RESEARCH

PROEJCT REPORT

ON

SPORTS & ADVENTURE

TOURISM IN IDNIA
COMPILED BY:
PREM RATTAN
3RD YEAR

1
 PROPOSAL FORMAT

Name: PREM RATTAN

Roll No-080848

Title : SPORTS AND ADVENTURE TOURISM

Introduction:

A growing niche market in India, it is estimated that, in the

next three years, over 100,000 Indians will travel exclusively
to watch sports-related events internationally. This trend will
be particularly significant with football, cricket, tennis, golf
and Formula One enthusiasts.

Adventure tourism in India is meant to provide you an

exhilarating experience for life. Many a times in process of
having fun, an entirely new aspect of life manifests itself before
you and an awareness and appreciation about the
surroundings emanates somewhere from deep within your
heart.

Objective
 To understand the concept of SPORTS & ADVENTURE
Tourism and identify them.

 To know the kind of steps taken by these SPORTS &

ADVANTURES TOURISM.

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 INDEX

 GUIDE CERTIFICATE

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

 INTRODUCTION

 OBJECTIVE

 METHODOLOGY

 LIMITATION

 STUDY

 BIBLIOGRAPHY

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 GUIDE’S CERTIFICATE

I have the pleasure to certify that PREM RATTAN student of

IHM CHENNAI has pursued his research work and prepared
the present dissertation Project, under my supervision and
guidance. The present dissertation is the result of this own
research to the best of my knowledge.

Guides Signature

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The assistant of several individuals conducted the study. I

really appreciate their help and hereby thank them. I would
like to give special thanks to the following people:

1 Firstly, I would like to thanks Mr. Ravi.C who had

supervised the study and was in charge of the entire
project. Her presence and assistant was remarkable
and so I am grateful to him.

2 Secondly, I would like to thank the different officials

who were interviewed. They took out time from their
busy schedules to help me proceed with my study.
Their assistance was very significant and so I am
grateful to them as well.

3 Thirdly, I would like to thank all other people who

provided me with the resources to conduct my study.
Their help and assistance was very valuable and so I
would like to acknowledge them as well.

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 INTRODUCTION

A growing niche market in India, it is estimated that, in the

next three years, over 100,000 Indians will travel exclusively
to watch sports-related events internationally. This trend will
be particularly significant with football, cricket, tennis, golf
and Formula One enthusiasts.

Adventure tourism in India is meant to provide you an

exhilarating experience for life. Many a times in process of
having fun, an entirely new aspect of life manifests itself before
you and an awareness and appreciation about the
surroundings emanates somewhere from deep within your
heart.

6
 OBJECTIVES

The main objectives of this project are :

 To understand the concept of SPORTS & ADVENTURE

Tourism and identify them.

 To know the kind of steps taken by these SPORTS &

ADVANTURES TOURISM.

 To know the steps SPORTS & ADVANTURES Tourism.

 To find the SPORTS & ADVANTURES tourism in india.

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 METHODOLOGY

In the beginning to get more familiar to the topic secondary

information on the subject was collected from studies done on
Project . The source of secondary data was restricted to the
library of the institute of hotel Management.

It was decided to use a controlled opinion

questionnaire and that too of alternative choice variety .
These type of questionnaire were selected for two reasons.
 Primary sources: Internet, Books
 Secondary sources: Newspaper , Magazine

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 LIMITATIONS
1. Small universe
The Universe for this study is too small therefore the findings may
not truly represent the conditions in the entire industry.

2. Problem of Accessibility
it was very difficult in approaching the executives or
the Guest as they would be busy, Despite prior
appointments, they were unaccessable at times being
engaged elsewhere.

3. Constraints of time
The respondents due to non availability of time could
not discuss many aspects of the topic in depth.

5. Lack of Interest
Many respondents were just not interested in
interacting as they considered it to be a waste of time, a
non lucrative approach. This negative approach was
quite impairing .

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India's Tourism Sector

India's share of global international tourism at 2.64 million

foreign arrivals through its borders in the year 2000 is
relatively small in volume (about 0.38%) but almost twice as
high in terms of US$ receipts (about 0.69 %). On the other
hand, India's share of global domestic tourism is much higher
(around 4.6% of estimated global domestic tourism).

A study on the economic impact of tourism conducted by the

World Tourism and Travel Council estimated that in 2001, the
consumption activity arising from domestic and international
tourism will contribute 5.3 per cent of India's Gross Domestic
Product.

The Nature of Indian Tourism

India has been a late starter in tourism. Understandably,

immediately after independence the focus was on key areas
like agriculture, industry, irrigation, infrastructure and the
social sectors. Tourism started receiving attention in the last
decade. Indian Government proposes to spend over Rs 2900
crore in the next five years to boost the growth in this sector.

The flow of overseas visitors to India is extremely elastic and

events around the globe and in the subcontinent have an
immediate impact on foreign traffic. However, domestic
tourism has displayed greater buoyancy and resilience. In the

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last 10 years, visits by the domestic tourists have grown by
more than 100 million. From a figure of 63 million in 1990 it
stood at 234 million in the year 2001. This phenomenal
explosion of domestic tourism is an inevitable by-product of
the prosperity that India has achieved. Domestic tourism in
India is also fuelled by a number of factors like India being the
home to many of the leading religions of the world. Important
pilgrim sites of different religions are scattered throughout the
country. The average Indian is also an avid sightseer.

A striking feature of Indian tourism is the average length of

stay of foreign tourists in the country. The estimated average
length of stay for tourists is 31 days, which is extraordinary
when compared to international average. The long length of
stay indicated the character of the average foreign visitor as
serious minded and exploratory; vindicating the fact that India
has a vast variety of offer to the tourists.

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 SPORTS TOURISM
Saumil Majmudar, director of SportzVillage, said: "As one of
India's leading grassroot-level, professionally-run sports
organisation, SportzVillage's mission is to Create Champions
in Life, through the magical medium of sports. The sports
tourism initiative will go a long way in providing a high-quality
sporting experience as well as help develop a passion for
sports and fitness in children and adults. We are pleased to
partner with GET Lionel India and combine their domestic and
international travel expertise with our professional sports
services for children and corporate.

Sportz Village provides high-quality sports services to children

and corporates.

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 SPORTS IN INDIA
Traditionally, Indians have enjoyed various sporting activities
and games. Sports history of India dates back to the Vedic era.
Traces of the earliest sport activities such as hunting,
swimming, boating, archery, horse riding, wrestling, martial
arts, fishing and board games like chess, snakes and ladders
etc can be seen from ancient bronze ware, paintings and finds
mention in books such as the two great epics Ramayana and
Mahabharata.

