The Indian inbound tourism market has seen subdued growth over the past couple of years. Domestic tourism, meanwhile, has continued to perform far better. However, industry stakeholders expect inbound demand to improve during the upcoming season, which begins in October.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), India recorded 18.6 million international visitors last year, a 7.4 per cent decline over the previous year. WTTC’s figures include Indians residing overseas who visited the country during the year.
“We expect a stronger inbound season this year driven by growing interest in experiential travel and India’s appeal as a cultural, wellness and business destination. While challenges remain, we are optimistic that targeted promotions, better air connectivity and continued government support will help accelerate inbound tourism growth,” said Subhash Goyal, chairman of STIC Travel & Air Charter Group.
KB Kachru, president of the Hotel Association of India and chairman – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “The latest trend shows that inbound tourism is not going down. We are optimistic about the forthcoming inbound season’s outlook. The central and state governments along with tourism and hospitality associations in the country are collaborating and looking at how India can be positioned as a preferred tourist destination globally.”
The positive outlook for inbound tourism this year also stems from India resuming tourist visas for Bangladeshi citizens earlier this year, following their suspension in 2024 due to political tensions. Bangladesh has traditionally been India’s primary inbound source market.
“Before the suspension of tourist visas, Bangladesh contributed over two million visitors annually. The demand is back now but there is a need to restore confidence of Bangladeshi tourists who are looking to visit India,” added Debjit Dutta, chairman, West Bengal Chapter of the Indian Association of Tour Operators.
