Maharashtra Tourism Unit

Maharashtra, one of India’s most diverse and vibrant states, is not just the country’s financial capital but also a treasure trove of tourism opportunities. From the beaches of Konkan to the vibrant metropolises of Mumbai and Ajanta, and from the verdant hills of the Western Ghats to the cultural diversity of Ajanta and Ellora, Pune, Maharashtra, has something for every kind of traveler.

To unlock this vast potential, the Maharashtra Government introduced the Maharashtra Tourism Policy, with a specific focus on enabling Tourism Units to flourish through structured approvals, financial incentives, and streamlined processes. This policy is a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs, hospitality investors, and travel startups who wish to establish or expand their business in the state.

What does the Maharashtra Tourism Unit mean?

A Tourism Unit refers to any business or project that contributes to the growth of tourism in the state. This can include:

• Hotels, resorts, motels, lodges
• Adventure tourism activities
• Wellness and spa centers
• Homestays and agri-tourism units
• Museums and cultural centers
• Caravan parks and tent facilities
• Theme parks, eco-tourism, and heritage tourism projects

To promote these ventures, the Government of Maharashtra offers a structured framework under its tourism policy that encourages investment and simplifies regulatory hurdles.

Key Highlights of the Maharashtra Tourism Unit Policy

1. Attractive Incentives and Subsidies

Maharashtra Tourism Unit registered under the policy are eligible for a wide range of fiscal and non-fiscal benefits, including:

• Capital subsidy based on location (higher in rural and backward regions)
• Interest subsidy on term loans
• Electricity duty exemption
• Stamp duty and registration fee waiver
• SGST reimbursement for eligible units
• Additional incentives for women entrepreneurs, SC/ST units, and eco-tourism projects

These incentives aim to promote balanced regional development and increase tourism-related employment in remote and rural parts of Maharashtra.

2. Classification Based on Regions

The state has categorized regions into Category A, B, C, and D+ based on tourism potential and infrastructure gaps. Tourism units in less-developed regions (C, D, and D+) are offered higher financial incentives, thereby encouraging development outside metro cities.

3. Single Window Clearance

To ease the process of setting up tourism-related businesses, the Maharashtra Tourism Department offers single-window approvals, helping promoters avoid delays caused by multiple department clearances. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) plays a central role in facilitating fast-track approvals.

4. Focus Areas: Rural Tourism, Heritage Tourism, and Eco-Tourism

The policy gives special attention to promoting:

• Eco-Tourism Projects: Adventure camps, nature trails, eco-resorts
• Heritage and Cultural Tourism: Fort restoration, cultural centers, heritage hotels
• Rural and Agri-Tourism: Homestays, farm stays, local experiences

This focus aligns with sustainable tourism and community-based development goals.

Why Invest in a Tourism Unit in Maharashtra?

• Strong Demand for Travel and Hospitality

  Maharashtra sees millions of domestic and international tourists every year. With the growing demand for unique travel experiences post-pandemic, there’s a shift toward boutique resorts, eco-retreats, and local travel experiences.

• Strategic Location and Infrastructure

  With international airports in Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, excellent road and rail connectivity, and coastline access, Maharashtra provides seamless connectivity to tourists.

• Government Support and Pro-Industry Policy

  With its well-defined tourism unit policy, Maharashtra ensures ease of doing business and financial viability for investors. It is a ripe time to enter or expand in this market.

How Does Cretum Advisory Help Tourism Businesses in Maharashtra?

We help you set up and scale your tourism unit, from approvals to execution.

Our Core Services:
Tourism Unit Registration
➤ End-to-end support for MTDC registration & project approvals

Government Subsidy Advisory
➤ Assistance in claiming capital/interest subsidies, SGST refunds, stamp duty exemption

Startup & Business Setup
➤ Company formation, GST registration services, UDYAM/MSME certification

Project Report & Financial Planning
➤ Comprehensive funding pitch decks, viability studies, and DPRs

Tax & Compliance
➤ GST returns, Income Tax filings, TDS, MCA/ROC compliance

Accounting & Virtual CFO Services
➤ Bookkeeping, MIS, budgeting, and cash flow management

Legal & Secretarial Support
➤ MOA, AOA drafting, board resolutions, and regulatory documentation

Final Thoughts

The Maharashtra Tourism Unit Policy is not just a policy—it’s a strategic opportunity to participate in the booming travel and hospitality economy of one of India’s most dynamic states. With generous government support, increasing tourist inflow, and the shift toward sustainable, rural, and experience-based tourism, now is the time to act.

Whether you’re an investor, startup founder, or local entrepreneur, Cretum Advisory is here to help you navigate approvals, optimize subsidies, and build a sustainable, profitable tourism business in Maharashtra.

FAQs on Maharashtra Tourism Unit Policy

Q1. How do I register my resort as a Tourism Unit in Maharashtra?

You need to apply through the Maharashtra Tourism Department along with project details, land papers, and supporting documents. Cretum Advisory speeds up the approval procedure.

Q2. What kind of financial incentives can I get?

Depending on your location, you can get capital subsidy, interest subsidy, electricity duty waiver, stamp duty exemption, and SGST reimbursement.

Q3. Can startups or first-time entrepreneurs apply?

Yes! The policy is designed to encourage new tourism businesses, especially in rural or unexplored areas.

Q4. Are eco-tourism and adventure tourism projects eligible?

Absolutely. The policy gives priority to sustainable tourism projects like eco-resorts, adventure parks, and heritage trails.

Q5. How can Cretum Advisory help me get approvals and subsidies?

We offer complete support—from business registration to obtaining tourism unit certification, policy documentation, subsidy claims, and compliance.