The origin and development of sports activities are closely

related with the work, defence and entertainment of the time.
Records says that games like, Chess, Snakes and Ladders,
Kabbadi, Kho-Kho, playing cards,  martial arts of 'Kalari
Payattu' etc had originated as a sport in India. Now the most
popular sports in India is Cricket and Football. In fact, Cricket
has become a way of life with Indians and India has an
impressive track record in cricket. Traditionally a number of
games were popular - Kho-Kho, Kabbadi, Gulli- Danda,
Wrestling, camel race, Vallamkali (boat race), pachisi are a few
amongst them. 

India is an active participant in major world sports

tournaments such as the Olympics, Commonwealth Games,
Asian Games, SAF Games, Wimbledon and many others. The
country has hosted the Asian Games twice in 1951 and in
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1982 and the World Table tennis championships three times
in 1952, 1975 and 1987. 

But India's sportspersons have generally performed creditably

only at the Asian and Commonwealth games  and in quite a
few cases at the world level. From the1948 Olympics through
to the Athens, India's effort have brought a meager return of
eight gold medals in Hockey, six of them successively, three
silver medals ( 2 in athletics and 1 in Hockey) and four Bronze
medals from the Olympics so far. A few notable performances,
those of the triple-jumper Henry Rebello (1948), quarter-miler 
Milkha Singh (1960), hurdler Gurbachan Singh Randhawa
(1964), 800m-runner Sriram Singh (1976) and P.T. Usha
(400m hurdles, 1984) etc, Karnam Malleswari (2004).  Apart
from Hockey, Tennis Doubles, Cricket, Billiards and Kabbadi,
India has had relatively little success in these tournaments. 

India has produced some players with exceptional skills who

have made their presence felt at the international  events in
individual sports such as Viswanathan Anand in chess, Geeth
Sethi in Billiards, Ramanathan Krishnan, Vijay Amritraj,
Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi and recently Sania Mirza who
is making waves in tennis, Prakash Padukone and Pullela
Gopichand in badminton; Rajyavardhan Rathore, Jaspal
Rana, Mansher Singh (shooting), Anju George (long jump),
Narain Karthikeyan in Motor Racing, Chetan P. Baboor in
table tennis, Chiranjeev Milkha Singh in golf, and A.Maria

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Irudayam in carrom etc. All these sportspersons and many
others lent prestige and splendour to the Indian sports. But,
in a country having a population of over a billion, these stars

represent a microcosm of the stars at the world level. With the

introduction of new equipment and techniques of coaching
and training, there is hope that India will show a marked
improvement in various disciplines of sport.

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WORLD- CLASS
GAMES VILLAGE

The new state-of-the-art Games Village is being planned

around maximising athlete comfort. The services and facilities
will have a unique "athlete-comfort" orientation and approach.
Exceeding CGF requirements, the Village will translate
traditional Indian hospitality into standards of comfort &
excellence never seen before by participating teams.

To be created at a cost of USD 40 million, the Games Village

has been underwritten by the government ... There will be no
cost to the Organizing Committee. A 47.3 hectare (118 acre)
picturesque site has been selected on the banks of river
Yamuna.
Within its immediate vicinity are heritage monuments and
historical landmarks. Combined with the dense green natural
cover on the sides, it will be a relaxing and soothing
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environment for the athletes and officials. Athletes and
Officials from all sports will stay at this one village.

Venues are within a 25 minute journey from the Games

Village, and the majority are just 10-15 minutes away.

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 GROWTH OF Golf SPORTS TOURISM

The traditional golfing club in Delhi is the Delhi Golf Club right next to the
Oberoi Hotel. However, in the last few years, new and signature golf courses
have been created around Delhi, offering a completely new world of golfing.
These include the Jack Nicklaus ITC Classic Golf Resort in Gurgaon and the
Arnold Palmer DLF Golf & Country Club, also in Gurgaon. Besides, the
NOIDA golf course offers the game to the residents of this satellite town and
there are the other courses – such as the Army Golf Club, Air Force Golf
Club etc.

ITC Classic Resort

Gurgaon Siri Fort Sports Complex

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 NOIDA Golf Club Aravali Golf Club

Army Golf Course

DLF Golf &Country Club

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ADVENTURE TOURISM

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The endless scope of adventure tourism in India is largely
because of its diverse topography and climate. On land and
water, under water and in the air, you can enjoy whatsoever
form of adventure in India you want. It is one opportunity for
you to leave all inhibitions behind and just let yourself go. The
mountainous regions offer umpteen scope for mountaineering,
rock climbing, trekking, skiing, skating, mount biking and
safaris while the rushing river from these mountains are just
perfect for river rafting, canoeing and kayaking. The oceans
are not behind in any manner as well. The vast and deep
expanse of water provide tremendous opportunity for
adventure sports in form of diving and snorkeling.
The forest and the desert region have their own distinct place
in providing scope for adventure tourism in India. You can
enjoy animal safari, jeep safari, bird watching, wild camp,
wildlife safari and jungle trail in the forest region while jeep
safari and camel safari are the most favoured adventure sports
in the desert region. After all this, if you think the list of
adventure sports in India has ended, think again. There is still
much left in form of paragliding, hand gliding, hot air
ballooning,etc.

India is a thrilling adventure holiday destination. You can

choose from a wide range of adventure tours in India, while on
your Indian Holiday. You can enjoy mountaineering in the
Himalayas, and trekking, camping and rock climbing on
various mountain ranges, while on adventure tours in India.
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Feel the thrill of white water rafting and kayaking on the rivers
of India. Take off from lofty cliffs and soar like a bird, while
hang gliding or parasailing in India. If you're a wildlife
enthusiast, you're sure to enjoy wildlife safaris and adventure
tours to the National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India. If
water sports are what excite you, then India's long coastline
and islands offer plenty of opportunities for water sports
adventure tours in India. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling,
scuba diving, surfing, wind surfing and sailing, on adventure
tours in India, when you enjoy an adventurous Indian Holiday.

TREKKING

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If you love challenges and desire to tread the fascinating
unexplored trails made by nature or wish to explore an
entirely different culture and living style, then trekking in
India is for you. Undoubetedly, the trails in the great
Himalayan ranges are the ones that will attract you the most,
but other parts of India also have vast opportunities for
enjoying a trekking expedition. So much so that you will
invariably feel drawn towards it again and again once you have

experienced its magic

So what do you exactly come across while trekking in India?

Well, the snow capped mountains definitely have a prime
place.

SKIING

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Skiing, as an adventure sport, has come a long way in India.
Introduced by the Europeans, it started out as a purely elitist
sport, which provided the foreigners an adventurous respite
from the heat of the plains. However, it has today become a
sport of the common man. People from within India as well as
all around the world flock to the country in large number to
enjoy the pleasure of skiing.

