The Archaeological Survey of India has taken a major step forward in digital accessibility. They have now enabled online ticket booking for more than 170 centrally protected monuments and museums. This service operates through the Open Network for Digital Commerce platform.
Multiple Apps, One Convenient Network
In an official statement, the Ministry of Culture explained the new system. Integrating ASI's ticketing with an open digital network allows citizens and tourists to book entry tickets through multiple ONDC-enabled applications. People are no longer limited to a single platform for their bookings.
The Ministry shared the news enthusiastically on Instagram. They announced this development as good news for tourists, history lovers, and the general public. The post encouraged people to skip the queue and book tickets online with just a click.
Existing Benefits Continue for Visitors
Visitors who book ASI monument tickets through ONDC-enabled applications will continue to receive all existing benefits. Indian visitors still get a 5 rupee discount on their tickets. Foreign nationals continue to receive a 50 rupee discount when they book online.
Online booking provides another significant advantage. It enables visitors to bypass physical ticketing queues at monuments and museums. This helps ensure faster and smoother entry, particularly at heritage sites that experience high footfall throughout the year.
How the New System Works
By placing ASI's ticketing inventory on an open network, visitors gain flexibility. They can now choose from different consumer-facing applications to purchase their tickets. This approach benefits both domestic and international tourists who might be planning visits in advance or making decisions while traveling.
To book tickets through one popular method, visitors can simply send 'Hi' to +91 8422889057. This WhatsApp-based service provides easy access to the ticketing system.
Current Platforms and Future Expansion
Tickets for ASI monuments are currently available on several platforms. These include Highway Delite, Pelocal's WhatsApp-based ticketing service, and Abhee by Mondee. Officials have confirmed that more consumer-facing applications are in various stages of integration with the system.
This ongoing integration work is expected to further widen access in the coming months. More platforms joining the network will give visitors even more choices for booking their monument visits.
Broader Impact on Heritage Access
This rollout represents another important step in digitizing access to India's cultural and archaeological heritage. By combining ASI's monument ticketing with ONDC's interoperable framework, the initiative creates seamless booking experiences.
Visitors from India and abroad can now book tickets across multiple platforms while retaining familiar pricing benefits. The system also helps reduce on-site congestion at monuments and museums, improving the overall visitor experience.
The Ministry of Culture emphasized that this move aims to improve accessibility and convenience for all visitors. At the same time, it strengthens transparent and efficient delivery of public services through interoperable digital systems.
