The Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of Rajasthan (FHTR) is advancing its efforts to promote Rajasthan as a premier global tourist destination. As part of these initiatives, a crucial discussion titled “Wedding in India – Opportunities in Rajasthan” was held at the Taj Sawai Hotel, Ranthambore. The event, jointly organized by FHTR and the Rajasthan Tourism Department, set the tone for the highly anticipated Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM).
The session kicked off with key speakers elaborating on the upcoming activities for the Travel Mart, followed by the screening of Romance of Rajasthan, a film produced by Rajasthan Tourism. Participants also witnessed a showcase of various stakeholders’ meetings conducted by FHTR across different cities, underscoring the collaborative efforts driving the event.
Prominent figures in attendance included Madhusudhan Singh Jadhawat, Assistant Director for Sawai Madhopur and Karauli at the Department of Tourism; Kuldeep Singh Chandela, President of FHTR; Balendu Singh, Chairman of the Regional Committee for Ranthambore at FHTR; Arvind Jain, President of the Ranthambore Hotel Association; CA Virendra Singh Shekhawat, Secretary of FHTR; Mahendra Singh Rathore, President of the Rajasthan Association of Tour Operators (RATO); Tarun Kumar Bansal, President of the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Rajasthan (HRAR); and Ranvijay Singh, Secretary of HRAR.
This stakeholders’ meet is part of the larger preparations for the fourth Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM), slated to be held from September 13-15, 2024, at Birla Auditorium in Jaipur. This year’s theme, “Wedding, Incentive, Conference, and Event,” promises to showcase Rajasthan’s vibrant tourism potential. With over 200 stalls representing more than 600 properties, the event is expected to attract around 1,300 buyers and over 7,000 visitors.
Madhusudhan Singh Jadhav highlighted Ranthambore’s growing importance as a tourist hub, remarking, “Ranthambore is now a year-round destination, attracting more tourists each season. It is also becoming a sought-after location for weddings. The government’s focus on upgrading tourist sites, including the restoration of 8-10 stepwells, and training locals in hospitality through the Hotel Management Institute, further supports the area’s growth.”
Kuldeep Singh Chandela emphasized the forward-thinking nature of the Travel Mart, noting, “The Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart is a catalyst for new developments in tourism. This event fosters business exchanges between hoteliers and tour operators, which will drive growth in the state’s tourism sector. This year, we are specifically focused on promoting Rajasthan as a premier wedding destination.”
Balendu Singh echoed these sentiments, discussing the increasing footfall in Ranthambore and ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experiences through improved wildlife regulations and better connectivity.
RDTM 2024 is expected to be a key platform for showcasing Rajasthan’s diverse offerings, including heritage, adventure activities, wildlife, weddings, eco and village tourism, and more. B2B meetings during the event will facilitate further networking and business growth.
