Tourism

The tourism sector in Tamil Nadu has great potential to create employment and thus contribute meaningfully to economic development. Tamil Nadu is known for various tourist attractions, allures a large number of tourists. The colossal temple towers, palm-fringed beaches, cool and salubrious hill destinations, man-made marvels etc. are the primary attractions of this state. Besides, the culture, handicrafts, eco-tourism, health tourism, village tourism, etc., make this state as a peaceful domain for the visitors to sojourn in Tamil Nadu. Attractive handlooms and handicrafts in various hues and colours speak about their own intricate workmanship. Health tourism has opened up new vistas as there are numerous high -end medical care facilities are available in the state, which are cost-effective.
Tamil Nadu is being promoted as an “enchanting” destination for holidaying in Southern India through massive publicity and marketing and provision of infrastructural facilities and basic amenities at potential tourist spots. Private sector participation is being encouraged in development of tourism. A three pronged approach is being adopted to promote tourism in the State: (i) major publicity campaigns, (ii) creation of infrastructure at tourist spots and (iii) offering attractive packages.
This represents a growth of 14 percent over last year. The gross profit for the year 2006-2007 is estimated as Rs.705.00 lakhs compared to the gross profit of Rs.589.70 lakhs achieved during the year 2005-2006.

Tourism has been declared as an Industry in Tami Nadu. Ten percent capital subsidies up to Rs.10 lakhs are given to tourism projects in TamilNadu with a capital investment not exceeding one crore rupees. Besides 15 percent of capital cost up to Rs.5 lakhs as subsidy for the purchase of Generators. To encourage private investment in tourism projects, the Department of Tourism co-ordinates with different departments for early clearance of the projects.