Home to the world’s largest democracy with nearly 900 million votes cast in parliamentary elections, India is now a country that is a magnet for those interested in politics, history and culture. During the election process that runs until 23 May, local villages, towns and cities are buzzing with energy and the hottest side events.
The Samajwadi Party's bicycle symbol is pictured on the flag during a rally in 2017. Authorized by the Election Commission of India, party symbols are important campaign tools.
The election is not a heavy one and is like a festival. People and all political parties will organize, participate and enjoy events, meetings, parties and parades in the streets together. If you travel during this time, political tours and experiences will help visitors have a better view of the magical land from a different angle, instead of through the usual temples, fortresses, foods and festivals.
About "election tourism"
The "election tourism" model was introduced in India in 2012 by Manish Sharma - founder of Akshar Travels, a company that provides services such as visas, tickets and tours - in an effort to innovate and expand the forms of "travel" for tourists.
India's parliamentary elections take place from April 11 to May 19, with results due to be declared on May 23.
Sharma points out that there are now a lot of people interested in learning about India’s democratic process, including researchers, university students, history buffs, culture enthusiasts and journalists from all over the world – especially the US, UK and Japan. They come here to learn about the criteria or the system of government, among other things, enriching experiences. This confirms that “election tourism” is a very interesting opportunity to learn about India in a new way.
“Elections are a big and complex process – and each state has its own language, culture, traditions, rules and knowledge,” Sharma said. “The diversity of the political system reflects the culture and explosive power of the Indian people.”
This year, Akshar Travels expects to take around 10,000 tourists on six- to eight-day election trips. Each group will be accompanied by a private guide who is thoroughly trained in Indian politics and culture.
Trip
With more than a dozen different itineraries to major historical and political destinations across India, travelers will visit local villages, meet locals and dine with political leaders for a deeper understanding of how Indian democracy works.
A man shows off his inked finger after voting on the outskirts of Ajmer, Rajasthan state, India, on April 29.
Sharma’s eight-day “Election Walks in Uttaranchal” trip in northern India includes attending a political rally in Haridwar, visiting Kempty Falls, taking a jeep safari through Corbett National Park, and attending meetings and intimate meals with party officials in the picturesque Himalayan resort town of Nainital.
Bahujan Samaj Party activists during a rally in 2014.
Meanwhile, the "Interior of Uttar Pradesh" itinerary takes visitors through eastern India with stops such as: the city of Lucknow - known for its Mughal architecture and captivating culture; Ayodhya - famous for its caves and temples; and Varanasi - where political junkies can "immerse" themselves in the constituency of current Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Hope
Not only Sharma personally, but the Indian tourism industry in general also hopes that this interesting form of tourism will develop further in the future, including more diverse cultural experiences and destinations. This activity helps tourists understand the values, traditions and contemporary culture of India. Sharma shared: "In this way, even a small village can be connected to the world."
With 29 states – each with its own geography and traditions – visitors will experience a diverse cuisine based on landscape, climate, immigration patterns, trade links, governance and religion.
For example, when tourists dine with political leaders, it is an opportunity not only to learn more about that party's vision and mission, but also to taste the most typical local dishes.
Even as the 2019 election is still underway, plans are being made for the 2024 parliamentary elections in the hope of further expanding the pool of politically savvy tourists.
“I love my country and want to show tourists another side of our unique heritage and culture,” Sharma shares.
