Indian Handicrafts on Travel

Not only exports, handicrafts in India are a major attraction for tourists. All Indian states have their unique native skills that result in creation of exotic crafts. The traveler comes across works of art and crafts all over his route.

Those on tours to Kerala or Rajasthan states are likely to discover and be impressed by Indian handicrafts since these are popular destinations. In popular tourists states an infrastructure has been laid down in bringing forth all elements of tourist attractions.

But as rest of India opens up to tourism, more and more states are gearing up to display and promote the local talent which produces unique works of arts. Be it jewelry, wooden statues, brass works and designer dresses. Those on travel to India must read and know about before hand the craftsmanship popular in the parts of India they are visiting. Find out where to see and buy them.

There are many Government Agencies that promote handicraft trade in the country to assist local communities. These efforts provide economic assistance and empowerment to locals especially the women.  

The government has taken lot of steps forward to encourage exports and exposure on crafts from India. EPCH has been set up for this very purpose.

EPCH full form Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts under Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, Textile Ministry GOI was set up under EXIM policy in yr 1986-87. It helps create infrastructure and encourages marketing by offering information to member exporters and importers.

It Offers professional advice in areas of technology up gradation, quality and designing in improving standards and specifications, development of products and encourages creativity.
• EPCH organizes visits of members to foreign countries to explore overseas marketing potential.
• Participating in International Trade Fairs of Handicrafts & Gift.
• Organizes Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fairs.
• Acts as intermediately between exporters and Govt. at Central and State level. It represents all the committees / panels of Central.
• EPCH creates awareness through Workshops on "Export Marketing, Procedures and Documentation", Packaging, Design Developments, Buyer Seller Meets, Open House and other such programs.
• EPCH disseminates notification, orders, information on trades etc issued by GOI.

Of late tour operators offering package tour to Kerala include visit to handicraft fairs. This is also done in package tours to Rajasthan in Western India. The villages in the states which produces handicrafts are unique in nature.

Destination Chhattisgarh

It was a long duration visit to Chhattisgarh in year 2001. The purpose was business travel as well as spend some days in the serene tropical greenery of the state.

The first stop was of course the capital of the state Raipur. This was once a small town comparatively. It is now experiencing brisk growth and development. It is fast becoming industrialized as more and more mineral wealth is being discovered. The city is the central hub of the state named as the state with thirty six forts (Hindi). In spite of being smaller than the Central Indian town of Jabalpur, Raipur boasts of a regular and uninterrupted air service which tells of the importance of this historical town of the tribal kings.

Contrary to popular belief this town is by no means a small place and offers all modern amenities as well. Among the visitors the three star hotels in Raipur are gaining popularity as number of visitors to the the capital increase year by year. Chhattisgarh offers scenic splendor unimaginable a quaint air of rustic environs and greenery hangs all around as you travel through the state.

No wonder is a densely forested state rich in natural resource and mineral wealth. Apart from economical opportunities and sightseeing this exotic state offers best wildlife safaris in India. With large number of sanctuaries like Barnawapara and some well known National Parks like Indravati this state is a paradise on Earth. Only when one sets foot unto this piece of Earth does one realize the magnificence of beauty and splendor that beholds a traveler's eye.

The fear of ultras (Naxal) is over hyped as they are not known to target tourists and business travelers. Yep though it is advised to stay away from areas with heightened ultra activity.

Indian states: Tourist Places

The states of India with much tourism potential are Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Kerala and Rajasthan. Goa is another tourist which is very popular.

Madhya Pradesh is popular for Khajuraho Temples and Indian tiger reserves. Apart from these is Ranchi and places of interest near Ujjain, Bhopal and Indore. Kanha and Bandhavgarh tiger reserve. Indian wildlife and tiger makes its last stronghold in this state.

Delhi and Agra offers historical places to visit. Taj Mahal and Delhi fort, Kutub Minar are well known. Delhi is capital of India and bustling metro with excellent cuisine, culture and hectic civic life.

Kerala is God's own country with unique landscape, culture and back water paradise which is responsible for the popularity of this state. It offers excellent festivities and public ceremonies.

Rajasthan is ful of desert kingdoms of Rajputs. It is well known for its forts, palaces of Maharajas and desert life. It is well known for wildlife as well, namely Ranthambhore and Sariska tiger reserves.

Goa a union territory is a beach paradise well known for its culture, cuisine and beaches. Beach parties are important events for vacation seekers from USA and UK and from the rest of Europe.

Apart from all these states whole of India has tremendous tourism to offer. It is for those traveling in India decide what to see and where to see...tiger safari..cultural tour...historical tour..religious tours or just to experience India sub continent.