TravTalk India Online Magazine
Beyond traditional sightseeing, travellers are now on the quest for serene and immersive experiences. With a steadfast commitment to responsible tourism and community engagement, Cholan Tours aims to deliver unmatched experiences for travellers, says Pandian Kumaravel, Managing Director, Cholan Tours.
Janice Alyosius
There has been a distinct shift in what travellers are seeking post-pandemic, witnessing several key trends in inbound travel to India. “Travellers are now seeking offbeat and less crowded destinations to avoid busy areas and experience serenity,” said Pandian Kumaravel, Managing Director, Cholan Tours. While domestic tourism has surged, often resulting in crowded popular spots, inbound tourists are increasingly seeking peaceful and immersive experiences that connect them with the local culture and nature.
To capitalise on these new trends, Cholan Tours is actively promoting unexplored destinations that offer tranquillity and authentic experiences. “There is also a growing preference for sustainable and wellness-focused tourism, with travellers showing interest in eco-friendly accommodations, yoga retreats, and local community engagement,” Kumaravel noted.
New trends
The importance of regional tourism circuits, particularly in South India, has gained traction, especially among non-resident Indians (NRIs) seeking spiritual journeys. “Post-pandemic, temple tourism in South India has seen increased interest, particularly from NRIs worldwide who seek spiritual journeys combined with sightseeing,” Kumaravel said.
These travellers are not only interested in religious aspects but also in the rich historical and cultural significance of the temples. High-end domestic travellers are also exploring these temple circuits, drawn by the unique experiences they offer, such as participation in rituals, traditional festivals, classical dance performances, and authentic South Indian cuisine. Kumaravel highlighted, “The blend of spirituality, history, and local traditions makes these tours appealing to those seeking more than just sightseeing.”
Key challenges and solutions
The Indian inbound travel market faces several challenges today. Hotel availability and price hikes pose significant hurdles. “With increased domestic travel, hotels are often overbooked, and room rates have surged. To navigate this, Cholan Tours has fostered strong relationships with hotels, allowing them to secure bookings and ensure top-notch services even during peak seasons,” Kumaravel affirmed.
Besides, evolving traveller preferences towards personalised and experiential travel necessitate a shift in offerings. “We have identified and developed offbeat destinations and crafted immersive itineraries that align with these preferences,” Kumaravel said.
Commitment to sustainability
With sustainability becoming a pivotal factor in travel decisions, Cholan Tours has made significant strides in eco-friendly practices. “Since 2008, we have adopted eco-friendly practices by becoming a paperless, fully digital company. We use solar energy, generating 27 kw of power daily, and have implemented rainwater harvesting systems since 2014,” Kumaravel shared.
Their commitment to sustainability earned them the “LCC Green Award” from Lufthansa City Centre in 2019, recognising their initiatives in solar energy. What sets Cholan Tours apart in a competitive market is their commitment to crafting unique, custom-made itineraries.