The fun, excitement and the thrill while sliding down the snow
clad slopes of the Himalayans ranges in India is, in one word,
fantastic. If you are a novice, you will scream, cry and laugh
simultaneously as you speed down the slopes, whereas if
experienced, you will enjoy your run down the challenging
snowy slopes.

Moreover, the slopes in the skiing destinations in India give

you an opportunity to enjoy both snow skiing as well as heli-
skiing. In snow skiing itself, you can enjoy both Alpine and
Nordic. This means that you can slide downhill in a straight
route as well as in a zigzag course, jump from an elevated
position, or for extreme adventure, hire a helicopter and have
yourself dropped on the snow clad peak itself. From there, the
fun and adventure of skiing downwards it enhanced multifold.
Assistance for skiers, in form of equipment, trained guides,
pilots and even short courses are available, in an attempt to

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give them an unmitigated sense of joy when they come to
India. So, next time when you feel like running down a
snowcapped hill slope with cool icy breezes hitting your face,
just think of India. It is here that you will have some of the
best moments skiing down the snowy slopes.

Kufri, near Shimla is one of the oldest places in India to be

associated with skiing and the slopes are still in use during
winter. Above Kufri, the Mahasu ridge also has good slopes.

Comprehensive facilities exist at Narkanda, 64 km from

Shimla. There is a range of slopes, including a beginer's run,
an advanced slope and a slalom run. Himachal Tourism offers
ski courses, instruction and has equipment on hire at
Narkanda.

At Manali (Kullu), the Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied

Sports offers a variety of courses and facilities for skiing are
possible in the Solang area near Manali. There are also some
companies in the private sector that offer ski courses and
allied facilities.

The sheer joie de vivre inspired by one's first successful slide

down a ski slope defies description. Once limited to a
privileged few, the adrenalin-producing pastime of skiing has
been brought within the range of the common man now. For
the purist, there is unsullied, powdery snow. For the
accomplished and ego-conscious, there are punishing runs.

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For wobbly beginners and confident intermediates, there are
easy slopes and understanding instructors who soon inspire
dreams of Olympic glory.

With a first run to buoy one under the belt, there follows a
succession of blissful days. Each day brings a fresh challenge
to conquer and relish when you are at any skiing resort.
Mastering the twists and turns and jumps of skiing,
completing a longer ski run, and achieving faster speed are all
part of this process. Every winter in the Indian Himalayas the
slopes are warmed by the excited cries and laughter of
entrants being introduced to the joys of winter sports: the
magic of the wind rushing past as you whiz down a slope of
skis, or the sheer pleasure of gliding gracefully, artistically
cutting figures of eight in the snow.

Skiing, like any other high-altitude adventure sports in India,

is a contribution of the Europeans. The summers in north
India have always been unpleasant, more so for the Europeans
who were mostly from the cold countries. To save themselves
from this oppressive heat, they went to the Himalayas, not too
far from major centers in north India. Many hill stations were
established, the prominent among them being Shimla, Manali,
Mussoorie, and Nainital. These places served not only as the
home away from home for them but also as the center where
they could participate in recreational activities like skiing and
trekking. Some of these places still have the best skiing slopes

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in the country. Affluent Indians started participating in this
sport even before independence. After independence, with the
efforts of adventure sport bodies, localyouths were encouraged
to participate in this sport. They took to it enthusiastically and
later helped in training hordes of tourists coming from other
parts of the county and even abroad.Today, skiing is quite
popular in the hill stations of North India and new facilities
have added up to make it more popular among the masses.

HELI-SKIING

For high mountain thrills perhaps nothing can surpass the

magic of heli-skiing. Under a deep blue sky, you are carried by
a helicopter to a snow-draped peak. And after that there is
nothing except steadiely distancing whirr of rotor blades, the

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sky and the snow. It is a thrilling experience as you rapidly
zoom down the slopes. The icy winds slaps your face and the
swiftly slithering hiss of skies remindes you that you are
racing away on your own steam.

The sport is available in the area bound by Hanuman Tibba,

Rohtang Pass, Deo Tibba and Chanderkhani Pass near the
resort town of Manali (Kullu). A major feature is the
compactness of heli skiing area. A sortie of ten minutes can
carry the skiers to the top of a 14000 feet high slope.

SAFARI

Elephant Safaris

The varied topography and climatic conditions of India ensure

the lovers of safari, like you, a real treat. You can enjoy a
safari on the back of a yak in the mountainous region and on
the back of a camel in both the cold as well as the arid desert
region of the country. Horse safari and elephant safaris are
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two other options for you to enjoy yourself on the back of an
animal in India. A ride on a horse is as royal as it is on an
elephant, the only difference being the speed of the two
animals.
Leaving the animals behind, you can choose more speed and
set out on a jeep or motorbike safari. These new modes of
transportation allow you to see a great deal more in less time
as compared to that of animals. This is not to say that the fun
is more while you are enjoying a safari trip in a vehicle in
India. Rather, it is mores of a singular experience you get to
enjoy in each of these that make your entire trip a memorable
one. With animals it is their movement, which you are not
accustomed to, that will make your safari trip interesting.
As for the locales that you traverse through while on a safari
trip in India, there is a whole variety. If you are on a camel
safari trip, then sand dunes are the major attraction in dry
desert while the rugged mountain terrain, ancient passes and
remote villages are the highlights in the cold desert region of
India. In the mountainous regions of the country, riding on the
back of yak can throw up sceneries like shimmering lakes,
gurgling streams, glacial valleys, breathtaking cascades,
towering snow peaks, meadows and forests.
The beauties of the mountain regions can also be captured by
undertaking a jeep or motorbike safari tour in India. Infact,
given their convenience, these vehicles can be used to explore
almost any part of the country. Jeep safari, additionally, is

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also quiet popular in the wildlife sanctuaries and parks.
That leaves us with the royal elephants and well bred horses.
Elephant safari in the royal cities and the wildlife destinations
is a classic means to enjoy the splendours of the places. And
as for horses, they are perfectly suitable to discover the magic
of plains as well as mountains.

VEHICLE SAFARIES

By jeep, car or on motorcycle you can explore the variety

Himachal has to offer. By jeep, the Trans Himalyan tract can
steadily unfold their natural and man made wonders. Along
one of the world's highest highways, you can drive out of
Manali, cross the Rohtang Pass (3980 m) and move through
arid Lahaul, you drive through the haunting landscapes of
Spiti and over the Kunzum pass (4551 m), enter Lahaul.
Himachal has an extensive network of roads and treks and
apart from the routes mentioned above, there are several
others you can traverse on. By car, driving over the more
demanding routes may not be possible, but in no way does
this curtail the range of experience. And motorcycles may
impose some limitations, but are again a wonderful way of
sharing the wonders of Himachal.

