MPTDC sees 80% occupancy rate in hotels during Independence Day long weekend
Popular locations such as Pachmarhi, Orchha, Chanderi, Shivpuri, Parsili, Tawa, Khajuraho, Mandu, Maheshwar, Hanuwantiya, Gandhi Sagar, and Saliani, as well as wildlife spots, reported an average occupancy rate of 80% in hotels managed by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (MPTDC).
MPTDC managing director Ilayaraja T stated, "We are recording very high demand during the Independence Day long weekend.
We have received almost 80 percent bookings, and many locations are fully sold out. This level of interest indicates a vibrant tourism trend in our state."
Industry experts attributed the surge to new adventure offerings, including water sports, trekking and village trails, which have attracted tourists. The MD said, "The influx of visitors to Madhya Pradesh's quieter and less-explored destinations is proving advantageous for tourism growth and local economies alike.
With the continued rise in tourism, stakeholders are optimistic about sustainable growth, promoting the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.
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Lesser-known rural and tribal homestays are also witnessing an increase in bookings, providing supplementary income to local communities. In the state, Indore region recorded the highest bookings for Mandu, Hanuwantiya, Maheshwar and Gandhi Sagar.
MPTDC regional manager for Indore, Ajay Shrivastava said, "Bookings are much higher than the previous year. Tourist flow is from MP, Maharashtra, Gujarat and many other states. The addition of rooms and infrastructure upgrades have helped a lot in attracting tourists."
Amruta Khere, a homemaker, has booked a rural homestay near Orchha with her family for the long weekend. "Wherever we go, we take up a hotel, but this time we decided to experience something different.
We are joined by our family friends and have booked a rural homestay for two days. We are super excited for this getaway as this is going to be very different from what we have observed in the past," Khere said.
Travel agents noted that the newfound interest in experiential tourism, connecting with nature and engaging with local communities, is promoting rural tourism and household incomes.
Travel Agents Association of India MP and Chhattisgarh chapter chairman Hemendra Singh Jadon emphasised the shift in travel preferences, stating, "Many travellers are opting for road trips instead of air travel due to soaring airfares. This trend is not only beneficial for local tourism, but also encourages people to experience the unique lifestyle and culture of rural areas."
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