India’s Budget 2024 Aims to Boost Tourism: Focus on Lakshadweep Infrastructure

New Delhi, 1st February 2024: In a move to bolster India’s tourism sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several significant measures related to tourism in the interim budget presentation. The government pledged support to enhance the infrastructure of Lakshadweep, aiming to attract more travellers to this picturesque destination.

Amidst tensions with the Maldives, Indians have opted to explore Lakshadweep for their vacations instead. Recognizing the importance of upgrading Lakshadweep’s infrastructure, the budget session saw a focused discussion on this archipelago. However, besides Lakshadweep, India boasts several other stunning islands worthy of inclusion in your travel bucket list.

Situated in the western part of India, Diu and Daman is a union territory. Diu Island can be an excellent spot for island vacations, offering not just breathtaking beach views but also various fun activities. Showcasing remnants of Portuguese culture, its buildings narrate the history of Diu. From the Church of St. Paul to the 16th-century fort, all exhibit Portuguese architecture. Besides exploring historical heritage, you can indulge in thrilling activities like hot air balloon rides, paragliding, scuba diving, dolphin trips, and parasailing.

How to Reach: Diu is closest to the airport, making it easily accessible by air. For those travelling by train, Vervale is the nearest railway station to Diu, located about 90 km away. Additionally, buses from Mumbai also connect to Diu.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory situated in the southern part of India. Surrounded by beauty on all sides, this archipelago is considered an excellent tourist spot. Apart from witnessing wildlife, you can engage in many exciting activities here. Trekking, jet skiing, scuba diving, sea karting, and game fishing, are just some of the adventurous activities you can enjoy.

How to Reach: You can reach here via air through Veer Savarkar International Airport. It is located in the capital city, Port Blair. Additionally, you can also arrive here via sea routes. Ferries or boats from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam can take you here. You can check the ferry and boat schedules through All India Radio and Doordarshan.

Located in the Arabian Sea, Elephanta Island is famous for its caves, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. These caves dedicated to Lord Shiva are the primary attraction of the island. You can marvel at the intricate carvings inside the caves. Apart from exploring historical heritage, you can also enjoy a train ride with your children, which can be quite thrilling for them.

How to Reach: You can take a ferry ride from the Gateway of India to reach Elephanta Island. However, due to heavy crowds, we advise you to reach here early.

India’s diverse islands offer a plethora of experiences, promising unforgettable vacations for travellers. As the government prioritizes tourism, these destinations are poised to become even more accessible and enchanting.