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All you have to do is buy a route map, plan your trip and you
are on your way.

ICE – SKATING

The Shimla ice-skating rink has the largest open-air area with
naturally frozen ice in this part of the world. The Ice Skating
Club has already celebrated its Diamond Jubilee.

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Ice-skating normally begins in early December and carries on
to February. Clear skies and low temperatures provide series
of uninterrupted sessions. There are two sessions every day, in
the morning and in the evening.

Membership is available for the season as well as for shorter

terms and even for single sessions. Skates are available at the
rink.

Fancy dress carnivals, 'gymkhanas' ice-hockey and dances

enliven every season.

PARA-GLIDING

AERO SPORTS

Aero Sports Sahyadri India

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There is a hidden desire in all of us to fly like a bird and aero
sports give life to precisely this wish of ours. Aero sports have
gained famed all over the world and India, too, attracts a
whole bunch of aero sports lovers every year.

Aero sports in India takes the form of paragliding, para sailing,

hang gliding, hand gliding and hot air ballooning. Each is
different from the other in one way or the other yet the basic
intention is the same - to provide you that feeling of
exhilaration while you soar above in the sky like a free soul.

The destination for aero sports in India range from the hilly to
coastal regions and from
plains to desert regions. This
means that you have an
opportunity to enjoy a bird's
eye view of the vast expanse
of blue sea, sandy desert and
high mountain ranges, as per
your wishes. You also get an
opportunity to fly over and
watch the cities as they move
by in usual manner.

The risk involved while indulging in aero sports, except in

perhaps hot air ballooning, is great and it is the same in India.

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You need to be physically fit and mentally prepared to enjoy
any kind of activity in the air. As for the best time to enjoy
aero sports in India, it is worth noting that the varied
topography and climatic zone has made the country an year
round aero sports destination. Moreover, there is no prior
permission required to take up aero sports in India, except for
in some restricted areas.

So, if you nurture a desire to soar above in the sky, aero

sports in India is definitely one of the best pick for you. Take it
up and get ready to be enthralled.

Riding the warm thermal currents of the air is perhaps the

closest man has ever come to sailingthe skies as free as a bird.
Almost at will, you dip and wheel high over the hills and
valleys.

The bald peak of Billing, above the Buddhist monastery of Bir

in Kangra, has been the venue for five national and three
international hang-gliding rallies since 1984. The site is
perfect for para-gliding too. And this sport is a mix of sky-
diving and hang-gliding. A fairly recent sport that is steadily
gaining popularity, para-gliding is possible at various places in
the state. Places where para-gliding is done regularly are -
Bundla Dhar near Bilaspur, in the kullu valley and at Intkali
in the Pabbar valley near Rohru in Shimla district.

34
Himachal Tourism sponsors training programmes and events
at various times of the year, in different places. There is an
Adventure Sports Hostel at Dharamsala (Kangra) and an Aero
Sports Complex at Bir. For details of training facilities, contact
sports associations or Divisional Tourism Development
Officers of Himachal Tourism. (Paragliding Pre-World Cup -
India, 2002)

ANGLING

An anglers paradise, Himachal has several spots for both trout

and mahaseer as well as other fish.

Acclaimed as the best sport fish in the world, both Brown and
Rainbow Trout are to be found in Himachal's streams.
Upstreams of Rohru in the Pabbar valley (Shimla), there are
several spots ideal for fishing. Chirgaon has a trout hatchery
and other sites are - Seema, Mandil, Sandsu, Tikri and
Dhamvari all are within 5 to 25 km of Rohru (Shimla).
Kinnaur's Baspa river in the Sangla valley also holds trout.
Fish also abounds in Uhl river near Barot. Good spots on this
beat are - Luhandi, Puran hatchery, Tikkar and Kamand. The
upper reaches of the river Beas in the Kullu valley and its side
streams like the Sarvari, Parbati, Sainj, Hurla and Tirthan,
especially the areas around Aut, Patlikuhl, Katrain, Raison
and Largi are excellent for the sport. These are all upstream of

35
the Pandoh reservoir and are close to, or on the Mandi-Manali
highway.

The picturesque Kangra valley has several spots that offer

mahaseer river carp. The reservoir of the Maharana Pratap
sagar right up to the town of Dehra has good spots. Nadaun
along the river Beas has some good beats, besides Chamba
Pattan near Garli (accessible from Nadaun or Jwalamukhi),
Amtar (2 km from Nadaun), Harsi Pattan (30 km from Tira
Sujanpur) and Lambagaon (15 km from Tira Sujanpur).

On the river Giri, Gaura (30 km from Solan on the Rajgarh

road) and the beat near Dadahu (5 km from Renuka lake) and
the river Yamuna, downstream of Paonta Sahib (Sirmour) are
good spots for mahaseer.

The waters of the Gobind Sagar near Bilaspur also have a

variety of fish.

Fishing fee are nominal. The trout fishing season is from 31

March to 31 October. Generally best months for mahaseer are
those that have an 'r' in their spelling - January, February,
March, April, September, October, November and December

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 WATER AND RIVER SPORTS

The Maharana Pratap Sagar reservoir in Kangra with its 42

km length and 2 km breadth, offers a variety of activities in
close collabration with the Directorate of Mountaineering and
Allied Sports. Year long activities include swimming, water-
skiing, surfing, kayaking, rowing, canoeing and sailing. Three
levels of courses are conducted - beginner, intermediate and
advanced. Similar activities are also available on the waters of
Gobind Sagar near Bilaspur, the Chamera lake near Dalhousie
(Chamba) and the Pandoh lake on the Mandi-Kullu National
Highway.

River-rafting or white-water rafting as it is also called is swiftly

making Himachal a focus for the sport. For a torrent of
adrenalin to gush through every vein and surge over every
muscle you can race over the State's river rapids in an
inflatable rubber dinghy. Sport is now being held on the Sutlej
near Shimla on the Beas near Kullu, the Ravi near Chamba
and Chandra in Lahaul. Possibilities are also being explored
on the river Spiti. This sport takes a break during winter and
during the monsons.

Himachal Tourism sponsors courses in river rafting and there

are operators in the private sector also that offer this
experience. 

