CHAPTER3

TOURISM IN THE STUDY AREA

CHAPTER3

TOURISM IN THE STUDY AREA

In the last chapter we discussed the growing economic importance of the

tourism in the study area. It has been proved that tourists coming to these

destinations bring with them a new world of opportunities for the host

population. This chapter gives the geographical description of the study area as

well as the comparative study of the three destinations in terms of tourist

arrivals and their impacts.

Thar Desert in Rajasthan is the most densely populated desert of the world. It is

marked by the colorful attires, spirited men and women and above all its

natural beauty of hills, sand dunes, and historical monuments. 'Nature has been

partial to this state by providing it a thing of beauty which is a joy forever' 57•

There is a popular myth58 regarding the origin of Rajasthan desert, as the

mythology goes, once Lord Rama, drew an arrow to destroy Lanka but when

gods pleaded with the Lord to desist from his intended purpose, he pointed the

arrow to a distant sea and let it escape. The intense heat generated by the arrow

dried the sea and it was replaced by a dry, arid and hot desert. The myth and

the reality coalesce, as the fossils derived from the Thar Desert reveal the

remains of marine life. However, there are no paleobotanical evidences of the

circumstances that had led to the formation of the desert.

57 Sharma, K.C. (1996), Tourism Policy, Planning, Strategy, Tourism Administration in Rajasthan: Structural and Functional Analysis, Pointer Publisher, p. 86.

58 Shama, D, (1966), Rajasthan Through The Ages, Rajasthan State Archives, Geographical Background of the History of Rajasthan, Chapter 1,

111

'Going through the chronological facts it can be said that it came into existence

between the Pliocene and the last glaciations period. The region was

completely devoid of any human settlements in the pre-historic period' 59.

Physiographic Map of Rajasthan

Soun:e:bttp:/fon.maps.yaboo.com

The earliest inhabitants were part of an urban civilization that arose 4500 years

ago. Recent excavations of the remains of Indus valley civilization have

59 Sharma, R.C. ( 1999), Thar: The Great Indian Desert, Lustre Press Poli Books, New Delhi

112

revealed that this valley was in the dried up beds of the Ghaggar in Ganganagar

district. Other civilizations arose in different parts of the world and with them

evolved the network of trade which linked different continents. Maritime

activity connected Europe to Asia. Inns were developed on this trade route to

provide commercial services to the caravans and in due course of time these

Inns developed into desert settlements. These settlers started levying taxes on

the goods carried by the caravans, thus began the transformation of desert.

3.1 HISTORY

Ancient Period, up to 1200 AD

'Rajasthan as remarked by James Todd, is the collective and classical name of

that part of India which was known to the people either as 'Rajwarra' or

'Raethan' but was corrupted to Rajasthan by Britishers'60• The kings of the

northern India were Raj puts, part of the Kshatriya clan. But due to sustained

foreign invasions and arrival of stronger foes, they lost control over their

kingdoms, and looked for the opportunity and land where they could establish

their kingdoms. The Thar became their refuge. Rajput clans emerged and held

their sway over different parts of Rajasthan from about 700 AD. Before that,

Rajasthan was a part of several republics. It was a part of the Mauryan Empire.

Other major republics that dominated this region include the Malavas,

Arjunyas, Y audhyas, Kushans, Saka Satraps, Guptas and Huns.

The Rajput clan's ascendancy in Indian history was during the period from the

eighth to the twelfth century AD. The Pratihars ruled Rajasthan and most of

60 Sharma, Dr D. (1966), Geographic Background of the History of Rajasthan, Rajasthan Through the Ages, Chapter 1, Rajasthan State Archives, Bikaner Publication, pp I

113

northern India during 750-1000 AD. During 1000-1200 AD, Rajasthan

witnessed the struggle for supremacy between Chalukyas, Parmars and

Chauhans. 'These kings and the princes ruled once more, and today the region

where their once mighty kingdoms commanded respect is called Rajasthan, the

land of the rulers61•

Medieval Period, 1201 - 1707

Around 1200 AD a part of Rajasthan came under Muslim rule. The principal

centers of their powers were Nagaur and Ajmer. Ranthanbhor was also under

their rule. At the beginning of the 13th century AD, the ~ost prominent and

powerful state of Rajasthan was Mewar. It lied on the way from the Mughal

capital to Gujarat and Malwa and was on the route of the busy port of cambay

and manufacturing centers of Ahmedabad and Surat, the sole prospects of

Mughal trade and military control naturally depended upon keeping firm

control over the desert region. Akbar garrisoned Merta, Jalore and Nagore as

the strongholds and outposts of Mughals.

Rajasthan's medieval history witnessed the sensitivity of its rulers along with

their valor and chivalry. With strong religious beliefs, they built splendid

temples, elaborate wells (Bawri) and memorials to their dead (chhatris),

besides their fort and palaces. The rulers offered patronage to the artists and

even now Rajasthan is known for its centres for arts and crafts.

61 Rajasthan A La Carte (1999), Production Manual, Rajasthan Tourism Art and Culture, Jaipur, p.4.

114

Modern Period, 1707 - 1947

Rajasthan had never been united politically until its domination by Mughal

Emperor- Akbar. It was in his reign, various princely provinces of Rajasthan

were unified. However, Mughal power started declining after 1707 which led

to the political disintegration of Rajasthan. The Marathas penetrated Rajasthan

upon the decline of the Mughal Empire. In 1755 they occupied Ajmer. The

beginning of the 19th Century was marked by the onslaught of the Pindaris. To

rescue themselves from the gorilla attacks of the Marathas and the Pindaris, the

Rajputs of Rajasthan looked towards the emerging power the British, for help.

In 1817-18 the British Government concluded treaties of alliance with almost

all the states ofRajputana. Thus began the British rule over Rajasthan.

Post Independence

Today, little in Rajasthan has changed because the past history is inextricably

intertwined with its present. 'It was here the armies of everyone from invaders

to those of the Marathas, the Mughals and the British laid siege'62• In later

years, as peace was established the rulers constructed their Palaces outside the

forts which are now open for tourists.

The erstwhile Rajputana comprised 19 princely states and two chieftainships of

Lava and Kushalgarh and a British administered territory of Ajmer-Merwara.

Rajasthan State was heterogeneous conglomeration of separate political entities

with different administrative systems prevailing in different places. The present

62 Sharma, K.C. (1996), Tourism, Policy, Planning and Strategy, Pointer Publication, Jaipur, p.13.

115

State of Rajasthan was formed after a long process of integration which began

on March 17, 1948 and ended on November 1, 1956. Earlier Rajputana, after

integration came to be known as Rajasthan. At present there are 32 districts,

105 sub-divisions, 241 tehsils, 37,889 inhabited villages and 222 towns in the

State.

3.2 Tourism in Rajasthan

In economic terms, the western Rajasthan is one of the most challenged entities

when it comes to developing large scale industries that can provide maximum

financial benefits with minimum use of resources. This area faces enormous

complexities in developing its economy, because of lack of rich natural

resources. However, with its rich historical, cultural and environmental heritage

Rajasthan has emerged during the last decade, as one of the favorite tourist

destinations in India for both domestic and foreign tourists. This is the proven

fact now, that in comparison to other economic sectors, investment in tourism

generates more employment opportunities. 'While in the year 1973 the total

arrival of tourists to Rajasthan was about 2 million, the number has increased to

19 million by the year 2005, of which domestic tourists were 18 million,

international tourist werel.1 million. At present, state receives 29 per cent of

the foreign tourists who visit India annually' 63. Tourism has taken a form of the

culture here. It is estimated that on an average a foreign tourist spends Rs. 1500

per day and domestic tourist Rs. 750 per day. It is also estimated that the

average stay of a foreign tourist in the state is 2.5 days as compared to 31.2

days in India. The total expenditure by the tourists visiting the state exceeds Rs

2000 crore per annum. 'Every rupee spent by a tourist in the State, changes

63 Pragati Prativedan, Department Of Tourism, Rajasthan, 2005-06, pp 2

116

hands thirteen times and every hotel room generate direct employment to three

persons and indirectly to eight persons' 64• The rate of growth of tourism in

Rajasthan has been phenomenal. The annual rate of growth for domestic

tourists has been 7 percent and for international tourists it has been 5 percent.

'In the year 2005 India has registered an increase of 13 percent in foreign

tourist arrivals. In the same year Rajasthan has registered a growth of 16

percent' 65•

3.2 (i) Tourist destinations in Rajasthan

Rajasthan the geographically largest state in India attracts tourists from all over

the world. Almost every destination here is a delight for the tourists. Rajasthan

Government has been trying to utilize this God's gift as an instrument for the

economic mobilization in the region. Tourism has now been recognized as an

important sector of Rajasthan economy with considerable potential for

development.

Every destination is unique in its own form. The unending stretch of sand

dunes, the open art gallery of Shekhawati and the artistic havelies (grand

houses) of earlier marwaris (traders) of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner, is the

major tourist attraction in western Rajasthan. In the central part, Jaipur, the

political and cultural capital of Rajasthan, the only temple of Jagat Pita Lord

Brahma in Pushkar and the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaj a Moinuddin Chishti,

in Ajmer present a fascinating blend of Sufi culture and Hinduism. The Tiger

reserves in Sawai Madhopur and Alwar, the favorite bird retreat in Bharatpur,

64 Tourism Policy of Rajasthan 2001, Print 0 land Publication, p.3 65 Pragati Prativedan, Department Of Tourism, Rajasthan, 2005-06, pp 2

117

magic along the mighty Chambal in Kota, and the tiny picturesque Hadoti town

of Bundi are magnificent enough to attract tourists to eastern Rajasthan.

