Delegates from Across the Nation Engage in Discussions to Boost Tourism and Spiritual Heritage
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, organized a significant Conference on the Mahabharat Circuit, followed by a Familiarisation Trip to Kurukshetra, Jyotisar, and Thanesar on January 10, 2024. The event, attended by a diverse array of delegates, aimed to create awareness about the tourism potential and religious significance of the area.
The conference, held on January 9, 2024, gathered Tour Operators, travel media persons, opinion makers, influencers, along with representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Haryana Tourism Department, and local administration. The discussions focused on various aspects, including infrastructure, accommodation, tourist amenities, inflow of tourists, sustainability, responsible tourism, and the involvement of the local community.
Addressing the delegates virtually, Manisha Saxena, Director General-Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, emphasized the cultural and spiritual importance of Mahabharat. She highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Tourism and Haryana Tourism in developing better infrastructure and facilities for visitors, such as the recent developments in the Light & Sound Show and a museum at Jyotisar.
Dr. R. K. Suman, Regional Director North, explained the purpose behind the conference and familiarization tour, stating, “The whole idea was to showcase the rich spiritual heritage that Kurukshetra offers. Travel industry stakeholders from across the country were invited to experience firsthand what Kurukshetra has to offer and share it with their client base.”
During the Familiarisation Trip on January 10, delegates visited key tourist destinations in Kurukshetra, Thanesar, and Jyotisar in the Mahabharat Tourist Circuit. The tour included visits to Brahm Sarovar, Jyotisar, Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb, Raja Harsh ka Tila, Bhadra Kali Temple, Bhishma Kund, Sri Krishna Museum, and the Panorama and Science Museum. Delegates were also treated to the Sound and Light Show at Jyotisar.
Key industry figures such as Dr. Raman Gupta, Joint MD, Haryana Tourism; Rajiv Mehra, President IATO; P.P. Khanna, President ADTOI; and Mohan Gurucharandas, Vice President ISKON, addressed the gathering, expressing the importance and potential of Kurukshetra as a tourist destination.
The conference and familiarization trip mark a concerted effort by the Ministry of Tourism to boost tourism in the Mahabharat Circuit, encouraging both domestic and overseas visitors to explore the cultural and spiritual richness of the region.
