Sat Apr 19 13:42:14 UTC 2025: ## Valparai Tourism Suffers from Neglect of Key Attractions

**COIMBATORE, April 19, 2025** – Valparai’s tourism sector is facing a setback due to the poor condition of the Botanical Garden and Boat House, key attractions for summer visitors. Hoteliers report growing dissatisfaction among tourists due to the lack of well-maintained recreational spaces within the town.

The neglect of these facilities has been attributed to the current DMK-led local body, with AIADMK councillor Manikandan alleging a lack of interest in maintaining attractions developed under their previous administration. Despite a surge in hotel capacity – an increase of over 1,500 beds this year – advance bookings remain low, at only 50% for May, according to Jebaraj, president of the Valparai Taluk Merchants Association. The low booking rate is attributed partly to the disappointing state of the Botanical Garden and Boat House. Forest checkposts are now questioning visitors about their accommodation bookings.

While acknowledging the need for improvements, Municipal Commissioner Raghuram stated that funding has been secured from the Tourism Department for renovations to the Botanical Garden and Boat House. Meanwhile, the local body is preparing for the influx of summer tourists by clearing space at Anna Thidal to create additional parking.

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