Raj archaeology dept considers opening heritage sites for tourists

Jaipur: Tourism is one of the industries affected the worst by COVID-19 in Jaipur. Even as the Rajasthan government is easing the lockdown restrictions, the industry stakeholders are trying to figure out how to reduce the negative impact of the situation on tourism.

In this direction, the archaeology department of Rajasthan has already taken the first step. It has written to the state government seeking permission to throw Jaipur’s famous heritage destinations such as Amer Palace open for tourists. The proposal is yet to get the nod from the government, sources said.

The proposal submitted by the archaeology department is under consideration at the highest level in the government and the chief minister Ashok Gehlot may take a call on this by the end of the month.

Sources said that the officials are planning to reduce entry fee substantially to attract tourists in the beginning; however, no official decision has been taken in this regard.

Sources said that many officials are in the favour of even resuming wildlife safaris at Ranthambore National Park and Sariska tiger reserve.

It will not be possible for the wildlife department to allow foreign tourists into these two famous wildlife destinations of Rajasthan, but these tourists hotspots can be thrown open for domestic visitors, sources said.

“The tourism industry has suffered the most due to the pandemic. As the government is opening parks and other public places, it should consider allowing tourists to visit tourism destinations in Rajasthan,” said Shyam Sundar, a Ranthambore-based tourist guide.