IX Unit - 2 (NOTES) Tourism Business – I

 Unit - 2: Tourism Business – I
 

 

2.1 Introduction:

 

The tourism sector is a dynamic, ever-changing one that adjusts to the shifting demands and wants of tourists. The thirst for knowledge, excitement, and adventure, as well as human curiosity, all play a part in the dynamic character of tourism. The judgments made by visitors have also been significantly influenced by technological improvements. The following are some essential ideas to comprehend the ever-changing nature of the tourist industry:

 

**1. Human Nature:** Tourists are driven by an innate curiosity to explore the unknown, satisfy their thirst for knowledge, and indulge in new tastes and experiences. This intrinsic human nature fuels the demand for novel and exciting travel opportunities.

 

**2. Technological Advancements:** Advances in technology have not only made travel more accessible but have also opened up entirely new frontiers for tourism. For example, space travel, once the domain of scientists and astronauts, is now becoming a reality for modern tourists. Private operators are offering space tourism experiences, and there are plans to visit the Moon and even Mars as tourists.

 

**3. Beyond Earth:** Tourism is no longer confined to Earth's exotic destinations. It has expanded to include destinations beyond our planet. Space tourism is a testament to humanity's ambition to explore and experience the cosmos.

 

**4. Historical Perspective:** This unit delves into the history of the tourism business, tracing its growth and development over the decades. It highlights the changing face of the tourism industry, shaped by various events and influences that have propelled its evolution.

 

**5. Global and Indian Tourism:** The unit offers insights not only into the global tourism business but also into the tourism scenario in India. It provides a comprehensive overview of how tourism has become a global phenomenon and discusses the unique aspects of the Indian tourism industry.

 

In conclusion, the tourism industry is a dynamic one that is always changing to meet the changing needs and interests of tourists. The tourism business has broadened its scope, spanning from land-based sites to space exploration, rendering it a dynamic and constantly evolving sector. This section delves into the intriguing history of tourism and how it has influenced the travel and adventure industry.

 

 

2.2 Evolution of the Business of Tourism

 

-An old nomadic lifestyle was a defining feature of human history.

- Never stop looking for food and shelter.


Travel habits changed when people transitioned from a nomadic to a stable lifestyle.

- The motivations for travel have changed over time: conquest, religion, commerce, escape, and discovery.

- The history of tourism as we know it now is uncertain.

 

I. Early Travel Accounts:

- Travel accounts provide authentic insights into historical journeys.

- Examples of notable travellers and their accounts:

  1. Megasthenese: Greek ambassador in the Mauryan Court.

  2. Fahien: Chinese traveller to India in the 5th century AD.

  3. Hsuang Tsang: Buddhist scholar-pilgrim from China in India (630-644 AD).

- These accounts shed light on the social and cultural conditions of their respective times.

 

II. Evidence of Travel and Interaction:

- Travel and interaction between nations are evident in historical records.

- Maritime trade across oceans and seas: Ports served as hubs for trade.

- Early empires like Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Sumerian promoted travel:

  1. Egypt: The River Nile facilitated easy travel within the country.

  2. Roman Empire: Well-maintained roads, legal system, and connectivity.

  3. Mediterranean Region as a historical travel hub.

 

III. The Silk Route:

- The Silk Route was a prominent ancient trade and travel network.

- Connected Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

- Facilitated trade and cultural exchange.

- Played a pivotal role in the evolution of early tourism.

 

Conclusion:

- Human beings have been travellers throughout history.

- The reasons for travel have evolved from basic needs to diverse motivations.

- Early travel accounts and evidence of travel interactions provide valuable insights into the past.

- The Silk Route stands out as a prime example of early travel and trade networks.

- Understanding the evolution of tourism helps us appreciate the modern tourism industry and its significance in our lives today.

 

2.2.1 The Silk Route

 

- The Silk Route, also known as the Silk Road, is one of the world's most famous trade routes.

- Coined by German geographer Ferdinand van Richthofen in 1870.

