New Delhi: The Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India (Northern Region Office), organized a Conference on the Mahabharat Circuit, followed by a Familiarisation Trip to Kurukshetra, Jyotisar, and Thanesar on January 10, 2024. Delegates from across the country, including Tour Operators, travel media persons, opinion makers, and influencers, participated in the Conference, joined by officers from the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, Haryana Tourism Department, and local administration.
The primary objective was to raise awareness about the tourism potential and religious significance of the region. Discussions during the Conference covered various aspects, including infrastructure, accommodation, tourist amenities, inflow of tourists, Travel and Tourism Sustainability, Responsible Tourism, involvement of the local community, and sensitization and training of service providers for promotion and marketing of the region.
The Conference, held on January 9, 2024, aimed to explore, promote, and highlight Kurukshetra and the places of significance related to Mahabharat as a preferred tourist destination among domestic and overseas visitors.
Addressing the delegates virtually, Manisha Saxena, Director General-Ministry of Tourism GOI, stated, “Mahabharat is not just an Epic but a way of life, Kurukshetra holds prominent significance in Mahabharat. Over the last few years, the Ministry of Tourism-GOI, in collaboration with Haryana Tourism, has undertaken large-scale development activities targeting better infrastructure and facilities for visitors, including the development of the Light & Sound Show and a museum at Jyotisar.”
Dr. R. K. Suman, Regional Director North, explained the purpose of the Conference and Familiarisation tour, aiming to showcase the rich spiritual heritage that Kurukshetra offers. Travel industry stakeholders from across the country were invited to experience firsthand what Kurukshetra offers and then share it with their client base.
Dr. Raman Gupta, Joint MD, Haryana Tourism, Rajiv Mehra, President IATO, P.P. Khanna, President ADTOI, and Mohan Gurucharandas, Vice President ISKON, also addressed the gathering, expressing the importance and potential of Kurukshetra.
During the familiarisation trip, delegates visited significant tourist places in Kurukshetra, Thanesar, and Jyotisar. The delegates were overwhelmed witnessing Brahm Sarovar and Jyotisar. They also experienced the Sound and Light Show at Jyotisar and enjoyed visits to Sri Krishna Museum, the Panorama, and the science museum. The trip included visits to Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb, Raja Harsh ka Tila, Bhadra Kali Temple, and Bhishma Kund.