indian tourism statistics 2023

India Tourism Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide

by GoWithGuide travel specialist: Ajitsa A.

How many times a day do you use the words mango, pajamas, jungle, or shampoo? If the answer is more than once, you're already experiencing the cultural, historical, and social impact of India . Home to 1.4 billion people , and the birthplace of worldwide gems like chess and wireless communication, what you know about India is just the tip of the iceberg. The only thing that'll slow your journey is some good old information overload. No worries, you’ve come to the right place. 

Our ultimate guide to India will start your trip on the right foot, giving you the highs, lows, facts, and figures. Let's dive into what makes India so incredible, what to do once you get there, and how to create unforgettable memories in the land of mystery and diversity. 

​ Why We Love India  

India never lacks a mesmerizing scene, from the awe-inspiring Himalayas of the north to the enchanting classical dances of the south. The peninsula drew in 8.6 million foreign tourists in February 2023 alone. With 10.9 million international arrivals in 2019 and 6.98 million non-resident Indian arrivals, India beat out major tourist destinations like South Korea, Egypt, and Australia to be the 22nd most visited country in the world. 

So is tourism booming in India? Yes! 2020’s slump saw only 3 million visitors, but they bounced back in 2022 with 6.19 million visitors. So why do tourists love India? The culture, cuisine, and landscapes are a great place to start!

The Culture

Indian culture is celebrated globally, and these elements are but a glimpse of the melting pot of dialects, dressing, delicacies, and dances that await. 

• ​ Classical Indian Dances - Enchanting, vibrant, and full of life, India's folk dances are a passionate display of artistry. The energetic Bollywood moves that take the world by storm have deep roots in traditional dances such as Bharatanatyam and Kathak.
• Vibrant Festivals - If you're lucky enough to be in the country in March, carry a white shirt and a lot of energy for the world-famous Holi festival held across India. Everyone, whether you’re a believer or not, is invited and each region has a special celebration method.
• Spiritual Sites - Beautiful structures like the Vaishno Devi and the Shirdi Temple are just a drop in the ocean of India’s long romance with spirituality. 
• Buzzing Bazaars - Looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs? Head to Delhi's Chandni Chowk, or Hyaderbad's Laad Bazaar. Markets are the backbone of India’s cities, with everything from food and spices to fabric and jewelry. Be sure to go with a local guide for safety and great deals. 
• Traveling By Train - India is known for its classic, charming trains, but if you're looking for luxury, check out the Palace on Wheels or the Maharaja Express . 

The Cuisine 

Sweet, spicy, and savory, India is often considered a mecca for culinary travelers. Each region has its gems, so the best way to discover them is with one of our all-out India food tours!

• ​ North Indian - The birthplace of butter chicken, aloo samosas, fluffy parathas, and dal makhani is an ideal place to kick off your foodie festival. A Delhi food walk would highlight the north's coveted cuisine.
• West Indian - Sweet and savory pork vindaloo, Laal maas, Ghewar, and fish curry are some of the delicious dishes you can expect from West India. 
• South Indian - Spices from the south are on another level, so dishes like the Hyderabadi biryani, masala dosa, and chicken Chettinad have transcended local tastes to become international favorites. 
• East & North East Indian - Welcome to the often underlooked east & northeast region. Khaja Pitha, mutton & pumpkin Lonvas, Sandesh and gobi manchurian are local must-haves. 
• Central Indian - There’s nothing like a fresh cup of Thandai, some Boti kebab, and some murgh musallam after a festival.

The Landscapes

When it comes to nature, India is a sanctuary blessed with scenery and terrain that makes it the only country to have tigers and lions. These landscapes will leave you breathless.

