How to Become a Tour Guide in India

Though traditional wisdom dictates that job security can be found only in office jobs, many young people are challenging that notion these days. Coming up with new and exciting ways to follow their passion, while making money at the same time, is one of the key characteristics of many today. Travelling and learning about the history and culture of places around is a passion for many. There are a few ways to turn travelling into a business opportunity like blogging and becoming a travel guide. If you love to meet people from different parts of the country and the world, and share your cultural heritage with them, becoming a tour guide is a great option. Here are the steps you need to take if you want to know how to become a tour guide in India.

In order to become a tour guide you first have to pass an entrance exam. After that you have to enrol in the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, an institute that holds training programmes on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism. Heritage tour guides need 330 hours of training while Tour Guides require 420. This training consists of theoretical as well as practical knowledge. Part time guides are required to undergo a training for 8 weeks and can continue their college or job while providing tour guide services on the side. The course is held once every two years. Eligibility criteria require you to be at least 18 and score a minimum of 50% to enrol in the training course.

There are a multitude of travel guide around many of whom are not licensed which is why a certified tour guide in India is always in demand. Odigos is a great platform as it provides you access to a host of domestic & international tourists. An app that takes into consideration the safety and preferences of the guides, you can see the tourist’s profile and decide whether or not to accept. Registration on the app is free and you have the freedom to choose your itineraries. As tourists have to book in advance you are protected from any last-minute cancellations. Students can work as part time guides in their cities to make a little extra cash too. As a tour guide you have the freedom of choosing your itinerary, your time and your days; essentially becoming your own boss a dream for many enduring the drudgery of a regular 9-6 job.

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