“Election Tourism”- That is the buzzword right now in India.
This unique form of tourism allows global visitors to witness the democratic process firsthand while exploring the cultural and political landscapes of the country. Interestingly, the concept of Election tourism was pioneered during the Gujarat assembly polls in 2012 by Ahmedabad-based firm, Akshar Travels. The travel agency was inspired by a “poll tourism” concept that was prevalent in Mexico in 2005
Travel Agencies and political parties are pitching high for this emerging concept of a democratic festival with its collection of six- to eight-day political tours and experiences. Through the convergence of politics and tourism, the stakeholders want to create a dynamic and immersive experience for about 10000 foreign visitors this year. Moreover, election tourism will not only promote civic engagement but also boost tourism revenue and promote cultural exchange.
The biggest festival of a democracy is not just about casting a vote; it’s about experiencing the pulse of the nation during election season. There are a lot of people including foreign diplomats, researchers, university students, special interest groups, history lovers, culture enthusiasts and journalists who are interested in learning about India’s democratic process.
Here’s a glimpse into what makes this experience so captivating:
Political Rallies and Campaigns: Indian travel agencies providing these tours, usually draft itineraries for election tourists that allow them to attend political rallies with enthusiastic crowds, interact with rural and regional candidates, and immerse themselves in the election fervour.
Polling Day Excitement: To quench the curiosity as to how a general election takes place, on election day, the tourists are taken to visit polling stations, observe the voting process, and witness the democratic exercise in action. The festive atmosphere, with long queues of voters and media coverage, adds to the excitement.
Cultural & Historical Insights: Apart from the political aspect, election tourism offers cultural insights into different regions of India. Tourists can explore different languages, cultures, local cuisine, traditions, and historical landmarks, gaining a holistic understanding of the diverse fabric of the country.
Educational Experiences: For students and research scholars of political science and governance, this kind of election tourism provides valuable insights and real-world learning opportunities. It allows them to witness democracy in action and study the electoral process up close.
As India continues to embrace election tourism, it not only promotes civic engagement but also boosts tourism revenue and promotes cultural exchange.
