The Easter bombings in Sri Lanka and consequent cancellation of inbound tourist arrivals has made south India an alternative destination for tourists. Tour operators are getting enquiries for Tamil Nadu and Kerala from inbound travellers from Europe and the US, after their countries have issued travel advisories.
Rajeev Kale, president and country head – Holiday, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd said, “India has now come into the spotlight- especially south Indian locales given the similarity in climate, topography and culture-cuisine among other factors. We have been witnessing an increased demand for destinations like Tamil Nadu’s Kodaikanal, Puducherry and pilgrim spots like Madurai, Thanjavur, Mahabalipuram and Kancheepuram. Resorts inside tea plantations in Nilgiri’s Conoor, Kerala’s Munnar, Allepey, Thekkady, Wayanad, Kovalam and Kumarakom have also seen a significant increase of foreign tourists. In total there has been a 30% rise in recent times.”
Charles M, secretary, Tourist Guides’ Federation of South India, said a group of 185 tourists from France have recently shifted their tour plans from Sri Lanka to Tamil Nadu. “The group is on an incentive tour and was scheduled to visit Sri Lanka. However, they have decided to visit Tamil Nadu and Puducherry after the bombings rocked the island nation.”(The Times of India)
Foreigners are keen on security which is unpredictable in Sri Lanka right now, and prefer south Indian states, although travel and accommodation are comparatively expensive, he added.
Courtesy: Daily Mirror