- Named after silk, a prized commodity traded on this route.

- However, it was a vast network of land and sea trade routes spanning Afro-Eurasia.

 

I. Complex Network of Trade Routes:

- The Silk Route was not a single well-traveled path but a complex network.

- Connected East, South, and Western Asia with the Mediterranean, Europe, North, and East Africa.

- Covered approximately 12,000 kilometres of ancient routes.

 

II. Trade and Commodities:

- Silk, both Chinese and Indian, was a valuable trade commodity.

- Other traded items included Indian spices, precious metals, gems, ceramics, glass, ivory, herbs, exotic animals, and livestock.

- The Silk Route was more than just trade; it facilitated cultural exchange.

 

III. Cultural Exchange and Impact:

- Introduced Eastern culture, philosophies, and religious beliefs (e.g., Buddhism) to the Western world.

- Bridged the gap between East and West.

- Played a crucial role in connecting diverse civilizations.

 

IV. Modern Recognition:

- Recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

- Launch of the Silk Road Action Plan in 2010.

- Collaboration among 24 member countries to develop the route for tourism purposes.

- Annual action plans to promote Silk Route Tourism and cities along the route.

 

V. Historical Context:

- The Silk Route was a part of ancient travel, with limited European involvement.

- The fall of the Roman Empire and the Dark Ages marked a period of turmoil in Europe.

- The Renaissance ushered in a new era of cultural and intellectual awakening.

 

In summary:

- The Silk Route, an extensive trading route, was crucial in bridging civilizations.


- Trade, culture, and ideas were enhanced around the world.

- Current initiatives to develop Silk Road tourism emphasize the route's lasting significance in world history.

2.2.2 The Grand Tour

 

- In Europe, the Renaissance signalled a return to culture.

- A greater interest in culture and the arts, particularly among the upper classes.


- The "Grand Tour" began to take shape in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

I. The Grand Tour:

- Wealthy young men from Northern Europe, primarily England, embarked on European city tours.

- Purpose: Education, language skills, cultural experiences, and social status elevation.

- Often accompanied by tutors and servants.

- Duration varied based on wealth and interest.

 

II. Popular Destinations:

- France and Italy were primary destinations.

- Cities like Paris, Florence, Venice, and Rome were frequent stops.

- Italy's cultural treasures and favourable climate made it a top choice.

 

III. Educational and Cultural Objectives:

- The Grand Tour aimed to educate and expose young men and women of noble birth and fortune.

- Prepared them for significant roles in government and politics.

- Provided knowledge and cultural enrichment from the "civilized world."

 

IV. Transformation into a Status Symbol:

- Over time, the Grand Tour shifted from a cultural and educational experience to a status symbol.

- Became an adventure and an opportunity to acquire rare items.

- Participants would display their purchases, such as books, art, and souvenirs, in special cabinets.

- Elevated their social status upon return.

 

In summary:

- The Grand Tour, which provided affluent young Europeans with education and cultural experiences, originated during the Renaissance.


- Over time, it became a prestige symbol of riches and adventure.

- Grand Tourists showcased their newfound wealth to improve their social status.

It is still a fascinating part of European history that illustrates the relationship between privilege, education, and culture. 

 

2.2.3 Business of Tourism

 

- Travel in Europe for non-military, non-trade, and non-disaster purposes began with the Grand Tour.

- The eighteenth century witnessed the rise in popularity of seaside resorts and places like Bath due to health grounds.

- The Industrial Revolution introduced affordable transportation, like railways and steamboats, paving the way for tourism growth.

- Thomas Cook, known as the "Father of Tourism Industry," played a pivotal role in shaping modern tourism.

 

I. Thomas Cook and the Birth of Tourism Business:

- Thomas Cook organized the first excursion trip in 1841, with 570 passengers from Leicester to Loughborough.

- Passengers paid a shilling each for the tour, which included a chartered train, picnic lunch, and a brass band.

