Introduction

India has become a popular tourist destination with thousands of people visiting the different parts of India each year. It
has much to offer to travelers and tourists. It is a land of hills, rivers, plateaus, plains, beaches, deltas and deserts. It also
houses many luxurious hotels and resorts to cater to its booming travel and tourism industry. India offers a luxury travel to
its travelers and tourists. Cruise from picturesque nature sites to the architectural wealth in this beautiful land. Almost all
the cities in India have some or the other attractions. Some of the major tourist destinations in India are Rajasthan, Goa,
Kerala, Delhi, Orissa and Maharshtra. Tourism of India has armed the country with immense potential of development,
recognition, and livelihood. After Independence, the focus of Indian government was solely on industrial and economic
development. However, in the 20th century, India became a popular name on the world map with the recognition of
amazing locations to explore. The second half of 20th century saw the country scaling to great heights in terms of tourism
activities. International tourists have well recognized the potential of Indian tourism industry. The rich culture and tradition
of India contributed in making the country a prominent name among global places of visit. With the Asian subcontinent
displaying much variation in landscape, religion, and traditions, India has become a lively place of visit. Tourism of India
has armed the country with immense potential of development, recognition, and livelihood. After Independence, the focus
of Indian government was solely on industrial and economic development. However, in the 20th century, India became a
popular name on the world map with the recognition of amazing locations to explore. The second half of 20th century saw
the country scaling to great heights in terms of tourism activities. International tourists have well recognized the potential
of Indian tourism industry. The rich culture and tradition of India contributed in making the country a prominent name
among global places of visit. With the Asian subcontinent displaying much variation in landscape, religion, and traditions,
India has become a lively place of visit. Tourism in India is the largest service industry, with a contribution of 6.23% to
the national GDP and 8.78% of the total employment in India. India witnesses more than 5 million annual foreign tourist
arrivals and 562 million domestic tourism visits.[2][3] The tourism industry in India generated about US$100 billion in 2008
and that is expected to increase to US$275.5 billion by 2018 at a 9.4% annual growth rate.[4] In the year 2009, 5.11 million
foreign tourists visited India. Majority of foreign tourists come from USA and UK. Rajasthan (Land of Kings), Tamil Nadu,
Maharashtra, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh were the top four states to receive inbound tourists. Domestic tourism in the same
year was massive at 650 million. Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu received the big share of these visitors.
[2]
Ministry of Tourism is the nodal agency to formulate national policies and programmes for the development and
promotion of tourism. In the process, the Ministry consults and collaborates with other stakeholders in the sector including
various Central Ministries/agencies, the State Governments/ union Territories and the representatives of the private
sector. Concerted efforts are being made to promote new forms of tourism such as rural, cruise, medical
Impact of tourism
Environmental impact: Tourism can contribute directly to the conservation of sensitive areas and habitat. Revenue
from park-entrance fees and similar sources can be allocated specifically to pay for the protection and management of
environmentally sensitive areas. Special fees for park operations or conservation activities can be collected from tourists
or tour operators. he Indian government through the tourism department also collect money in more far-reaching and
indirect ways that are not linked to specific parks or conservation areas. User fees, income taxes, taxes on sales or rental
of recreation equipment, and license fees for activities such as rafting and fishing can provide governments with the funds
needed to manage natural resources. Such funds can be used for overall conservation programs and activities, such as
park ranger salaries and park maintenance. Sound environmental management of tourism facilities and especially hotels
can increase the benefits to natural environment. By planning early for tourism development, damaging and expensive
mistakes can be prevented, avoiding the gradual deterioration of environmental assets significant to tourism. The
development of tourism has moved the Indian government towards this direction leading to improved environmental
management. Tourism can significantly contribute to environmental protection, conservation and restoration of biological diversity
and sustainable use of natural resources. Because of their attractiveness, pristine sites and natural areas are identified as valuable and
the need to keep the attraction alive can lead to creation of national parks and wildlife parks. In India, new laws and regulations have
been enacted to preserve the forest and to protect native species. The coral reefs around the coastal areas and the marine life that
depend on them for survival are also protected. One of the most important adverse effects of tourism on the environment is
increased pressure on the carrying capacity of the ecosystem in each tourist locality. Increased transport and construction
activities led to large scale deforestation and destabilisation of natural landforms, while increased tourist flow led to
increase in solid waste dumping as well as depletion of water and fuel resources. Flow of tourists to ecologically sensitive
areas resulted in destruction of rare and endangered species due to trampling, killing, disturbance of breeding habitats.
Noise pollution from vehicles and public address systems, water pollution, vehicular emissions, untreated sewage, etc.
also have direct effects on bio-diversity, ambient environment and general profile of tourist spots. Tourism development
can put pressure on natural resources when it increases consumption in areas where resources are already scarce.
Forests often suffer negative impacts of tourism in the form of deforestation caused by fuel wood collection and land
clearing e.g. the trekking in the Himalayan region, Sikkim and AssamTourism can cause the same forms of pollution as
any other industry: air emissions, noise, solid waste and littering, releases of sewage, oil and chemicals, even
architectural/visual pollution Moreover, habitat can be degraded by tourism leisure activities. For example, wildlife viewing
can bring about stress for the animals and alter their natural behavior when tourists come too close. Safaris and wildlife
watching activities have a degrading effect on habitat as they often are accompanied by the noise and commotion created
by tourists.
Economical impact: Tourism is one of the driving force which helps regional development and economic development.
The Government of India understood the importance of tourism as an industry in 1980’s. So tourism is a late-started
industry in this country. Recent study shows that the globalization and open economy helped tourism to emerge as one of
the biggest FOREX earner of this country. It brings the opportunity of infrastructure development. The overall
development of any country depends specially on the improvement of road, vehicles, communication, water supply,
airports, and railway stations. Economic progress and industry development depends completely on the overall
development of country. And tourism plays a major role on this overall infrastructural advancement. Directly and indirectly
tourism helps agriculture and other industries. The distinctiveness of tourism in global trade is that it ‘moves people to the
product rather than transporting the product of the people,’ Tourism is also linked to other areas of the economy:
agriculture, land and labour. Tourism not only creates jobs in the tertiary sector, it also encourages growth in the primary
