Wheelchair-Friendly Places in India you Need to Know!

While many travel destinations are easily accessible, it’s hard to imagine the challenges faced by people with disabilities who struggle to visit the attractions they dream of seeing. For those who rely on wheelchairs, the obstacles can be particularly daunting.

However, the country has begun to recognise the importance of making places accessible to people from all walks of life. In 2016, the Archaeological Survey of India identified around 50 high-footfall sites where measures were to be implemented to make these locations more disabled-friendly. Here are a few of them worth checking out!

Kochi Fort, Kerala

You would be amazed to know that Kochi Fort was the first-ever tourist spot in India to be declared "disabled-friendly" — all thanks to Kerala Tourism taking the right steps towards this. The introduction of specially crafted ramps and non-slippery tiles was implemented to ensure that the differently-abled and elderly can move comfortably here. Kerala also has self-functioning ramps, special restrooms in hotels, and offers special houseboats for people who might require them.

Candolim Beach, Goa 

Goa is also not far behind on the list. Located in North Goa, Candolim Beach was the first wheelchair-friendly beach in the country. In the past, Candolim Beach has also hosted a wheelchair-accessible beach festival that included activities such as the Aquatic Beach Chair, wheelchair cricket, kite flying, beach bowling, and more. Moreover, Goa also has hotels that are equipped with facilities for wheelchair users.

Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

The heritage Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur is yet another place considered to be wheelchair-friendly. According to a wheelchair traveller, the entrance to the fort is step-free and accessible for wheelchair users. The fort also has a lower floor with rooms on either side of the courtyard, featuring a ramp and a stepped door frame. While the upper floor is still not accessible for people with disabilities, the entire tour is worth a visit.

Connaught Place, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

One of the popular spots in Delhi for a hangout is, undoubtedly, Connaught Place, and it is accessible for people using wheelchairs. The Connaught corridors have step-free access and curb ramps for people. From here, you can also visit the United Coffee House. However, wheelchair travellers who have been to Connaught Place suggest that one must ensure their powered wheelchair is fully charged, as the trip may require a lot of rolling! Apart from this, other tourist destinations like Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb are well-equipped with ramps. Similarly, places like the Indian Air Force Museum, the National Gallery of Modern Art, and open-air spaces like Dilli Haat also have ramps throughout.

Taj Mahal, Agra 

Being one of the most important tourist destinations in India, the Taj Mahal in Agra does not disappoint people who use wheelchairs. To make the iconic landmark disabled-friendly, the government has installed ramps at the Taj Mahal. Along with this, places like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri also offer wheelchairs and golf carts for people who might require them. In addition, the golf carts are also equipped with Braille boards.

Jagannath Temple, Golden Beach, Odisha

The most important landmark in Odisha, Jagannath Temple, is also accessible to people with disabilities. While it can be difficult to visit the temple due to it being jam-packed, people with wheelchairs, differently-abled individuals, and the elderly can make the ‘parikrama’ of the temple in a wheelchair. In addition, the Golden Beach of Odisha holds a Blue Flag for cleanliness and being disabled-friendly.

City Palace, Jaipur

A prominent place in Jaipur, the City Palace, once home to the royals of the city, also has ramps for wheelchair users. Wheelchair travellers mention that the entire complex is accessible. However, they note that the ramps in some areas can be a little steep, so visitors should exercise caution. But if you are a history buff, you can certainly visit this place and learn!