- Cook's popularity led to him arranging travel services and circular tours to Scotland, serving thousands of tourists.

- Innovations: The first hotel coupon was introduced in 1867, and foreign currency exchange was also introduced.

 

II. Evolution of the Tourism Business:

- Tourism, like any other industry, constantly evolves to meet consumer demands and competition challenges.

- Mode of transportation has played a significant role in shaping tourism.

- Air travel, in particular, has had a profound impact on the tourism business.

 

III. Modern Tourism Business:

- The modern tourism industry began post-World War II.

- Growth linked to the development of jet aircraft in the 1950s and the commercial airline industry.

- Reduced travel times and affordability led to increased leisure travel.

- Tour packages shifted from rail-based to international destinations with air travel.

 

IV. Role of Destinations:

- Attractions, accommodation, and destination infrastructure are crucial elements in the tourism business.

- These factors contribute to the overall tourist experience.

- Further exploration of these aspects is covered in higher-level classes.

 

In summary:

- Innovations in transportation, shifting incentives, and the efforts of trailblazers like Thomas Cook characterize the growth of tourism from the Grand Tour to the contemporary travel industry.


- Air travel transformed the sector and opened up opportunities for foreign travel.

- The success of the tourist business is still greatly influenced by the role that destinations play in it. 

 

Review Questions

 

1.    Discuss any three new types of tourism.

• Space tourism: Here we are talking about leisure space travel. Although it is a relatively new kind of tourism, its appeal is expanding. Space travellers have the opportunity to do experiments, witness Earth from a fresh angle, and feel the weightlessness of space.
  
  
  

 

Space tourism tourism

• Experiential tourism: This is the kind of tourism where the emphasis is on giving visitors an immersed experience. It might entail anything from engaging in a local activity that is exclusive to the location to learning about the local culture. The popularity of experiential tourism is rising as travellers want more genuine and significant encounters.

 

Experiential tourism tourism

• Sustainable tourism: This kind of tourism reduces its negative effects on the environment and the neighbourhood. It might entail making decisions to dine locally, stay in eco-friendly lodging, and engage in activities that promote sustainable development. As travellers become more conscious of the effects their travels have on the environment, sustainable tourism is growing in importance.

 

Sustainable tourism tourism

These are just a few of the new types of tourism that are emerging. As technology continues to evolve and our understanding of the world grows, we can expect to see even more new and innovative types of tourism in the future.

In addition to the three types of tourism mentioned above, here are some other new and emerging types of tourism:

• Dark tourism: This is the trip to locations connected to tragedy, death, or natural disasters. It may entail going to places like concentration camps, battlegrounds, or places affected by natural calamities. Although it might be contentious, dark tourism can teach us about the past and our shared humanity.

 

Dark tourism tourism

• Voluntourism: This is a kind of tourism where volunteering is combined with travel. It may be helping out at an orphanage, constructing a school, or collaborating with an environmental group. Making a difference in the world and giving back to the community may be accomplished via volunteer travel.

 

Voluntourism tourism

• Gastronomic tourism: This is the travel to experience the food and wine of a particular region. It can involve visiting restaurants, food markets, and even farms. Gastronomic tourism is a great way to learn about the local culture and cuisine.

 

Gastronomic tourism tourism

• Medical tourism: This is the travel to a foreign country to receive medical treatment. It can be a way to get affordable or specialized treatment that is not available in the home country. Medical tourism is a growing industry, and it is estimated that millions of people travel for medical care each year.

 

Medical tourism tourism

These are only a handful of the numerous novel and developing forms of travel. We may anticipate seeing even more cutting-edge and inventive modes of transportation in the future as the globe grows increasingly accessible and linked.

2. What is the UNWTO Silk Road Action Plan?

The UNWTO Silk Road Action Plan is an initiative launched by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 2010. It aims to promote and develop tourism along the historic Silk Road, which was one of the world's most significant trade routes connecting East, South, and Western Asia with the Mediterranean, Europe, and parts of North and East Africa.