and secondary sectors of industry. This is known as the multiplier effect which in its simplest form is how many times
money spent by a tourist circulates through a country's economy. Money spent in a hotel helps to create jobs directly in
the hotel, but it also creates jobs indirectly elsewhere in the economy. Tourism has a variety of economic impacts.
Tourists contribute to sales, profits, jobs, tax revenues, and income in an area. The most direct effects occur within the
primary tourism sectors --lodging, restaurants, transportation, amusements, and retail trade. Through secondary effects,
tourism affects most sectors of the economy.
Social impact: Socially tourism has a great influence on the host societies. Tourism can be both a source of international
amity, peace and understanding and a destroyer and corrupter of indigenous cultures, a source of ecological destruction,
an assault of people’s privacy, dignity, and authenticity. Here are possible positive effects of tourism: • Developing positive
attitudes towards each other • Learning about each other’s culture and customs • Reducing negative perceptions and
stereotypes • Developing friendships • Developing pride, appreciation, understanding, respect, and tolerance for each
other’s culture • Increasing self-esteem of hosts and tourists • Psychological satisfaction with interaction So, social
contacts between tourists and local people may result in mutual appreciation, understanding, tolerance, awareness,
learning, family bonding respect, and liking. Residents are educated about the outside world without leaving their homes,
while their visitors significantly learn about a distinctive culture. Local communities are benefited through contribution by
tourism to the improvement of the social infrastructure like schools, libraries, health care institutions, internet cafes, and so
on. Besides, if local culture is the base for attracting tourists to the region, it helps to preserve the local traditions and
handicrafts which maybe were on the link of the extinction. On the other side tourism can increase tension, hostility, and
suspicion. Claims of tourism as a vital force for peace are exaggerated. In this context economic and social impacts on
the local community depend on how much of the incomes generated by tourists go to the host communities. In most all-
inclusive package tours more than 80% of travellers’ fees go to the airlines, hotels and other international companies, not
to local businessmen and workers. On the other hand large hotel chain restaurants often import food to satisfy foreign
visitors and rarely employ local staff for senior management positions, preventing local farmers and workers from reaping
the benefit of their presence. Tourism has the power to affect cultural change. Successful development of a resource can
lead to numerous negative impacts. Among these are overdevelopment, assimilation, conflict, and artificial reconstruction.
While presenting a culture to tourists may help preserve the culture, it can also dilute or even destroy it. The point is to
promote tourism in the region so that it would both give incomes and create respect for the local tradition and culture.
There are also both negative and positive impacts of tourism on the local ecology. Tourism often grows into mass-tourism.
It leads to the over consumption, pollution, and lack of resources
Steps to develop tourismThe Indian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) has been promoting and expanding
the tourism in India from the year 1966. The main goal of this corporation is to provide transport, conventional services,
shopping and entertainment to the tourists. It also provides dependable and innovative money solutions for the
development of tourism. Besides the transport facilities the corporation is also running restaurants and hotels at various
places around India. The corporation is also diversified into several innovative services like consultancy services related
to engineering, among others.The recent development in tourism made by the Indian government includes interest
subsidies, exemption in income taxes and reduction in import duties. In order to boost up the tourism development in
India, identification of thrust areas have been done. Significant improvements have been found in the increase of capacity
of air seats, connectivity of trains to frequent tourist destinations. For the convenience of the tourists, the accommodation
facilities have been increased.
Accomadation: The availability of quality, value for money accommodation is a key component in destination choice and a
top three consideration in short-break travel. Investment in accommodation development is primarily through private
investment, however destination managers can assist in attracting investment for a destination. Key learnings for tourist
accommodation development in a destination include: Attracting ‘private investment’ in accommodation in a
destination requires a strong business case and in some cases requires incentives such as reduced time and cost to gain
development approval to provide greater certainty;
Destination Management Tip Accommodation should be refurbished approximately every 5-7 years to meet changing visitor
expectations and to ensure visitor satisfaction.
• Developing an investment prospectus can provide a useful tool for highlighting development potential in a
region and identifying key priorities for investment identified by the host community;
• An investment prospectus should be based on extensive market demand research, pre-feasibility studies of
potential development opportunities, assessment of expected return on investment and input from a wide range of
public and private sector stakeholders;
• Understanding a destination’s ‘visitor market’, their preferences and motivations, is important not only for
planning and developing accommodation but also for developing marketing and promotion strategies;
• Visitors preferences for accommodation are often influenced by age, gender, family structure, income and
reasons for travelling;
• Accommodation development should be aligned with the overall ‘brand’ and image of a destination to ensure it
is aligned with both consumer and host community values;
• Provide clear design guidelines in local government control plans for tourism development.
While destinations seek to attract investment in new tourism development, much of the investment in accommodation is
likely to be in the refurbishment and refreshment of existing accommodation development to meet changing visitor
expectations. Different types of accommodation have also been pursued in various destinations, with different ownership
models and impacts. The growth in strata titled tourism accommodation complexes in Australia over the last decade, for
example, has raised multi-stakeholder issues particularly in regard to the need for rejuvenation and refurbishment of these
complexes, and their subsequent impact on destination lifecycles.
The Sustainable Tourism Cooperative Research Centre research on accommodation has largely focussed on the field of
strata-titled tourism accommodation. The research has found that of the three basic types of strata titled tourism
accommodation – independent operators, branded strata title hotels and emerging strata title organisations. The research
further suggested that branded strata titled tourism accommodation is the most commercially viable, providing a more
clearly defined and professional management structure, lowering potential conflict between owners and managers.
Environment: Tourism Development and the Environment: Beyond Sustainability? challenges the
sustainable tourism development paradigm that has come to dominate both theoretical and practical
approaches to tourism development over the last two decades. It extends the sustainable tourism debate
beyond the arguably managerialist 'blueprint' and destination-focused approach that continues to
characterise even the most recent 'sustainability' agenda within tourism development. Reviewing the
evolution of the sustainable tourism development concept, its contemporary manifestations in academic
literature and policy developments and processes, the author compares its limitations to prevailing
