Gustakhi Maaf Haryana: Pawan Kumar Bansal
Why Are Tourists Preferring Sri Lanka Over Goa? A Ground Report
Gustakhi Maaf Haryana: Pawan Kumar Bansal
Why Are Tourists Preferring Sri Lanka Over Goa? A Ground Report
Sri Lanka Emerges as a Safe and Attractive Tourist Destination
In a recent report by RK Garg, a retired EIC from Haryana’s Irrigation Department and an enlightened reader, he shares his experience of visiting Sri Lanka, which has recently emerged as a preferred tourist destination over Goa. Garg, who was initially hesitant to visit Sri Lanka due to the country’s past political and economic crises, was pleasantly surprised after spending a week there. He describes Sri Lanka as a safe and appealing destination for tourists, with a growing number of foreign visitors, particularly from European countries, flocking to its hill stations and beaches.
Challenges Facing Goa’s Tourism
Garg compares his experience in Sri Lanka with a recent trip to Goa, where he observed a stark contrast. He was shocked to find only a few foreign tourists in Goa during its peak tourist season. While Goa used to be a popular spot for Russian tourists, the ongoing Ukraine war may have contributed to the decline in Russian visitors. However, Garg suggests that this might not be the only reason for the decrease in foreign tourism to Goa. Despite its beautiful and clean beaches, Goa’s tourism infrastructure is lacking. Overcrowded shacks, inadequate beach access, limited parking, and a shortage of taxis, along with high costs, have all contributed to a less-than-ideal experience for visitors. Additionally, traffic bottlenecks in cities make travel less convenient.
Why Sri Lanka is Gaining Popularity
In contrast, neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam have made themselves more attractive to Indian tourists by offering visa-free travel. Sri Lanka, in particular, stands out for its well-maintained roads, cleanliness, and effective local governance. Garg notes that there are no encroachments or litter on the roads, and the infrastructure is well-planned and compliant with regulations.
Nuwara Eliya: A Jewel of Sri Lanka
Garg also highlights Nuwara Eliya, a hill station located at about 6,000 feet above sea level, which was developed by the British as ‘Little England.’ Despite more than 50 years of independence, Nuwara Eliya has retained its British colonial charm with lush greenery, a central lake, a cycle track, horse racecourse, golf course, well-maintained parks, botanical gardens, and controlled architecture. The town is free from encroachments and unplanned construction, making it a favorite among foreign tourists. In comparison, many hill stations in India, including Goa, have been ruined by excessive commercialization.
Conclusion
Garg concludes that Sri Lanka’s appeal to foreign tourists is not without reason. Its well-preserved natural beauty, efficient infrastructure, and clean environment make it a more attractive destination compared to Goa. The tourism department of Goa must introspect and address these issues to regain its status as a preferred tourist destination.