Adventure tourism is maturing – Travel & Tourism News

Adventure tourism in India has been under scrutiny following a series of unfortunate incidents that have raised concerns about safety regulations in the industry. The recent death of a 26-year-old tourist from Hyderabad in a paragliding accident in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district has once again highlighted the need for stricter safety measures.

According to reports, the tourist’s safety belt was not properly secured by the pilot, leading to the tragic incident. This is not the first time such accidents have occurred in the region, with two more tourists losing their lives under similar circumstances in the past.

Data from Ascent Descent Adventures Team shows that Uttarakhand has the highest proportion of mountain climbing and trekking fatalities in India, followed by Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Himachal Pradesh, despite being a popular adventure tourism destination, has a relatively low number of fatalities compared to other states.

In response to these incidents, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) has launched a certificate course to enhance the skills of adventure guides. The training program aims to promote professionalism and safety within the adventure tourism community.

Industry stakeholders believe that guides need specialized training depending on the activities and destinations. Initiatives from the government, including the formulation of a model law on adventure tourism, are also underway to ensure the safety of tourists participating in adventure activities.

With the right strategies and initiatives, India has the potential to become a global leader in adventure tourism, attracting millions of travelers annually and boosting the economy. However, standardization of safety protocols, infrastructure development, and training for guides are crucial steps that need to be taken to ensure the safety of adventure enthusiasts in the country.