India, Aug. 1 -- India emerges as a global tourism hub - not just in terms of visitor numbers, but as a driver of inclusive growth, sustainability, and cultural soft power.

Scale & Economic Impact

- 2.9 billion domestic visits in 2024 (surpassing pre-pandemic levels).

- 2.02 crore international arrivals in 2025.

- Tourism contributed Rs.15.73 lakh crore to GDP in FY 2023-24 (5.22% of the economy).

- Supported 84.6 million jobs in 2023-24.

- Generated USD 31.7 billion in international receipts in 2025.

India's Tourism Strengths

- 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 106 National Parks, 18 Biosphere Reserves.

- Rich traditions of handicrafts, cuisine, festivals, performing arts, Yoga, Ayurveda.

- Diversity across spiritual circuits, heritage cities, wellness retreats, eco-tourism, rural homestays, and adventure travel.

Major Segments

- Spiritual & Pilgrimage Tourism: Char Dham, Bodh Gaya, Amritsar, Tirupati, Puri.

- Heritage & Culture: forts, palaces, temples, classical arts, regional cuisines.

- Wellness & Medical Tourism: Yoga, Ayurveda, naturopathy, plus cost-effective healthcare.

- Eco & Wildlife Tourism: tiger reserves, Himalayan trekking, turtle trails.

- Rural & Community Tourism: homestays, village walks, handicrafts.

- MICE Tourism: convention centres, G20 events showcased India's ability to host global gatherings.

- Adventure & Experiential Tourism: trekking, rafting, desert safaris, cruise tourism.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

- Swadesh Darshan: 76 projects across thematic circuits.

- PRASHAD scheme: 54 projects enhancing pilgrimage/heritage sites.

- SASCI & CBDD initiatives: investments in iconic centres and eco/spiritual destinations.

- Connectivity upgrades: highways, Vande Bharat trains, UDAN regional flights, 100 new aerodromes and 200 helipads planned under Viksit UDAN.

Digital & Innovation

- e-Tourist Visa extended to nationals of 175 countries.

- NIDHI+ platform for hospitality industry registration and approvals.

- 1,497 tourism startups across 262 districts, many in Tier II/III cities, innovating in travel-tech, rural tourism, smart mobility, and AI-enabled planning.

Sustainability & Inclusivity

- Focus on Travel for LiFE, responsible visitor behaviour, and......

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Travel Media.