political-economic, socio-cultural and environmental contexts. He then proposes alternative approaches to
tourism development which, nevertheless, retain environmental sustainability as a prerequisite of tourism
development. This book also acts as an introduction to the Earthscan series Tourism, Environment and
Development.'Tourism, Environment and Development' aims to explore, within a variety of contexts, the
developmental role of tourism as it relates explicitly to its environmental consequences. Each book will
review critically and challenge 'traditional' perspectives on (sustainable) tourism development, exploring
new approaches that reflect contemporary economic, socio-cultural and political contexts.
Hospitality: As with the view of Responsible Tourism, Responsible Hospitality is essentially about creating better places
for people to live in, and better places for people to visit. This does not mean all forms of hospitality are also forms of
tourism although hospitality is the largest sector of the tourism industry. As such we should not be surprised at overlaps
between Responsible Hospitality and Responsible Tourism. In the instance where place of permanent residence is also
the place where the hospitality service is consumed, if for example a meal is consumed in a local restaurant, this does not
obviate the requirement to improve the place of residence. As such, the essence of Responsible Hospitality is not
contingent upon touristic forms of hospitality.While Friedman (1962) famously argued that, admittedly within legal
parameters, the sole responsibility of business was to generate profit for shareholders the idea that businesses’
responsibility extends beyond this has existed for decades and is most frequently encountered in the concept of corporate
social responsibility (Carroll, 1999). There are numerous ways businesses can and do engage in activities that are not
intended to benefit shareholders and management, at least not in the short term. However, often acts of corporate social
responsibility are undertaken because of the perceived benefit to business. Usually in hospitality this relates to the cost
reductions associated with improved energy efficiency (Pizam, 2009) but may also relate to, for example, the rise
in ethical consumerism and the view that being seen to be a responsible business is beneficial to revenue growth.As per
the Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism, Responsible Hospitality is culturally sensitive. Instead of then calling
for the unachievable, Responsible Hospitality simply makes the case for more responsible forms of hospitality, hospitality
that benefits locals first, and visitors second. Certainly, all forms of hospitality can be improved and managed so that
negative impacts are minimised whilst striving for a maximisation of positive impacts. Many ranch style
homes and manufactured homes utilize a main floor slightly raised above ground level, but have an overall flat layout with either
a crawlspace or slightly raised basement below for plumbing, electrical, and heating systems. These homes can be relatively easily
modified to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, with the installation of a long low-rise ramp outside the building, up to the house
entrance, placed over the existing stairway. This ramp can then be removed at a later time, reverting back to the stairway entrance if
the handicapped access is no longer necessary.Split level homes tend to be designed with multiple internal stairways and half-floor
landings inside the building. There may be an entrance area inside the building at ground level, with stairs inside the entrance that
immediately go up and down from the ground level. These homes are difficult to accommodate inexpensively since there is often no
space available inside the structure to install long sloping wheelchair ramps to access the various floors. It may be possible to
retrofit stair lifts into the stairwells or wheelchair lifts into balconies near the stairwell.Multi-story homes can sometimes be
accommodated by installing a private residential elevator, which is usually much less expensive and has fewer design and layout
requirements than a full commercial elevator. Homebuilders can in some cases plan for a future residential elevator by designing
closet spaces in each floor stacked vertically with the same dimensions and location. At a later time the closet floors and ceilings are
removed and the elevator equipment is installed into the open shaft.Accessibility: ccessibility is a general term used to describe the
degree to which a product, device, service, or environment is available to as many people as possible. Accessibility can be viewed as
the "ability to access" and possible benefit of some system or entity. Accessibility is often used to focus on people with disabilities or
special needs and their right of access to entities, often through use of assistive technology.Accessibility is not to be confused
with usability which is used to describe the extent to which a product (e.g., device, service, environment) can be used by specified
users to achieve specified goals with effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction in a specified context of use.Accessibility is strongly
related to universal design when the approach involves "direct access". This is about making things accessible to all people (whether
they have a disability or not). An alternative is to provide "indirect access" by having the entity support the use of a person's assistive
technology to achieve access (e.g., screen readers).The term "accessibility" is also used in the Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities as well as the term "universal design".In the United Kingdom, the Department for Transport has mandated that
each local authority produce an Accessibility Plan that is incorporated in their Local Transport Plan. An Accessibility Plan sets out
how each local authority plans to improve access to employment, learning, health care, food shops and other services of local
importance, particularly for disadvantaged groups and areas. Accessibility targets are defined in the accessibility plans, these are often
the distance or time to access services by different modes of transport including walking, cycling and public transport.Accessibility
Planning was introduced as a result of the report "Making the Connections: Final Report on Transport and Social Exclusion".[1] This
report was the result of research carried out by the Social Exclusion Unit. The United Kingdom also has a "code of practice" for
making train and stations accessible: "Accessible Train and Station Design for Disabled People: A Code of Practice".[2] This code of
practice was first published in 2002 with the objective of compliance to Section 71B of the Railways Act 1993, and revised after a
public consultation period in 2008Most existing and new housing, even in the wealthiest nations, lack basic accessibility
features unless the designated, immediate occupant of a home currently has a disability. However, there are some initiatives to change
typical residential practices so that new homes incorporate basic access features such as zero-step entries and door widths adequate for
wheelchairs to pass through. Occupational Therapists are a professional group skilled in the assessment and making of
recommendations to improve access to homes.[3] They are involved in both the adaptation of existing housing to improve accessibility,
[4]
and in the design of future housing.[5]Great Britain applies the most widespread application of home access to date. In 1999,
Parliament passed Section M, an amendment to residential building regulations requiring basic access in all new homes.[6] In the
United States, the 1988 Amendments to the Fair Housing Act added people with disabilities, as well as familial status, to the classes
already protected by law from discrimination (race, color, gender, religion, creed, and country of origin). Among the protection for
people with disabilities in the 1988 Amendments are seven construction requirements for all multifamily buildings of more than four
units first occupied after March 13, 1991. These seven requirements are as follows:[7]