• Lohagad Fort Hiking Trail - Deep in Maharashtra lies an architectural marvel mixed with the lush greenery and steep hills that make this region a peaceful escape from the city.
• ​ Nubra Valley - Ladakh is a bucket list location for many reasons, but this cold desert valley mixed with blossoming foliage blends Tibet and Kashmir’s beauty seamlessly. 
• Alappuzha - There's a lot of praise for Kerala and with good reason. By far, the best way to enjoy this beach city is with a houseboat cruise through its backwaters. 
• Chandra Tal Lake - The thrilling nature of the Indian Himalayan Region can hardly be explained. You'll be at a loss for words when you encounter the crystal waters of ChandraTal. Simply stunning. 
• The Munnar Tea Hills - We're back in Kerala, but this time, it's to appreciate the rolling tea hills of Munnar, a spectacular example of man-made effort and nature's enduring allure. 

Who Else Loves India 

If you’re already falling in love with India, you’re in good company. The travel and tourism industry pulled in 194 billion USD , contributing to 6.8% of the country’s GDP. 

So where does India rank in tourism? According to the World Economic Forum, it ranked 34th out of 140 counties in its Travel and Tourism Competitive Index for 2019. Want to know which country sends the most tourists to India? The winner is…

• Bangladesh - With 2.5 million visitors touching down in 2019, India’s neighbor to the east has been the country’s largest tourism pool for years.
• The United States - How many US citizens visited India? In 2019,  1.5 million travelers from the United States arrived, with most touching down in India for spiritually-related travel. In fact, US citizens can stay in India for up to 180 days with a digitized e-tourist visa .
• The United Kingdom - The UK’s obsession with all things India explains the 1 million visitors that spent time in the nation greatly contributed to the Brit's passion for tea and curry.
• Australia - Over 370,000 visitors from the land down under flocked to this beloved peninsula in 2019. In fact, Australia took over Sri Lanka’s 2018 position as number 4.
• Canada - Capping off the top five is Canada with 351,859 visitors.

So we know why, and we know who, but where would you go if you touched down in India today? Decisions decisions. To ask which part of India is the most beautiful begs for a complicated answer, but we’ll do our best!

India At A Glance: Planning The Perfect Trip (Where, When & How)  

Alright, so you're ready to jet-set your way to the land of colors, but you're stumped about the rest. Here's our take on the best way to enjoy India's treasures. 

Where To Go: India’s Top Destinations

• ​ Kerala - Ask anybody which part of India is the most beautiful, and chances are they'll answer Kerala. Time Magazine agrees, dubbing Kerala the 9th greatest place in the world! Touring Kerala can take some time, so we recommend a detailed Backwater Kerala Tour that immerses you in the god's favorite land.
• New Delhi - From the India Gate to the Lotus temple and Humayun's tomb, India's capital city is the nation's heartbeat, combining stories and monuments from the nation’s grandest eras. To get a taste of the city, try a Private Delhi tour .
• Agra - One of the seven wonders of the world awaits, rested in Uttar Pradesh. This is the home of the Taj Mahal. Need we say more? Take on the Taj Mahal and Agra's history with a Hidden Gems tour .  
• Jaipur - Rajasthan’s capital city is a place for palace lovers. Known for the stunningly designed Amber Palace, Hawa Mahal, Samode Palace, and the City Palace, Jaipur's charm is glaring. The pink city is particularly magnificent at sunset, so set out early with a  Jaipur tour that features a stunning sunset dinner.
• Mumbai - With over 20 million residents, Mumbai is often considered India's New York. Swanky apartments, busy highways, and bustling markets make it the best place for a full-day Mumbai adventure.
• Varanasi - As the birthplace of Buddhism, and the home of the oldest religion in the world (Hinduism), India, and especially Varanasi, is a key spot for spiritual travelers. From the sacred temples and satisfying tea to the holy waters of the Ganges river, our Varanasi walking tours paint a vivid image of the nation’s deeply rooted spiritual history.

Travel Tip: What to know which city is the most touristy in India? It's a close tie between Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Looking to escape touristy crowds? Private tours in places like Ladakh and Varanasi can be organized with a GWG private guide.

When To Go: India’s Spectacular Weather

Given its sheer size, India has a complex seasonal schedule featuring monsoons, light rains, intense heat and cold winds depending on the region. So when should you go? Let's weigh the options.

