Darjeeling numbers low

TT, 24 December 2017, Siliguri: Tourists flow in the Darjeeling hills has thinned to a trickle this winter, mainly because of fears sparked by the statehood agitation earlier this year, with few indications that the tide will turn soon.

"In previous winters, Darjeeling and many other destinations in the hills witnessed (hotel) occupancy rates of around 85 per cent. This would increase to over 90 per cent for three to four days. We have not seen such crowds this time," said Samrat Sanyal, a senior member of the travel trade fraternity.

Others blamed "confusion" generated by the statehood strike - which was called off in late September - in the minds of tourists, most of whom plan well in advance.

"People usually plan a trip three to four months ahead. For Darjeeling, the queries started coming in from October-end (about a month after the agitation was withdrawn). Most tourists would have planned winter trips elsewhere. That is why the turnout is low. Those who are visiting Darjeeling now have made last-minute decisions," Sanyal said.

Hopes now rest on the summer of 2018. "Normality has been restored in the hills. We expect people to plan trips for the summer now. The inflow will surely increase from March-end," said Tanmoy Goswami, a travel planner in Siliguri.

Since the strike was withdrawn, efforts have been made by the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) - which has rebel Morcha leader Binay Tamang at its helm - to bring back visitors and reverse the slump.

A tourism festival begins this week. A series of programmes has been lined up at various venues in the hills with many attractions and offers, ranging from free rides in Land Rovers to free mountain biking to paragliding discounts.

Some others felt memories of the strike and the turbulence it brought to the hills would take time to fade away. "The turnout is low. It seems we have to give some more time to tourists so that they feel confident and visit Darjeeling," said a transport operator.

The picture contrasts with the situation in the Dooars, where a visitor rush has sent resort occupancy rates soaring to 100 per cent this season.

In the hills, discounts are on offer to fill rooms. "Some hotels are offering discounts as high as 35 to 40 per cent. It is quite unusual in Darjeeling where occupancy always remains high during winter. There used to be regular queries from tourists but the bookings are very low this time," said a Siliguri hotelier with properties in Darjeeling.