Gujarat lures tourists to its beaches

Air strip proposed at Mandvi, beach to be further developed

The Government of Gujarat (GoG) has decided to develop an air strip at Mandvi as part of its efforts to promote beach tourism in the state.

Tourism Corporation of Gujarat (TCGL) has chalked out plans to develop the air strip at Mandvi. This will allow easy access to the town for tourists.

The state government is also in talks with a US-based airline company to procure a 20-seater aircraft on leased basis. This will lure tourists to the most exotic beaches in the state.

"We are planning to develop an air strip at Mandvi as part of the state government's tourism policy to promote Kutch as a major tourism destination in the state. The air strip will be made in a phased manner. We will concentrate first on developing the beaches of Mandvi. The total cost of the project is expected to be Rs 16.15 crore," said an senior official of the state government.

Mandvi, an ancient seaport is famous for its production of handicraft items, particularly its relief, filigree and enamel work. It also has several virtually unexplored sea beaches. The Rukmavati bridge is the longest stone bridge in the country. The Vijay Vilas Palace is another major tourist attraction.

Mandvi is situated about 75 kilometres from Bhuj. The air strip will help the domestic and international tourists to visit Mandvi. The TCGL is also working out tour packages to lure the tourists in the region.

Under the new tourism policy of Gujarat, Kutch district has been identified for focused development. The state government has decided to promote Kutch as the important tourist destination. The major tourist destinations are Mandvi and Nana Laheja beaches in the Kutch region.

Mandvi and Nana Laheja beaches have fine white sand with calm light blue sea. With windfarms and lighthouse in the backdrop, the beaches provide exceptional ambience.

The destinations of the Kutch, which would form the fulcrum of the tourism plan, are Mandvi and Nana Laheja to be developed as leisure beach, and Bhuj City as a heritage center and Khavda and Banni to provide a taste of its famous traditional life style and handicraft.

"The government plans to develop the area in an integrated manner to provide the tourist an essence of the richness of Kutchi culture and heritage. Kutch has a rich heritage of culture and traditions. The Aina Mahal of Mandvi and Bhuj, Vijay Vilas palace at Mandvi, Bhujia fort at Bhuj, Museum, Saradbagh palace, Jesal-Toral's samadhi, Captain McMudrow's bungalow, famous for its mural paintings are few of the historical treasures of the Kutch," said the official.