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 WHITE WATER RAFTING

If you want to get some kick, some change in life, or just to

have some fun, river rafting can satisfy most of your desires. If
you have the zeal, then go for the challenge and show others
that you can do it. White-water rafting is not for fashionable
thrill seekers, but for those who thrive on hair-soaking risks,
which keep the adrenalin flowing overtime! The thrill of
rushing down fast-flowing mountain streams a froth with huge
waves, dashing against dangerous boulders and dizzy rapids,
while you cling for dear life dependent on a fragile, inflatable
rubber raft or dinghy.
Battle with the raging rapids and torrents as the rivers flow
through picturesque mountains and icy waters froth over the
boulders and cut their way through deep gorges. Or,
alternately, sit back and enjoy floating on the river. White-
38
water rafting has come of age in India. With its numerous
rivers, mostly in the Himalayas, providing perfect destinations
for this sport, India has a natural advantage over the other
countries in the world calling the adventurous in you to
unwind yourself.
River rafting as an adventure sports is not quite old for India;
in fact, most of the people have come to know about it only in
the last two decades.

MOUNTAIN CYCLING

For the higher regions the

summer and automn months are suggested.

39
Human beings have made use of the wheel since ancient
times. The invention of the wheel not only brought about a
revolution in the realm of transportation but also gave rise to a
number of sporting activities. Through the centuries, the
wheel remained a faithful companion of man in both war and
peace.
Three- and four-wheeled horse-drawn carriages became
popular mode of transport during the medieval period.

Though horse-drawn carriages could transport a number of

people from one place to another, there was a need to create a
vehicle, which could be powered by human muscle and was
easy to handle. The first "bicycle" was invented in the early
years of the 19th century; however, it was nothing more than
a "wooden horse". This strange-looking two-wheeled vehicle
was also referred to as celeriferes and velociferes. The rider
had to sit on the "wooden horse" and push his feet backward
along the ground, to propel the vehicle forward. In the process
of moving forward, the rider had to keep his balance. In 1817,
Between 1817 and 1900 a number of developments like steel
tubes, ball bearings, stable handlebars, pedals, chain, wire
spokes, pneumatic tires, etc., improved the bike. At the
beginning of the 20th century, bicycles became lighter, faster,
comfortable and easier to handle. The low cost of maintenance
made bicycle the most popular means of transport in the
world. Bicycles were also used in great numbers during the
World War II. In the course of time, people not only used
40
bicycles for transportation but also for sporting activities,
which included short- and long-distance races. Better and
lighter models of bicycles were made for traversing hilly
countryside and steep mountain roads. The sport of mountain
biking has gained a lot of popularity amongst adventure
seekers in countries having hilly tracts and mountain ranges.

India has some of the highest mountain ranges in the world. It

also has some of the world's highest roads. Mountain biking
amongst the majestic backdrop of the great Himalayan ranges
is an unforgettable and thrilling experience.

only helps you to stay focused but also helps you to achieve
your day-to-day targets.
Keep your cool as you go mountain biking, as this activity will
test both your physical and mental levels of endurance to the
limit. While peddling away to glory, take time to enjoy the
picturesque surroundings.

ROCK CLIMBING

Rock climbing is often seen as the basic stage for mountain

climbing. It can also be treated as an independent sport, since

41
it is basically climbing a rock face, using only hands and feet
with a safety rope.

MOUNTAINEERING

Mountaineering as a sport has a history as old as the history

of the evolution of human race itself. Mountaineering started
when the need was felt for people who could climb difficult
heights and terrains to meet people across the border, to
trade, or to conquer new territories. In the course of time, man

42
developed new modes of transportation and communication
and venturing out on these difficult routes were not needed.
Nevertheless, what remained was his nature to take risks and
getting pleasure in conquering something totally unknown and
unexplored. This inner urge to take up challenges has led man
to do things that are quite daring.
In India, mountaineering as a sport came with the Europeans
in the 18th century. That was a time when entire Europe was
experiencing a new phase. New regions were being explored,
won, and native peoples were being made to become civilized.

This zeal of adventurism found its ultimate fruition in the

Himalayas-lofty, extremely difficult to conquer, and
challenging enough to send a man back to his mother's womb.
But, being men, these challenges were accepted and there
began a tussle between men's ambitions and nature's
reluctance. New heights were conquered, new routes were
discovered, many lives lost, but the mission was
accomplished. Today, almost all the major peaks are
conquered and even general people have started taking
mountaineering as a serious hobby.

For starters, India offers a wide spectrum of options for

mountaineering as well as other related sports. Peaks and
trekking routes are classified and maps are available for the
interested travelers. Many institutes provide basic and
advanced level courses in mountaineering and other related
43
sports. All the equipment is locally available and other support
resources can be found here.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Himachal also hosts a Winter Festival and Snow Carnival.

Tobogganing is possible in winter. Various water sports
competitions are also hosted. Especially during the monsoons
at Naldera, several golf tournaments are held. Angling and
para-gliding competitions are also hosted in the state.

PERMITS AND GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

Except for the places in restricted areas, no government
permit is required. For restricted area permits, you can
contact the embassy/counsel/high commission of India in
your respective country. You can also contact the Ministry of
Home Affairs, foreigners' regional registration offices, and the
state government officials of the specific states and union
territories for these permits.

44
 POLO SPORTS

Polo Sports in Rajasthan India

The sport of polo had its beginnings in India, in the state of

Manipur. Rajasthan’s princely kingdoms adopted the sport
and made it their own, with their natural proclivity for riding.
Kingdoms kept special stables for polo ponies, and their teams
included among the very best in the world. Very often, the
players were the rulers and members of their families, though
their armies also encouraged the sport. In the zenanas, even
the women of the royal family were encouraged to play polo,
and proved themselves adept at it. In fact, if the sport has a
presence in the country today, it is because the former royal
families have continued to provide encouragement for it, and
the Indian Army has been able to contribute its mite to it. In
recent years, corporate sponsorship too has been able to make
a contribution to the sport.

45
Horse polo

The Jaipurs were a formidable polo playing family, and the

last maharaja of the state literally died with his spurs on, on a
polo field. With the glamour of the game, they drew
international publicity for India, and the sport has remained
one of the most prominent in the elite social circuit. Along with
Jaipur, there are also formidable polo teams in Jodhpur and
Udaipur, while the 61st Cavalry, also based in Jaipur, has
kept it alive in the army.
It is not possible to simply arrive and start playing polo, since
the sport needs especially bred horses in large numbers. These
are largely maintained by the players themselves, or with the
help of their sponsors. You will therefore have to seek out an
invitation to play, something you are best advised to do in
advance. However, it is possible to send in a special request
while planning your trip to Rajasthan, especially if you are a
group with polo-playing members. This is important because,
in season, when the game is played (September-March), the
polo teams are often out (in Delhi, Calcutta or Mumbai) on the
circuit, or may even be playing overseas. Of course, there is
also the chance of having visiting teams in Rajasthan
coinciding with the time of your visit. Even if you do not get
the chance to play, there is every chance of being able to
watch the sport as an observer which is almost as good as
playing. There is something extremely satisfying about

46
watching men on their horses as they pursue the ball with
their sticks with skill and adroitness.