 

Key features of the UNWTO Silk Road Action Plan include:

 

1. **Collaboration Among Member Countries**: The plan involves the cooperation of 24 member countries that are situated along the Silk Road or have a historical connection to it.

 

2. **Promotion of Tourism Activity**: Its primary goal is to boost tourism along the Silk Road in contemporary times. This involves marketing the route, enhancing infrastructure, and creating tourism-related opportunities.

 

3. **Annual Action Plans**: The UNWTO develops and implements annual action plans as part of this initiative. These plans outline specific strategies, projects, and activities to promote Silk Route tourism and cities located nearby.

 

4. **Cultural and Historical Promotion**: The Silk Road is not just about trade; it has played a vital role in cultural exchange. The action plan likely includes efforts to highlight and preserve the historical and cultural significance of the Silk Road.

 

5. **Economic Development**: By promoting tourism along the Silk Road, the plan can contribute to economic development in the regions involved. It can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and encourage sustainable tourism practices.

 

In essence, the UNWTO Silk Road Action Plan seeks to leverage the historical importance of the Silk Road as a tourist attraction and create opportunities for travellers to explore this ancient trade route. It also aims to strengthen the cultural and economic ties between the regions connected by the Silk Road.

 

3.3 Tourism Intermediaries and Linkages

 

The tourism business revolves around satisfying tourist needs, including accommodation, transportation, food services, attractions, and more.

- Intermediaries act as mediators between producers (service providers) and customers (tourists).

- They add value to transactions that direct trading cannot achieve.

 

I. Types of Tourism Intermediaries:

- **General Sales Agents (GSAs) of Airlines**: They represent airlines and promote their services to travellers.

- **Travel Agents**: Assist in planning and booking travel arrangements for tourists.

- **Tour Operators**: Organize and package tours, combining various services for a comprehensive travel experience.

- **Role of Thomas Cook**: Thomas Cook was a pioneer tourism intermediary, offering combined services like railway travel and picnics to provide tour experiences.

 

II. Importance of Intermediaries in Tourism:

- **Meeting Customer Expectations**: Intermediaries ensure that the services provided meet and satisfy customer expectations.

- **Bridging Buyer-Seller Understanding**: They help sellers (e.g., hotels, guides) understand the needs of buyers (tourists).

- **Linkages with Service Providers**: Intermediaries establish connections with transportation providers, accommodation providers, guides, and more.

- **Value Addition**: Their value addition lies in handling tourist queries efficiently and providing additional services.

- **Role in Internet Age**: In the Internet age, intermediaries remain crucial as they simplify the booking process and offer expertise.

 

III. Benefits of Travel Intermediaries:

- **Bulk Purchasing**: Intermediaries enable producers to sell in bulk to a single entity, simplifying transactions (e.g., hotels selling rooms in bulk to tour operators).

- **Cost Reduction**: They help reduce promotion costs for producers by reaching a broader audience.

- **Time Savings**: Tourists save time by using intermediaries to find and book services.

- **Special Prices and Discounts**: Intermediaries can negotiate special prices and discounts on behalf of tourists.

- **Access to Information**: Tourists benefit from the knowledge and information available with intermediaries.

 

In summary:

In the tourism industry, intermediaries are essential in helping visitors find services.


- They create value by satisfying demands from clients, fostering communication between purchasers and sellers, and offering convenience.

- In the tourist business, intermediaries still provide producers and customers with useful services and advantages, even in the digital era. 

 

Review Questions

 

1.      What do you understand by travel intermediaries?

 

Travel intermediates are people or organizations that, in the tourism business, serve as a bridge or middleman between producers (tourist service providers) and consumers (tourists). Through the provision of a variety of travel and tourist-related services, they play a vital role in enabling and improving the tourism experience. In most cases, these middlemen enhance the transaction in ways that direct trade between producers and consumers would not be able to.

