In a bold move to establish Chandigarh as a premier tourist destination, the UT Administration is poised to launch a comprehensive tourism promotion plan within the next 15 to 20 days. The initiative is designed to elevate the visitor experience by introducing modernized, streamlined facilities that cater to both domestic and international tourists.
Drawing inspiration from successful tourism models in regions such as Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Kerala, Haryana, and other Union Territories, the administration has left no stone unturned in crafting its strategy. Extensive consultations with stakeholders—including representatives from the hospitality sector, tourism associations, and hotel owners—have played a pivotal role in shaping the plan, ensuring that it adopts a holistic and inclusive approach.
At the heart of the new strategy is the creation of a centralized tourism portal that will not only facilitate online ticketing and a single-window clearance system for various services but also serve as a repository of real-time data. Under this system, city hotels will be empowered to upload live data on tourist check-ins using unique IDs and passwords assigned to each establishment, paving the way for seamless data integration. In addition, a dedicated toll-free helpline for addressing tourist grievances is set to enhance the overall travel experience.
Chandigarh, famed for its iconic attractions such as the Capitol Complex in Sector 1, the Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Bird Park, Indian Air Force Heritage Centre, and the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Sector 10, welcomes around 30,000 foreign visitors and approximately 1.2 million domestic tourists annually. The new initiative aims to boost these numbers by tackling logistical and service-related challenges that have long hindered the city’s tourism potential.
One standout feature of the forthcoming plan is the introduction of ‘Tourist Police.’ Thirty specially trained officers, outfitted in white uniforms with blue badges, will be deployed at key attractions to provide immediate assistance and ensure the safety of visitors. These officers are currently undergoing training at the Institute of Hotel Management in Sector 42, preparing them to offer a warm and professional welcome to all tourists.
Furthermore, the administration is streamlining the process for film shooting within the city by implementing a single-window approval system. This move is expected to not only attract filmmakers but also to promote Chandigarh as an attractive location for media and cultural productions. Additional licensed tour guides will be recruited, with fixed rates published transparently on the tourism website, ensuring consistency and reliability in service.
A senior official from the Tourism Department commented, “We are preparing this plan with an integrated approach. It will not only improve tourist facilities but also focus on interstate collaboration through trade fairs, exhibitions, and other tourism events.” The official emphasized that this initiative is set to redefine Chandigarh’s image as a tourist-friendly city, promising substantial economic benefits through increased visitor footfall and enhanced infrastructure.
As Chandigarh readies itself to roll out this forward-thinking tourism promotion plan, industry experts and local businesses alike are optimistic that the initiative will cement the city’s status as a top-tier destination for travelers from across the globe.