Camel polo

At various tourist festivals in the state, camel polo has been

introduced as a friendly, competitive sport. Perhaps the only
place in the world where it is played, the game provides a great
deal of amusement and mirth, but is not yet a serious pursuit.
If you would like to have a game especially organised, request
your tour operator to have it arranged.

Bicycle polo

For those who like the fast pace of horse polo, bicycle polo
provides an option that is at least as exciting. During the
sixties and seventies, a lot of impetus was provided to the
sport, particularly in Bikaner, though in recent years it has
become somewhat dissipated. However, for those who may like
to participate in a friendly match, or to observe one, special

47
arrangements can be made on request. In more recent years,
the sport has developed a following in the Shekhawati region.

Water Sports

The lakes of Rajasthan are

known for water sports. During
the 1982 Asian games, rowing
competitions were held at
Ramgarh lake near Jaipur.
Ramgarh lake is a man-made
reservoir around 4 kms. In length and 2 kms in width.

Throughout the year, water sports of all kinds can be arranged

here. Facilities for swimming, boating etc. are available.
Boating is a regular feature, conducted by trained Rajasthan
Tourism Development Corporation staff. A fully equipped
tourist village with 10 huts is situated here.

Drive for about 10 kms from Alwar and you enter dreamland.
The undulating hills flaming with bougainvillea and gulmohar
cradle the majestic Siliserh Lake. A beautiful Palace Hotel
which is run by RTDC provides all facilities.

48
Udaipur - the lake city of India, is also good for water sports
with boating being a regular feature. The ideal place for water
sports is Jaisamand Lake situated 50 kms south of Udiapur.
This lake is the second largest artificial lake in Asia (the water
spread area is 90 sq kms. ). Throughout the year, water sports
of all kinds can be arranged here.

The Chambal river offers the exhilaration of water rafting in

the Kota region. From
Jawahar Sagar to Dholpur,
the intricate network of the
Chambal river, flowing
through rock gorges and
forests, provides ideal
locales for the perfect water
adventure. While traversing the river by boat, one can see the
gavia (crocodile)basking in the sun on river banks. Plans are
underway to introduce a ferry service on the chambal river
from Kota barrage upstream to Bhensordgarh - a fine
opportunity to ride on the gushing waters. Rajasthan also
offers angling sites. Bandh Baretha in Bharatpur, Siliserh and
Jaisamand in Alwar, Mansarover near Sariska, Kukas,
Chhaparwara and Ramgarh in Jaipur are an angler’s paradise.
However, the enthusiasts are advised to carry their own
equipment and obtain permission from the Fisheries

49
Department. Patience and perseverance in angling , as in life,
has rich rewards.

Bird Watching

Rajasthan’s lakes, ponds, marshlands and grasslands are a

haven for bird lovers. One
can find around 550
species of birds and most
of these are residents. The
best colony of birds in the
world is Kealodeo National
Park situated in
Bharatpur.It has more
than 400 species of birds and more than 130 of them breed
inside the park. Being a unique bird place, the UNSECO has
recognized it as a world heritage site. It is truly a paradise of
feathered life which provides unlimited opportunities to bird
watchers.

Various other lakes and ponds, spread over the state offer the
enthusiast an opportunity to watch the activities of the birds.
The major wetlands other than Bharatpur are Kukas, Kalah,

50
Bund, Buchora Chandi, Chhaparwara and Ramgarh in Jaipur,
Silislerh Jaisamand and Mansarover in Alwar, Ana Sagar and
Faterhsagar in Ajmer, Jaisamand,Pichhola and Badi ka Talab
in Udaipur, Balsamand and Sardar Samand in Jodhpur, Bassi
Dam in Chittaurgarh and Meja Dam in Bhilwara.

The best season for bird watching starts with the onset of
winter marshlands and lakes are inhabited by migratory birds
as well as resident birds. In salt-water lakes, flamingos are
also found, like in Pachpadra near Barmer and Sambhar near
Jaipur. Bird watching is a hobby which has minimum
requirements. All you need is a binocular.

HORSE SAFARI

51
Rajasthan’ - the land of the Rajputs, is known for its kings,
fearless warriors and beautiful women. It’s also known for its
forts, palaces, and temples which are a reminder of t he
glorious past. Kingdoms were carved and established by the
Rajputs on horseback, while swords were stained with enemy
blood. Horses were highly priced and a Rajput warrior would
give anything to own a good horse. Great care was taken to
breed horses and to keep a clean and pure lineage. The result
of many years of dedication and hardwork helped create
breeds like the Marwari, Kathiawadi and the Sindhi, each
having its own distinct characteristics and bred solely for the
purpose of war. These horses were noted for their stamina and
fierce loyalty to their masters. With these gallant steeds, the
Rajputs became famous worldwide. There is an old saying:

If God didn’t create the horse, He wouldn’t have created the

Rajputs

In Rajasthan, the tourist can today have the pleasure of riding

through trails dotted and marked with cenotaphs and

52
tombstones of many brave and valiant. Rajput warriors. Trails
which take them through villages, pass huge and ancient forts
and temples.Nights can be spent in ancient palaces and
Garhs(small forts) now owned by the descendants of those
glorious Rajput rulers. These palaces not only provide modern
amenities but cultural programmes and entertainment is also
available. Evenings are spent at campsites which are splashed
with colour in the form of local folk dance and music. Tourists
can have the pleasure of being escorted by a English speaking
‘trial guide’

Riders are advised to wear boots and a hard hat. Breeches or

jeans are comfortable. Evenings are cold and pullovers and
jackets are essential. Sun glasses are required to avoid the
glare of the sun. Beds, linen, towels etc. are all provided by the
organisers. All meals are inclusive in the package. This
includes an English breakfast and Indian lunch and dinner.
Liquor or aerated soft drinks are chargeable extra.In Jaipur,
Horse Safari is organised by some private tour operators. The
Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation organises a
Safari on request which starts from Jaipur and the duration of
the safari is four days.

53
 Winter Sport Destinations in India

Skiing Destinations in India: Auli

Auli, 16 km from
Joshimath, is a popular winter resort run by the
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) offering good
skiing conditions. There are many slopes, which
provide excellent opportunities for cross-country,
slalom and snow-hill skiing events. GMVN has snow-
beaters and other sophisticated machinery to keep
the slopes fit for skiing. A ropeway from Joshimath
connects Auli in 15 minutes flat, saving much time
and energy of the skiers. Auli also has the distinction
of celebrating the National Winter Games
Championships every year in the month of
February/March. You are advised to take enough

54
warm clothing, dark glasses and heavy boots.
Pithoragarh in the Kumaon hill is another site being
developed as a ski resort.