 Travel intermediaries encompass several categories, including:

 

1. **General Sales Agents of Airlines**: These intermediaries represent airlines and help promote their services to potential travellers. They facilitate the booking of airline tickets and provide information about flight options, schedules, and fares.

 

2. **Travel Agents**: Travel agents are professionals or agencies that assist tourists in planning, organizing, and booking various aspects of their trips. They offer expertise on destinations, accommodations, transportation, tours, and activities. Travel agents act as a one-stop shop for travellers, helping them create personalized itineraries.

 

3. **Tour Operators**: Tour operators design and package complete tours or travel experiences for tourists. They combine multiple elements such as accommodations, transportation, guided tours, and activities into a single, cohesive package. Tour operators often specialize in specific types of travel, such as adventure tourism, cultural tours, or luxury vacations.

 

These travel intermediaries collectively form the distribution channel within the tourism business. They serve as intermediaries who connect producers of tourism services, such as hotels, airlines, and attractions, with consumers (tourists) seeking these services. The intermediaries ensure that the services provided to tourists meet their expectations while also helping producers understand the specific needs and preferences of the buyers.

 

Travel intermediaries play a vital role in the tourism industry by establishing linkages with various service providers, including transportation companies, accommodation providers, cruise lines, guides, foreign exchange services, and souvenir sellers. They are responsible for providing valuable information to tourists, such as details about attractions, optimal times to visit, entrance fees, and other essential travel-related information.

 

In summary, travel intermediaries act as intermediaries in the tourism business, facilitating the interaction between service providers and tourists. They add value by streamlining the booking process, offering expertise, saving consumers time, providing access to special prices and discounts, and sharing valuable knowledge and information related to travel and tourism.

 

2.      What is the role of Indian Railways in Indian Tourism?

The role of Indian Railways in Indian tourism is significant and multifaceted. Indian Railways, as the fourth largest railway network in the world and the second largest in terms of passenger travel, has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of tourism in the country.

 

1. **Accessibility**: The extensive and well-connected railway network in India, spanning over 63,000 kilometres of routes and comprising 6,909 stations, plays a crucial role in making travel accessible to people from all economic backgrounds. This means that both local and international tourists can travel across the country in relative comfort and convenience.

 

2. **Connectivity to Remote Areas**: Indian Railways enables travellers to reach even the most remote corners of the country. It allows people from far-flung regions to easily visit popular tourist destinations across India. This extensive reach helps in the equitable distribution of tourism opportunities.

 

3. **Rail Tour Packages**: Indian Railways offers a range of enticing rail tour packages. These packages include special ticketing facilities, such as circular tickets, which provide flexibility for travellers. Circular tickets start and end at the same station and allow for up to eight break journeys, making it easier for tourists to explore India or embark on pilgrimage journeys at their own pace.

 

4. **Special Trains**: Indian Railways operates special trains like Hill Trains in Shimla and Ooty, as well as the World Heritage Train of Darjeeling – Himalayan Railways. These trains offer a unique way to explore India's hilly terrain, providing tourists with memorable and scenic journeys.

 

5. **Luxury Travel**: Luxury trains like the Maharaja Express, Palace on Wheels, and Golden Chariot offer tourists the opportunity to travel to various destinations in the lap of royal luxury and grandeur. These trains provide an unparalleled travel experience and attract tourists seeking opulence.

 

6. **IRCTC's Role**: The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a subsidiary of Indian Railways, actively participates in the development of budget and deluxe tour packages for both domestic and international tourists. These tour packages cater to various preferences, including pilgrimage tours, adventure tours, and customized packages. Special trains like the Buddhist Circuit Trains are also operated by IRCTC.

 

7. **Promotion of Tourism**: Beyond providing transportation, Indian Railways is actively involved in the promotion of tourism in the country. By offering a wide range of travel options and packages, it encourages people to explore India's diverse cultural, natural, and historical attractions.

