Loading...
You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Author
Published on November 9, 2023
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Haryana’s Jhajjar district, Talao village has become a beacon for rural tourism, attracting visitors with its commitment to sustainability and the preservation of traditional practices. With a modest population of around 6,000, this picturesque village has proven that rural charm combined with eco-friendly initiatives can become a major draw for tourists, including international visitors and dignitaries.
Talao Village: A Gem of Rural Tourism
Just a short drive from the hectic pace of Delhi, Talao village offers a tranquil escape into the heart of India’s rural heritage. The village is not only a quiet getaway but also a place where visitors can immerse themselves in authentic farming techniques, verdant gardens, and a range of environmental conservation efforts. Its proximity to renowned biodiversity sites like Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary and Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary further enhances its appeal.
Anil Kumar, the village head, shares that nearly one lakh tourists flock to Talao annually, a testament to its growing popularity. In a notable highlight this year, the village welcomed delegates for a G20 anti-corruption group meeting, signifying its emerging status on the global stage.
Innovations Leading the Way
One of the most remarkable initiatives in Talao is 'Gau Gram', a project that empowers village women by blending tradition with innovation. Women artisans create and sell eco-friendly products made from cow dung, adding value to what would otherwise be a waste product. This not only generates income but also promotes sustainable living.
The village has adopted practices like rainwater harvesting and organic farming, and is taking a stand against plastic pollution, particularly single-use plastics. This forward-thinking approach has led to an all-inclusive model of farm tourism, where farmers and craftsmen offer their produce and crafts directly to tourists at the local fair, fostering an ecosystem of self-reliance and community-driven development.
Recognition and Development
Talao’s efforts haven't gone unnoticed; it was one of 35 Indian villages to be honored as "best tourism villages" by the Union Ministry of Tourism, securing a bronze award in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The success of rural tourism in Talao not only celebrates the village’s cultural authenticity but also contributes significantly to its socio-economic development. Tourists leave with not just memories but also tangible pieces of the village's heritage, directly supporting the livelihood of locals.
Former sarpanch Manjeet Punia emphasizes the role of tourism in the village’s growth, stating that visitors can savor local cuisines and experience the full spectrum of rural life. For a village like Talao, tourism isn't just about sightseeing; it's about engagement, education, and empowerment, both for the visitors and the residents.
As Talao village shines in the limelight of rural tourism, it offers a replicable model for other rural communities. It stands as a testament to the incredible potential that lies in India’s vast and varied countryside when sustainable practices are harmoniously woven into the fabric of rural life.
M Square by Monday Premium Launches “The Sky Roof” Resto Bar...
Monday Hotels Group has unveiled “The Sky Roof,” a rooftop r...
Hyatt Place Jaipur Spices Up October Weekends with Smoky Siz...
With the festive season in full swing, Hyatt Place J...
Taste the Art of Clay Pot Cooking with a Cantonese Twist at ...
Eros Hotel New Delhi is excited to announce its Clay Pot Spe...
Evolve Back, Coorg, Secures Spot in Fodor’s Top 100 Hotels i...
Evolve Back, Chikkana Halli Estate, Coorg, is proud to annou...
By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on October 25, 2024
The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) is set to host its 16th Annual Adventure Convention in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, from December 3rd to 8th, 2024. This six-day event will bring together adventure tourism professionals from across the country, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s potential as a premier adventure destination. The convention will explore how adventure tourism can fuel sustainable economic growth while preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed confidence in the state’s potential to become India’s top adventure tourism hub. He believes this event will not only showcase Arunachal's untapped opportunities but also boost the state's global recognition and economic development. Tourism Minister P D Sona echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that adventure tourism investments can drive economic progress while safeguarding the state's unique heritage.
The convention will feature sessions, panel discussions, and awards recognizing industry excellence. Delegates will participate in familiarization (FAM) trips to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, including its famed leopard safaris and uncharted terrains. A pre-convention adventure guide training program will also be held in Itanagar to enhance local capacity in the adventure tourism sector.
ATOAI President Ajeet Bajaj emphasized the association's commitment to making India a top destination for responsible adventure tourism, with Arunachal Pradesh as a key focus. He added, “We look forward to showcasing Arunachal Pradesh as a model for responsible tourism, setting new standards for environmental stewardship and community-driven development.”
The convention will also promote "Border Tourism," offering delegates the chance to visit significant sites like Bumla Pass and the NIMAS facility in Dirang, which is known for its world-class adventure training programs. Oken Tayeng, ATOAI North East Chair, highlighted the need for adventure tourism to benefit local communities through sustainable practices and job creation.
The 16th ATOAI Adventure Convention promises to be a landmark event, positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a leading destination for adventure tourism in India.