Figure 3.1

Tourist Destination Map ofRajasthan

Source: Ministry of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan

118

In the southern part the Venice of the East, Udaipur, cradled in the cluster of

thirteen mountain peaks of Aravalli ranges the Kumbalgarh fort, the lush green

oasis in the hills, Mount Abu along with the tranquil pilgrimage town of the

Jains, Ranakpur, all these destinations become an irresistible attraction for the

tourists. Figure 3.1 highlights the major tourist destinations on the map of

Rajasthan.

3.2(ii) Geographical Personality of the Study Area

Rajasthan is located in the northwestern part of the subcontinent. It is bounded

on the west and northwest by Pakistan, on the north and northeast by the states

of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, on the east and southeast by the states

of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, and on the southwest by the state of

Gujarat. The Tropic of Cancer passes through its southern tip in the Banswara

district. The state has an area of 342,239 square kilometres.

In the west, Rajasthan is relatively dry and infertile; this area includes part of

the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert. In the southwestern

part of the state, the land is wetter, hilly, and more fertile. The climate varies

throughout Rajasthan. 'Average winter temperatures range from go to 28° C

and summer temperatures range from 25°C to 46° C. Average rainfall also

varies; the western deserts receives about 100 mm annually, while the

southeastern part of the state receives 650 mm annually, most of which falls

from July through September during the monsoon season' 66. About two third of

66 Economic Survey (1998-99) GOI, Economic Review (1998-99) GOI & Report on Currency and Finance 1997-98, vol. I & II.

119

the land area of the state is covered by Thar Desert. 12 districts to the west and

North West of Aravallis, comprising about 60% of the total area of Rajasthan

come under this desert. However, in spite of unfavorable climatic conditions,

people of this territory have become accustomed to live in such conditions.

Physiographically Rajasthan is divided into four broad regions, the western

sandy plains, were chosen as the study area. This region lies in the western

most part of the country called the Western Sandy Plain. This plain (24° 30' N

- 30° 12' Nand 69° 15' E- 76° 45'E) comprises mainly of the four districts i.e.

Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer and Jodhpur which are also the major tourist

destination. This region is the true expression of the desert with wide expanse

of wind blown sand dunes which is dry. Amongst the four districts Jaisalmer,

Jodhpur & Bikaner constitute the famous desert triangle.

Figure 3.2

District ~lap of Rajasthan

120

These three regions have been selected as the study area because it is this desert

which attracts tourists from various parts of the world. Due to the lack of

industries and other natural resources, handicrafts of this belt have become the

sole means of earnings of various rural households. Thus, this triangle is the

best suited study area as the work not only deals with the tourism but also on

the impact of this activity on the lives of indigenous population. It started

initially with a few foreigners driven to this barren land in search of peace and

the royal magnificence. Gradually, tourism developed into a vast multi tiered

industry here. The extensive marketing of this vast stretch of shimmering sand

dunes and the culture of the state with posters depicting the images of brilliant

colours of turbans of men and the colourful dresses of women, everything

played an important role in establishing its image as a tourist goa~.

The region is also marked by rich cultural and architectural heritage including

various forts, palaces and other monuments built by different rulers and

merchants; each possessing its own history and chronological importance and

religious heritage sites which include temples shrines and places of religious

importance.

The Government came up with its first tourism policy in September, 200 1. The

main objective was to make the maximum of the available rich tourist

resources. It experimented at promoting rural tourism to achieve income,

employment and economic stability in rural communities. It aimed at

establishing tourism as the "Human Industry" or "Jana Udhyog", prominently

in the rural areas. This was envisaged to help marketing of Rajasthan as tourist

destination and increase national and international tourist traffic, as also linking

121

rural tourism with urban tourism service providers. The emergence of rural

tourism was considered to be a great help in boosting a range of activities,

services and amenities provided by farmers and rural people to attract tourists

to their area to generate extra income. The basic concept of rural tourism is the

benefit to the local community through entrepreneurial opportunities, income

generation, employment opportunities, conservation and development of rural

arts and crafts, investment for infrastructure development and preservation of

the environment and heritage. The increased national and international tourist

traffic develop tiny and micro entrepreneurs and provide the marketing support

and help in strengthening rural infrastructure.

3.2 (iii) Tourist Arrivals in Rajasthan

In the year 2005, 11.31 lakh foreign tourists and 187.87 lakh domestic tourists

came to Rajasthan. This year registered an increase of 16 % in the foreign

tourist arrival in comparison to the tourist arrival in 2004. Table 3.1 gives a

clear picture of the tourists arriving in Rajasthan, since 1971.

Every destination in the state is an attraction for the tourists; still, there are

certain destinations that become more famous than the others. Although

domestic tourists greatly out number the foreign tourists, the study deals with

the foreign tourist arrivals also. Table 3.1 shows the trend of the tourist arrivals

in Rajasthan.

There has been a gradual growth at an average rate of 7.9% in the domestic

tourist arrivals in Rajasthan since 1971 (table 3.1). At the same time the foreign

tourist arrivals also recorded an average growth of 11.6% from 1971 to 2005.

122

However this period has faced its share of ups and downs in terms of tourist

arrivals.

Table 3.1

TOURIST ARRIVAL IN RAJASTHAN (1971 TO 2005)

YEAR DOMESTIC FOREIGN TOTAL YEAR DOMESTIC FOREIGN TOTAL TOURISTS TOURISTS TOURISTS TOURISTS (in Lakhs) (in Lakhs) (in Lakhs) (in Lakhs)

1971 8.8 0.4 9.2 1989 38.3 4.2 42.5 1972 9.0 0.4 9.5 1990 37.3 4.1 41.5 1973 11.5 0.5 12.1 1991 43.0 4.9 47.9 1974 10 0.5 10.5 1992 53.0 5.4 58.4 1975 11.2 0.6 11.8 1993 54.5 5.4 59.9 1976 13.0 0.9 13.9 1994 47.0 4.3 51.3 1977 16.2 1.2 17.4 1995 52.5 5.3 57.8 1978 20.4 1.6 22.0 1996 57.3 5.6 62.9 1979 23.1 1.9 25.0 1997 63.0 6.0 69.0 1980 24.5 2.0 26.5 1998 64.0 6.0 70.0 1981 26.0 2.2 28.2 1999 66.7 5.6 72.3 1982 28 2.3 30.1 2000 73.7 6.2. 79.9 1983 29.3 2.6 31.9 2001 77.5 6.1 83.6 1984 30.4 2.5 32.9 2002 83.0 4.2 87.2 1985 31.2 2.6 33.8 2003 125.4 6.3 131.7 1986 32.1 2.9 35.0 2004 160.3 9.7 170.0 1987 34.2 3.4 37.7 2005 187.8 11.3 199.1 1988 35 3.6 38.6 Source: Department Of Tourism, RaJasthan

There has been a visible seasonality in tourist arrival making this industry

totally seasonal in nature. As described in the last chapter, maximum tourist

arrivals take place in the months of October to March. The months of April to

Aug were considered to be off season for tourist industry. But since last four­

five years there has been a gradual decline in the so called off season and now a

days this season is called the lean season.

123

This seasonality in nature can be attributed to the severe climatic conditions of

the state. With the increasing efforts of the government the time period of the

lean season is decreasing. There are various attractive packages available to

pull the tourists between the months of April to Aug, on low costs of

expenditure.

Over a period of about two decades from 1971 to 1990, the growth rate in

foreign tourist's arrival achieved was 11.04 per cent per annum in Rajasthan.

As compared to an average annual rate of growth of 7.3 per cent in world

tourist arrivals and 11.9 percent annual growth rate in India. The average

growth rate is a bit lower for the domestic tourists i.e. 9.76% in Rajasthan.

However the numbers of domestic tourists greatly outnumber the foreign

tourists. The foreign tourists showed negative growth rate for the first time in

1984 (-2%), this was due to the assassination of the then Prime Minister Mrs.

Indira Gandhi in October and disturbed conditions in Delhi and around. Later

on it showed a steady growth for almost seven years and then came the period

of turmoil in the Indian political and economic structure.

During the beginning of nineties the country was under an economic disorder

and faced the famous crisis of the nineties which was followed by the

acceptance of Mandai commission report by the Government which later on

created wide spread disturbances through out the country and all this was

followed by the Mumbai bomb blasts in 1993; all these years of turmoil greatly

affected the tourist arrivals in the country.