• ​ Winter: The Big Chill (January - February) Generally speaking, India’s coldest months run from December to February, with temperatures in the south and southeast ranging from 20-25°C and those in colder northwest regions dropping to 10-15°C. 
• Summer: Sweltering Heat (March - June) Summer in India is no joke. Hot and humid temperatures across the country average 30-35°C, but can go up to 40°C in parts of Central and Southern India.
• Monsoon Season: Heavy Rains (July-September) July to September bring India's legendary and terrifying monsoon season, with rains lasting from 75 to 120 days, depending on the region. Areas in the southwest and western regions are heavily affected.
• Autumn: Monsoon Recovery (October-December) By September, the rains have eased up, and temperatures generally drop from 38°C to 28°C between October and November.

​ Overall, Winter and Autumn are considered ideal travel times due to the cool weather and calm rains. India’s status as a peninsula invites diverse winds and terrain, creating specific weather conditions for each region. Notable regions include;

Northern & Northeast India Destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Rajasthan, Himalayas, Varanasi Hottest Months - March to June (highs of 42°C) Average Daily Temperature - Erratic (from 20-40°C) Ideal Travel Time - October to February (average 17-26°C) Stay Inside - July to August, May.

​ Southern & Southeast India Destinations: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh Hottest Months - March to May (highs of 40°C) Average Daily Temperature - 32°C Ideal Travel Time - November to March (average 20-30°C) Stay Inside - June to September monsoons

​ Western India Destinations: Mumbai, Udaipur, Goa Hottest Months - May (highs of 33°C) Average Daily Temperature - 26.4°C Ideal Travel Time - November to April  Stay Inside - July Rainy Season

​ How To Get There: Navigating India’s Transport Systems

Traveling through India can be hectic, as the country's transportation networks can be tricky for newcomers. These transit tidbits are a great starting point, but we recommend discussing travel options with a  knowledgeable local guide .

• Travel By Rail - Catering to 8 billion travelers per year with over 20,000 daily trips, India’s rail system is a national symbol of ingenuity and coordination. Highly affordable and highly convenient.
• Rickshaw Rides - Need to get to a nearby landmark or monument? Hop in one of these three-wheeled wonders and watch your driver navigate traffic with ease. Rickshaws are fast, super cheap, and convenient.
• Taxi, Please - Taxis are a dime a dozen in India, but picking the right one can be a hassle. It’s best to stick to services like Ola Cabs or Uber when hailing a cab. Alternatively, GoWithGuide tours can be customized with a private car to ensure you spend your time touring and not in transit.

​ Travel Truth: Tourism’s Highs and Lows

​ So what is a major problem in India's travel and tourism industry? One of the biggest hindrances is the outside world's perception of India as a nation. That takes a lot of time and money to change. This is followed by the lack of infrastructure management and expansion to meet the growing tourism sector.

What To Expect: Life In The Land Of Colors

With so much culture to absorb, some shock is bound to set in. Is India a friendly country to foreigners? Yes, but there are a few things you should know before you go. Here’s the scoop on living your best stress-free life in India.

Do’s & Don’ts  

Every country has its quirks. When in India, it’s good to keep these tips in mind.

Staying Safe: Red Flags For Travelers 

Alright, let's get to the tough stuff. India's magic can sometimes be dulled by valid safety concerns. In 2021, the National Crime Records Bureau recorded 446 crime incidents for every 100,000 people, so can you stay safe while touring the country? Yes, if you start by looking out for these red flags;

Tampered Taxi Meter -  the phrase “Sorry sir/madam, my meter is broken” followed by a hiked taxi price is common. To avoid this, agree on a price beforehand, travel with a guide, or use set prices from apps like Uber.  If your taxi doesn’t have a meter, don’t even bother getting in.

Pickpockets and Public Transport - It's unavoidable. So stay as vigilant as possible and keep your things close when on public buses and trains. The stations are where pickpocketing antics run wild.

Train Ticket Valet - After you purchase a train ticket, anyone asking you to pay for "stamped validation is a scammer". There's no such thing. Keep your ticket to yourself and only show it to the train's conductor after paying. 

