Gujarat Tourism Policy – Promoting Tourist Economy
Gujarat, known for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and dynamic economy, has been steadily emerging as one of India’s most attractive tourist destinations. From the Statue of Unity to the beautiful sands of the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat provides a wide range of travel experiences.
Recognizing tourism’s potential to drive economic development, the Government of Gujarat launched the Gujarat Tourism Policy- Promoting Tourist Economy 2021–2025 to encourage investments, create jobs, and position the state as a world-class tourism hub.
Vision of the Gujarat Tourism Policy–Promoting Tourist Economy
The Gujarat Tourism Policy 2021–2025 aims to developed an ecosystem where tourism becomes a key provider to the state GDP. The vision revolves around improving tourism infrastructure, attracting private investment, promoting cultural and eco-tourism, and ensuring sustainable development through community participation.
There are various national initiatives like –Dekho Apna Desh. Increasing Gujarat international tourism profile is another vision of this approach.
Key Highlights of the Policy
Financial Incentives for Investors
To promote private sector participation, the policy provides attractive financial incentives, including:
- Capital Subsidy: The eligible project cost is upto 20% (maximum ₹10 crore) for tourism infrastructure.
- Interest Subsidy: 5% for a maximum of 5 years on a term loan.
SGST Reimbursement: 100% reimbursement of SGST on room tariffs for newly registered tourism units.
- Stamp Duty & Electricity Duty Exemption: Projects are eligible for full exemption from these state taxes.
These incentives significantly lower the cost of entry and support the establishment of hotels, resorts, heritage properties, theme parks, and eco-tourism projects.
Strategic Focus Areas
This policy is especially designed to promote the different tourism ecosystem. Here are the major focus areas:
1. Cultural and Heritage Tourism
There are several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Gujarat, including Rani Ki Vav, Champaner-Pavagadh, and Dholavira. With initiatives such as the Heritage Tourism Circuit, the state is promoting restoration, conservation, and storytelling around these historic locations.
2. Eco and Adventure Tourism
The policy encourages eco-lodges, jungle camps, and adventure sports in forest and hill areas like Saputara, Gir, and Velavadar. Activities such as trekking, ziplining, and river rafting are gaining momentum, making Gujarat a destination for thrill-seekers.
3. Beach and Coastal Tourism
With a 1,600+ km coastline, Gujarat is developing coastal tourism in areas like Mandvi, Shivrajpur (Blue Flag certified), and Tithal. The focus is on clean, safe beaches with water sports, cafes, and family-friendly facilities.
4. Medical and Wellness Tourism
Gujarat is known for its quality healthcare facilities and traditional healing practices like Ayurveda and Naturopathy. The policy aims to make the state a hub for medical and wellness tourism through hospital partnerships and spiritual retreats.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
A major thrust of the policy is PPP-based tourism projects. By offering land on lease, fiscal support, and faster clearances, the government is attracting investment into:
- Theme parks and amusement parks
- Ropeways and cable car systems
- Caravan parks and tent cities
- Wellness resorts and convention centers
This approach reduces government burden while enabling professional execution by private stakeholders.
Also Read-
Flagship Projects Under the Policy
Statue of Unity – Kevadia
The Statue of Unity had become the global tourist attraction, attracting over 1 crore visitors every year. As part of the tourism policy, Kevadia is being developed as a smart tourism city with museums, eco-parks, jungle safaris, river cruises, and luxury tent stays.
Rann of Kutch and Dholavira
The annual Rann Utsav and the declaration of Dholavira as a UNESCO World Heritage Site have propel Kutch into an international tourism circuits. Investments in road connectivity, night tourism, and handicraft markets are reviving the local rural economy.
Spiritual Tourism
Pilgrimage destinations like Dwarka, Somnath, Ambaji, and Pavagadh are being revitalized with better amenities, guided tours, and heritage hotels to provide a complete spiritual experience.
Economic and Social Impact
One of the few industries that has a direct influence on many areas of society is tourism.. With the implementation of this policy:
- Employment: Over 1 lakh jobs created in hospitality, transport, and handicrafts
- Revenue: Gujarat has seen a steady rise in domestic tourist footfall, with over 3.5 crore visits recorded annually
- Rural Development: Tourism is empowering artisans, self-help groups, and tribal communities through homestays and cultural experiences
- Sustainability: The focus on green tourism ensures minimal ecological disruption and maximum community involvement
Digital and Smart Tourism
The Gujarat Tourism Department has introduced e-tourism platforms, mobile apps, and virtual guides to help tourists plan their trips efficiently. Smart kiosks, QR-coded heritage trails, and drone-based surveillance at popular locations are part of the digital push under this policy.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While Gujarat has made significant strides, challenges like infrastructure gaps in remote areas, seasonal dependency, and lack of skilled tourism professionals need ongoing attention.
The government plans to:
- Expand airport connectivity in tier-2 cities
- Offer hospitality skill development programs
- Strengthen tourism branding at international events
- Encourage sustainable tourism certifications for new properties
Conclusion
The Gujarat Tourism Policy 2021–2025 serves as both a strategic economic enabler and a road map for the growth of tourism. By integrating investment incentives, cultural promotion, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainability principles, Gujarat is on track to become a benchmark state in India’s tourism landscape.
Whether you’re a traveler, entrepreneur, or policymaker, Gujarat’s journey in transforming its tourism economy is a case worth watching—and participating in.
Need Tourism Setup or Incentive Advisory?
Cretum Advisory provides professional advice on Income tax compliance, GST advice, Startup Consulting, project approvals under government incentive programs, and eligibility for tourism investment.
Contact us: update@cretumadvisory.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Gujarat Tourism Policy 2021–2025?
It’s a strategic policy launched by the Gujarat government to enhance the state’s tourism sector. It provides incentives, infrastructure development, and promotes sustainable tourism practices.
2. Which sectors of tourism does the policy focus on?
It focuses on heritage, eco, adventure, wellness, medical, beach, and spiritual tourism. The goal is to diversify tourist offerings and attract visitors year-round.
3.Which flagship projects does the policy support?
The main projects of the policy include the Statue of Unity, Rann of Kutch, Dholavira, and temple towns like Dwarka and Somnath. All of these places get a lot of marketing and infrastructure support.
4. How does the tourism policy benefit the local economy?
It boosts employment, supports artisans, and increases income in rural areas. The policy aims to make tourism a key pillar of Gujarat’s economic growth.
5. What is the slogan of Gujarat Tourism?
The slogan of Gujarat Tourism is – ‘Khushboo Gujarat ki’ performed by Amitabh Bachchan, one of the finest actors.