The grand finale leaves a lasting impression painting Punjab as a traveller’s dream

September 2023, Mohali, Punjab: The Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart, a three-day extravaganza celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Punjab's culture, heritage, and beauty in a bid to put the state on the global tourism map, reached its grand finale yesterday. The closing day was marked by the windup of the Travel Mart Expo and familiarisation trips, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.

The inauguration ceremony on the first day, September 11, set the stage for what would be an exceptional event. Distinguished dignitaries, including Honourable Chief Minister Mr S. Bhagwant Mann, Tourism Minister Ms Anmol Gagan Maan, noted celebrity and producer Kapil Sharma, film producer Bobby Bedi, stand-up artist Sunil Pal, managing director of ITC Fortune Hotels Samir M. C., and vice president of Ramoji Film City A. V. Rao illuminated the event with their presence. The ceremony unveiled Punjab's commitment to becoming a global tourist hotspot, showcasing its rich hospitality

The heart of the event was undoubtedly the Travel Mart on day 2, which buzzed with palpable energy and excitement. Visitors were treated to a spectacular array of experiences, from traditional folk performances by the Malwai Giddha team to captivating dances by students from state institutes, including Luddi, Jhumar, and Sammi dances.

The exhibition featured a diverse range of products and services, with both big and small brands contributing to the vibrant atmosphere like Shunya Wellness, a boutique brand creating products that enable and enhance spiritual wellness journey. Mouth-watering cuisine by Verka, Markfed and Punjab Agro showcased Punjab's culinary treasures. Traditional handicrafts, including exquisite artworks and textiles, were also on display, offering a glimpse into the state’s legacy.

A total of 128 stalls graced the exhibition, offering visitors the chance to engage in hands-on experiences such as weaving laces, spinning yarns, making clay pots, and grinding grains. The melodic Qawwali performance by Professor Avtar Singh added a musical touch to the event, resonating with the attendees.

One of the highlights was the opportunity for visitors to purchase holiday and tourism packages on the spot from various stalls, allowing them to explore and savour the diverse beauty of Punjab. The 360-degree immersive theatre showcased short films, videos, and documentaries on different tourist destinations in the state, further enhancing the overall experience.

The second day of the summit concluded with a gala and cultural evening attended by renowned personalities, including Anmol Singh Mann and Punjabi film actress Neeru Bajwa, among others. Cultural performances and a massive by-invitation crowd added to the festive spirit.

As the Travel Mart expo came to a close by the afternoon of the third day, the Fam Trips from Chandigarh to Amritsar commenced and continued until the next day, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the serene countryside of Punjab.

Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, Principal Secretary of the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, reflected on the event, saying, "To say our first summit has been an incredible journey is an understatement. It encapsulated the essence of Punjab and showcased the warmth of our hospitality, the richness of our culture, and the immense potential of our tourism sector. The summit exemplified our dedication to making Punjab a globally recognised tourist destination, and the response from visitors has been overwhelming. We look forward to continuing this journey of transformation and welcoming visitors to explore the beauty of Punjab."

The Punjab Tourism Summit and Travel Mart not only served as a vibrant showcase of Punjab's rich heritage and culture but also provided a glimpse of the dynamic tourism landscape that beckons travellers from across the globe to explore this magnificent state.

The event was an opportunity for enthusiastic travellers to discover the treasures of Punjab and a valuable platform for prospective investors to learn about the myriad investment opportunities within the state’s burgeoning tourism sector. As Punjab aspires to ascend the ranks and stand among India's top tourist destinations, the summit and mart play a pivotal role in steering the state towards this ambitious goal.