Bags, Please - Anyone asking to assist you with your luggage will want a tip afterward, even if it was for two seconds. To avoid this, keep your luggage in your hands.

​ That last part can put a dark cloud over your dreams of touring India, but it shouldn't. You can dismiss those travel woes with a private tour guide, so you get to;

• Stay away from sketchy venues and vendors.
• Avoid strange people looking to take advantage of you.
• Stick to a schedule designed by Y-O-U, so every activity is what you want to do.
• Discover India’s hidden gems, known only by locals.

​ Sounds like a sweet deal right? Let’s take your trip to the next level with a customizable private guided tour , and make those memories we’ve been talking so much about. 

P.S. Looking to travel with companions? The more, the merrier. Share this post with your friends and get them as excited about touring India as you are.

Popular India Tour Guides

I am a passionate Mumbaikar and has a keen interest in the culture and heritage of Mumbai. Over the last 5 years I have been doing Buddhist cave tours and culture walks in Mumbai which tell the story of the city. My favorite walk is the Gothic and Art Deco story of Mumbai. I have hosted hundreds of guests from 15 countries on this architecture walk. I am also a media technology veteran with multiple patents. I am the founder of sync2TV, a Mobile-alongside-TV marketing platform, with which TV content/ advertising can now become interactive via mobile phone in real time. Prior to getting into tourism, I have worked for more than a decade in WPP owned media agencies across India. China and Philippines. I am a master of silent meditation and a student of comparative religion. Other than architecture walks, I also hosts Buddhist cave tours around Mumbai. I holds a Bachelors in Mass Media (advertising and marketing) from S.I.E.S College, (Mumbai University). I also hold a Post Graduation Diploma (BRM) from Mudra Institute of Communication, Ahmedabad.                                                                                                                                  

Completed long 35 years in Travel & Tourism . Met tourists from different countries along with tourists from other parts of India . I feel proud since the beginning of my carrier while meets with the guest because meeting with the people, irrespective of countries, region , state opens up the stage of learning and also exchange the views .                                                                                                                                  

Enjoying my work as a guide because most intresting thing about my profession is meeting with the people from all over the world. Being a guide I love to take initiative to make my Guest feel comfortable and let them know about our Religion, people's opinion and as well know about there religion and tradition.Recieving people from every corner of the world with warm welcome as a guest to India and say them bye as a good friend is my quality.                                                                                                                                  

I am a post Graduate in Buddhism MA currently working as a tour guide holding license from Tourism Ministry Govt Of India.I am based in Mumbai- Bombay.I am associated with leading tour operators of Mumbai offering my services in English.                                                                                                                                  

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Indian tourism booms with 106% rise in foreign tourist arrivals in 2023

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Economic Survey 2023: Tourism sector showing signs of revival, foreign tourist arrivals growing 

Economic survey findings: the survey further stated that aircraft movement increased by 52.9 per cent on-year in the country between april and november 2022 on account of relaxations in covid-19 norms and the resumption of scheduled international flights. .

• Updated Jan 31, 2023, 2:52 PM IST

Economy Survey FY23: India’s tourism sector is showing signs of revival with the waning of the COVID-19 pandemic and the removal of the restrictions and is ranked 10th out of the top 64 countries in the world in the Medical Tourism Index FY21, according to the Economic Survey.  The survey said that medical tourism is on the rise due to government initiatives like the Ayush visa for medical tourists, the launch of the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Traveller Campaign, the introduction of the Swadeshi Darshan 2.0 scheme and Heal in India.

The survey further stated that aircraft movement increased by 52.9 per cent on-year in the country between April and November 2022 on account of relaxations in COVID-19 norms and the resumption of scheduled international flights. The survey stated: “The tourism sector is also showing signs of revival, with foreign tourist arrivals in India in FY23 growing month-on-month with the resumption of scheduled international flights and the easing of COVID-19 regulations.” 

