Madhya Pradesh Unveils Bold Tourism Vision for 2024: Embracing Cruises, Wellness Retreats, and Rural Experiences

Madhya Pradesh, a central Indian state known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is set to transform its tourism landscape in 2024 with an ambitious plan that promises to bring new vitality to the sector. The state government, led by Principal Secretary Tourism Sheo Shekhar Shukla, aims to make the upcoming year a hallmark for holistic, sustainable, eco-friendly, and adventure-packed tourism experiences.

Cruise Tourism to Steer the Waters

A key highlight of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism vision for 2024 is the introduction of cruise tourism, elevating the state’s allure for both domestic and international travelers. The crown jewel of this initiative is the nearly 130 km inter-state cruise on the majestic Narmada River, starting from the Statue of Oneness in Omkareshwar and culminating at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. The journey promises to be a scenic delight, with floating jetties already underway to facilitate this unique experience.

In addition to the inter-state cruise, Madhya Pradesh plans to introduce long-distance intra-state cruises, connecting picturesque destinations like Miakal Resort in Bargi near Jabalpur to Tindini in Mandla district, Dharaji in Dewas to Sailani Tapu east of Omkareshwar, and Sanjit village to the tent city of Gandhi Sagar. These waterborne journeys will be peppered with rural experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the heart of Madhya Pradesh’s cultural and natural treasures.

Adventure Unleashed: New Trails and All-Women Biking Event

The state’s tourism strategy for 2024 extends beyond waterways, with a focus on adventure tourism. Madhya Pradesh plans to identify and develop new trekking trails in the buffer zones of National Parks and Sanctuaries, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore the state’s pristine wilderness.

Adding a touch of glamour and empowerment, the state is gearing up for “Queens on the Wheel,” an all-women seven-day biking event scheduled for February 2024. This thrilling biking escapade will take participants on a journey from Bhopal to Orcha via Chanderi, Kuno, Gwalior, Mitawali, Padavali, Bateshwar, Orchha, and Khajuraho, showcasing the diverse cultural and historical tapestry of Madhya Pradesh.

Wellness Retreats and Enhanced Connectivity

Recognizing the growing importance of wellness tourism, Madhya Pradesh plans to introduce retreats for yoga and meditation throughout the year. These retreats, hosted in select hotels owned by the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, aim to offer visitors a holistic experience that goes beyond physical well-being.

In a bid to enhance connectivity between destinations, the tourism department is working to reintroduce small aircraft under public-private partnership (PPP). This move is seen as an opportune time to leverage the rebound in the tourism sector post the pandemic lull.

Offbeat Destinations and Rural Experiences

Madhya Pradesh is set to unveil at least 10 unexplored destinations, connecting them with mainstream tourism in 2024. The emphasis will be on developing infrastructure and connectivity to ensure a holistic development of these offbeat locations. Building on the success of glamping sites introduced in 2023, the state plans to increase the number of tent cities, making them more tourist-friendly.

Rural tourism will receive a boost, with plans to increase the number of homestays to over 500 in 2024. The state aims to introduce new village life experiences that are innovative and aligned with rural life, offering visitors an authentic and immersive cultural encounter.

Empowering Women and Building Safe Spaces

Madhya Pradesh’s tourism strategy for 2024 prioritizes the safety of women travelers. Initiatives are underway for mass skilling of women in hospitality-related job roles, aiming to increase their representation in various frontline jobs within the hotel and travel industry. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has already trained over 4000 women, with plans to absorb more into the industry in 2024.

Reflecting on 2023 and Looking Ahead

After facing the challenges posed by the pandemic, Madhya Pradesh witnessed a resurgence in tourism in 2023. The state government’s efforts included the introduction of new circuits, festivals, and tent cities at offbeat destinations, providing unique rural experiences. The inaugural editions of Kuno and Chanderi festivals received positive feedback, blending tourism with culture and wildlife.

Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla expressed confidence in the success of these initiatives, stating, “Our objective for starting the festivals at Kuno and Chanderi was to knit tourism with culture and wildlife. We have received good feedback from tourists.”

As Madhya Pradesh prepares to usher in 2024, the state’s innovative tourism strategy promises not only to attract visitors but to redefine the narrative of travel experiences in central India.