1. An accessible building entrance on an accessible route,

2. Accessible common and public use areas,
3. Doors usable by a person in a wheelchair,
4. Accessible route into and through the dwelling unit,
5. Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats and other environmental controls in accessible locations,
6. Reinforced walls in bathrooms for later installation of grab bars, and
7. Usable kitchens and bathrooms.

Access is typically defined within the limits of what a person sitting in a wheelchair is able to reach with arm movement only, with
minimal shifting of the legs and torso. Lighting and thermostat controls should not be above and power outlets should not be below
the reach of a person in a wheelchair.Sinks and cooking areas typically need to be designed without cupboards below them, to permit
the legs of the wheelchair user to roll underneath, and countertops may be of reduced height to accommodate a sitting rather than
standing user. In some cases two food preparation areas may be combined into a single kitchen to permit both standing and wheelchair
users.In spite of these advancements, the housing types where most people in the United States reside – single-family homes – are not
covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, or any other federal law with the exception of the small
percentage of publicly funded homes impacted by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. As a result, the great majority of new single-
family homes replicate the barriers in existing homes.The broad concept of Universal Design is relevant to housing, as it is to all
aspects of the built environment. Furthermore, a Visitability movement begun by grass roots disability advocates in the 1980s focuses
specifically on changing construction practices in new housing. This movement, a network of interested people working in their
locales, works on educating, passing laws, and spurring voluntary home access initiatives with the intention that basic access become a
routine part of new home construction.Market: Within the last decade, branding has been one of the most widely discussed and
utilised tourism marketing concepts. Destinations as well as individual attractions, accommodations and restaurants embark upon a
branding strategy as this is presumed to be the way to attract new and maintain established markets. A central part of branding is to
provide possibilities for new and unique experiences, which are in line with the needs of targeted tourist segments and which
differentiate the destination, attraction or hotel from competitors.In this course we will focus on the possibilities and pitfalls that
branding involves, primarily in relation to destinations, secondarily in relation to individual tourism products, and we will scrutinise
the communicative tools that practitioners make use of in their branding efforts. We will also include various trends in tourism product
development, for instance event building, culinary tourism, alternative snow tourism and look at how these areas can be related to the
branding discussion. Other facilities: Adventure travel is a type of tourism, involving exploration or travel to remote, exotic
and possibly hostile areas, where the traveler should "expect the unexpected". Adventure tourism is rapidly growing in
popularity, as tourists seek different kinds of vacations. According to the U.S. based Adventure Travel Trade Association,
adventure travel may be any tourist activity, including two of the following three components: a physical activity, a cultural
exchange or interaction and engagement with nature. Adventure tourism gains much of its excitement by allowing its
participants to step outside of their comfort zone. This may be from experiencing culture shock or through the
performance of acts, that require significant effort and involve some degree of risk (real or perceived) and/or physical
danger. This may include activities such as mountaineering, trekking, bungee jumping, mountain biking, rafting, zip-lining
and rock climbing. Some obscure forms of adventure travel include disaster tourism. Other rising forms of adventure travel
include social and jungle tourism. Adventure tourism India has increased in recent years due to the efforts taken by the
Indian government and the Ministry of Tourism. The scope for adventure tourism in India is endless because the country
has a rich diversity in terms of climate and topography. Various kinds of adventure on water, land, and air can be enjoyed
in India. The ministry of tourism and culture has, in recent years, launched a campaign called ‘Incredible India!’ and this
has given a tremendous boost to adventure tourism in India. The various kinds of adventure tourism in India are: Rock
climbing, Skiing, Camel safari, Para gliding, Mountaineering, Rafting in white water, Trekking etcAs a kind of adventure
tourism in India, rock climbing is relatively new. Due to the presence of climbing rocks in large numbers throughout the
country, rock climbing as a kind of adventure tourism in India is taking off in a big way. The various places in India where
tourists can go for rock climbing are Badami, Kanheri Caves, Manori Rocks, and Kabbal. Skiing in India as a kind of
adventure tourism has become popular in the last decade. The country has a large number of hill stations which have
excellent skiing facilities. This has given rise to skiing adventure tourism in India. The places in India where tourists can go
for skiing are Manali, Shimla, Nainital, and Mussoorie.Whitewater rafting in India is a relative newcomer in the domain of
adventure tourism in India. This has been increasing due to the presence of a number of rivers, water falls, and rapids.
The places where a tourist can go for whitewater rafting in India are Ganga, Alaknanda, and Bhagirathi rivers. Trekking as
a part of adventure tourism India has grown recently. Many tourists are coming to India in order to go trekking in the
various rugged mountains present in India.Camel safari in India has also become very popular due to the initiatives taken
by the tourist boards of some Indian states. The most famous destinations in India for camel safaris are Bikaner, Jodhpur,
and Jaisalmer. Paragliding in India has developed recently and paragliding facilities are available in a lot of places in
India.Mountaineering in India is also quite popular in the arena of adventure tourism. Tourists can go to Garhwal,
Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir for indulging in mountaineering.Adventure tourism India has registered a
formidable growth in recent years. For this growth to continue, efforts must be taken by the government of India so that
India ranks alongside international destinations for adventure tourism.

Trekking in HimalayasThe Himalayas are a major attraction for the young and the old alike. For centuries Indian saints have
wandered in the Himalayas and crossed difficult terrains in search of places of pilgrimage like Kailash, Kedarnath, Badrinath,
Gangotri, Yamunotri and Amarnath. There is a belief among Hindus that Gods live in the Himalayas. For trekking in the Himalayas
Garhwal region, Dehraduna and Rishikesh are the ideal gateways. From Leh one can start trekking to Ladakh. The suitable season for
trekking in the north – east region starts from end – September to May.

River Rafting
The 2700 km long Himalayas ranges from Ladhak to Sikkim from where the holy Ganga, Yamuna, the Indus and its
tributaries – the Chenab and Sutlej, the Zanskar and the Teesta originate all providing ideal sites for river rafting. These
rivers provide lots of opportunities to adventure tourism. The upper Himalayas are supposed to be among the best regions
in the world for river rafting. The Zanskar River offers a professional and exciting six days on the river starting from
Padam. The Ganga, the most sacred river of the Hindus, is ideal for both paddle rooting and car – rafting. A 10 km run
towards Rishikesh is a fascinating experience. A new run has been mapped out on the Sutlej from Rampur to Tattoxpani
and on to Salapur bridge – a 92 km stretch. Professionals are trained abroad to manage these river rafting expeditions.
They have bagged even awards overseas. To oversee the operations, to provide safety measures, to supply proper
equipments like helmets, lifejackets, first aid kits etc and to provide medical aid, the government acts through its tourist
offices and through IAPRO ( Indian Association of Professional Rafting and
Tourist destinations in India
Geographical field
3 hill stations: Darjeeling Tours
Darjeeling Resorts
The toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing which is liked by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in
coming to Darjeeling is on the toy train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives
you enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This train passes through the Forests,
waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains and tunnels.
Trekking In DarjeelinOne of the famous trekking route taken by the trekkers is that
of the Darjeeling-Sandakphu / Phalut trek. This trekking route is best during the
months of April, May, October and November. As during these seasons the visibility
is clear and the weather is also hospitable. For trekking on this route one does not
have to carry much luggage as the Gorkha Hill Council has provided trekkers hut
and other facilities all along the route. But it is advisable to carry your own sleeping
bags. On this route the trekker must be prepared for all kinds of weather and high
altitude mountain sickness. The trek passes through low areas and very high ridges
so temperature varies a lot be prepared for all types of weather. There surroundings
may be very attractive but there are some areas which have long stretches without
any water, so carry water with yourself. Regular meals are available. Guides and
porters can also be arranged.
Phalut is also called the view point of the Himalayas and is one of the most important
& famous treks in the region. The trek starts with a small bus trip to Manaybhanjang.
From here the trek passes through the mountains to Sandakphu. From here you can
proceed further up or you can return via Rimbik then to Darjeeling by Bus. One can
also take a short cut and not go to Ohalut. From Sandakphu backtrek to Bikhay Bhanjang and cut across to Rimbik. But
keep in mind that this trek is a difficult one with no water or food in between.
Prime Attractions of Darjeeling

