The violence in Nepal has upended the Diwali vacation plans of Indian tourists, including those from Gujarat. According to tour operators, Nepal, a favoured destination among Gujarat tourists during Diwali vacation, is witnessing over 80% of the planned trips booked in the last week getting cancelled.
It’s to be noted that the violence and demonstrations in Kathmandu and surrounding areas had shut down airports and public transport services in Nepal, leaving thousands of foreign tourists stranded. Over 500 tourists from Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, were brought back safely through special arrangements.
Tour operators said tourists are now inquiring about other safer destinations. Rameshbhai Rathod, a tour operator, said inquiries about tour packages to Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Dubai have suddenly increased after the Nepal incident. “Young tourists and honeymoon couples are keen to shift their trips to these countries,” said Rathod.
Operators said many Gujaratis who do not want to go abroad are exploring popular destinations within India. As a result, there has been a surge in inquiries for Goa, Kerala and Rajasthan. These places with natural beauty, beaches and historical heritage are becoming the main choice for tourists who are concerned about safety.
Operators said the tourism industry has taken a big hit due to violence in Nepal, and tours are becoming expensive for those planning Diwali trips. Another tour operator, Palak Patel, said there is also great enthusiasm among Gujaratis to see cherry blossoms in Japan. With the current deteriorating situation in Nepal, many travellers are planning to visit Japan during Diwali, Patel said.
Another operator, Vipul Patel, said people who have cancelled their Nepal tours are opting for Kerala as their first priority, given its natural beauty, backwaters, beaches and Ayurvedic treatments.