Marking World Tourism Day 2026, Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister S. Rajesh Kumar launched several initiatives aimed at improving tourist experiences through digital technology, artificial intelligence and innovative solutions at an event held at The Residency Hotel in Coimbatore.
The event was attended by Tourism Director and Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Dr. V. P. Jeyaseelan, IAS, Coimbatore District Collector and other senior officials, tourism entrepreneurs, travel agents, tour operators, hotel representatives, tourism enthusiasts, students and experts.
The minister launched the revamped Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation website and mobile application, AI-based videos showcasing Tamil Nadu tourism circuits and the “Innovation Challenge 2026”, organised jointly by StartupTN and the Tourism Department.
The revamped TTDC booking platform has been designed to provide tourists with faster and easier booking facilities. Tourists can check room availability at TTDC hotels and access information on tourism packages and boat houses. The platform also provides online payment, OTP verification and QR code-based booking facilities.
An AI video competition titled “TN AI Video Competition – #ReimagineTN” was also introduced to encourage students, young people, digital content creators and AI enthusiasts.
Participants can create Instagram Reel videos of up to 60 seconds showcasing Tamil Nadu’s tourist destinations, nature, culture, heritage and unique tourism experiences using AI technology.
The “Tamil Nadu Tourism Innovation Challenge 2026” was launched with the theme “Reimagining How the World Experiences Tamil Nadu”. Start-ups, innovators, students, professionals and technology enthusiasts can submit innovative ideas and solutions covering culinary, rural, heritage, cultural, environmental, adventure and digital tourism. Selected participants will receive opportunities for mentoring, a boot camp and a final pitch. The last date for applications is October 15, 2026.
Addressing the gathering, Minister S. Rajesh Kumar said the Tamil Nadu Government was implementing several initiatives to develop tourism in the State. He said new technologies, including digital tools and AI, were essential for modernising the tourism sector and improving tourist experiences.
He said a project to improve the park and infrastructure at the Thirumoorthy Dam at an estimated cost of Rs.19 crore would incorporate AI technology. He also said surveillance cameras would be installed at a cost of Rs.2 crore to enhance tourist safety.
The minister said Coimbatore was a major district with strengths in industry, education, healthcare, agriculture and tourism. He highlighted the district’s natural resources, hill areas, spiritual destinations, heritage and cultural attractions.
A discussion on “Using Technology Across All Stages of Tourism” was also held in the presence of the minister.
Participants exchanged views on expanding digital services, using technology in tourism and improving the overall experience of visitors.
The minister also visited a tourism photography exhibition showcasing the attractions of Coimbatore district.
Tamil Nadu Tourism Launches Digital And AI Initiatives On World Tourism Day
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