Batasia Loop
This railway loop is an interesting example of engineering. At this loop the toy train takes a very unique turn. This loop is
just five kilometer from the main town of Darjeeling. This place also has a very good market where you can buy the
purses, bags and other decorative items made by the local women at very reasonable price.
Bhutia Busty Gompa
With the back drop of the Kanchenjunga range stands a monastery called the Bhutia Busty Gompa. This monastery was
shifted from the observatory hills to the present place. The Gompa is a branch of the Nyingmapa sect's Phodang
Monastery in Sikkim. The monastery is not far from the chowrasta and is very tastefully decorated. It also has a library
which has a copy of the Tibetan Book of the Dead.
Botanical Gardens
This place is worth a visit for its exotic and exclusive collection of a variety of Himalayan plants, flowers and orchids. This
place is near the taxi stand. The gardens also has a green house.
Chowrasta
This one of the important shopping places in Darjeeling . Here the Nehru Road and the Mall Road Intersect each other.
The snow capped peaks of Kanchenjunga are visible from this place. Near Chowrata are several Hindu and Buddhists
temples. This place is over flowing with foreign tourists. You can also enjoy a pony ride form this place.
Dhoom Gompa
About 8 kms from Darjeeling is the Dhoom Gompa. Here a very beautiful statue of the Maitrayie Buddha ( prospective
Buddha) is established. The Monastery has also preserved some of the rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts.
Happy Valley Estate
Here the tea from the gardens is processed. One can spent a few hours here. Entry is only allowed to persons who have
permission from any officer of the estate.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute & Museums
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is on the West Jawahar road. The institute runs courses for training mountaineers
as well as has the very good collection of mountaineering equipments which have been used in various mountaineering
expeditions and other wise. Specimens of Himalayan flora and fauna are also kept here. The record of attempts made to
conquer Mt. Everest has been kept in the Mt.Everest Museum. The institute also screens short films on mountaineering.
You can also view the Himalayan peaks through the Zeiss Telescope given to the Nepalese Maharaja by Hitler. Sherpa
Tenzing Norgay was the Director of this institute for many years and he was cremated near the institute after his death in
1986. Near the institute is Srabri which gives a very good view of the Single valley and the Kanchenjunga range. One can
sit at Srabri and feel the cool breeze from the valley.
Kanchenjunga View
From Darjeeling one can have the best, uninterrupted view of the worlds third highest peak. Bhan Bhakta Sarani provides
one of the enthralling views of these snow capped peaks. The Chowrasta also gives you a good sight to the
Kanchenjunga peak.
Kurseong
Kurseong is mid way between Siliguri and Darjeeling. The way from Darjeeling to Kurseong is generally open through out
the year. So, the toy train is not coming to Siliguri then you can come up to Kurseong. This place is equally beautiful and
is full of natural splendour.
Natural History Museum
The museum has a collection of over 4300 specimen . Established in 1903, this natural history museum packs in its folds
a rich collection of fauna found in the Himalayas and in Bengal. Among the attractions are included the estuarine
crocodiles. This unique museum also has a good collection of butterflies. The mineral forms of various stones are
displayed in a very attractive manner in the museum.
Observatory Hills
This point provides one of the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga peaks. This place is also very sacred for the Hindus
and the Buddhists as there are temples and the monasteries at this place. The Kali temple is decorated with the colourful
flags. Be aware of the monkey groups as some these are very aggressive.
Passenger Ropeway
Another tourist attraction in Darjeeling has been the ropeway. This was the first ropeway in India. It connects the North
point (7000 ft) to the Singla Bazaar (800 ft). The rope covers a distance of 8 kms in 45 minutes. The seats in the rope way
is limited and it is better to get the tickets in advance. The ropeway is exciting and unique for any one visiting Darjeeling.
Rungli Rungliot
Where the road from Gangtok to Darjeeling takes its great bend high above the Teesta river, directly opposite
Kanchenjunga, a Buddhist monk many years ago is believed to have proclaimed "Rungli Rungliot" This pious benediction
which, literally translated, means "thus far and no further" is alive and well today in the shape of one of the most
celebrated tea gardens in the Darjeeling hills. The village is steeped in legend.
Senchal Lake
A scenic place near the tiger hills. This place has popularly come up as a picnic spot among the tourists. The lake
supplies drinking water to the town of Darjeeling.
Siliguri / New Jalpaiguri
The twin Cities of Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri are the departure point to Darjeeling, Sikkim and the North Eastern States.
Being the nodal point this place has become very busy and crowded. This area has got population over 2.5 lakh people.
Siliguri also acts as a transit point for Nepal. This place is not very pleasant to stay as there are always long lines of buses
and trucks. These trucks and vehicles might be good for business but they provide very ugly sight. Tourists come to
Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri mainly to change bus or catch trains. If you have time then visit the almost forgotten wild life
sanctuary of Jaldhapara. The best season to visit this park is between October and May. This the time when the new
grass has come up and animals are out there. The sanctuary has elephants, dears, tigers and other animals but the main
attraction is the Rhinos which are threatened by the poachers. Elephant Safari can be taken from Hollong.
Snow Leopard Breeding Programme
Nowadays the zoologists and the environmental scientists are trying to protect the endangered species by breeding them
in captivity. Following this trend is Kiran Moktan who has devoted his life in breeding program of snow leopards. The snow
leopards are not known to have bred in captivity but in this center thanks to the efforts of Kiran Maktan these animals
have given birth in captivity. Snow leopards are animals who have to be kept in large enclosures. Visitors are allowed in
the center but they have to watch the animals in utter silence.
Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center
In 1959 was established a center for the refuges who had fled Tibet with the Dalai Lama after the Chinese invasion. This
self help center has been developed as workshop for the manufacture of handicrafts. The fine and superb carpets,
woollens, woodcarvings and leather work form this center has been very popular among the tourists. The money collected
after the sale of the products goes to the Tibetans who work here. The variety Tibetan Curios on sale are also attracting
the visitors in a big way. This center has established it self in the International scenario as place for hard work, self
esteem and truth.
Zoological Gardens
The zoo is situated two kms form the main town. This zoological garden houses some of the rare species of animals and
birds. This is only zoo in India having the Siberian Tigers. Apart from these the rare Red Panda is also there. The Snow
Leopards, Great Grey Birds, Snow Yaks are some the animals which are attracting tourist in great numbers. The entry in
the zoo is by tickets which are also valid for the natural history museum and the mountaineering institute & museum.