Skiing Destinations in India: Gulmarg

Gulmarg, situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is another
famous skiing resort frequented by the tourists. With the first fall
of snow, the highlands are transformed into a glittering winter
wonderland, the country's premier arena for action-packed
skiing. Gulmarg has slopes varying between 8,700 and 10,500
feet with some of the highest ski runs in India. Meant only for
beginners, Gulmarg ski lifts and chair lifts provide basic
utilitarian facilities with a simple link-up. Those who enjoy the
exhilaration of heights will therefore have to make their own
way up. Nevertheless, what is of a particularly high quality is
Gulmarg's ski-shop with professional equipments that are
imported from Australia and France. Facilities are also being
provided for skiing at Pahalgam and work on an institute of
mountaineering and winter sports
is already underway. At Gulmarg,
the ski-slopes are being extended
for the ambitious skiers. Heli-
skiing too is being introduced.

The Shimla, Narkanda,

Kullu-Manali, Chamba,
55
Kuper and Pabber areas in Himachal Pradesh have
several ski slopes, which are attracting a growing
number of enterprising winter sports enthusiasts.
Comfortable ski lodges, lifts, trained instructors, and
ski runs to suit all levels have been provided at most
of these ski resorts in the state. Serious international
cognoscenti rate the runs between Solang Nallah and
Pathru worth any good skier's time and money. Heli-
skiing facilities are available at Hanuman Tibba,
Rohtang Pass, Deo Tibba and Chanderkhani Pass
near Manali.

Skiing Events in India

Auli and Solang Valley near Manali organizes

National Winter Sports Championship in the month
of February/March every year. Skiers from all over
the country come to these places to participate in
this challenging sport held under the auspices of the
Indian Olympic Association and state bodies.

56
Fishing in India

Best Time for Fishing in India

October to November is the best season to venture out for fishing
in India. For the Himalayan region, April to June is the best
season. Fishing can be enjoyed throughout the year in India, the
only exception being the Himalayan region, where tough
weather conditions, make it impossible to do so during winter
months.
Permits for Fishing in India
All the state governments do have
their tourism and fisheries
department offices in the capital
cities where you can ask for
fishing permits. For Fishing in the
restricted areas, restricted area
permits are required. These
permits can be had from the
Indian embassies/consulates/high commissions, Ministry of
Home Affairs of the government of India, Foreign Residents
Registration Offices (FRRO), and state government officials of
the respective states.
Precautions for Fishing in India
It is important to follow these essential guidelines, in order to

57
 ensure an eventful and incident-free Fishing experience.
All necessary permits and other government paperwork should
be done well in advance to avoid any last minute problems.
Chose your destination according to the time and money that you
can afford. Get yourself medically checked and avoid high
altitude destinations in case, you are suffering from any serious
ailment.
Before going out for Fishing don't forget to check the weather
conditions.
Dress accordingly to the needs of
the place and climate. Rubberised
shoes, felt cap, sun protection
cream, and goggles can make you
safe in so many ways.
Try not to destroy the
environment for your personal
gains. Don't leave something back; try to use the goods which
are disposable

CONCLUSION
Trekking and Skiing in the Himalayas, White Water Rafting on
the Ganges and Beas, Camel and Jeep safaris in the deserts of
Rajasthan, Paragliding in Himachal, Watersports in Goa and
Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep and Andaman are just some of
the options available to the adventure seeking tourists. The

58
perennial challenge of the Himalayas for mountaineers.
Coniferous forests and flower meadows welcome the trekker.
And the rapids of snow-fed rivers are ideal for white water
rafting. Lakshadweep offers excellent wind surfing, snorkelling
and scuba diving in the crystal clear waters of the lagoons
which surround each island.

From the heights of the Himalaya to the rapids of its Rivers,

when you travel in the land of passes with beautiful valleys
with glacial peaks towering, makes it amazingly beautiful. The
natural bio diversity and welcoming cultural heritage,
traditional hospitality, authentic cultural and natural history
and friendly and smiling people throughout your activities,
makes your holiday memorable.

Overland Escape arrange your climbing to the Himalayan

Peaks, tracing trails of early explorers, winter trekking through
frozen Zanskar river (Chader Trek), mountain biking over high
passes, river rafting expeditions on Himalayan river and
mountaineering in Himalaya.

Groups and individual adventurers are leaded by our friendly

staff, good food, high quality equipment, health and safety,
tailor-made itineraries that allows you to adjust to altitudes
while experiencing ultimate adventure.

Overland Escape's adventure tours are designed in a way that

you will get to experience local traditional culture, spiritual

59
and bio-diversity of high Himalaya. You can write us for the
adventure itineraries with your preferences so that we can
design your tour according to your choice and budget.
TOURISM POLICY

By 2020, Tourism in India could contribute Rs 8,50,000

crores to the GDP. (Source- WTTC).

1. The World Scenario and Indias Position

In recent years tourism has emerged as a major economic

activity that is employment oriented and earns foreign
exchange. Its share in the worlds GDP in 1994-95 was 10%
which is more than the world military budgets put together. In
global terms, the investment in tourism industry and travel
trade accounts for 7% of the total capital investment. Today
21.2 crore people around the globe are employed in travel
trade and tourism. In future, this industry is likely to see
unprecedented growth. According to the World Tourism
Council at Bruseels, the revenues from travel and tourism in
Asia Pacific region will grow at the rate of 7.8% annually over
the next decade.

60
Amongst the economic sectors, the tourism sector is highly
labor intensive. A survey by the Government of India notes
that the rate of employment generation (direct and indirect) in
tourism is 52 persons employed per Rs.10 lakh investment
(based on 1992-93 Consumer Price Index). This is much
higher than the rates of employment generation in most other
economic sectors.

Indias tourism industry has also recorded phenomenal

growth. The rate of international arrivals in India in recent
years has been to the tune of about 19 lakh arrivals per year.
The unprecedented growth in tourism in India has made it the
third largest foreign exchange earner after gem and jewellery
and ready-made garments. This is not surprising since India
possesses a whole range of attractive normally sought by
tourists and which includes natural attractions like
Iandscapes, scenic beauty, mountains, wildlife, beaches, kajor
rivers and manmade attractions such as monuments, forts,
palaces and havelis. However, in global terms, inspite of such
attractions, tourist arrivals in India are a mere 0.30% of the
world arrivals. Receipts are similarly low, just a 0.50% of the
world receipts. We are still quite far from the target of 50 lakh
tourist arrivals per year.