The coronavirus pandemic not only impacted the tourism sector but also the hotel industry as the average hotel occupancy stood at 33 per cent to 36 per cent in 2020. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic affected the fortunes of the hospitality and tourism industries in recent years. The hotel industry closed the year 2020 with an average hotel occupancy rate of 33-36 per cent, reflecting a decline of 32 per cent. In the wake of failing demand and occupancies, hotels reduced tariffs significantly to attract business, thus, pulling down Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) to [a] dismal low of Rs 1,500- Rs 1,800, a decline of around 57-59 percent,” the survey noted. 

The hotel industry, however, recovered in the Q3 of 2021 due to growth in domestic leisure travel, partial resumption of business travel in India and wedding and social events. During the year 2021, small to medium-sized meetings also made a comeback, leading to a rise in demand for hotels. The sector recorded an average occupancy of 42 per cent to 45 per cent in 2021, 10-13 percentage points higher over 2020. 

After a revival in 2021, the hotel industry was hit by renewed travel restrictions across states in the beginning of 2022 due to the emergence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 as people put their holidays and business travel plans on hold. Travel returned to normal levels in March 2022 given lower severity, lower hospitalisation rates, higher vaccination rate, and overall effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hotel occupancy rate in November 2022 was around 68 per cent to 70 per cent, reaching the average pre-pandemic level of 2019-20. 

Also read:  Economic Survey 2022-23 LIVE updates: India poised to do better remainder of this decade, says CEA

Also read:  Economic Survey 2022: Retail inflation back within RBI’s target range, says govt

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Tourism & Hospitality

India ranks 6th according to wttc in terms of travel & tourism total contribution to gdp in 2022  .

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Quick links, unlock the marvels of incredible india, powerhouse of tourism and hospitality.

Tourism and Hospitality, as one of India's largest service industries, plays an extraordinary role in driving the nation's growth and prosperity. 

The Tourism and Hospitality sector is an integral part of the Make in India initiative, serving as a vital economic catalyst that fuels job creation and rapid development. 

It acts as a stimulant for the growth of multi-use infrastructure, including world-class hotels, resorts, exquisite restaurants, efficient transportation networks (aviation, roads, shipping, and railways), and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. 

India proudly boasts a tapestry of geographical diversity, encompassing awe-inspiring world heritage sites and niche tourism offerings such as captivating cruise tourism, exhilarating adventure tourism, renowned medical tourism, and mesmerizing eco-tourism. These unique offerings have resulted in an exponential increase in tourist arrivals, opening up vast employment opportunities. 

The recently announced 2023 Union Budget has firmly placed tourism as a key sector in the spotlight. The Ministry of Tourism, in its mission mode, is dedicated to promoting the industry through active participation from all States, the convergence of Government Programs, and the establishment of impactful Public-Private Partnerships. This visionary approach will facilitate comprehensive development in at least 50 selected destinations through a challenge mode process. 

Recognizing the importance of diversity and gender empowerment, the tourism industry stands as a leading employer of women. The government proactively collaborates with industry stakeholders to create a conducive work environment that fosters equal opportunities and celebrates the contributions of female employees. 

The Ministry of Tourism has also designated the Year 2023 as the 'Visit India' year, an invitation to the world to witness the splendor and magnificence that our nation has to offer. 

Embracing a progressive outlook, India welcomes 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the tourism industry under the automatic route.  

Additionally, 100% FDI is permitted for tourism construction projects, including the development of exquisite hotels, resorts, and unparalleled recreational facilities. 

For comprehensive details, please refer to the FDI Policy, which highlights the investment opportunities and guidelines in the tourism sector. 

India's tourism industry stands as a beacon of boundless possibilities, with its rich heritage, cultural tapestry, and captivating destinations. We invite you to embark on an extraordinary journey of investment and partnership, where your vision aligns with the immense potential India holds

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (Jan-Dec 2023)

Domestic Tourist Visits to all States/UTs (2022)

Annual Growth Rate of FTAs in India (2022)

Foreign exchange earnings (FEE) from tourism (Jan-Dec 2023)

Share of India in International Tourism Receipts (ITRs) in World

6th in terms of Travel & Tourism total contribution to GDP, WTTC (2021)

2nd in terms of Travel & Tourism Employment, WTTC (2021)

54 th  on the World Economic Forum Travel & Tourism Development Index (2022)

• FOREIGN INVESTMENT
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• POLICIES & SCHEMES

Government of India envisions $56 Bn forex, creating around 140 Mn jobs in tourism by 2030 through inclusive growth and  particularly focusing on cruise tourism, ecotourism and adventure tourism.   

