Pune is very famous for some striking trekking and tourist spots. The state tourism department has decided to exploit this possibility for improving the tourism potential. The department plans to launch adventure sports at three prime locations, namely Sinhgad, Mahabaleshwar and Malshej Ghat. The department is also rooting for adventure activities this monsoon like waterfall rappelling, rock climbing and trekking. Proposals have been invited from experts and groups with experience in adventure sports by The Pune regional office of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), who will direct the department in commencing these activities. These trained experts will guarantee the safety and security of tourists.
The MTDC, Pune region, is likely to reveal the packages by first week of June, once they get the official approval from the tourism department. The department has a number of resorts in Sinhgad, Mahabaleshwar and Malshej Ghat. The number of tourists visiting these areas is already good, and is expected to surge by the introduction of these activities. Even though there are some groups who promotes adventure sports in these areas, this is the first time state government is officially rooting for these. “We are in the process of declaring this year the ‘Adventure Tourism Year’. All the permissions will be in before the monsoon starts and we will be publishing the details on our website for the tourists. In this case, we will ensure that trained experts are guiding the tourists and ensure safety and comfort at affordable rates. We are intended to attract a young, fitness-friendly crowd seeking adventure and thrills. We are also planning to start water sports at our resorts near Panshet and Karla lakes,” said Deepak Harne, MTDC Manager, Pune region.
As per reports, the department is in talks with the Guardian Giri-Premi Institute of Mountaineering to begin these adventure sports. The tourists will be accompanied by an expert team of lifeguards during rappelling, rock climbing and mountain trekking. “The Sahyadri ranges in Pune, Satara, Raigad and Kolhapur areas have tremendous potential to attract adventure lovers from all over the country. But due to lack of a professional approach, this aspect was always neglected in state tourism policies. Hopefully, this will be the beginning of a new era in adventure tourism,” said Manohar Chandhere, an adventure sport enthusiast.