124

Table 3.2 0/o CHANGE IN THE TOURISTS ARRIVAL IN INDIA

DOMESTIC FOREIGN YEAR DOMESTIC FOREIGN TOURIST TOURIST TOURIST TOURIST

1971 1989 9.67 14.52

1972 2.51 13.76 1990 -2.55 -0.48

1973 28.27 12.95 1991 15.14 18.32

1974 -13.79 2.14 1992 22.37 10.86

1975 11.96 18.69 1993 3.63 -1.29

1976 16.64 39.37 1994 -13.83 -19.22

1977 24.18 35.59 1995 11.89 22.42

1978 26.18 27.99 1996 8.89 4.90

1979 12.92 22.30 1997 9.84 7.86

1980 6.23 6.32 1998 1.80 -2.26

1981 6.13 5.87 1999 4.25 -4.85

1982 6.91 7.71 2000 10.47 10.74

1983 5.49 12.12 2001 5.19 -2.38

1984 3.67 -2.47 2002 7.00 -29.57

1985 2.66 3.52 2003 51.14 46.71

1986 2.99 8.55 2004 27.81 54.60

1987 6.54 19.36 2005 17.17 16.40

1988 2.07 5.22 Source: Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan

Then the final blow came in form of 9111 which reduced the growth rate to

almost 29%. But this industry showed recovery and the year 2003 registered a

positive growth rate of 47%. That is why, this industry is considered to be

fastest growing in the world.

The figures 3.2 and 3.3 indicate the number of tourists arriving in Rajasthan

both domestic as well as foreign tourists since 1971. The otherwise ascending

graph shows a mere decline during the nineties. This can be related to the

decrease in the tourist traffic due to various national and international political

issues like the crisis in the Persian Gulf area. Although the trend has been

towards the increase but the rate of growth has declined during the nineties.

125

~

Figure 3.3

DOMESTIC TOURIST ARRIVAL IN RAJASTHAN (1971 - 2005)

20000000 -------··----------·--------·---··-·---···-·-······---·-·-···-----·-····--·--·-·--··--··-·-··--···-·····-··----···---,

18000000

16000000

14000000

~ 12000000

6

r== 6000000

4000000

2000000

0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

##~#,,#~,,,,~,,~,~

YEARS

Source: Tourism Statistics, Ministry of Tourism, Government oflndia

~ ~ !;

~ ~

I

1200000

1000000

800000

600000

400000

200000

0

Figure 3.4

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS IN RAJASTHAN (1971-2005)

Source: Tourism Statistics, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

126

The figure 3.4 shows the per cent change in tourist arrivals in Rajasthan. The

trend in foreign tourist arrivals again illustrates a decline during the e·arly

nineties as well as in 2001-2002. This also establishes the fact that tourism and

peace in an area go hand in hand.

The decline in the tourist arrival during these two time periods is due to the

political instability in the Gulf area in 90's and the terrorist attacks on the Trade

Towers in New York, USA. But the greatest advantage of tourism industry is

its tendency .to keep moving. Thus no matter what happens this industry keeps

growing. Rajasthan has been receiving tourists from all over the world. It

receives maximum tourists from nations like UK, France, Italy, Canada, U.S.A.

and Australia. Various tourism practicing nations receive their neighbors in

maximum numbers as tourists. India receives maximum tourist from European

nations.

60

50

40

30

~ 20 ~

§ u. 0

10

"' Ill 0 :;;

~ OJ'\ -10

-20

-30

-40

Figure 3.5

CHANGE IN PERCENTAGE OF TOURIST ARRIVALS IN RAJASTHAN (1971-2005)

YEARS

Source: Tourism Statistics, Ministry of Tourism, Government oflndia

127

This is largely due to the geographical location of our country. India's

neighbors are in the economically developing stage where tourism is still a

luxury. The figure 3.5 depicts the tourists arriving from various nations. The

number of tourists coming to Rajasthan is largest from UK and France

followed by Italy, Canada, USA and Germany. Of the total tourist arrivals

France contributes 14%, USA 12%, UK and Germany both 8% and Italy 7% of

the total foreign tourist arrivals in Rajasthan.

The graph (figure3.6) shows the percentage change in the tourist arrivals in

India as well as Rajasthan. The table 3.3 compares the tourists arriving from

different countries to India and Rajasthan since 1990 onwards. It also shows

the change in percentage of the tourist arriving per year.

UJ CJ

50

40

30

20

~ 10 u ;!.

·10

·20

-30

Figure 3.6

COMPARASION OF% CHANGE IN TOURIST ARRIVALS INDIA & RAJASTHAN

(1990-2005)

YEARS

Source: Tourism Statistics, Ministry of Tourism, Government oflndia

128

FiNDIAI ~~

The trend is more or less similar at both the national as well as the State level.

In the last fifteen years there has been a six percent growth in tourist arrivals in

India, whereas at the same time the growth percent in these last fifteen years in

Rajasthan has been 8.8 percent.

Table 3.3

COMPARASION OF THE NUMBER OF FOREIGN TOURISTS VISITING RAJASTHAN WITH THOSE VISITING INDIA

YEAR FOREIGN PERCENTAGE FOREIGN PERCENTAGE RAJASTHAN'S TOURIST CHANGE TOURIST CHANGE SHARE IN THE %

VISITING INDIA VISITING OF TOURISTS RAJASTHAN VISITING INDIA

1990 1707158 417641 24.46 1991 1677508 -1.74 494150 18.32 29.46 1992 1867651 11.33 547802 10.86 29.33 1993 1764830 -5.51 540738 -1.29 30.64 1994 1886433 6.89 436801 -19.22 23.15 1995 2123683 12.58 534749 22.42 25.18

·-1996 2287860 7.73 560946 4.90 24.52 1997 2374094 3.77 605060 7.86 25.49 1998 2358629 -0.65 591369 -2.26 25.07 1999 2481928 5.23 562685 -4.85 22.67 2000 2649378 6.75 623100 10.74 23.52 2001 2537282 -4.23 608283 -2.38 23.97 2002 2384364 -6.03 428437 -29.57 17.97 2003 2726214 14.34 628560 46.71 23.06

·-2004 3457477 26.82 971772 54.60 28.11 2005 3915324 13.24 1131164 16.40 28.89

Source: Department ofTounsm, RaJasthan

The table 3 .3 also shows the increasing and decreasing trends of percentage of

tourists arriving to Rajasthan out of the total tourists coming to India.

The year 2002 shows a decrease of 6 percent, in the percentage of foreign

tourist arrival to Rajasthan in comparison to the percentage of total foreign

tourists coming to Rajasthan. Most of the times, the trend in Rajasthan is

similar to that of the national level, but during the years 1993 and 1994, 1998

129

and 1999, it has shown a negative trend, which differs from the national level.

This has happened mainly due to the demolition of Babri Masjid in December

1992 followed by Mumbai blasts in 1993. The turmoil was felt within the state,

though the foreign tourist arrivals were not affected at the national level but at

the state level the impact was quite visible. In 1998, May nuclear tests were •

conducted at Pokhran (Rajasthan) also. made the tourists skeptical visiting the

state, thus showing a negative growth rate.

Figure 3.7

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS IN RAJASTHAN FROM VARIOUS COUNTRIES (1997-2005)

GU.K.

1i21FRANCE

OITALY

•CANADA

E3 U.S.A.

II GERMANY

mAUSTRALIA

~SWITZERLAND

BmJAPAN

llil BANGLADESH

OMALAYSIA

8% •OTHERS

Source: Ministry of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan

Rajasthan receives tourists from all parts of the world. Within the neighboring

countries it is a major attraction because of the religious sentiments of the

130

. people attached to the Ajmer Dargah. The pie diagram (figure 3.6) gives a

pictorial representation of the tourists visiting Rajasthan from different

countries.

During the last nine years maximum foreign tourists have come from France

(14%) followed by UK (12%), USA and Germany (8%) and Italy (7%). Thus

the policies of the government should be to focus on the marketing in these

regions or positioning its targets which produce maximum visitors for the state.

However, the increase in the number of travelers to some extent can also be

attributed to an increase in advertising, as tourism marketers try to enlarge their

share of the global tourism pie by promoting their destinations to specific target

markets.

3.3 The Characteristic Features of the Destinations

3.3 (i)JAISALMER

Geographical Features of Jaisalmer

The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort, which

contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. Many of the houses and

temples are finely sculptured. It lies in the heart of the Thar Desert and has a

population of about 78,000. It is the administrative headquarters of Jaisalmer

District. Jaisalmer is named after its founder Rawal Jaisal. "Jaiaslmer" means

"Hill of Jaisal".

131

Table 3.4 Geographical Parameters of Jaisalmer

I Population (200 I) 3,44,5I7 2 % Rural Population (200 1) 84.4% 3 Population density 9 personlsq km 4 Human development Index 0.517 5 Gender Development Index 0.430 6 Rainfall 150-I65mm

Jaisalmer is the western most city of the state. 'Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were

feudal chiefs who lived on the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious

silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute Delhi or Sind. These caravans

earned the town great wealth'67•

Over the years the remote location of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched by

outside influences and even during the days of the British rule, Jaisalmer was

the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British. Ages have gone

by and the monuments of J aisalmer have withstood the buffeting winds of the

desert all through. Jaisalmer is the marvel of beautiful culture and harsh

climatic conditions.

Historical Elements

The majority of the inhabitants of Jaisalmer are Bhati Raj put, who inherit their

name from an ancestor named Bhati, renowned as a warrior when the tribe was

located in Punjab. The clan was then driven southwards, and found a refuge in

the Indian desert, which was henceforth its home. Deoraj, a famous prince of

67 Discover Rajasthan, (March 1997), NU Tech Photo lithographers. New Delhi, Department of Tourism, Art and Culture, Government of Rajasthan

132

Map Not To Scale

r

Figure 3.8

TOURIST MAP OF JAISALMER DISTRICT . t .

