We expect business from Diwali

If the situation becomes normal, Rajasthan expects to see some tourist movement from Diwali, says Chapter Chairman of Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), Mahendra Singh.

Hazel Jain

Raising the hopes of the industry high, Mahendra Singh, Chapter Chairman – Rajasthan, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), says that his members have already started receiving queries from domestic clients. “We expect domestic movement to start from Dussehra and Diwali vacations if the situation becomes normal. The queries we are receiving are from clients from West Bengal, Punjab and Gujarat and they are looking for short Rajasthan tours,” he reveals.

Monuments have already been opened since June 1, 2020. “Regarding hotels and restaurants, the Central and State ministry has already decided to open them. The hotels and restaurants will have to follow a strict safety guideline which has already been shared by the ministry. We are also training our tourist guides and they will be available once the tourist movement starts. Since Rajasthan is a popular tourist destination of India, we are making sure that every tour operator follows strict safety guidelines so that every tourist visiting us is safe,” Singh adds. The Chapter recently created a video that featured all its members inviting viewers to visit their state. Speaking on behalf of his members, Singh also said that they will be looking to renegotiate contracted rates with their suppliers and vendors as it will be helpful to offer some good discounts on tour packages and attract tourists. Meanwhile, as per Central government guidelines, tour operators in Rajasthan have been offered financial support through banks to MSMEs based on turnover.

Rajasthan waives entry fee for two weeks

The state government has decided not to charge any entry fee for the first 15 days after the reopening. Rajasthan has 342 protected monuments and 32 of them are ticketed. From the third week, the monuments will open daily and 50% discount will be offered on the ticket amount till October 31. Monuments, except those falling in curfew areas, will be open four days a week: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for the first two weeks.