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 Platforms for Booking
The Ministry of Culture announced this significant development. They explained that integrating ASI's ticketing system with an open digital network allows people to book entry tickets through various ONDC-enabled applications. Visitors are no longer limited to a single platform for their bookings.
This move aims to improve accessibility and convenience for everyone. It also strengthens transparent and efficient delivery of public services through interoperable digital systems.
Benefits for Visitors
Tourists and history enthusiasts will appreciate several key benefits. Visitors booking ASI monument tickets through ONDC-enabled applications continue to receive existing discounts. Indian visitors get a INR 5 discount while foreign nationals receive a INR 50 discount on their tickets.
Online booking provides another crucial advantage. It enables visitors to bypass physical ticketing queues at monuments and museums. This ensures faster and smoother entry, particularly at heritage sites with high visitor numbers.
How the 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 plan visits in advance or make spontaneous decisions while traveling.
Current Availability
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.
This expansion is expected to further widen access in the coming months. More platforms joining the network will give visitors even greater choice and convenience.
Digital Transformation of Heritage Access
This rollout represents another important step in digitizing access to India's cultural and archaeological heritage. The initiative combines ASI's monument ticketing with ONDC's interoperable framework. This combination allows visitors from India and abroad to book tickets seamlessly across multiple platforms.
The system retains familiar pricing benefits while reducing on-site congestion at monuments and museums. This digital approach makes exploring India's rich heritage more accessible than ever before.
The Ministry of Culture shared their enthusiasm about this development. They highlighted how this initiative helps tourists, history lovers, and the general public experience India's iconic heritage with greater ease and convenience.