0 Tomot

Sud~ 'S :~ ri

0

Am;u S:~aar Cbaudua Joisalm•r ce • sAt f udh..-n

0 • :\Joobo:~

Khob•O Ko•t> ~-ikot Kh~ • •

• 0

• • •

133

TYPES OF TOURISM

HERITAGE TOURISM

ADVENTURE TOURISM

RELIGIOUS TOURISM

CULTURAL TOURISM

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

ART & CRAFT. TOURISM

BUSINESS TOURISM

the Bhati family, is considered as the real founder of the Jaisalmer dynasty, and

with him the title of Rawal commenced. In 1156 Rawal Jaisal, the sixth in

succession from Deoraj, founded the fort and city of Jaisaimer, and made it his

capital as he moved from his former capital at Lodarva (which is situated about

15 km to the south-east of Jaisalmer). In 1294, the Bhatis enraged the emperor

Ala-ud-din to an extent that his army captured and sacked the fort and city of

Jaisalmer, so that for some time it was quite deserted. After this there is nothing

to record till the time of Rawal Sahal Singh, whose reign marks an epoch in

Bhati history in that he acknowledged the supremacy of the Mogul emperor

Shah Jahan. The Jaisalmer princes had now arrived at the zenith of their power,

but from this time till the accession ofRawal Mulraj in 1762 the fortunes of the

state rapidly declined, and most of its outlying provinces were lost. In 1818,

Mulraj entered into political relations with the British.

The major opponents of the Bhati Rajputs were the powerful Rathore clans of

Jodhpur and Bikaner. They used to fight battles for the possession of forts,

waterholes or cattle. Jaisalmer was positioned strategically and was a halting

point along a traditional trade route traversed by the camel caravans of Indian

and Asian merchants. The route linked India to Central Asia, Egypt, Arabia,

Persia, Africa and the West.

Medieval period

During the Mughal period in India, Jaisalmer escaped direct Muslim conquest

due to its geographical location in the desert region. The Rawals of Jaisalmer

agreed to pay an annual tribute. to the Delhi Sultanate. The first siege of

Jaisalmer occurred during the reign of Alaud-din Khilji. It was provoked by

134

Bhati's raid on a caravan filled with treasure. According to local ballads, the

Bhatis defended the fort for seven years until the enemy army forced breached

the ramparts. Bhatis, facing certain defeat, proclaimed the rite of johar. Later,

Sultan Firoz Shah Tughluq Ferozshah also sieged Jaisalmer after the rulers of

Jaisalmer raided his camp at Anasagar lake near Ajmer. The siege led to

another johar. Jaitsimha's son Duda perished in the attack. Duda's descendants

ruled over J aisalmer for about two centuries.

Later, Jaisalmer was ruled by a noble called Sabala Simha, who won the

patronage of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for services rendered in his

Peshawar campaign. J aisalmer was one of the last states to ,sign a treaty with

the British. Traditionally, the main source of income in this region was the

levies on the caravans. However, the glory of Jaisalmer faded when Bombay

emerged as a port and the sea trade replaced the traditional land routes. The

partition of India in 194 7 lead to closing of all the trade routes on the Indo-Pak

border and rendered Jaisalmer a drought-prone desert backwater on the

international boundary. Ironically, skirmishes between India and Pakistan gave

Jaisalmer a strategic importance and made it serviceable as an army supply

·depot. Later, the Rajasthan Canal served to revive the surrounding desert areas.

Roads and railroads were then built, knitting the hitherto remote town with the

rest of Rajasthan. Later, the Government of Rajasthan decided to promote

Jaisalmer as a tourist destination.

Geographically, Jaisalmer is situated close to the boundary of India and

Pakistan in West Rajasthan. The maximum summer temperature is around 41.6

degrees C while the minimum is 25 degree C. The maximum winter

135

temperature is 23.6 degrees C while the minimum is 7.9 degree C. The average

rainfall is 15 em.

The district of J aisalmer is almost entirely a sandy waste, forming a part of the

Great Indian Desert. The general aspect of the area is that of an interminable

sea of sand hills, of all shapes and sizes, some rising to a height of 45 m. Those

in the west are covered with log bushes, those in the east with tufts of long

grass. Water is scarce, and generally brackish; the average depth of the wells is

said to be about 7 5 meters.

There are no perennial streams, and only one small river, the Kakni, which,

spreads over a large surface of flat ground, and forms a lake called the Bhuj­

Jheel. The climate is dry. Throughout Jaisalmer only rainfed crops, such as

bajra, jowar, seasam, etc., are grown; Rabi crops of wheat, barley, etc., are very

rare. Owing to the scanty rainfall, irrigation was almost unknown, but the

construction of Indira Gandhi Canal has transformed the landscape to a great

extent.

Demography

Earlier the main part of the population, lead a wandering life, grazing their

flocks and herds. Large herds of camels, cattle, sheep and goats are kept. The

principal trade was in wool, ghee, camels, cattle and sheep. Still the large

proportion of population is located in remotely isolated places locally referred

to as Dhanis, which are often devoid of basic support facilities like drinking

water, transport, primary health and education services, etc.

136

While Jaisalmer may always have been remote, it is filled with many artistic

structures and monuments of local historical importance. Jaisalmer's medieval

mud fortress and walled township make it a popular tourist destination. The

surrounding desolate landscape evidences a stark, austere beauty. Camel safaris

through the nearby desert dunes are popular with tourists.

Economy

Tourism is a major industry in Jaisalmer. Agriculture operations are carried out

in three months and are critically dependent on monsoons. Thus both the

factors governing economy i.e. tourism and agriculture are seasonal in nature.

The Government of India initiated departmental exploration for oil in 1955-56

in the Jaisalmer area Oil India Limited discovered natural gas in 1988 in the

Jaisalmer basin.

The chief imports are grain, sugar, foreign cloth, piece-goods. It suffered from

famine in 1897, 1900 and other years, to such an extent that it has had to incur

a heavy debt for extraordinary expenditure. The previous years from 2000 to

2004 have been greatly affected by drought. But due to tourism, which brings

an additional income and job opportunities to the area the situation remained

under control.

Types of Tourism Offered

J aisalmer is the traditional city of India. People come here. to feel the vastness

of the sea of sand, to imbibe the glorious past and to live the life this unique

culture offers. This destination offers everything any tourist can desire for. All

137

the three destinations selected for the study i.e Jaisalmer, Jodhpur & Bikaner

offer mainly four types of tourism,

a) Adventure, b) Religious, c) Heritage and d) Cultural

The details of these types of tourism and the various tourist sites available are

in the appendix I and II respectively.

The arts and crafts of the land

The local tradition of carving is best seen in little wooden boxes that are

intricately pierced in exciting patterns and motifs. The famous leather work in

form of jutis, the embroidered footwear the people wear, or the saddles, bags

and pouches are important work of art. Also woollen and cotton rugs and

blankets in which camel hair is used for weaving, silver jewellery and trinklets,

mirror worked skirts, jackets and other fabrics. All these qualities make

Jaisalmer a paradise for the tourists.

Tourist Arrivals in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer has shown a continuous increasing trend in hosting the visitors. Since

the year 1985 the number of domestic arrivals have increased from 73,755 to

1,77,238 domestic tourists in 2005 registering an increase of 140%.

The growth has been phenomenal, but the rate of growth has been varying. The

table 3.5, shows a normal increase in the tourist arrivals at an average rate of

11.26 for the years 1985 to 1993. However the growth has not registered a

positive trend throughout. In 1991 the tourists registered an increase of 50%

whereas, in 1992 this growth got reduced to just 10%.

138

Table 3.5 TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JAISALMER AND THE % CHANGE IN ARRIVALS (1985-2005)

Year Domestic Tourists Growth Rate Foreign Tourists Growth Rate 1985 73755 15049 1986 78605 6.17 21560 30.20 1987 78860 0.32 24498 11.99 1988 82530 4.45 28707 14.66 1989 92946 11.21 36825 22.04 1990 99547 6.63 40170 8.33 1991 201739 50.66 42888 6.34 1992 225797 10.65 49624 13.57 1993 254490 11.27 44736 -10.93 1994 76029 -234.73 42672 -4.84 1995 85831 11.42 48001 11.10 1996 84397 -1.70 52984 9.40 1997 69184 -21.99 57166 7.32 1998 52889 -30.81 52299 -9.31 1999 35157 -50.44 50283 -4.01 2000 5878 -498.11 50732 0.89 2001 103319 94.31 46914 -8.14 2002 96642 -6.91 25862 -81.40 2003 132881 27.27 50768 49.06 2004 182292 27.11 81208 37.48 2005 177238 -2.85 99439 18.33

Source: Pragati Prativedan, Govt of Rajasthan, various Issues

The growth performance of the '80s was bedeviled by the emergence of

unsustainable fiscal deficits and increasing strains in the external accounts,

which triggered the crisis of 199168. This was largely due to severe economic

crisis in the state due to the Gulf war.lt was the year 1994 that showed a

startling change in tendency and an extreme reduction in number of domestic

arrivals. It reduced from 2, 54,490 arrivals in 1993 to a meager 76,029 in 1994.

This trend is very clearly shown in figure 3.9, where a steep fall in the tourist

arrivals is seen during the time period of 1993-1994.

