The latest survey by BBC World News reveals Goa has the highest recall value internationally
-
Even as Gujarat ranks high as an investment destination, it is yet to pick up as a preferred destination for international travelers, mainly on account of it being a dry state. Only 1 per cent of the respondents had instant recall. While it has good infrastructure and transport facilities, it is yet to promote destinations such as the Rann of Kuttch, Gir Forest, Gandhi Ashram, etc.
-
Other Western states such as Goa and Maharashtra are way ahead. Goa has the highest recall value internationally. It is seen as tourist friendly, full of beaches, a perfect leisure destination.
-
Travellers who have not visited India know very little of the country beyond the Taj Mahal and have a vague impression of a noisy, polluted and poor country. But the North East is clean, unpolluted and full of natural beauty.
-
Travellers to India have apprehensions regarding infrastructure, sanitation and safety especially for women. Road connectivity and infrastructure are main problems affecting tourism in the north east. But NE can pitch itself as a region where women are educated and have the same standing and respect as men.
-
Odisha can be pitched as the home of the Konark and Jagannath temple as it gets travellers during Puri Film Festival and Jagannath Yatra.
-
Natural beauty of Assam and Sikkim can also get international travellers interested in eco-tourism to the region.
-
Travellers who have visited India have a different vision of the country. While they are overwhelmed by the crowds and colour, they are fascinated by the tapestry of food, cultures and natural beauty including wild life and beaches.
-
North: Delhi had the highest awareness across countries followed by Punjab and J&K. States like UP, MP and Bihar are low on awareness, while they have a huge potential to attract tourists with their religious and cultural sites and scenic beauty.
-
West: Goa was highest on awareness, in the zone. Rajasthan had high awareness perhaps due to promotions done by the government. Gujarat and Maharashtra had relatively lower awareness than their potential.
-
South: Awareness of Kerala was the highest. Other states, for example, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka which have a host of offerings — rich heritage and culture, wild life, historical sites like Hampi, beaches, were relatively less known.
-
Eastern states: This was a low awareness zone. Within this, West Bengal had highest awareness — with UK and US travelers most aware.