 

In summary, Indian Railways serves as a vital facilitator of tourism in India by offering accessibility, connectivity, specialized tour packages, luxury travel experiences, and active involvement in tourism promotion. It plays a central role in making India's diverse destinations accessible and appealing to tourists from all walks of life.

 

 

 

 

 

2.4         Tourism in Modern India

 

- Tourism in India has a rich history, with its roots dating back to ancient times.

- While modern tourism developed later in India compared to other parts of the world, the country has a long tradition of travel and tourism in various forms.

 

I. Early Forms of Tourism in India:

- **Seers and Saints**: Ancient Indian seers and saints like Gautam Buddha and Adi Shankaracharya travelled across the subcontinent to give discourses and spread religious philosophies.

 

II. Reasons for Travel in Ancient India:

- **Religious Pilgrimages**: People travelled to visit places of religious significance and attend religious gatherings and events, such as the Kumbh Mela.

- **Cultural and Fair Participation**: Travelers attended fairs, cultural events, and family gatherings.

- **Business and Trade**: Travel was essential for conducting business across the vast Indian subcontinent.

 

III. Evolution of Leisure Tourism:

- **Modern Leisure Tourism**: Over time, leisure tourism has become an integral part of India's tourism landscape.

- **Improved Accessibility**: The development of road, rail, air, and water transport infrastructure made tourism activities more accessible.

- **Significant Milestones**:

  - Air Corporations Act (1963): Nationalization of the air transport industry in India.

  - Opening of Indian Sky to Private Players (1993): Private airlines entered the Indian aviation market.

  - Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs): The introduction of LCCs made air travel affordable for a broader middle-class segment.

 

IV. Accommodation Options:

- **Diverse Accommodation**: The hospitality industry in India offers various accommodation categories, including budget, business, luxury, and more.

- **Increased Accessibility**: A wide range of accommodation options caters to the diverse needs and budgets of tourists.

 

In summary:

India's tourism industry has developed from its historical beginnings, when trips were frequently focused on commerce, culture, or religion.


- Thanks to increased accessibility and the growth of leisure travel, India is now a thriving travel destination with a diverse range of historical, cultural, and natural attractions.

Accessible and reasonably priced air travel, together with a wide range of lodging choices, have contributed to the nation's tourist industry's expansion. 

 

Tours on Indian Railways

 

- Indian Railways, one of the world's largest railway networks, has played a pivotal role in facilitating and promoting tourism in India.

- The extensive railway network, spanning thousands of kilometres and connecting numerous stations, provides both affordability and accessibility for travellers.

 

I. Significance of Indian Railways in Tourism:

- **Fourth Largest Railway Network**: Indian Railways is the fourth largest railway network globally, contributing significantly to the growth of tourism.

- **Affordable Travel**: It offers an affordable means of travel, making it accessible to people from all economic backgrounds.

- **Extensive Coverage**: The vast network allows travellers to reach remote corners of the country with ease, promoting tourism to lesser-known destinations.

 

II. Indian Railways' Rail Tour Packages:

- **Circular Tickets**: Indian Railways offers enticing rail tour packages, including circular tickets with eight break journeys. These packages provide flexibility for travellers to explore India at their own pace.

- **Hill Trains**: Special trains like the Hill Trains in Shimla and Ooty, as well as the World Heritage Train of Darjeeling - Himalayan Railways, offer unique experiences for exploring hilly terrain.

- **Luxury Trains**: India boasts luxury trains like the Maharaja Express, Palace on Wheels, and Golden Chariot, offering travellers the chance to journey in royal opulence to various destinations.

 

III. Role of IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation):

- **IRCTC's Involvement**: IRCTC, a subsidiary of Indian Railways, actively participates in developing budget and deluxe tour packages for domestic and international tourists.

- **Diverse Tour Packages**: IRCTC offers a wide range of tour packages, including Pilgrimage Tours, Adventure Tours, and customized options to cater to diverse tourist interests.

- **Special Trains**: IRCTC operates special trains like the Buddhist Circuit Trains, providing thematic travel experiences.