68 Extracted from 'India's Macroeconomic Management in the Nineties', !CRIER, 2001

139

In terms of percentage from the average growth of 11.2 % it suddenly fell to

the negative growth of234.73%.

250000

~ 200000 ~ a: ::> 0 >-... 150000 0 a: w

"' ::;;

~ 100000

50000

Figure 3.9

TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JAISALMER DESTINATION ( 1985-2005)

!0<, !b'o ~ !0'0 !b"> R>"' R>' Rl"- Rl., ~ Rl"> R>"' Rl'\ R>"' Rl"> !:::>"' !:::>'- !:::>"- !::)"> cl" !:::>":> ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

YEARS

This decline can be ascribed to the social turmoil in the country (demolition of

Babari Masjid, Mumbai blasts, disorder in the cities due to Mandai report and

economic crisis) severe drought conditions in the state as well as the food grain

crisis in the nation. After this year the domestic tourist arrivals continuously

kept decreasing in number at the negative growth rate of 118.05. It was again in

the year 2000 that a terrible negative growth was observed. Suddenly the

growth rate fell from 50% in 1999 to -498% in 2000. But with the Government

140

efforts Jaisalmer agam gained momentum and the trend of tourist arrival

showed a positive growth of94% in 2001.

The average rate of growth of foreign tourist arrival in Jaisalmer district has

been 6.11 % since 1985. The rate of growth of arrivals has been fluctuating but

not as striking as in the domestic tourist arrivals. The Gulf war during the early

nineties affected the foreign tourist arrivals adversely; otherwise there has been

a steady growth. Then came the worst terrorist attacks in the history of tourism

industry. The blasts that shook the world on September 11, 200 1 had a very

strong negative blow on foreign tourists visiting Jaisalmer. Their number got

reduced from 4 7,000 to 25,000 in one year. It exhibits a negative rate of growth

of 80%. This decline could not continue in 2003 when the number of arrivals

registered an increase of 50% in one year. The arrival of foreign tourists has

increased in the last twenty years from mere fifteen thousand per year to almost

a lakh per year.

Tourist profile

Major volume of the foreign tourists i.e. 46% comes to Jaisalmer from the

European countries. This is followed by North America (15 %) and then UK

(10%). Australia also constitutes about 9% of the total foreign tourists visiting

Jaisalmer. The pie diagram (Figure 3.7) shows the constitution of the tourists

from various countries as the percentage of total foreign visitors in Jaisalmer,

during the years 1997-2005.

141

Figure 3.10

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JAISALMER DESTINATION (1997-2005)

8%

6%

14%

[i]U.K.

~FRANCE

[]ITALY

f!CANADA

£:!U.S.A

OGERMANY

IIIIAUSTRALIA

1!!1 SWITZERLAND

12% lliJAPAN

OSRILANKA

.MALAYSIA

Ill OTHERS

Among the European nations, there are a few countries which show their

preference towards Jaisalmer. Fourteen percent of the total tourists visiting

Jaisalmer are from France, twelve percent are from Italy as well as from

Germany, ten percent from UK and eight percent are from Switzerland. 'The

main reason for the maximum tourists coming from European nations is the

increase in the number of paid holidays as well as the spending income'69•

Number of tourists visiting Jaisalmer from Asia is very less or negligible. This

is mainly due to the economic instability in this part of the world. The

inhabitants in this region are more lured towards the Western world countries.

69 Baurgett, Laura (2002), Economy Policy and Statistics, House of Commons, Library, ppl5

142

Given a chance, they prefer to visit US or other European nations. Apart from

this the countries like Egypt give tough competition to the attraction of the

Thar in Asia.

6.00

4.00

2.00

0.00

U.l 0 -2.00

~ u -4.00 <f.

-6.00

-8.00

-10.00

-12.00

Figure 3.11

%CHANGE IN TOURIST ARRN ALS FROM VARIOUS DESTINATIONS AT JAISALMER (1997-2005)

VARIOUS DESTINATIONS

Source: Department of Tourism, Govt of Rajasthan

The time period of nine years i.e. from 1997 to 2005, there has been great

variation in the percentage of the tourists arriving from various countries. In

2005, Jaisalmer received 8.79 percent of the total foreign tourists coming to

Rajasthan. However, the arrivals have been so fluctuating that it becomes very . difficult to judge a particular trend. In 1998 percentage of tourists coming from

143

02005

.2004

1112001

l'ill2000

liiil1999

E3 1998

Italy and Canada has shown tremendous decline. During the same year France

has shown an increase of 3.01 percent. The figure 3.11 and table 3.6 show the

various ups and downs in the foreign tourist arrivals.

S.No. I 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 IO II I2

Table 3.6

RATE OF GROWTH OF TOURIST ARRIVALS FROM VARIOUS DESTINATIONS AT JAISALMER (1997-2005)

Country Average growth in % U.K. FRANCE ITALY CANADA U.S.A. GERMANY AUSTRALIA SWITSERLAND JAPAN SRILANKA OTHERS TOTAL

Source: Pragati Prativedan (Various Issues), Government of Rajasthan

··I.22 0.57 O.I9

·-1.6I -0.24 ·-0.03 -O.I3 -0.34 -O.OI -0.03 -O.OI -O.OI

Among the European nations only the tourist flow from France and Italy has

shown a continuous increase in their arrivals in terms of growth percentages.

Otherwise from all the other countries the number of arrivals of tourists is

increasing at a declining rate. The figures clearly indicate that although there is

a marked increase in the foreign tourist arrivals at this destination, this is a

disguised increase. Government needs to take strong affirmative action to

regulate the growth rate towards an increasing end.

144

3.3 (ii) BIKANER

Bikaner was founded in the 15th century as a princedom by Rao Bika the eldest

son of Rao Jodha of Jodhpur. Earlier this region was known as Jangladesh and

it included the present-day districts of Bikaner, Churu, Ganganagar and

Hanumangarh. Archeological surveys and excavations have established beyond

doubt that civilization flourished here even before the Harappa period.

Excavated statues, coins and carvings on stones and clay stand as a testimony

to this fact.

Early history

According to James Tod as mentioned in his book "Annals and Antiquities of

Rajasthan (1829)" the Jangladesh region was inhabited by Jats or Jits, who had

for ages been established in these arid abodes. At every stage of invasion to

India the invaders had to encounter with the Jats of this region. At what period

the Jats established themselves in the Indian desert is not known. By the 4th

century they had spread upto Punjab region in India.

'In the 15th century the Jangladesh region was occupied by Rajput clans, Jats,

and Muslims. 'About 1465 Bika, a Rathor Rajput, son of Rao Jodha, king of

Marwar, started out to conquer the country. By taking advantage of the rivalries

of the clans he succeeded; in 1485 he built the small fort at the capital which

still bears his name, and in 1488 began the building of the city itself. He died in

1504, and his successors gradually extended their possessions' 70•

70 Desert Triangle: Bikaner, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer (1996) RTDC Publication

145

The Mughal Period

During the reign of the Mughal emperor Akbar the kings of Bikaner 'vere

esteemed among the most loyal adherents of the empire. Akbar established

matrimonial relations with the kings of Bikaner. In 1570 Akbar married a

daughter of Rao Kalyan Singh. Kalyan's son, Rai Singh, who succeeded him in

1571, was one of Akbar's most distinguished generals and the first Raja of

Bikaner; his daughter married the emperor Jahangir.

British rule and Independence 1800 to 1949

From this time onwards the history ofBikaner was mainly that of the wars with

Marwar, which raged intermittently throughout the 18th century. In 1802,

during one of these wars, Mount Stuart Elphinstone passed through Bikaner on

his way to Kabul. It was then the Maharaja Surat Singh (1788-1828), applied

for British protection. On 9th May 1818 a treaty was concluded, and order was

restored in the country by British troops. Ratan Singh, who succeeded his

father in 1828, applied in vain in 1830 to the British government for aid against

a fresh outbreak of skirmishes by his thakurs; but during the next five years

banditry became so prevalent on the borders that the government raised a

special force to deal with it, which was known as the Shekhawati Brigade, and

for seven years Bikaner contributed part of the cost. Henceforth, the relations

of the maharajas with the British government were increasingly cordial. In

1842 Ratan Singh supplied camels for the Afghan expedition; in 1844 he

reduced the dues on goods passing through his country, and he gave assistance

in both Sikh campaigns. His son, Sardar Singh (1851-1872), was rewarded by

the British for help given during the Revolt of 1857 by an increase of territory.

146

Sardar Singh had no son, and on his death in 1872 his widow and principal

ministers selected Dungar Singh as his successor, with the approval of the

British government. The principal event of his reign was the rebellion of the

thakurs in 1883, owing to an attempt to increase the dues payable in lieu of

military service; this led to the permanent location at Bikaner of a British

political agent. Dungar Singh died in 1887 without a son; but he had adopted

his brother, Ganga Singh (born 1880), who succeeded as 21st ruler ofBikaner

with the approval of the government.

