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History of Cultural Tourism
Travel and exploration have existed since the beginning of human civilisation. People have been travelling across the world to explore the history, mystery and wonders of various places. Travellers like Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan were some of the most renowned explorers of ancient times. The popular tourist places of those days included Angkor Wat, Giza and Hangzhou due to their impressive architecture, religious monuments and opportunities for trade. The historical monuments are symbols that represent a country and its heritage.
Many travellers from Greece, Portugal, China and Western Asia visited India, attracted by our economic prosperity, cultural richness and diversity. Historical explorers like Hieun Tsang, Megasthenes and Alberuni have described Indian heritage, culture and philosophy in their works. As the word about India’s glory spread far and wide, it became a popular tourist destination. Over the years, tourism became a full-fledged industry contributing to the growth of the nation. The advancement in science and technology has led to the evolution of the tourism sector. It has changed the modes of travel and widened the purpose of exploration. Today, tourism has been classified into various types like cultural tourism, religious tourism, educational tourism and healthcare tourism. Cultural tourism focuses on learning, discovering and experiencing the culture and lifestyle of a region or country.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated World Heritage Sites for their historical or scientific significance. It also encourages the preservation of cultural and natural heritage across the globe that provides outstanding universal value to humanity. India ranks 6th in the world with 42 heritage sites recognised by UNESCO. Some of them are Taj Mahal in Agra, Hampi in Karnataka, Sun Temple in Odisha, Red Fort in Delhi and a group of monuments in Tamilnadu. These cultural edifices are treasures of our country that celebrate our glorious history and heritage. The harmonious blend of art, religion and philosophy in Indian culture has attracted connoisseurs, researchers and seekers from different parts of the world.
Cultural Tourism refers to the exploration of the history, art, architecture, culture and lifestyle of a region or a country. This division of tourism is becoming extremely popular worldwide, with millions of tourists travelling to different countries to learn and experience various cultures.
Cultural tourism strengthens ties between nations, promotes cultural exchange programs and supports the need to preserve ancient heritage and traditions. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation, having 160 member states, promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth and inclusive development. The organisation works towards building a sustainable and responsible tourism sector by engaging with regional and local tourism organisations, research institutions and the UN system. It has organised conferences that bring together Ministers of Tourism and Culture from around the world to discuss governance models, promotion and protection of cultural practices and contribution to global sustainable development.
Cultural infrastructure plays a vital role in expanding the tourism potential of India. The temples, monuments and heritage sites attract people from all over the world, leading to an influx of domestic and international tourists. They are the cultural icons that celebrate Indian art and architecture. They promote cross-cultural understanding, mutual respect and peace between countries. Cultural tourism will provide valuable educational experiences to students and reconnect them with their roots.
Cultural infrastructure enhances the identities of communities and their quality of life. They assist local communities in exhibiting their unique culture and traditions to visitors and serve as strategic tools for economic prosperity. They instil a sense of pride in people and motivate them to preserve the architectural marvels for future generations.
This colossal monument is the upcoming tallest cultural-heritage infrastructure site in the world. It will stand high on the historical land of Vrindavan in the heart of Braj. With a height of 700 feet (210 meters) the infrastructure is designed to accommodate 70 floors. The architecture of the building is inspired by the two major historical temples of Vrindavan, the Radha Madanmohan Ji Temple and Radha Govind Dev Ji Temple. Vrindavan Heritage Tower will focus on promoting the teachings of India’s glorious traditions and culture, as taught by Srila Prabhupada.
The grand Vrindavan Heritage Tower will also be a hub to various social and educational development programmes. It aims to boost the socio-economic developmental opportunities for the local community of Braj.