 

IV. Promoting Tourism:

- **Accessibility and Promotion**: Indian Railways not only provides accessibility to various destinations but also actively contributes to the promotion of tourism in India.

- **Enhancing Tourism**: By offering affordable travel options, luxury train experiences, and specialized tour packages, Indian Railways contributes significantly to the growth and development of the tourism industry.

 

In summary:

- With a vast and reasonably priced transport network, Indian Railways is a major enabler and booster of tourism in India.


- Indian Railways is a major player in facilitating travel that is both affordable and appealing to a wide variety of tourists, both domestically and internationally, using rail vacation packages, luxurious train excursions, and the work of IRCTC. 

 

Review Questions

1.      Name and discuss the route of any two luxury trains in India.

Two of the most renowned luxury trains in India are the Maharaja Express and the Palace on Wheels. Let's discuss the routes and highlights of these two opulent trains:

 

1. **Maharaja Express**:

   - **Route**: The Maharaja Express offers several itineraries, including the "Heritage of India," "Treasures of India," "Indian Splendor," "Indian Panorama," and "Gems of India." Each itinerary covers different destinations, but collectively, they traverse through some of the most iconic and culturally rich regions of India. Common stops include Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Mumbai, among others.

   - **Highlights**: The Maharaja Express is often described as one of the most luxurious trains in the world. It features lavish amenities, including well-appointed cabins, gourmet dining, a bar, a lounge, and attentive service. Passengers can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, magnificent palaces, and historical forts, and experience traditional Indian culture and hospitality along the way. The train journey itself is a royal experience with opulent interiors and modern comforts.

 

2. **Palace on Wheels**:

   - **Route**: The Palace on Wheels takes travellers on a captivating journey through the vibrant and culturally rich state of Rajasthan in northwestern India. The train departs from Delhi and covers destinations like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore National Park), and Bharatpur (Keoladeo National Park) before returning to Delhi.

   - **Highlights**: The Palace on Wheels recreates the era of the maharajas (kings) of Rajasthan. Passengers are treated like royalty and can enjoy luxurious cabins, exquisite dining experiences, a well-stocked bar, cultural performances, and guided excursions to historic forts, palaces, and wildlife sanctuaries. This train is known for its beautiful decor, which is inspired by the royal palaces of Rajasthan, creating a regal ambience throughout the journey.

 

Both the Maharaja Express and the Palace on Wheels offer travellers an unparalleled opportunity to explore India's rich heritage and culture in absolute luxury and comfort. These trains provide a unique and immersive way to experience the country's diverse landscapes and historical treasures while being pampered with top-notch amenities and services.

 

2.     List any five reasons for travelling.

Certainly, people travel for various reasons, and these reasons can be both personal and diverse. Here are five common reasons for travelling:

 

1. **Exploration and Adventure**: Many people travel to explore new places, seek adventure, and experience different cultures. Exploring unknown destinations, trying new activities, and embarking on thrilling adventures can be a major motivation for travel.

 

2. **Relaxation and Leisure**: Travel offers an opportunity to escape from the daily routine and relax. Whether it's lounging on a beach, staying at a spa resort, or simply taking a break from work and stress, leisure and relaxation are often key reasons for travelling.

 

3. **Cultural Immersion**: Traveling allows individuals to immerse themselves in new cultures, traditions, and customs. Learning about the history, art, cuisine, and way of life in different places can be an enriching experience.

 

4. **Meeting People and Building Relationships**: Travel can provide opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and build connections. Whether through socializing with fellow travellers or engaging with locals, travel can be a great way to expand one's social network.

 

5. **Business and Work**: Many people travel for business purposes, including attending meetings, conferences, seminars, or training sessions. Business travel can be essential for networking, expanding markets, and furthering career goals.

 

These are just a few of the many reasons why people choose to travel. Ultimately, the motivation for travel can be deeply personal and can vary widely from one individual to another.