The state owes to this ruler the opening up of new railways across the great

desert, which was formerly passable only by camels, and the tapping of the

valuable coal deposits that occur in the territory. 'When Maharaja Ganga Singh

died in 1943 he was succeeded by the last reigning Maharaja, Sadul Singh, who

acceded his kingdom to newly-independent India on 7th Apri11949' 71•

Geographical Personality

Bikaner, has been known as the "Tapo-Bhumi" of great sages and saints of yore

since pre-historic times. 'The holy rivers Saraswati and Drishadwati used to

flow in this area' 72• 'Geographically this area was called the 'Jangladesh'

during the reign ofPrithviraja 111' 73•

71 Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bikaner %28princely state%29" 72 Sharma, Dr. D (1966), The Age of Prithviraja III, Chapter IX, Rajasthan Through Ages Vol 1, rajasthan State Archives, Bikaner, pp 289-304

73 Opcit , pp 291

147

Table 3.7 Geographical Description of Bikaner

Location (a) Longitude 171°54' and 74°12' east

I (b) Latitude 127°11' and 29° 3' north

JArea 27244 sq. kms.

!Attitude 238 meters above sea level

!Population 6,42,550 16,73,562 (1991 census) (2001 census)

!Temperature II M~°C Min°C 28 Su?Imer 48 4 Wmter 22

/Rainfall 1125 em approx. (annual)

TOURIST ARRIVALS AT BIKANER DESTINATION

Bikaner was positioned on the famous silk- route of the past. It has been a

shelter house for the caravans of the traders from various parts of the world.

This shelter house slowly and slowly made an important position on the world

trade map. Marwaris or the indigenous people started exchanging things from

them and this gave birth to the barter system in the area.

With the passage of time, people of this belt of Rajasthan became merchants

and started moving out to different places for trade purposes. Since several

centuries this sandy area has been receiving tourists. Earlier they used to be the

merchants, then warriors and now they are the visitors, who come here to live

the glorious past of the kings and the queens, their romance and royalty.

148

I I I I I

I I

Figure 3.12

TOURIST l\L\.P OF BIK.\.NER

Map Not to Scale

149

• HEPJ:"AGE TOL'RIS:-.1

• ...;.D\'E::-..it,ll TOt'P..:S:.!

• REUGIOCS. :-OL?J:S)..f * Cl.'"LTCR.J..L TOL"'"R.I~!

e FA .• ""RS & rrsr,: . .:u_s

e AR~&CR"F."

• BCS~'ES'S 70C'Rl5).f

c::J BTIC..l.~"EP. :>IS:?.IC'-:

1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005

Table 3.8

TOURIST ARRIVALS AT BIKANER AND THE% CHANGE IN ARRIVALS

DOMESTIC GROWTH FOREIGN GROWTH TOURISTS RATE TOURISTS RATE

68023 5631 69235 1.75 7551 25.43 80823 14.34 8260 8.58 72612 -11.31 8407 1.75 96350 24.64 9688 13.22 108675 11.34 12741 23.96 114233 4.87 14074 9.47 127933 10.71 15086 6.71 147186 13.08 15914 5.20 160089 8.06 15983 0.43 169772 5.70 18403 13.15 180365 5.87 21555 14.62 196168 8.06 25479 15.40 205976 4.76 26752 4.76 225678 8.73 22215 -20.42 182477 -23.67 28441 21.89 185645 1.71 31441 9.54 165407 -12.24 17060 -84.30 181654 8.94 28081 39.25 177898 -2.11 48712 42.35 197275 9.82 61123 20.30

Source: Department ofTounsm, Government of RaJasthan

·--

Table 3.8 exhibits the arrival of the tourists to Bikaner as well as the change in

the percentages of arrivals. There has been a phenomenal increase in the

domestic tourist arrivals at the rate of 4.65 per cent, in the last twenty years.

During this period the number of domestic tourist arrivals has increased from

68,023 to 1,97,275 registering an increase of 190 per cent. The growth rate has

been continuously increasing except for the year 1987 which shows a decrease

of 11.31 per cent. There has been a tremendous increase in the rate of growth

150

of tourist arrivals during the time period 1987-1998. During these eleven years,

Bikaner has registered a growth rate of 9 per cent in the domestic tourist

arrivals.

This increasing trend was wrecked by the severe bomb blasts at the twin towers

in America. Since the last six years i.e. 1999 to 2005, there has been a decline

of 2. 9% in the rate of growth of tourist arrivals.

200000

~ ~ 150000

~ IS ffi !!1 100000 :J z

50000

Figure 3.13

TOURIST ARRIVALS AT BIKANER (1985-2005)

0 ~:::::::::::::=========~~_j ~~~~#~~#~$###~#~###~~

YEARS

Source: Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan

While going through the trend of foreign tourist arrivals we find that their

growth rate has been much faster than that of the domestic tourists. The number

of foreign tourist arrivals increased from 5,631in 1985 to 6,1123 in 2005

registering an increase of 985.7 %. During this time period the increase in

arrivals has been at an average rate of 8.6 per cent. Figure 3.13 shows the

gradual increase in the arrival of foreign tourists. Although the domestic

151

tourists out number the foreign tourists, they show more consistency in the

increasing trend. Foreign tourist arrivals have been affected by the 9/11 bomb

blasts. In this time span (1985-2005), they showed a steep decline of 84 per

cent in arrivals in the year 2002 itself. However after the blasts, this industry

has again started registering an increase rapidly. In the last three years the

foreign tourist arrivals has been increasing at the rate of 34 percent. This is a

very good indication, and proves this industry to be the one which has not seen

a single year of negative growth.

Tourists Profile

Foreign tourists visiting Bikaner come from all parts of the world. Still if we go

by the statistics a typical trend in their country of origin can be seen. Figure

3.14, shows that major bulk of the tourists comes from the developed nations.

The number of tourists coming to Bikaner is also the highest from European

nations. Europe contributes 55 per cent of the total tourist arrivals at Bikaner.

Ofthese France has the maximum share of20% followed by Germany (14%),

Italy (13%), UK (9 %) and Switzerland (7%).

Number of tourists arriving from North America is also high. Eight per cent of

the tourists visiting Bikaner are from North America. Government needs to

emphasize more on marketing and positioning in this part of the world as USA

contributes only 6 per cent of the tourists coming to Bikaner and mere 2 per

cent from Canada. Australia also accounts for eight per cent of the total

arrivals. Thus if efforts are put in here, more tourists can be attracted towards

Bikaner.

152

In terms of tourist arrivals from Asia the problem remains same as in the case

of Jaisalmer. The tourism in this part of the world is still a luxury and those

who can afford this luxury are more attracted to the western world. Besides

this, Japan (2%) is the only country, which comprises a significant number of

the tourist arrivals. Rest all the others together constitute 19 % of total tourist

arrivals.

Figure 3.14 and the table 3.8 show the change in percentages of the tourists

coming from various countries during the last nine years.

Figure 3.14

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS AT BIKANER DESTINATION (1997-2005)

19%

6%

153

~ux.

8FRANCE

BITALY

lililCANADA

IQI U.S.A

1m GERMANY

~AUSTRALIA

EJ SWITZERLAND

•JAPAN

[!]OTHERS

There is a remarkable increase in the tourist's arrival in Bikaner during the time

span of nine years (1997-2005). Germany, Italy and Switzerland show

maximum increase in arrivals. The growth rate of the tourist arrivals from these

countries is also higher than the other nations since 1997-2005. The growth rate

of tourist arrivals from Germany is 4.50 % which is highest among all the

nations. USA has shown the lowest rate of growth in tourist arrivals (0.87%).

USA is one of the most developed nations of the world and the slowest rate of

growth of the tourist's arrival from USA is a matter of great concern.

The tourists coming from Asian countries show a decreasing trend. 'America

and Europe receive maximum tourists from their neighboring countries' 74,

whereas the trend is totally reverse here in Bikaner. Special packages need to

be provided for the budget tourists from the neighboring countries.

30.000

25.000

20.000

i 15.000

10.000 ~

~ 5.000

0.000

-5.000

-10.000

Figure 3.15

%CHANGE IN FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS FROM VARIOUS DESTINATIONS AT BIKANER (1997-2005)

VARIOUS DESTINATIONS

02005

1!!12004

llll2001

74 Schluter, R.G. (1994). Tourism Development: A Latin American Perspective, In Global Tourism: The Next Decade. W.F. Theobald, ed., Butterworth-Heinemann Publication, pp. 246-260

154

On the one hand the Government has been trying to attract more foreign

tourists to this destination and at the same time they do not ensure proper

connectivity of the city with other tourist spots.

Figure 3.15 clearly shows the positive trend of the tourist arrivals from various

countries to Bikaner. The year 2005 has registered an increase of 25% in the

foreign tourist arrivals. However the various years since 1998-2004 have

shown fluctuations varying differently for different countries.

Table 3.9

RATE OF GROWTH OF TOURIST ARRIVALS FROM VARIOUS DESTINATIONS AT BIKANER (1997-2005)

S.No. Country Growth in% 1 U.K. 2 FRANCE 3 ITALY 4 CANADA 5 U.S.A. 6 GERMANY 7 AUSTRALIA 8 SWITZERLAND 9 JAPAN

2.21 3.34 4.13 1.39 0.87 4.50 3.38 4.24 1.80

10 OTHERS -0.19 II TOTAL O.I7

The table 3.9 shows the average growth rate of the tourist arrivals for the

different countries. It represents that the highest growth rate has been shown by

Germany followed by Switzerland and then Italy. Almost all the countries have

shown a positive growth in terms of tourist arrivals to Bikaner and Jaisalmer

too.