Leisure - Darjeeling

shopping
Apart from tea there are many items which Darjeeling offers in its shopping malls. Tourists love taking home the curios
and carpets from here. The shops for curios and carpets are on Chowrasta and Nehru road. These shops also sell
thangkas, brass statues, religious objects, jewellery, wood carvings, woven fabrics and many other items from the
Himalayan region. The Bronze items and wooden carvings give you good value for your money. Thangkas are impressive
at the first sight but the require a closer look if you want to buy them. The West Bengal's Manjusha Emporium has a good
collection Himalayan handicraft, silk and handloom products. The woollen garments can be bought from the markets on
Hill Cart road. The bamboo items are collectors delight from the region. Hayden Hall is a place to look for the exclusive
Tibetan Carpets. The women's cooperative is also a place worth checking out.

How To Get There - Darjeeling

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is the Bagdogra airport. Bagdogra is 10 kms from Siliguri and is an important military
installation. From Bagdogra one can take a bus or taxi to Darjeeling. Darjeeling has a railway station but only the toy train
from Jalpaiguri and New Jalpaiguri comes here. The major trains connecting the place with all the major places in India
come to Jalpaiguri or New Jalpaiguri. From here again you have to take the toy train or a bus or taxi to Darjeeling. The
place is well connected by roads. The state transports run buses from Calcutta and other nearby places. The private
operators also have their buses and the fair does not vary much in the state or in the private buses.

Climate - DarjeelingThe best season to visit Darjeeling is between April and June. The weather during this period
is generally clear and the chilling biting cold gets subsided. But one can also go to Darjeeling between
September and November. During these months the mountains are clearly visible and one can enjoy the
golden sunrise over the Himalayan peaks. Being a mountain city Darjeeling experiences rains throughout
the year. Often heavy down pours wash away the roads and the place is totally cut off from rest of the
country. The temperature range is not very large here with the maximum in summers being 15 degrees
and 1.5 degrees in winters. This place requires warm cloths any time of the year and do not forget to
carry a umbrella to this place.

General Information - Darjeeling

Population
About one lakh people live in this area.

Languages
 Gorkhali, Hindi, Nepali, Bhutani, Bengali, Assamese and English.

1 Historical: The temples of Khajuraho were built by the rulers of the Chandella dynasty between the 10th and the 12th
centuries. Legend has it that there were originally 85 temples, but there is no independent evidence for this number, and
currently 25 temples have been identified. Earlier occupation dates back to the Gupta period. The temples withstood the
ravages of time and Muslim invaders - amazingly, they seem to have been forgotten from the 13th century onward -
until they were rediscovered by the British Captain T.S. Burt in 1838. The temples were probably used for worship by
the royal family and court, and present a continuous development of central Indian temple architecture during the
Chandella period.The sculptures which cover the temple walls are justly famous, both as individual works of art and as
architectural elements which combine in amazing profusion to decorate fabric of the building. They depict a heavenly
court with major and minor divinities, attendants, beautiful maidens, dancers and musicians, mythical animals, and
erotic couples.Khajuraho is a World Heritage site. Originally supplied with abundant waterworks by means of tanks
and canals, the temples are now displayed in a beautiful, park-like setting.

khaajuraho Temples
Anita Thakur

Anita Thakur crusading to keep the rich Indian cultural heritage alive through her
research and writings.

Location of Khajuraho Temples:

Situated in the heart of Central India, in the state of

Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a fascinating village
with a quaint rural ambience and a rich cultural
heritage. The fascinating temples of Khajuraho,
India's unique gift of love to the world, represent the
expression of a highly matured civilization. It is one
of the top tourist places of India. An Airport has been
built in this small village. Tourists with fat pockets
but less time can fly Delhi-Agra-Khajuraho-Delhi in a
day! There are a lot of hotels in the area to stay. A
few are run by foreginers. The shops in Khujaraho
sell a lot of handicrafts and some of them are really
good and reasonably priced.

History of Temples:Khajuraho temples were

constructed between 950 and 1050 A.D. during the reign of Chandel Empire. Khajuraho derives its name from the
Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which can be found in abundance in the area. These temples are considered the
"high point" of Indian architectural genius in the Medieval period.Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22
still exist. The amazingly short span of 100 years, from 950 AD - 1050 AD, saw the completion of all the temples,
in an inspired burst of creativity. With the wane of the Chandela empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected,
and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and
granted the recognition that they justly deserve. The murals depict the life and times of the Chandelas, and
celebrate the erotic state of being. They not only testify to the mastery of the craftsman, but also to the
extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose reign, these temples were constructed. Their
style of architecture was also rather peculiar to their times. Each structure stands on a high masonry platform with
a distinct upward direction to their build, further enhanced by several vertical projections to simulate the effect of
an overall lightness. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa),
and the actual sanctum (garbha griha). The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions : western,
eastern and southern.The creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon. The legend that describes the
origin of this great dynasty is a fascinating one : Hemavati, the beautiful young daughter of a Brahmin priest was
seduced by the moon god while bathing in the Rati one evening. The child born of this union between a mortal and
a god was a son, Chandravarman. Harassed by society, the unwed mother sought refuge in the dense forest of
Central India where she was both mother and guru to her young son. The boy grew up to found the great Chandela
dynasty. When he was established as a ruler, he had a dream-visitation from his mother, who implored him to
build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so bring about a realization of the emptiness of
human desire. Chandravarman began the construction of the first of the temples, successive rulers added to the
fast growing complex.Yet another theory is that the erotica of Khajuraho, and indeed of other
temples, had a specific purpose. In those days when boys lived in hermitages, following
the Hindu law of being "brahmacharis" until they attained manhood, the only way they
could prepare themselves for the worldly role of 'householder' was through the
study of these sculptures and the earthly passions they depicted.