1. Policy Proposals

5.1 Tourism as Industry :

61
5.1.1 Like other industrial projects, tourism projects too
involve professional management, capital investment, special
skills and training. The Government of India and a number of
other states have declared tourism as an industry. Gujarat
State which is at the forefront of the industrial development
will also declare tourism as an industry. This will enable the
tourism projects to be reliable to get benefits contained in the
paras 5.1.2 and 5.1.3 below.

5.1.2 Availability of land is a primary requirement of any

project. The process of grant of land will be facilitated in urban
areas for the projects concerning setting up of hotels,
restaurants and apartment hotels etc.

Existing arrangements for grant of government waste land to

industrial units will be made applicable to various tourism
projects.

Arrangements will be made to acquire private land under Land

Acquisition Act for various tourism projects by companies
registered under the Companies Act.

The existing commercial rates of NA assessment applicable to

land involving tourism projects would be reviewed and rates of
NA assessment for industrial purposes will be made applicable
to them.

62
5.1.3 As one of the sets of infrastructural institutions, the
State Financial Institutions have made an important
contribution in creating conductive environment for industrial
entrepreneurs. They will be called upon to do the same for
tourism entrepreneurs in terms of making available adequate
finance.

So far, the lending from the State Financial Institutions has

been largely confined to hotels only. In reality, the range of
activities for tourism projects is far larger than just hotels as
can be seen from the following illustrative list :

Accommodation Projects :

 Hotels
 Resorts
 Motels
 Apartment Hotels
 Heritage Hotels

Food Oriented Projects :

 Restaurants
 Wayside Facilities on the State Highways.

Other Tourism - Related Projects :

63
  Amusement Parks and Water Sports
 Handicraft Village Complexes
 Fairs and Festivals.
 Camps and Facilities Encouraging Adventure
 Train Travel Projects
 Sea/RiverCruise Projects
 Sound and Light Shows
 Museums
 Natural Parks/Zoos
 Safari Projects
 Ropeways
 Sports/Health Facilities Complexes
 Training Schools for the managerial expertise for
Hospitality Industry.
 Golf Courses.

Service Oriented Projects :

 Travel Agency
 Tour operation
 Transport Operation
 Linkage with the International Hotel Chains (Franchise)
 Human Resources Development (HRD) for Tourism
Industry and necessary training facilities.

64
Most of the projects on this illustrative list are not eligible for
loans from the banks or the State Financial Agencies. It will be
necessary to make suitable changes in the lending criteria for
viable projects in the listed activities in order than their
financial requirements are met.

The modification of the lending criteria of the State Financial

Agencies will be made with regard to the financial ceiling, debt
equity ratio, recovery period, moratorium etc.

Necessary arrangements will be made to ensure that the State

Financial Agencies and the banks attach adequate priority to
the financing requirements of tourism projects.

5.1.4 As referred to in Para 4(b), a new incentive pac kage will

be made available to replace the existing incentive policy
instituted in 1991. A tax holiday of 5-10 years in respect of
following taxes will be made available upto 100% of capital
investment to various TOURISM projects located in Special
Tourism Areas whether declared by the Central Gov ernment
or the State Government, located in designated areas and
located on National and State Highways. The scope and the
extent of the benefits of tax holiday will vary according to
certain considerations such as the admissible expenditure, the
size of the capital investment etc. The benefit of tax holiday
will also be made available for the purpose of expansion of the
existing tourism projects in these areas :

65
  SalesTax
 Purchase Tax
 Electricity Duty
 Luxury Tax
 Entertainment Tax

Necessary administrative arrangements will be made at the

State and District Level to operationalize the incentive
schemes.

Suitable schemes will be designed to market tourism products,

and particularly wide publicity will be secured in respect of
various facilities being offered by the travel agents, tour
operators etc.

Special paying guest scheme will be formulated for providing

adequate and inexpensive lodging and boarding facilities too
take care of seasonal flows of tourists to the pilgrimage centres
during festivals.

Financial assistance will be provided for the preparation of

feasibility reports by consultants in respect of tourism
projects.

Structure of the taxes and tariffs, e.g. luxury tax,

entertainment tax, sales tax, etc., will be reviewed with
reference to developmental needs of tourism sector and
necessary amendments will be made.

66
5.2 Redefining the roles of the State and the Market :

Since the approach of the Tourism Policy focuses on market-

led developments, the role of the State would be as follows :

5.2.1 The Government proposes to make commercial services

available entirely through private sector or in association with
it. The States role will primarily focus on strengthening and
upgrading existing infrastructure and development of new
infrastructure. Reputed consultants will be hired to prepare
area development master plans/feasibility studies in respect of
important tourist destinations and areas of tourism potential,
e.g. Sardar Sarovar Project Area, Kutch, Beach sites and area
covering Porbandar,Gir Forest, Veraval, Somnath, Ahmedpur-
Mandvi, Saputara, Modhera etc.

5.2.2. To ensure timely provision of necessary funding, the

Government will earmark funds in the annual budgets of the
departments concerned for securing the purpose mentioned in

Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited will assume a

catalytic role focused on acting as clearing house of
information, production and distribution of promotional
literature, policy advice etc.

67
The Tourism Corporation will assist entrepreneurs and agencies in tourism sector
and will try to help alleviate their difficulties particularly vis a vis the Government
and its agencies.

5.2.3 There is already a scheme of 50% matching grant from

the State Government to the local self-governing bodies for the
development of local tourist destinations. This scheme will be
made more effective and attractive and necessary provisions in
the budget will be made. This will help centralize the process
of developing tourist destinations.

5.2.4 A Single window clearance system will be instituted for

speedy clearance of various permissions, approvals required
under different laws and rules. Necessary
modification/amendment will be made to various
administrative arrangements and laws which are not
consistent with the approach of this Policy. Care will be taken
to ensure that prospective investors do not have to suffer
protracted and complex administrative process.

5.2.5 Intensive efforts will be undertaken to attract investors

from outside the State as well as from other countries
including non-resident Indians to invest in tourism sector on
large scale. Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited and
Directorate of Tourism will play active role to ensure that
investors get various permissions easily and are provided with
all the necessary facilities.

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2. Feedback and Monitoring

To make the New Tourism Policy result oriented,

implementation will be monitored by a High Powered
Committee under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary.

A Management Information System will be set up to assist the

Committee to make available information on various aspects of
implementation on a continuous basis. The Committee will
also review the policy from time to time.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

INTERNET
http://www.goindiaholidays.com
http://www.tphtours.com
www.tourismofindia.c
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