The Indian Tourism sector ranks among the fastest-growing economic sectors in the country. The industry significantly impacts employment and drives regional development, while also creating a multiplier effect on the performance of related industries.

By 2028, India's tourism and hospitality industry is projected to generate revenue of over $59 Bn. Additionally, Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) are anticipated to reach 30.5 Mn by 2028.

In light of India's G20 Presidency and the India@75 Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, the Ministry of Tourism has designated 2023 as the 'Visit India Year' to promote inbound travel.

The Honorable Prime Minister has envisioned a mission mode approach to develop tourism during Amrit Kaal, with a strategic roadmap for the next 25 years. The objective is to position India as the foremost travel destination globally by the time we celebrate India@100 in 2047, creating unparalleled appeal for visitors from around the world. 

Ministry of Tourism is planning to organize a Global Tourism Investors Summit along with Central Ministries and State/UT Governments to showcase opportunities for investment and trade. The event will allow global investors to explore Indian Tourism products and services.

Union Budget 2023 Highlights:

• 50 tourist destinations will be selected through challenge mode to be developed as a whole package for domestic and international tourism
• Sector-specific skilling and entrepreneurship development to be dovetailed to achieve the objectives of the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative
• Tourism infrastructure and amenities to be facilitated in border villages through the Vibrant Villages Programme
• Unity Malls to be set up in State Capitals or prominent tourist centres

GROWTH DRIVERS

Infrastructure development.

More than half of the Ministry of Tourism’s budget is channelised for funding the development of destinations, circuits, mega projects as well as rural tourism infrastructure projects.

Hotels & Accommodation

Revenue is projected at $7.66 Bn in 2023. CAGR of 8.29% between 2023-27. 61.3 Mn potential customers by 2027

Adventure Tourism

India has 70% of the Himalayas, a 7,000+ Km of coastline, ranks 10th in total area under forest cover, and is one of the three countries in the world with both hot and cold deserts.

Medical tourism

Medical tourism and wellness retreats attract 21% of international travelers, leveraging world-class healthcare facilities and traditional healing practices.

Cruise Tourism

Cruise passenger traffic expected to increase from 0.4 Mn to 4 Mn by 2032. Increase in economic potential from $110 Mn to $5.5 Bn.

Eco-Tourism

Expected to grow at 15.7% between 2019-27 & reach $4.55 Bn. India offers unique destinations, exploration of wildlife, and pristine undisturbed natural areas.

Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions

The Indian MICE market has less than 1% share currently, but with initiatives such as ‘Meet in India’, National Advisory Council for Mice, India Mice Board, MICE Tourism is projected to double in next 5 years.

Entrepreneurial Opportunities

The tourism sector has 1,300+ DPIIT recognized startups.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Ministry of Tourism is set to host the First Global Tourism Investors Summit in 2023 in collaboration with Central Ministries and State/UT Governments. 

This mega event aims to highlight investment and trade opportunities while providing a platform for international investors to discover India's diverse tourism products and services.  

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Recognising the potential of rural tourism in the country, the Ministry of Tourism has identified Rural Circuit as one of the fifteen thematic circuits for development under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and is aimed at leveraging tourism as a force multiple for revitalizing the rural economy and for giving both domestic and international tourists a glimpse of rural aspect of the country.

Further, Ministry of Tourism has formulated a Draft 'National Strategy and Roadmap for Development of Rural Tourism in India - An initiative towards Atmanirbhar Bharat', which, inter alia, focuses on generating income and jobs in rural areas and empower local communities, youth and women, fulfilling the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The GOI has identified 78 lighthouses in the country as centres of tourism, which are in the first phase under Public Private Partnership (PPP). The identified lighthouses are in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The GOI has kick started the ‘lighthouse tourism’ project by inviting initial qualification bids to develop eight lighthouses in the first phase, at a cost of INR 128 crore, under the public-private-partnership model for 7 lighthouses.