If the temples of Khajuraho can be said to have a theme, it is woman. A celebration of woman
and her myriad moods and facets- Writing letters, applying kohl to her eyes, brushing her
hair, dancing with joyous abandon playing with her child. Woman - innocent, coquettish,
smiling - infinitely seductive, infinitely beautiful. Depicted in a wealth of detail, sharply etched,
sculpted with consummate artistry. The philosophy of the age dictated the enjoyment of the
delights of arth (material wealth) and kama (sensual pleasures) while performing
one's dharma (duty) as the accepted way of life for the grihastha (householder). Hence,
the powerful combination of the visual and sensual pleasures combined with the duty attributed to the worship of
the Dieties brings about a powerful transformation of the body and the soul. To include all of these aspects of life in
one's early years makes it easier to renounce them without regret or attachment as one moves on to one's next
stages of life toward moksha (liberation).

Location of Khajaraho Temples:Situated in the heart of Central India, in the state of Madhya Pradesh,
Khajuraho is a fascinating village with a quaint rural ambience and a rich cultural heritage. The fascinating temples
of Khajuraho, India's unique gift of love to the world, represent the expression of a highly matured civilization. It is
one of the top tourist places of India. An Airport has been built in this small village. Tourists with fat pockets but
less time can fly Delhi-Agra-Khajuraho-Delhi in a day! There are a lot of hotels in the area to stay. A few are run by
foreginers. The shops in Khujaraho sell a lot of handicrafts and some of them are really good and reasonably
priced. Khajuraho Today:The temples are a world heritage site and belong not just to India but to the world. The
Archeological Survey of India's dedicated efforts towards their conservation rank them against the best preserved
monuments of this antiquity. Most of the temples are built of sandstone in varying shades of buff, pink or pale
yellow. They each belong to a different sect, the Shiva, Vaishnava or Jaina Sects, but are often indistingushable
from one another to the untrained eye. The temples are lofty with ample walking space separating them. The
interior rooms are inter connected and placed in an East/West line. Each contains an entrance, a hall, a vestibule
and a sanctum. Windows were added to the larger temples to add a feeling of space and light.The openings face
East with lavishly carved archways. The interior ceilings are carved with geometrical and floral designs. The roofs
are a series of graded peaks that resemble a mountain range and in all probability, represent the possibility of
higher levels of spiritual attainment. Erotic scenes represent a relatively small part of the carvings but sensuous
eroticism prevails throughout all of the sculptures. In general, lower indulgences appear lower on the temple while
the dieties appear near the top. Most of the statues are about a meter high. The goddesses and gods represent the
many manifestations of the divine Shakti and Shiva, the female and male principles, the Yin and
the Yang.The divine sculptures in these temples, are a tribute to Life itself, embodying
everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it.. Popularly known as the 10th century
temples, they represent a time frame when Khajuraho art was at its zenith. Visit to Khajuraho is
a unique experience and is exciting for conservationists, students, environmentalists, culture
lovers or simply those in search of an exotic destination with
multiple attractions.Laurence Rogerson a tourist from UK says
the statues and carvings cover every inch of every ceiling and
wall. The erotic carvings on the temples at Khajuraho give the
place it's fame. Erotic or not the level of detail is quite
magnificent as these pictures clearly do show. Another tourist
from Australia says "these temples depict scenes from elephant
fights, mythical lions, gods, and erotic couples. In a frieze that seemed to be an
exception a sodomistic scene was depicted where onlookers hold their hands in
front of their eyes in disgust. The erotic scenes are sort of a 3-D rendering of the Kama Sutra book, a graphical
instruction manual."One of the Jain temples to the east of the village has a statue and pictures of a nude man.
According to the locals some of the Jain Pilgrims celebrate there without even a leaf on them. Pieces of the statues
from the temples can be seen embedded in the houses of the village. Statues were used as cheap building material
for building the roads too.

What To See:The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions : western, eastern and southern.

Western GroupThe Western group is certainly the best known, because it is to this group that the largest and
most typical Khajuraho temple belongs : the Kandariya Mahadev. Perfectly symmetrical, it soars 31 km high.

Kandariya Mahadeo: This is the largest, and most typical Khajuraho temple. There are abput 900 statues.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it soars 31 m high. The sanctum enshrines a lingam, while the main shrine is ornately
carved and depicts various gods, goddesses, apsaras (heavenly maidens) in elaborate detail. The entrance arch,
the massive pillars and ceilings are adorned with exquisite carvings, that leave the visitor spellbound. Beyond the
archway of the Kandariya Mahadev, lie the six interior compartments; the portico, main hall, transept, vestibule,
sanctum and ambulatory. The ceilings are particularly noteworthy and the pillars supporting them have intricately
carved capitals. The transept's outer walls have three horizontal panels showing deities of the Hindu pantheon, and
groups of lovers, a pageant of sensuousness, vibrantly alive.

Chaunsat Yogini: The oldest surviving temple in the group (900

A.D.), this is the sole granite temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Only
35 of the original 65 cells remain and no image of Kali has survived :
not surprisingly, since this is the earliest surviving shrine of the
group dated to 900 AD. Another Kali temple, which was originally
dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the Devi Jagdambe temple.

Chitragupta Temple: Dedicated to the sun-god, Surya, this temple

faces eastwards to the rising sun. The inner sanctum boasts of an
impressive image of the presiding deity - the majestic sun-god
looming 5 feet high, and driving a chariot. The other group scenes
depict royal processions, group dances and other scenes of sheer
luxury, typical of the Chandela court-life.
 Vishwanath Temple: The temple enshrines a three-
headed image of Lord Brahma. Lions guard the
northern entrance to the structure, while elephants
flank the southern flight of steps that lead upto it.
The exteriors are profusely carved, and facing the
shrine is a Nandi Temple with a massive, 6 ft high
Nandi bull.

Lakshamana Temple: The lintel over the entrance

of this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, shows the
holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with
Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu's consort. The sanctum is
adorned with a three-headed idol of Vishnu's
incarnations, Narasimha and Varaha. The latter, the
boar incarnation also appears as a nine-feet high
statue at the Varaha Temple.

Matangeshwara Temple: This temple, which

happens to be outside the precincts of the western
group, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It boasts of an
eight feet high lingam. It is still a place of worship.
South of this temple is the open air Archaeological
Museum, which has a beautiful displayed collection of
statues and friezes collected from the area : the
remains of long vanished temples

Eastern Group

Parsavanatha Temple: The largest in the group of

three Jain temples, the Parsavanath image in this
temple, was installed in 1860. The sculptures on the
northern wall depict everyday activity, in awesome
detail. A woman sits bent pensively on a letter, a
lovely young girl removes a thorn from her foot, the
master craftsmen of Khajuraho display here their deep understanding of the trifles that make up a human life.
Within the temple, a throne faces the bull emblem of first tirthankara, Adinath.

