Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, the Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its endemic alpine flowers and outstanding natural beauty. The history of tourism here dates back to 1931 when the valley was rediscovered by British mountaineer Frank S. Smythe. After this discovery, the area gained popularity among nature enthusiasts, botanists, and tourists from all over the world.
The Valley of Flowers is best visited between June and October when the valley is carpeted with a vibrant array of flowers. The park is also home to rare and endangered animals, including the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, and blue sheep. The trek to the Valley of Flowers starts from Govindghat, and it requires visitors to cover a distance of approximately 17 km on foot. A visit to this breathtaking destination is often combined with a spiritual pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib, a sacred Sikh shrine nearby.
In recent years, the latest tourism trend in the Valley of Flowers has been an increase in eco-friendly and sustainable travel practices. The government has also introduced regulations to preserve the delicate ecosystem from the adverse effects of over-tourism.
The Statue of Unity, located in the state of Gujarat, is a relatively new addition to the tourism landscape of India. It was inaugurated on October 31, 2018, and is dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, an Indian statesman and one of the founding fathers of the Republic of India. Standing at 182 meters, it is currently the tallest statue in the world and has quickly become a symbol of national pride and integrity.
Tourism at the Statue of Unity has been designed to offer a holistic experience. Visitors can explore a museum at the base of the statue, a viewing gallery at the chest level providing panoramic views of the surrounding area, and the Sardar Sarovar Dam. Additionally, there is a laser light and sound show that narrates the story of Sardar Patel and the making of the statue.
The Statue of Unity has also spurred development in the region, with a focus on connectivity and infrastructure improvements. These developments are aimed at enhancing tourist accessibility and comfort, boosting the local economy, and creating an international tourism destination.
One of the latest tourism trends in the region has been the development of the "Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat" complex, which aims to showcase the cultural diversity of India. A tent city has been established nearby to accommodate tourists who wish to spend a night or two in the Kevadia region. Moreover, the government has been working on eco-tourism initiatives like river rafting and creating cycle tracks in and around the area to promote sustainable tourism practices.
Overall, with its grandeur and wide array of attractions, the Statue of Unity in Gujarat is attracting tourists at an impressive pace, promising to be a cornerstone of Indian tourism for years to come.
