Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) April 3: A structured heritage tourism initiative is gaining momentum as the Department of Art & Culture, A&N Administration, in collaboration with INTACH’s Andaman & Nicobar Islands Chapter, schedules the second Heritage Walk under its ongoing programme on April 4, 2026, in Sri Vijaya Puram.
The early morning ‘Heritage Walk Kalapani Trail’ will be conducted between 5:30 am and 7:30 am, aiming to deepen public engagement with the historical and cultural landscape of the islands. The walk forms part of a broader effort to institutionalise regular heritage-based experiences for residents, tourists, and students, while strengthening cultural tourism frameworks in the region.
Officials stated that the initiative seeks to bring participants closer to historically significant sites linked to the islands’ past, offering direct exposure to narratives, architecture, and lesser-known aspects of local heritage. The trail will cover key locations associated with the historical evolution of the archipelago, enabling participants to engage with the region’s layered identity through guided interpretation.
The programme is open to a wide cross-section of participants, including tourists, students, freelance tourist guides, empanelled guides, and representatives of tour operators. The initiative is also designed to serve as a learning platform for tourism students and local guides, equipping them with experiential knowledge and practical exposure to heritage interpretation.
By integrating guided storytelling with site visits, the walk is expected to enhance awareness of cultural preservation while also creating opportunities for skill development in heritage tourism. Officials indicated that such initiatives are intended to contribute to long-term capacity building in the tourism sector by fostering local expertise and encouraging community participation.
The collaboration with INTACH reflects a coordinated approach to heritage conservation and promotion, aligning cultural preservation efforts with tourism development strategies. The regularisation of heritage walks is seen as a step toward creating sustained public interest in the islands’ historical assets.
Participants interested in joining the Heritage Walk have been advised to register in advance. Details regarding participation can be obtained by contacting the Librarian, Department of Art & Culture, via phone or email as specified by the organisers.
The initiative underscores a growing policy focus on promoting experiential tourism models that combine education, cultural engagement, and community involvement. By opening access to historical trails and encouraging wider participation, authorities aim to position heritage tourism as a key component of the islands’ broader tourism strategy.
