The Rajasthan tourism department has taken a significant step toward transforming Kota's identity by signing a memorandum of understanding with the Hotel Federation of Rajasthan to boost tourism in the Hadoti region.
New Vision for Kota's Tourism Landscape
On Monday, the state tourism department formalized a partnership with the Hotel Federation of Rajasthan with the specific goal of promoting tourism in the Hadoti region, designating Kota as its central hub. This strategic move aims to reposition Kota beyond its current reputation as primarily a coaching center destination, where concerns about stagnation and increasing student suicides have prompted the hotel industry to explore new avenues for growth.
Tourism commissioner Rukmani Riar emphasized that the collaboration will focus on organizing a travel mart in Kota and bringing tour operators from across the country to create much-needed visibility for the region. Visiting operators will be taken on detailed familiarization tours of key sites throughout the Hadoti division.
Untapped Potential and Infrastructure Development
Despite significant infrastructure development during the previous Congress government and the recent sanction of Rs 120 crore for projects with the support of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Kota remains largely absent from most major tourism circuits. Officials acknowledge that the region's substantial tourism potential remains underutilized and requires strategic promotion.
Ashok Maheshwari, president of the Hadoti division of the federation, highlighted that the region possesses sufficient attractions to support a comprehensive three-night, four-day itinerary but has suffered from inadequate promotion. Among the major sites he identified were:
- Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve
- Chambal Safari
- Garadia Mahadev
- Garh Ganesh
- Chambal Garden
- Seven Wonders Park
- Gargron Fort
- Ramgarh Crater
Political Support and Upcoming Events
Sources indicate that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has taken special interest in this tourism initiative. Thanks to his efforts, the first roadshow was conducted in Parliament, and he is expected to officially flag off the three-day event scheduled from January 2 to 4.
This partnership represents a crucial turning point for Kota's economic diversification, offering the city an opportunity to showcase its rich cultural and natural heritage while reducing its dependence on the coaching industry. The collaboration between government authorities and private hoteliers signals a unified approach to unlocking the Hadoti region's full tourism potential.
