Caravan tourism in Madhya Pradesh
JAIPUR: “Caravan tourism is a unique product. We have been the first player in India in this segment of tourism product in the domain, private and state operations. At present, we have three coaches operating where travelers can stay in it, and along with travel the length and breadth in three major circuits where we have launched this service in,” Om Vijay Choudhary, chief general manager (operations and marketing), Madhya Pradesh Tourism said.
Promoted as ‘Holiday on Wheels’, there are several packages that the state is promoting in three circuits with bases in Jabalpur, Indore and Bhopal.
He added, “We are planning to add more circuits and more vehicles also urging private operators to participate to venture into this area of tourism and promote it simultaneously. We are promoting caravan tourism in all major marts and travel shows. With just three vehicles now, we have been able to clock 100 nights’ occupancy in the past three months.”
MP Tourism also boasts 64 hotel properties in the state and these have become the parking base for the caravans for power backs up, cleaning, etc.
“There is all basic facilities available onboard and even Internet connection, thereby offering a comprehensive approach to the product. It is at the moment used extensively by honeymooners and small families with two kids,” informed Choudhary.
The product has been reasonably priced at Rs 5,000 per day inclusive of 250 km of travel and night stay in the caravan. Booking can be done through the MP Tourism website, apart from various marketing offices across the country. Simultaneously, MP Tourism has also been active in cruise tourism, whereby it has added a pirate ship designed specifically from Hyderabad that will be promoted to cater to charter-groups. Here, a banquet, restaurant and the entertainment have been kept in mind to keep tourists interested.
