From space to the Himalayas: How VR could make travel experiences accessible to everyone

Space tourism may seem like an experience reserved for the ultra-rich, but virtual reality could offer people a chance to experience destinations that may otherwise remain out of reach.

That was one of the ideas explored at the Mathrubhumi Gateway to Malabar Tourism Conclave, where the possibilities of Virtual Reality (VR) in tourism were showcased.

The opening session introduced the tourism sector to the possibilities of virtual reality, showing how the technology could allow people to experience destinations without physically travelling to them.

The concept extends across different kinds of destinations, including:

• Space and space tourism
• The Himalayas
• Foreign destinations
• Heritage and ancient sites
• Local and regional destinations

The central idea is that experiences that may be difficult or expensive to access physically could be brought to a wider audience through VR.

‘A local destination can also be experienced through VR’

Densil Antony, founder and CEO of XR Horizon, introduced the audience to the possibilities of VR at the conclave.

He said even local destinations could be experienced by people through virtual reality, making the technology relevant not just to high-end or international tourism but also to destinations closer to home.

“Even local destinations can be experienced by everyone through VR,” Antony said.

Antony also stressed that virtual reality is not intended to replace conventional tourism.

Instead, VR can offer another way for people to experience places and understand destinations, particularly when physical travel is not possible.