestic tourism. It has always been a favorite destination for international tourists who love the culture, colors, people, and palaces of the state.
The campaign is being spearheaded by the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of Rajasthan (FHTR) and the Department of Tourism, government of Rajasthan, with the support of the Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India.
As part of the campaign, the first road show was held in Delhi on September 25 and 26, when over 40 sellers from the state interacted with buyers in B2B meetings.
The road shows have been scheduled for Chandigarh on September 28 and 29, Mumbai on October 24 and 25, Pune on October 27 and 28, Chennai on December 7 and 8, Kolkata on January 8 and 9, 2016, Guwahati on January 11 and 12, and Hyderabad on February 11 and 12.
Anil Kumar Chaplot, Director of Tourism, government of Rajasthan, said that the idea was to regain the pride position of the state, which has gone down to fifth position. He said that the state will once again be very active in the marketplace.
FHTR President Bhim Singh said that the road shows will be part of a regular exercise so that the visibility of the many attractions of the state remains high. Secretary Genereal Gyan Prakash said that they will involve all the stakeholders as tourism is important for all.
Among the sellers at the first event was Sonaar Haveli in Jaisalmer, which is unique for its sunset view, design, hospitality, and facilities. It offers the best of Rajasthan’s flavors. Also prominent at the road show was the Pachar Group of Hotels, where Managing Director Rajinder Singh Pachar explained the salient features of its hotels and resorts in Jaipur, Pushkar, and Udaipur. The chain has ambitious expansion plans also, he said.
Jaideep Singh Bika was there to tell of his recently-opened hotel, Talaibagh Palace in Amer near Jaipur, which is already gaining popularity with film stars, among others. Rudra Pratap Singh of Diggi Palace, Jaipur, spoke of the attractions of the hotel, which also hosts a very popular festival of culture and music every year. KK Royal Hotel and Convention Centre on Amber Road in Jaipur was being promoted by General Manager Ashish Brahmawar. The road show attracted many sellers from places like Bundi as well, in addition to known destinations.
The Visit Rajasthan road show was backed by the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India and the Enterprising Travel Agents Association. The FHTR leadership, like Secretary General Gyan Prakash and Vice President Sunil Gupta, are confident that the campaign will be a success. It is the first time that the private sector and the government have gotten together to promote tourism for the country.