The Kerala Government has approved Responsible Tourism (RT) projects worth INR 6.64 crore for the year 2024-25, aimed at promoting sustainability and community participation across key destinations. These initiatives are part of the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance its tourism offerings through sustainable and inclusive practices. Key destinations that will benefit from these projects include Kumarakom, Beypore, and other prominent tourism spots.
The Responsible/Resilient Tourism project has been allocated INR 1.81 crore, while the Beypore Integrated RT Development Project will receive INR 1.15 crore. These projects are expected to improve tourism facilities and services in these areas while promoting eco-friendly and community-driven tourism models. The government has also set aside INR 1 crore for RT marketing and promotional activities, aiming to position Kerala as a year-round experiential tourism destination.
Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas emphasized the critical role of Responsible Tourism in shaping the future of Kerala’s tourism industry. He noted that recent national awards for RT initiatives in Kanthalloor, Kadalundi, and Kumarakom underscore the success of the state's efforts to promote sustainable rural and agri-tourism. "The RT initiative is going to be the driver of Kerala tourism in the future," he said, adding that the expansion of RT activities is expected to attract more foreign tourists, boosting the state's tourism model.
The government has also approved INR 90.99 lakh for the second phase of RT Mission Society projects, as well as INR 38.10 lakh for training programs at the RT Mission Society Training Centre in Kumarakom. These training sessions will focus on integrating digital marketing and artificial intelligence (AI) into tourism, along with capacity building for community leaders, homestay operators, and other local stakeholders.
In addition to Kumarakom and Beypore, other destinations that will benefit from RT projects include Valiyaparamba, Dharmadam, Thirunelli, and Nelliyampathi. The goal is to diversify tourism offerings while scaling up the involvement of local communities, ensuring that tourism remains both inclusive and sustainable. These projects aim to support job creation and generate income for local populations, with a focus on gender-inclusive tourism models.
Since its inception in 2008, Kerala’s Responsible Tourism initiative has grown into a vast grassroots network, benefiting over 1.5 lakh families. The initiative promotes sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities while enhancing the overall visitor experience. The RT Mission’s activities have been widely recognized both in India and globally, positioning Kerala as a leader in sustainable tourism.
Tourism Secretary K Biju stated that the government's ongoing support for RT initiatives would help bring new destinations and activities to Kerala's tourism map. Kerala Tourism Director Sikha Surendran echoed these sentiments, noting that the popularization of RT projects would further strengthen the state’s tourism appeal.
India’s premier curated travel event, The Gypsy Travel Festival, is set to return for its third edition on January 11th and 12th, 2025, at Jio World Drive, Mumbai. The two-day event promises to redefine travel by offering a unique blend of culture, adventure, and expert guidance, allowing attendees to discover and personalize their next vacation, all in one place.
The festival, organized by the Gypsy Travel Network, offers travelers the opportunity to explore the best of global travel experiences, products, and destinations. With a focus on seamless planning, customization, and booking, the event provides access to expert insights from leaders in the travel industry, exclusive festival-only offers, and immersive experiences. Attendees can enjoy virtual reality tours, live performances, and interactive workshops such as perfume-making and origami, all aimed at enriching the cultural connection to travel.
Sumit Lulla, Festival Director, highlighted the evolving nature of travel: “Travel has moved beyond just visiting new places. It’s now about connecting with people, experiencing diverse cultures, and creating unforgettable stories. Our aim is to build a community of travelers through both online and offline platforms, becoming India’s trusted source for unique travel experiences.”
In line with the rising trend of travel in India, which currently holds the top spot in the APAC Travel Confidence Index, The Gypsy Travel Festival serves as a vital platform for travel enthusiasts to turn their dreams into reality. With over 300 travel products representing all seven continents, the event allows visitors to plan their next adventure with the help of industry experts, discover new destinations, and secure their trips at unbeatable prices.
Beyond just offering travel deals, The Gypsy Travel Festival focuses on fostering a sense of community among travelers, providing opportunities for networking and shared inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone planning their next getaway, the festival is the perfect place to start your journey.
This edition of the festival is timed perfectly for those planning their summer vacations, ensuring that attendees leave with exciting and personalized travel ideas. It’s a one-stop destination for anyone looking to make their next travel experience truly special.
About The Gypsy Travel Festival:
The Gypsy Travel Festival (TGTF) is India’s premier travel marketplace, connecting travelers with unique experiences, products, and innovations from around the globe. Since its launch in 2017, TGTF has helped over 35,000 travelers discover new destinations and cultures. The festival is part of the Gypsy Travel Network, providing a platform for tourism industry stakeholders to engage and connect directly with aspiring travelers.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.