A new perspective of the Statue of Unity – River cruises from Narmada, launching soon!

Maharashtra is set to boost its tourism industry with a new initiative: river cruises! The state is investing heavily to promote river cruising, taking advantage of its many rivers to create new travel routes.

One of the highlights is a cruise from Nandurbar to the Statue of Unity, a major attraction. Other routes will include the Vashishti River in Konkan and the Godavari River in Nashik. To support these cruises, new ports will be built along the Konkan coast, making it easier to access these destinations.

The state is offering INR 1,666 crore in incentives this year and another INR 1 lakh crore over the next ten years to attract investments. This move is expected to create up to 18 lakh jobs, giving a significant boost to the local economy.

River cruises have the advantage of operating year-round, unlike sea cruises which can be affected by weather. Maharashtra’s rivers, such as the Narmada, Vashishti, and Godavari, offer beautiful scenery and cultural experiences. The new policy includes financial incentives like investment subsidies and tax exemptions to attract businesses.

These cruises will let travelers enjoy local villages, historical sites, regional food, and traditional arts. They will also promote eco-tourism with activities like bird watching and nature walks. With these plans, Maharashtra aims to become a key destination for river cruises, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and sustainable tourism.