155

3.3 (iii) JODHPUR

Geographical Personality

Jodhpur, is centrally situated in Western region of the State. Its geographical

area is of 22,850 sq. kms. It has population of 28.81 lakhs as per 2001 census.

The district stretches between 26°00' and 27"37' at north Latitude and between

72°55' and 73° 52' at East Longitude. This district is situated at the height

between 250-300 meters above the mean sea level.

Jodhpur is bound by Nagaur in East, Jaisalmer in west, Bikaner in North and

Barmer as well as Pali in the South. The length of the district from North to

South and from East to West is 197 Km. & 208 Km. respectively. This district

comes under arid zone of the Rajasthan state. It covers 11.60% of total area of

arid zone of the state. Some of the area of Great Indian Desert Thar also comes

within the district. Despite its arid climate, Jodhpur is blessed with a variety of

flora and fauna. 'A survey conducted by district administration with the help of

forest officials shows 162 flora and 144 fauna at Machi a Safari situated only 1 0

kms from Jodhpur75•

Extreme of heat in summer and cold in winter is the characteristic of the desert.

Jodhpur is no exception. The temperature varies from 49 degree in summer to

01 degree in winter. The rainy days are limited to maximum 15 in a year. The

average rainfall is 31.8 em.

75 http://www.indiasite.com/rajasthan/jodhpurlhistory.html

156

Table 3.10 G eograpJ 1ca escr1p1 Ion o h" I D f 0 lpur fJ db

Longitude 72•55' E and 73• 52' E Location

Latitude 26.00' Nand 27"37 N

Total Geographical Area 22,850 sg. kms Urban Population 9,72,259 (2001 census) Rural Population 19,08,518 (2001 census)

Total Population 28,80,777 (2001 census)

Altitude 250-300 mts above the mean sea level Rain Fall 31.80 em Total Irrigated Area 13 I 752 Hectares Total Un Irrigated Area 91 I I 66 Hectares Literacy Rate 57.38% Employment Rate of Growth (1981 to 199!} 29.5 Per Capita Income (I 992/93) (Rs.) 3981 Subdivisions 05 (Jodhpur, Pipar City, Falodi, Osia, Shergarh)

Source: Census Report 2001

History

Jodhpur·was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput chief belonging to the

Rathore clan. Rao Jodha succeeded in conquering the surrounding territory and

thus founded a state which came to be known as Marwar. As Rao Jodha hailed

from the nearby town of Mandore, that town initially served as the capital of

this state; however, Jodhpur soon took over that role, even during the lifetime

of Rao Jodha. The city was located on the strategic road linking Delhi to

Gujarat. This enabled it to profit from a flourishing trade in opium, copper,

silk, sandals and date palms.

157

Map Not to Scale

Figure 3.16

TOURIST MAP OF JODHPUR

158

'11 ........ •

TYPES OF TOURISM

• HERITAGE TOURISM

• ADVENTURE TOURISM

• RELIGIOUS TOURISM * CULTURAL TOURISM

• FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

• ART & CRAFT TOURISM

• BUSINESS TOURISM

- JODHPUR DISTRICT

Early History

The state became a fief under the Mughal Empire, owing administration and

rule to them while enjoying some internal autonomy. During this period, tL­

state furnished the Mughals with several notable generals such as Maharaja

Jaswant Singh. Jodhpur and its people benefited from this exposure to the

wider world: new styles of art and architecture made their appearance and

opportunities opened up for local tradesmen to make their mark across northern

India.

The Rathore Kings of Jodhpur had wars with Aurangzeb for the supremacy.

Aurangzeb was threatened by the strength of the Rathores and the thought of

these kings.helping Dara (his brother and enemy) had forced him to consider

Jodhpur King Jaswant Singh as his rival. After crushing his brother's desire to

become an emperor, Aurengzeb tried to use this strength of the Raj put King to

fight against the Marathas. Subsequent to Aurangzeb and Jaswant Singh's

demise Marathas became a great threat to Jodhpur. The struggle for wealth and

power however continued in the region and did not bring stability or peace; 50

years of ruinous wars and humiliating treaties dissipated the wealth of the state,

the Kings gratefully entered into 'subsidiary alliance' with the British East India

Company in 1818.

During the British rule, the state of Jodhpur was the largest in Rajputana, if size

be reckoned by land area. Jodhpur prospered under the peace and stability. that

were a hallmark of this era. Its merchants, the Marwaris, flourished and

occupied a position of dominance in trade across India. In 1947, when India

159

•

became independent, the state merged unto the union of India and Jodhpur

became the second city of Rajasthan.

Economy

The Handicrafts industry has in recent years eclipsed all other industries in the

city. By estimates of handicraft association of Jodhpur, the antique furniture

export segment is a $200 million industry, directly or indirectly employing as

many as 200,000 people. Other items manufactured include textiles, metal

utensils, bicycles, ink and sporting goods. A flourishing cottage industry exists

for the manufacture of such items as lac bangles, cutlery, carpets and marble

products. 'After handicrafts, tourism is the second largest industry of

Jodhpur' 76.

Tourist Profile

Jodhpur is the most advanced of the three destinations in terms of development

and infrastructural facilities. It is connected with the rest of the country through

the airways, which is still not available in Bikaner and Jaisalmer. In the world

tourist map it is known as the Blue City of India.

Most striking feature of Jodhpur's tourist arrivals is the decrease in the number

of domestic tourists in the last 20 years. The year 1985 received 4, 15,907

tourists, this number increased to about 5,31,9026 in 2005, registering a growth

rate of 12 %within a time period of 1985-2005. But from 1992 to 1999 there

has been a steady decline in the domestic tourist's arrival. Domestic tourist

76 Published reports of DIC, Jodhpur, 2006

160

arrivals in Jodhpur have shown a negative growth rate of 0.86% since 1985 to

2005. It was only in the years 2003 and 2004 they showed a positive growth

rate of I6% and I4% respectively, but again in 2005 the rate of growth in

domestic tourist arrival reduced to -2I %. This declining rate . of growth of

domestic tourist arrivals is a matter of great concern, as Jodhpur is one

destination among all the three chosen as study area, which is most well

connected with rest of the world and is having better infrastructural facilities

compared to the other two destinations. And then also if it is unable to attract

domestic tourists, then the target of attracting I% of world's tourist to this

country will remain a dream.

Foreign tourist arrivals scenario is much better. During I985-2005, there has

been a steady increase in their arrivals. Their number increased from 2I,433 in

I985 to One lakh in 2004. This increase of 366.57% in arrivals since I985 took

place at a growth rate of 4.09 %. The year 2005 again recorded a negative

growth rate of II% and the number of foreign tourists arrivals decreased to

90,201.

The impact of bombings at the American Trade Centers was visible in Jodhpur

also. The year 200I received 69,800 foreign tourists whose number drastically

reduced to 38,000 in 2002. This time period (200I-2002) registered a record

fall ( -81.02%) in the arrival of the foreign tourists. However it just took one

season to recover this fall, 2004 again received 40% increase in the arrival of

the tourists.

161

Table 3.11

TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JODHPUR AND THE % CHANGE IN ARRIVALS

Years Domestic Tourists Growth Rate Foreign Tourists Growth Rate

1985 415907 21433

1986 425276 2.20 27575 22.27

1987 432442 1.66 32123 14.16

1988 427821 -1.08 37131 13.49

1989 431211 0.79 40697 8.76

1990 432076 0.20 43721 6.92

1991 465186 7.12 64216 31.92

1992 531926 12.55 69792 7.99 1993 527617 -0.82 61612 -13.28

1994 461695 -14.28 56740 -8.59

1995 440447 -4.82 50388 -12.61 1996 436215 -0.97 50098 -0.58

1997 427549 -2.03 49221 -1.78

1998 364870 -17.18 49007 -0.44

1999 352707 -3.45 47807 -2.51

2000 370933 4.91 67845 29.53

2001 383479 3.27 69812 2.82

2002 335700 -14.23 38565 -81.02

2003 403548 16.81 64928 40.60

2004 469626 14.07 100161 35.18

2005 385109 -21.95 90201 -11.04 .. Source: Pragatl Pratlvedan, Mm1stry of Tourism, Government of RaJasthan

The table 3.11 and the figure 3.17, gives the details of the tourist arrivals in

Jodhpur since 1995-2005. The figure 3.17 represents the trend of both the

domestic as well as the foreign tourist arrivals. The number of Domestic

tourists coming to Jodhpur is much more as compared to the foreign tourists.

162

At the same time both the type of tourists are showing the decreasing trend.

Although both have shown good signs of growth after 2002-2003, but by the

end of 2005 the graphs can be seen falling down.

500000

~ 400000 U)

~ ::I

~ ~ 300000

0:: w m :;;

~ 200000

100000

Figure 3.17

TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JODHPUR (1985-2005)

#$$~~#$#$$########### ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

YEARS

Source: Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan

~-FOREIGN -DOMESTIC

The striking thing of this industry is its unpredictability in terms of tourist

arrivals; the years 2003 and 2004 received increasing number of the tourists

reviving from the blow of the global terror. When the predictions are being

made that the tourist arrivals will be much higher in the next season, the year

2005 registers a negative growth rate and the arrivals show a decreasing trend.

