Table of Contents
This article is being updated.
International Tourist: Tourism in India
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Foreign Tourist Arrivals (2023) | 9.24 Million |
| Annual Growth Rate of Foreign Tourist Arrivals in India (2022) | 305.4% |
| Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEE) from Tourism (Jan-Dec 2023) | $28.07 Billion |
| Share of India in International Tourism Receipts (ITRs) in the World | 1.64% |
| Vision for 2030 | $56 Billion in forex, 140 Million jobs creation |
| Focus Areas | Cruise Tourism, Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism |
| Special Initiatives | ‘Visit India Year’ 2023 under G20 Presidency and India@75 Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav |
| Scope for Adventure Tourism | India has 70% of the Himalayas, 7,000+ Km of coastline, ranks 10th in total forest area, and is one of three countries with both hot and cold deserts. |
| Medical Tourism | Attracts 21% of international travellers, leveraging world-class healthcare and traditional healing practices. |
Domestic Tourist
| Domestic Tourist Visits to all States/UTs (2022) | 1.73 Billion |
Overview of Tourism in India: Key Statistics and Rankings
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Contribution to GDP (2021) | ₹13.2 lakh crore (US$160 billion), 5.8% of GDP (as per the World Travel and Tourism Council report) |
| Jobs (2021) | 32.1 million |
| Projected Growth by 2031 | ₹33.8 lakh crore (US$400 billion), 7.2% of GDP, 7.8% annual growth rate |
| Global Ranking by Forbes | 7th most beautiful country in ‘The 50 Most Beautiful Countries In The World’ rankings |
| Tourism Development Index (2021) | 54th out of 117 countries overall |
| Travel & Tourism Competitiveness (2019) | 34th out of 140 countries overall; price competitiveness ranked 13th |
| Air Transport Infrastructure (2019) | Ranked 33rd out of 140 countries |
| Ground & Port Infrastructure (2019) | Ranked 28th out of 140 countries |
| Natural Resources (2019) | Ranked 14th out of 140 countries |
| Cultural Resources & Business Travel (2019) | Ranked 8th out of 140 countries |
| Receipts from Tourism (2012) | Ranked 16th globally, 7th among Asian & Pacific countries |
| Foreign Tourists (2022) | 6.19 million |
| Foreign Tourists (2021) | 1.52 million |
| Foreign Tourists (2019) | 10.93 million (Pre-pandemic) |
| Domestic Tourist Visits (2012) | 1,036.35 million |
| India’s Global Visit Rank (2022) | 22nd globally, 8th in Asia and Pacific |
| Medical Tourism Market (2019) | $9 billion (5th largest global healthcare travel destination) |
| National Geographic Recognition (2012) | Kerala was named one of the “ten paradises of the world” and “50 must-see destinations of a lifetime” |
| State with Highest Foreign Tourism (2022) | Gujarat with 20.17% share |
| Ministry of Tourism Initiatives | National policies for tourism development, Incredible India campaign, niche tourism promotion (rural, cruise, medical, eco-tourism) |
Ministry of Tourism – Role and Functions
- The Ministry of Tourism is responsible for creating national tourism policies and programs.
- It coordinates activities between Central Government agencies, State Governments/UTs, and the private sector.
- The Union Minister for Tourism leads the Ministry.
- Ministers of State also support the Union Minister in managing the Ministry.
- The Secretary (Tourism) serves as the administrative head of the Ministry.
- The Director General of Tourism provides executive guidance for policy and program implementation.
- The Directorate General of Tourism has 20 field offices across India.
- These offices provide information to tourists and monitor local tourism projects.
- There is a project office for the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) in Gulmarg, J&K.
- IISM has resumed various skiing and adventure courses in the J&K Valley.
Top 10 Tourist Places in India
Taj Mahal, Agra (Uttar Pradesh)
- The Taj Mahal is a symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
- This white marble masterpiece lies on the banks of the Yamuna River.
- It features intricate carvings, symmetrical gardens, and a kaleidoscopic play of light at sunrise and sunset.
- Every year, nearly 7 million people visit to witness this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Early morning or evening visits offer a transcendent experience with fewer crowds.
Jaipur and the Golden Triangle (Rajasthan)
- Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” is part of India’s Golden Triangle alongside Delhi and Agra.
- The city is famous for Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.
- Each monument has an intricate blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
- Markets here offer colourful textiles, visuals, and handcrafted goods.
- Jaipur is a vibrant crucible of culture, especially during traditional festivals like Diwali and Holi.
Goa
- Goa is India’s tropical paradise, known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese architecture.
- Baga Beach and Calangute Beach are among the most popular spots.
- The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO site with religious and historical significance.
- South Goa offers a tranquil experience, while North Goa beckons adventure seekers.
- Tourists flock here for water sports, fresh seafood, and mesmerizing sunsets.
Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
- Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, lies on the sacred River Ganges.
- The ghats (riverfront steps) are used for daily rituals and evening aarti ceremonies.
- It is a place where life and spirituality intertwine, creating an enigmatic atmosphere.
- Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghats are popular sites to witness traditional rituals.
- Many come to Varanasi for a spiritual experience and to explore its labyrinth of narrow streets.
Kerala Backwaters
- Kerala’s backwaters are a scenic network of canals, rivers, and lakes in a verdant landscape.
- The most popular backwater destination is Alappuzha, known as the “Venice of the East.”
- Traditional houseboats, known as Kettuvallam, provide a serene floating experience.
- Kumarakom offers a unique experience for bird watchers with its sanctuary.
- Visitors can sample traditional victuals prepared on board, featuring Kerala’s spices.
Delhi
- Delhi, the capital, is a kaleidoscopic blend of historical and modern attractions.
- Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar showcase Delhi’s rich history.
- The Lotus Temple is a stunning, reimagined structure devoted to harmony.
- Old Delhi is known for its bustling markets and labyrinth of narrow lanes.
- Food lovers can enjoy delicacies like kebabs, parathas, and chaats.
Mysore (Karnataka)
- Mysore, known as the “City of Palaces,” boasts grand palatial structures.
- The Mysore Palace is a marvel of Indo-Saracenic architecture with a captivating light show.
- Chamundi Hill offers views of the city and is home to Chamundeshwari Temple.
- Mysore is also famous for its Dussehra festival, a grand display of traditional culture.
- The city’s markets are known for Mysore silk, sandalwood, and intricate handicrafts.
Hampi (Karnataka)
- Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- The landscape is a unique mosaic of boulders, temples, and historical monuments.
- Must-visit sites include the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal.
- The scenic terrain invites exploration and is a favourite among history enthusiasts.
- Hampi’s enigmatic past and surreal views create a dreamlike experience.
Ladakh (Union Territory of Ladakh)
- Ladakh is known for its high-altitude landscapes, monasteries, and rugged terrain.
- Leh Palace, Pangong Lake, and Nubra Valley offer views that seem to transcend time.
- Monasteries like Hemis and Thiksey are central to Ladakh’s Buddhist culture.
- The Magnetic Hill defies gravity and fascinates visitors with its unique optical illusion.
- Ladakh is ideal for trekking, biking, and other adventurous pursuits.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- This island group is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches.
- Port Blair’s Cellular Jail offers a look into India’s colonial past.
- Havelock Island and Neil Island are popular for scuba diving and snorkelling.
- The islands orchestrate a harmonious blend of marine life and tropical beauty.
- The Andaman Islands’ natural splendour certainly beckons nature lovers.
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