Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the Kota Hadoti Travel Mart at Shaurya Ghat on the Chambal River Front in Kota on Friday, the 2nd of January 2025. On this occasion, he welcomed travel agents, tour operators, hotel representatives, and guests from various states across the country. He also appreciated the efforts to present the tourism potential of Hadoti at the national and international levels.
Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla said that the Hadoti region is rich in forts, stepwells, historical heritage and religious places. Chambal is a major attraction in itself, where a wonderful confluence of water and forest can be seen. The riverfront, Chambal Safari, Taragarh in Bundi, historical forts, and traditional fairs and festivals particularly attract tourists. He said that Hadoti’s heritage, tales of heroism, and cultural traditions give the region its unique identity.
Shri Birla said that special attention is being paid to the upgradation of tourist places and expansion of infrastructure facilities. Following the notifications related to the sanctuary in the Chambal region, safari activities will be further strengthened, providing a safe and better experience to the tourists. He urged travel agents and the hotel industry to play an active role in connecting domestic and foreign tourists to Hadoti.
Lok Sabha Speaker Appreciated Kota Hotel Federation
Appreciating the efforts of the Kota Hotel Federation, the Lok Sabha Speaker stated that in the last year, commendable work has been done in promoting the tourist destinations of Hadoti to the country and the world. Events like the Travel Mart play a vital role in establishing Hadoti on the global tourism map. He expressed hope that more travel agents from India and abroad will participate in such events every year in the future.
The book “Magical Hadoti” was also released at the function, and a canter for jungle safari was also unveiled, which will promote eco-tourism in the region.
Notable Speakers at the Inauguration of Kota Hadoti Travel Mart, along with the Lok Sabha Speaker
Speaking at the function, Shri Hiralal Nagar said that such events will increase investment and employment opportunities in the tourism sector. He stated that the state government is implementing progressive policies to promote the use of solar energy in the hotel and hospitality sector, which will encourage tourism development while also promoting green energy.
Mr Sandeep Sharma said that the beauty of the water, forests, and land in Hadoti is unparalleled. The significance of natural-religious sites like Garadia Mahadev and Gaiparnath, located on the banks of the Chambal River, cannot be expressed in words. He stated that due to the efforts of the Lok Sabha Speaker, work is in progress towards starting air flights from Kota, which will give a new boost to tourism.
Ladpura MLA Mrs Kalpana Devi said that today’s tourist wants experience-based tourism. Tourism based on the unique features of Hadoti has potential. Many areas of Hadoti, including its wetlands, art, painting, and the Kota-Bundi style, have remained relatively untouched. Up to now, these tourist destinations have been showcased through the Travel Mart. The goal is to provide a genuine glimpse to both the country and the world. This initiative aims to attract more tourists and promote local attractions effectively.
Mr. Kumar Jaidev stated that Hadoti is a green gem of Rajasthan. It harbors a rich heritage of life and nature. This is thanks to the Chambal conservation efforts in the region. Kota holds immense potential for global recognition as a coaching centre as well as a cultural and natural heritage.
26 States participated at Kota Hadoti Travel Mart
Businessmen from the tourism, hotel, travel and hospitality sectors from 26 states of the country participated in the Travel Mart. They displayed their products and services through various stalls. On behalf of the organising committee, Mr Ashok Maheshwari, President, Hotel Federation of Rajasthan, Kota Division, welcomed the guests and highlighted the objective of organising the Travel Mart. The grand fireworks display at the ceremony enhanced the beauty of the riverfront.
Cultural programmes were also presented at the inaugural function. The event was attended by many notable individuals. Among them were Mr Arun Shrivastava, the Director General of the Union Tourism Ministry, and Mrs Rukmini Riyar, the Tourism Commissioner of Rajasthan. Additionally, Mr Anil Agarwal, the Divisional Commissioner, was present. District Collector Mr Piyush Samaria also attended, alongside KDA Commissioner Mrs Mamta Tiwari. Furthermore, Mr Hussain Khan, President of the Hotel Federation of Rajasthan, joined the gathering, as did Mr Surendra Singh Shahpura, Mr Ranvijay Singh, Mr Sandeep Padia, Mr Anil Mundhra, Mr Ankur Gupta, and Mr Sandeep Gohil.
Hadoti Takes Centre Stage
The hidden gems of Southeastern Rajasthan are finally getting the spotlight they deserve. Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the Kota Hadoti Travel Mart (KHTM). That is signalling a bold new chapter for tourism in the region.
Against the scenic backdrop of the Chambal Riverfront, the event unfolded. Moreover, it goes beyond being a trade show. It signals that the Hadoti circuit—comprising Kota, Bundi, Baran, and Jhalawar—is prepared to welcome the world.
Why the Kota Hadoti Travel Mart Matters
For years, Rajasthan tourism has been synonymous with the “Golden Triangle” (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur). However, the Hadoti region offers a raw, authentic alternative.
During the inauguration, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla highlighted that the goal of this mart. He stated that it is to bridge the gap between local heritage and global travellers. The event brings together over 500 national and international tour operators. It establishes a direct connection between Hadoti’s hospitality sector and the global market. This connection allows local businesses to engage more effectively with international travellers. Moreover, it enhances Hadoti’s visibility in the global tourism industry.
Highlights of the Event
- Cultural Showcase: The opening featured traditional folk performances, reminding attendees that Hadoti’s soul lies in its art and people.
- Focus on Infrastructure: Discussions centred on how the new Greenfield Airport and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway are making Kota more accessible than ever.
- Eco-Tourism: A major push was made for the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, positioning it as a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
“Our vision is to make Hadoti a primary destination, not just a stopover. With our unique riverfronts, ancient forts, and wildlife, we have a story that the world needs to hear.” — Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla
Discovering the Hadoti Circuit
If you’re planning a trip in 2026, here is what the Travel Mart is promoting:
- Kota: The architectural marvel of the Chambal Riverfront and the Seven Wonders Park.
- Bundi: The “Blue City” of Eastern Rajasthan, famous for its stepwells and murals.
- Jhalawar: Home to the UNESCO-listed Gagron Fort, a rare example of a “water fort.”
- Baran: Famous for the ancient Bhand Devra temple, often called the “Khajuraho of Rajasthan.”
Final Thoughts
The Kota Hadoti Travel Mart 2026 is a clear sign that local leadership is committed to economic growth through sustainable tourism. As Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla noted, when tourism thrives, it creates jobs for youth and a platform for local artisans.