Thus it is difficult to predict what factors will attract tourist to any destination.

163

The charts 3 .18 and 3 .19 show the foreign tourist arriving from different

countries to Jodhpur. France alone accounts for 18% of the total tourist arrivals

followed by UK which account for 12% of the total arrivals. 26% of the total

arrivals fall in other's category.

Figure 3.18

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JODHPUR (1997-2005)

IIIIU.K.

ElFRANCE

I!HTALY

lli!CANADA

Ill U.S.A

~GERMANY

91 AUSTRALIA

~SWITZERLAND

BJAPAN

DOTHERS

The European nations contribute maximum number (50%) of the total foreign

tourists coming to Jodhpur. North America has a share of 13% of the total

.arrivals.

The figure 3 .19 shows the percentage change in foreign tourist arrivals at

Jodhpur during 1997-2005. The trend has been more or less steady, but for a

little change in the year 2004 and registering a remarkable change in 2005.

164

While discussing the arrivals in the year 2005, Japanese tourist have registered

a drastic fall in the tourist arrivals followed by Canada and Switzerland. It is

surprising to see the figures, as the level of provision of facilities and

20.0

15.0

10.0

5.0

~

15 0.0

t3 ~ -5.0 :I: u

-10.0

-15.0

-20.0

-25.0

Figure 3.19

%CHANGE IN FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JODHPUR (1997-2005)

TOURIST ARRIVING FROM VARIOUS DESTINATIONS

02005

liil2004

om 2001

Ea 2000

fZ! 1999

B1998

campaigning by the Government in this sector, the figures should have been

exactly opposite. But the decrease in percentage of arrivals in the year 2005

from almost all the countries presents a disturbing situation. The state

government as well as the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) had spent heavily on

marketing and publicity to attract tourists in form if "incredible India'

campaign. 'For 2006-07, the MoT had spent Rs.2.35 billion for the marketing

and publicity efforts. The marketing and publicity for 'Incredible India'

165

campaign in overseas markets had cost Rs.534.9 million in 2006-07. Analysts

opined that this global campaign had helped to boost the Indian tourism

industry' 77. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (2006), Indian

tourism was expected to grow annually at 8.8% till 2015, which was one of the

highest growth rates in the world. Foreign-exchange earnings are expected to

cross US$12 billion by the end of 2012. In spite of all these predictions the

tourist arrivals register a negative growth in Jodhpur which is one of the

important tourist destinations on the world tourist map. This shows a drawback

in the policies predicting the tourist arrivals.

The table 3 .12 shows the average rate of increase in the number of arrivals

from various nations for the years 1997-2005. Most of the countries have

shown a negative trend in the last nine years but still the countries like UK,

France and Japan have shown a positive growth in the last nine years is good

news (but at the same time Japan registered negative growth for the year 2005).

Table 3.12 RATE OF GROWTH OF TOURIST ARRIVALS FROM VARIOUS DESTINATIONS

AT JODHPUR (1997-2005)

s. Country Average growth in % s. Country Average growth No. No. in% 1 U.K. 0.372 7 AUSTRALIA -0.493 2 FRANCE 0.293 8 SWITZERLAND -0.338 3 ITALY -0.284 9 JAPAN 0.380 4 CANADA -0.328 IO SRILANKA -0.349 5 U.S.A. -0.279 II OTHERS -O.I50 6 GERMANY -0.206 I2 TOTAL -0.023 ..

Source: Pragat1 PratiVedan, Mm1stry ofTounsm, Govt of RaJasthan

77 http://www .financialexpress.com/fe _full_ story.php?content_id= l6777I

166

Thus, according to this table, we can say that the trend is not an expected one.

As said earlier as well as mentioned in the chapter 2 the amount of investment

done by the government in this sector would have led to better results. Tourism

industry is a very sensitive industry. It is governed by a lot of factors taking

place within and around the tourist destination. The political stability and peace

of a region play important role in the development of this industry

If we compare the tourist arrival at all the three destinations (Figure 3.20) since

1985-2005, it becomes clear that Jodhpur outnumbers both Jaisalmer as well as

Bikaner in receiving Domestic tourists. Bikaner, hosts more domestic tourists

than Jaisalmer. However it has shown a decrease in the number of tourists after

2002.

500000

l!! 400000 t/)

a: ~ ~ 300000

~

i ~ 200000

100000

Figure 3.20

DOMESTIC TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JODHPUR, JAISALMER & BIKANER (1985-2005)

0~~~~~~~--~~~~~~----~~--~----~~

~#~###~#~~##~##~~#### YEARS

Source: Various Issues ofPragati Prativedan, (1985-2005) Government of Rajasthan

167

Nevertheless the domestic tourist arrivals graph of Jaisalmer has been very

fluctuating and it has shown a tremendous increase in the arrival numbers after

2000. It is the only destination within the study area which gives a positive

trend of arrivals in 2005. Tourist arrival pattern in Jaisalmer is more or less

similar to the whole of India's pattern (chapter 2). The impact of social and

political changes has clear imprints on the tourist arrivals in Jaisalmer.

Figure 3.21

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS AT JODHPUR, JAISALMER & BIKANER (1985- 2005)

120000,-------------------------------,

100000

~ 80000

iii: ::> 0 ... LL 60000 0 1>: UJ al ::;; i 40000

20000

o~~~~-~~~~-~~~~-~~~~-~~~~~~

~~####~#########~#### ' ., ' "' "' " " " " " " "' "' "' "' ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

YEARS

168

"D""'a JAISALMER

BIKANER

On comparison of foreign tourist arrivals at all the three destinations in the last

twenty years, Jodhpur received maximum number of foreign tourists. All the

three destinations show an increasing trend of tourist arrivals (Figure 3.21).

The graph represents more or less a similar trend of increase and decrease for

all the three destinations. At all the three destinations the number of arrivals has

shown a steep decline in the year 2002. The very next year i.e. 2003 showed

the ascending graph representing the boost in number of arrivals. Showing the

impact of terrorism on the tourism industry as well as its revival the very next

year.

3.4 CONCLUSION

Thus after the above discussion, we know Rajasthan is one such state where

history and geography both play an important role in attracting the visitors

equally. The foregoing account of the visitor's arrivals attracted by the physical

features or the cultural diversity of Rajasthan clearly defines the fact that the

physical boundaries played an important role in defining the political

boundaries of the state. Geographical conditions have contributed to the ethnic,

religious and cultural solidarity of the people of Rajasthan. During the

medieval age, two great powers had emerged in form of the Mughals and the

rulers of Rajasthan. But with the arrival of Akbar the political atmosphere

changed and the Rajput chiefs became very important in shaping the destiny of

Mughal India. But the decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of Marathas

led to the disorder and disintegration of Rajasthan. Thus the rulers of this

disintegrated state started seeking support from the rising power: the Britishers.

169

Slowly and slowly they became allies of the Britishers, who would provide

protection to the Raj puts from the attacks of the Marathas.

The best part of the Raj put Mughal alliance was the development of various art

schools, cultural enrichment and the political stability. 'The Mughals never

interfered with the cultural ethos the Rajputs and respected their traditional

means of living. It is this time period when Rajasthan grew in terms of culture

and art' 78•

While discussing the tourist arrivals at all the three destinations it is Jodhpur

which outnumbers the other two destinations both in terms of domestic as well

as foreign tourists. This is mainly due to its better connectivity by all the three

means of communication (roadways, railways and airways) with rest of the

country. Jaisalmer and Bikaner being border area do not have facility of

traveling through airways thus restricting the movement of tourists. Although

the tourist arrivals number is increasing, still the Government needs to take

more initiative to develop infrastructural facilities. Location-specific examples

need to be developed to illustrate the problems of and approaches to the

management of tourism, taking into account such factors as the carrying

capacity of the area; intervention programs for human resource development;

environmental development and creation of gainful income and employment

opportunities, in general, and for the · disadvantaged in particular; and the

development of catalytic institutions at local level to improve the capacity of

communities to take advantage of the opportunities opened up by tourism.

78 Sharma, G N. (1990), Social Life in the Mediaeval Rajasthan, Chapter I, Government ofRajasthan Publication, pp 1-34

170

The upgrading of tourism infrastructure should be one of the highest priorities

of the Ministry of Tourism, chiefly for its potential in generating hard currency

and revenues. Chief objective of the planners is the encouragement of cultural

tourism emphasizing the State's history and heritage. Privatization of state­

owned facilities is still ongoing, together with plans to modernize, refurbish

and renovate facilities to enable them to be used throughout the year. Major

emphasis should be placed on the introduction of more efficient management

systems, better pncmg strategies and advertising methods.

The national and regional transportation infrastructures are inadequate and act

as the main obstacle to the development of the tourism sector here. Particularly

noticeable are the low quality of airline services (operational only in tourist

season between Jaipur and Jodhpur) and the poor condition of the roads across

the country/state. Marketing need to be upgraded, especially with international

tour operators, and consulting services also need to be consistent with the

international standards. Today's tourist is very competitive and wants

maximum returns for the each penny spent. Thus Government needs to

emphasize upon the development of the international standards of facilities for

the tourists.

After discussing the trends of arrival of tourists in the study area and the

attraction of the destination for the tourists, the next chapter will give the

detailed description of the pattern of expenditure of the tourists at these

destinations.

171