Delhi on re-branding mode; Expects tourists to stay longer

The Delhi government is all set to re-brand the city for tourists with an aim to double its revenue through tourism. The emphasis would be on creating specialised itineraries and conducting regular cultural events around the history of the capital.

Currently, a traveller spends 1.8 days on an average in Delhi, and the aim is to increase this to 3.6 days.  According to World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Delhi is the largest and busiest international airport, handling 58 million passengers in 2016-17. Research by the WTTC also found that the city generated Rs 320 crore in tourism in 2016, but only a third from foreign tourists, with American tourists accounting for 11 per cent of total foreign visits.

Increased concerns about air pollution and safety of travellers, particularly women, are the main issues pointed out by the officers in attracting tourists to the capital city.

The Delhi Arts, Culture and Language departments will create the itineraries. As part of the startegy, the Tourism department’s social media has been strengthened recently. The government is also looking to focus on domestic tourists and local residents to experience the city differently. During the season, the government would host events ranging from concerts at monuments to food festivals to attract more tourists.