India is set to make a historic leap in the travel sector with the introduction of its first-ever submarine tourism initiative, offering an unprecedented blend of religious tourism and underwater exploration. The Gujarat government, in collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, is leading this groundbreaking venture to explore the submerged city of Dwarka, a site of immense spiritual significance. Slated to commence by Diwali in October 2024, this project marks India’s entry into the world of underwater tourism, providing a unique experience that ties together the country’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage with cutting-edge tourism.
A Dive into the Past – Exploring Submerged Dwarka
The upcoming Dwarka submarine tourism initiative will allow tourists to delve into the legendary city of Dwarka, believed to have been submerged under the Arabian Sea thousands of years ago. According to Hindu mythology, Dwarka was the kingdom of Lord Krishna, who, after departing from this world, is said to have caused the city to be swallowed by the sea, marking the onset of the Kali Yuga. The underwater remains of Dwarka have long been a subject of fascination, with archaeological studies suggesting that the city could indeed have existed as described in the ancient texts.
This pioneering submarine tour will offer visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore these ancient ruins, bringing to life the legends that have captivated the imaginations of millions for centuries. By combining religious tourism with a state-of-the-art underwater experience, this initiative promises to attract not only devout pilgrims but also history enthusiasts and adventure seekers from around the world.
The Rise of Religious Tourism in India
The introduction of submarine tourism in Dwarka is the latest in a series of initiatives aimed at boosting religious tourism in India. Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in the number of both domestic and international tourists visiting the country’s religious sites. The Ministry of Tourism reports that the number of foreign tourists arriving in India between January and June 2024 was 43.80 lakh, a staggering 106% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Domestic tourism has seen an even more dramatic rise, with the number of domestic tourists growing from 677 million in 2021 to 1,731 million in 2022.
This surge in religious tourism is reflected in the growing popularity of cities like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj. Varanasi, in particular, has emerged as a top destination, with 82 million visitors in 2022—nearly four times the number recorded in 2019. The city now attracts more tourists than Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, underscoring the profound appeal of India’s spiritual heritage.
In 2022, religious tourism drew 1,439 million participants across the country, generating an impressive Rs 1.34 lakh crore in revenue. This represents a dramatic increase from the 677 million participants and Rs 65,070 crore in revenue recorded in 2021. The growing influence of religious tourism was also highlighted at the G-20 summit, where global leaders recognized India’s potential as a premier tourist destination.
A New Era for India’s Travel Sector
The launch of India’s first-ever submarine tourism venture in Dwarka is a testament to the country’s innovative approach to enhancing its travel sector. The project aligns with the Gujarat government’s broader efforts to promote tourism while preserving and celebrating India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. As religious tourism continues to grow, initiatives like the Dwarka submarine tour will play a crucial role in attracting new visitors and offering them unique, transformative experiences.
The partnership with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders to bring this project to life demonstrates the government’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to create world-class tourism facilities. By offering tourists the chance to explore the mythical city of Dwarka beneath the sea, India is not only tapping into the lucrative potential of religious tourism but also positioning itself as a leader in the emerging field of underwater tourism.
Looking Ahead – The Future of Submarine Tourism in India
As the Dwarka submarine tourism project prepares to welcome its first visitors by October 2024, it is poised to set a new benchmark for the tourism industry in India. This initiative is likely to inspire similar projects across the country, further diversifying the experiences available to tourists and enriching India’s already vibrant tourism sector.
With the growing demand for unique and meaningful travel experiences, the Dwarka submarine tour represents a significant step forward in India’s tourism landscape. It promises to captivate the imagination of visitors from around the world, offering a rare glimpse into the ancient past while providing a modern, exhilarating adventure beneath the waves.
