What's Happening?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has launched a self-guided digital audio tour system at Kuda Caves in Raigad district and Lohagad Fort in Pune district, Maharashtra. This initiative allows visitors
to explore these heritage sites independently using QR codes and their mobile phones. The project, part of a larger digital heritage program, aims to enhance visitor experience by providing detailed historical and architectural insights. The audio guides, available in English and Hindi, with Marathi versions forthcoming, explain the significance of the sites, including inscriptions and donations from ancient traders. The system uses GPS to play relevant audio as visitors move through the sites, and can be accessed both online and offline. This initiative builds on a similar program introduced by ASI in 2023 at Vadnagar, which has been experienced by visitors from 28 countries.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant as it represents a modern approach to heritage conservation and education, making historical sites more accessible and informative to the public. By leveraging technology, ASI is addressing the gap in visitor knowledge about the importance of these sites, potentially increasing tourism and engagement with India's rich cultural history. The initiative also highlights the potential for digital tools to enhance cultural preservation efforts, offering a model that could be replicated at other heritage sites globally. The project could lead to increased visitor numbers, benefiting local economies and promoting cultural tourism.
What's Next?
Following the successful pilot at Kuda and Lohagad, ASI plans to expand the digital audio tour system to additional monuments across Maharashtra. The rollout will occur in phases, with new sites being added every Saturday. Upcoming locations include Bhaja, Shivneri Fort, and Naneghat, among others. This expansion will cover ASI-protected monuments in the Pune, Konkan, Kolhapur, and Mumbai regions. The continued development and implementation of this system will likely involve collaboration with technical partners and further content creation to ensure comprehensive coverage of each site.