The goal of the revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme is to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations in the country. The scheme is aimed at 360-degree holistic development with a focus on increasing self-employment, youth skilling, private sector investments, and preserving local cultures.

The strategic objectives of the Scheme are: (i) To enhance the contribution of tourism to the local economies (ii) To create jobs including self-employment for local communities (iii) To enhance the skills of local youth in tourism and hospitality (iv) To increase private sector investment in tourism and hospitality (v) To preserve and enhance the local cultural and natural resources  

Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme focuses on developing and identifying pilgrimage sites across India for enriching the religious tourism experience. It aims to integrate pilgrimage destinations in a prioritised, planned and sustainable manner to provide a complete religious tourism experience. As on date, total number of destinations/sites identified for development under the scheme at present are 68 in 30 states/UTs.

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India’s outbound tourism expected to reach $44.7 billion by 2032 

India’s outbound tourism is expected to reach $44.7 billion by 2032, a recently released report produced in association with the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has revealed. Between June and August 2023, international leisure flight bookings from India have increased by 40 per cent in comparison with the same period the year before, the highest recorded level of outbound leisure flight bookings from India in the post-COVID-19 era.

Singapore has received the highest flight bookings from India, followed by San Francisco (USA), Melbourne (Australia), Toronto (Canada), and Bali (Indonesia). In the period considered, the USA, the UK and Canada were the most booked destinations. Bali and Singapore were the most popular choices in the Asian region.

India’s foreign exchange earnings from tourism during January- April this year were at $8.667 billion compared with  $3.115 billion in the same period in 2022, data from the Ministry of Tourism has revealed. For perspective, India earned a total of $25.6 billion in foreign exchange from tourism in 2019, an increase of 8.3 per cent.

In 2022, India generated Asia’s highest outbound travel volume, exceeding those of China, South Korea, and Japan. Moreover, foreign tourist arrivals in India stood at 31.3 lakh between January and April, up from 11.7 lakh arrivals in the year-ago period, as per the ministry. 

India saw about 21.9 per cent of foreign tourist arrivals from neighouring nation Bangladesh, followed by the USA, from where 16.3 per cent of total travelers came, another 10.3 per cent from the UK, five per cent from Canada, and 4.5 per cent from Australia.

Interestingly, Madurai, Bhubaneswar and Varanasi were the most searched domestic destinations for flights, while Auckland, Jeddah and Colombo came out as the most searched overseas destinations.  Travellers from India are also eyeing destinations such as Hong Kong and Tokyo in the Asian region, which reduce their flight budget by up to one-fourth.

Surge in international traffic The Ministry of Civil Aviation has reported an 88 per cent increase in the flow of international passengers during the first quarter of 2023, compared to the same period last year, indicating a robust recovery for the aviation sector. India has open sky arrangements with 23 countries, which has facilitated unlimited operations between India and these countries. Additionally, more than 1.23 crore people have travelled on Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (Udan) flights. A total of 148 airports, nine heliports and two water aerodromes have also been developed and operationalised to offer improved connectivity across the country.

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• Travel, tourism sector expected to add 5.82 cr jobs in India by 2033

Incidentally, talent demand in tourism recorded a 44 per cent spike in August 2023, and 1.6 million additional jobs were expected to be added in the calendar year 2023, he said. With the continued growth momentum, the travel and tourism sector is all set to add 58.2 million jobs by 2033, throughout the country, he added.

• Published On Apr 30, 2024 at 01:56 PM IST

US travel sector faces long wait for China tourism to hit 2019 highs

China gradually began lifting travel-related restrictions from January 2023 and fully lifted group tour restrictions in August last year, but the resultant rise in Chinese arrivals to nearly 1.1 million remains 60 per cent below 2019 levels, according to data from the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO).

• Updated On Apr 30, 2024 at 01:56 PM IST

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