Ghantai Temple: This Jain temple has a frieze depicting the 16 dreams of Mahavira's mother, and a multi-armed
Jain goddess perched on a winged Garuda.

Adinatha Temple: The last of the Jain temples, is dedicated to the Jain saint, Adinatha, and is gorgeously adorned
with sculptures of yakshis among others.

The three Hindu temples in this group are the Brahma temple, which has a four-faced lingam, The Vamana
temple which is embellished with images of ravishing apsaras at their alluring best; and finally the Javari temple,
with its ornate gateway and lavish carvings. A variety of sensuous attitudes : languid, provocative, mischievously
inviting, give credibility to the theory that Khajuraho's erotica were meant to test the devotees who came to
worship their gods at the temples.

5 km from the Khajuraho village, lies the Southern Group.

Duladeo Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the highlights of this temple are the sensuous images of the apsaras,
and other exquisite sculptures.

Chaturbhuj Temple: This temple sports a huge, elaborately carved image of

Vishnu in the sanctum

Festivals
Khajuraho Dance Festival -To mark the true spirit of Khajuraho, a dance festival
is held here in March, every year, wherein, ace artistes of various dance forms
participate.
Mahashivaratri (Feb/Mar) - Devotees come in huge numbers to the Matangeshwar
temple.

How to Reach:

By Air A daily Boeing 737 service links Khajuraho with Delhi, Agra, Varanasi and
Kathmandu.

By Rail The nearest railheads are Mahoba (64 km) and Harpalpur (94 km). Jhansi
(175 km) and Satna (117 km) are convenient railheads for visitors from Delhi,
Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai, Agra and Varanasi.
By Road Khajuraho is connected by regular bus services with Mahoba, Harpalpur, Satna, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra,
Jabalpur and Bhopal.

Best Season September to March.

Around Khajuraho

Benisagar Lake (11 km) - A picnic spot and a dam of the Khudar river. Ideal for boating and angling.
Ranguan Lake (25 km) - A dam site at the confluence of the Ken and Simri rivers.
Pandav Waterfall (30 km) - A waterfall on river Ken. The Pandavas of the Mahabharata are believed to have
spent a part of their exile here.
Ranch Waterfalls (20 km) - Waterfalls on the Ken river, famous for rock formations.
Rajgarh Palace (25 km) - More than 150 years old, this palace nestles at the foot of the Manjyagarh hills.
Panna (45 km) - A historic town and capital of the Bundela kingdom.
Dhubela Museum (64 km) - The museum is located in an old fort, on the Jhansi-Khajuraho road. It houses the
personal effects of Chhatrasal and other Bundela rulers.
Ajaygarh Fort (80 km) - An old fort, built at a height of 688 metres, and capital of the Chandelas during their
decline.
Kalinjar Fort (100 km) - The fort is located on the Vindhya range, 38 km away from the Atarra Railway station. It
was built during the Gupta period and captured by Shri Yashovarman, the Chandela king, in the 10th century.
Panna Diamond Mines (56 km) - India's only diamond mines, located at Majhgawan.
Panna National Park(40 km) - It is spread over 546 sq. km along the east bank of the river Ken. Dense forest
cover, rocky gorges and waterfalls make for ideal wildlife watching.
Bandhavgarh National Park (237 km)
Lesiure activities - Angling at Benisagar and Ranguan lake. Permission of the Assistant Director Fisheries
Department, Nowgong, Madhya Pradesh is necessary. Boating facility is available at Benisagar lake.

Map for areas connecting to Khajuraho

CONCLUSION
Tourism industry in India is growing and it has vast potential for generating employment
and earning large amount of foreign exchange besides giving a fillip to the country’s
overall economic and social development. But much more remains to be done. Eco-
tourism needs to be promoted so that tourism in India helps in preserving and sustaining
the diversity of the India's natural and cultural environments. Tourism in India should be
developed in such a way that it accommodates and entertains visitors in a way that is
minimally intrusive or destructive to the environment and sustains & supports the native
cultures in the locations it is operating in. Moreover, since tourism is a multi-dimensional
activity, and basically a service industry, it would be necessary that all wings of the
Central and State governments, private sector and voluntary organisations become active
partners in the endeavour to attain sustainable growth in tourism if India is to become a
world player in the tourism industry. Sustainable tourism is about refocusing and re-adapting. A balance
must be found between limits and usage so that continuous changing, monitoring and planning ensure that tourism can be
managed. This requires thinking long-term (10, 20+ years) and realising that change is often cumulative, gradual and
irreversible. Economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainable development must include the interests of all
stakeholders including indigenous people, local communities, visitors, industry and government. Thus, the preceding
paragraphs show that the impact of tourism on local communities can be both positive and negative, whether it comes to
economic, social, or environmental effects. It depends to which extent tourism is developed in a particular region. Every
region has its bearing capacity, that is to say the limit of the incoming influence that does not harm the host community. If
we overcome that limit negative impacts of tourism will followTourism is the biggest industry in the world from the point of view
of turnover. The capital investment in this industry is now even more than oil-industry. Many countries in Europe and Asia now
completely depend on the income coming from tourism. Again being labour oriented industry, tourism generates maximum number of
employment directly or indirectly.In India, tourism is a late started industry. After the independence, the Govt. started taking
plans to organize and develop the tourism destinations scattered all over the country. Now tourism in India is in such a
position which is desirable countries economy. From the civil aviation to hotel industry, everywhere the infrastructural
development is remarkable. After the reformation of Indian economy in 1990 with the open policy taken by the then
Finance Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is now increasing gradually.
The steps taken by Govt. – 1} Plans for regional development with the help of tourism where other industries are not in
their best.
2} Started one – window policy to boost the direct and as well as indirect investment in tourism.
3} Plans preservation of cultural, heritage and environment at tourist destinations to attract more tourists.
4} Development of infrastructure to meet the present and future needs of tourist.
5} Started different types of luxurious trains like Palace on Wheels, Royal Orient or Deccan Queens.
6} Developing basic infrastructure.
7} Started overseas offices at different countries to promote India as a tourism destination.
8} Proper coordination between the states and central tourism departments been ordered to develop the destinations.
9} Started different packages to attract for those destinations attracting more tourists.
10} Developed different Tourism Circuits like Golden Triangle or Buddhist Circuit to attract more tourists.
11} ITDC is now taking part in different tourism fairs all over the world.
12} Trying to provide best of the services in Air India and in Indian Rail.
13} Building accommodation in Govt. level and encouraging the private companies to invest in accommodation sector by
giving them different tax benefits.