MTDC partners with Airbnb to promote offbeat destinations in Maharashtra

Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is partnering with Airbnb to promote homestay and bed and breakfast (B&B) tourism in Maharashtra. By promoting homestay tourism, this partnership will encourage travel to lesser-known destinations and will enable inclusive community-led tourism in the state, that will further enhance economic prospects.

The partnership furthers both parties’ commitment to support a sustainable tourism ecosystem, while highlighting current and upcoming tourism destinations in the state. Through knowledge sharing and training workshops with hosts, the partnership will also enhance the potential of tourism to create jobs and sustain livelihoods for local communities and will spotlight unique properties as more travellers explore stays near metro cities.

Announcing the partnership, Aaditya Thackeray, minister for tourism, environment and climate change and protocol in Maharashtra, said: “Maharashtra is an ecologically and culturally rich state and offers travellers unique travel experiences. We are committed to improving community-driven hospitality that is sustainable and offers travellers accessible, affordable and quality tourism. Safety is also key. With Airbnb, we will strengthen the ecosystem for the growth of homestays and B&Bs in the state, to revive tourism growth in the coming months.”

Amanpreet Bajaj, general manager of India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan at Airbnb, said: “This partnership is a valuable opportunity to drive rapid demand growth towards domestic tourism and to support economic recovery. Airbnb has always been committed to highlighting unique destinations that are off the beaten track, and to ensure that economic benefits of tourism reach as many communities as possible.”

According to Airbnb’s own search trends and data, destinations within Maharashtra such as Karjat, Igatpuri, Alibag and Panchgani remain widely searched for options with their stunning scenery, including in the backdrop of the Western Ghats, and offer authentic cultural experiences for travellers.