In a bid to invigorate tourism in the picturesque hills of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has unveiled a groundbreaking mobile application. The app, aptly named “darjeeling kalimpong tourism app,” is designed to connect homestay owners, cab operators, and tourist guides directly with potential visitors, ensuring sustainable income opportunities for local stakeholders.
Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa, the chief coordinator of adventure tourism in the GTA, emphasized the app’s objective: to facilitate regular earnings for hundreds of homestay owners and other service providers. By registering on the platform, stakeholders can showcase their offerings and engage with tourists seeking accommodations, transportation, or guided tours.
Sherpa highlighted the growing trend of homestay facilities across the region, which were initially promoted to provide supplementary income sources in remote areas. However, concerns have arisen as some owners opt to lease their properties to outsiders for minimal returns, deviating from the authentic homestay experience.
The new app aims to address this issue by empowering local homestay owners to directly connect with tourists, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring fair compensation for their services. Owners can list their properties with comprehensive details, including photographs, location specifics, transport options, and nearby attractions, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
To enhance accessibility, QR codes will be deployed at key transit points, allowing travelers to quickly download the app and explore available accommodations, transportation, and guide services. In an effort to promote widespread adoption, GTA’s tourism department has initiated outreach efforts, disseminating information to homestay owners and transport operators across the region.
As the tourism landscape evolves, initiatives like the “darjeeling kalimpong tourism app” underscore the importance of empowering local communities and preserving the authenticity of cultural experiences. With technology as an enabler, Darjeeling and Kalimpong are poised to redefine hospitality in the hills, offering travelers immersive and sustainable tourism opportunities.
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