Mamallapuram Overtakes The Taj. Hoteliers Celebrate with Bike Ride

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Mamallapuram ranks number one in receiving the highest number of foreign tourists in India, overtaking the Taj Mahal at Agra. Data released by the Union Tourism Ministry of India says the shore temples of the Pallava Dynasty drew 144984 overseas visitors against 38992 by the Taj.

As tourism revives after the pandemic, the southern tourist destination has seen more than a three time surge compared to the symbol of love at Agra, one of the seven wonders of the world. “These are official statistics from the central government. We are happy about this” said Dr B Chandra Mohan, Tamil Nadu’s Tourism Secretary.

General Managers of hotels in Chennai and Mamallapuram are excited. They celebrated this making Mamallapuram’s record the theme of their third annual bike ride. Mr Sandeep Nanduri, MD, Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation flagged off the rally. “The idea is to promote tourism, we want to say rediscover Chennai” said Sandeep, the GM of Ramada Plaza. “This time it’s a celebration, Mamallapuram being the most travelled destination in India surpassing Taj Mahal. It’s a real proud feeling added Shafee, GM of E Hotel.

The hotel industry that suffered a severe blow amid the pandemic due to the lockdown now sees pre covid level 70% occupancy. It’s also bolstered by residential meetings, conferences and exhibitions held at these properties. The ride brought in lot of camaraderie among the hoteliers. “It’s not about competition but about collaboration. It’s about getting to people to Chennai and experience the beautiful city and Mamallapuram” said Zubin Songadwala, GM of ITC Grand Chola.

The recent Chess Olympiad at Mamallapuram and the International Kite Festival there have also given attracted international tourists. “Mamallapuram has got immense potential” believes Sudip Sengupta, Executive Vice President, Hotel Green Park and Resorts.

Presently the East Coast Road connecting Chennai and Mamallapuram has around ten 4 and 5 star hotels. Another four more are likely to come up around Mamallapuram. Hoteliers are now collaborating to build on this favourable trend. Summarising the tourism attractions in Tamilnadu, Shabin Sarvottam, Senior General Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay explains “We have everything to offer in the state, from beaches to hill stations to lovely roads for the bikes, culture to food. We would want everyone to come to Tamil Nadu”.

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