The 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival in Odisha highlighted the growing relevance of lighthouse tourism in India.
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, a key figure in the development of maritime projects, is committed to critical initiatives and has announced significant developments to transform lighthouses into major tourist attractions.
Two prominent lighthouses, Chaumuck in Balasore and Dhamra in Bhadrak, were revealed, and a new lighthouse was inaugurated in Gujarat's Kalwan Reef.
Lighthouse tourism has also witnessed remarkable growth, with about 16 lakh tourists in the last few years, compared to just 4 lakh in 2014. Modern museums, theatres, and parks have also been developed all across 75 lighthouses to provide an unforgettable experience. In the month of Odisha, five lighthouses continue to serve as cultural landmarks.
Lighthouse tourism has seen a prominent rise, contributing to over 16 lakh travellers in the past year, compared to 4 lakhs in 2014. Contemporary museums, theatres, and parks are being developed across 75 lighthouses for acting as domestic and international travellers. Odisha has five lighthouses: Gopalpur, Puri, Chnnadrabhaga, Paradip, and Fakse Point, which have already been upgraded to boost tourism.
These festivals are keen on depicting numerous cultural activities, like sand art competitions, beach yoga, and specific performances by world-famous artists that celebrate the coastal heritage. With the ever-increasing number of travellers, lighthouse tourism is not only becoming a central part of India's efforts to promote cultural tourism but also a significant contributor to the blue economy, turning these once-overlooked maritime structures into vibrant tourist destinations.
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