In a landmark year for Indian tourism, the country has witnessed an unprecedented surge in both domestic and international travel, according to the latest report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). With international visitor spending reaching ₹3.1 trillion (USD 36.8 billion) in 2024, India is solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing tourism economies globally.
International Arrivals Soar Past Pre-Pandemic Levels
India welcomed 20 million foreign tourists in 2024, surpassing 2019 figures by 2.3 million. This remarkable recovery is attributed to increased air connectivity, streamlined digital visa systems, and growing global interest in India’s rich heritage, spiritual offerings, and experiential travel opportunities.
Projections for 2025 are even more promising, with international visitor spending expected to touch ₹3.2 trillion. Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, emphasized the need for continued investment in tourism promotion and simplified visa processes to sustain this momentum.
“India’s Travel & Tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth… but visa delays and underinvestment in promotion could hinder long-term progress,” said Simpson. She specifically highlighted challenges in key markets like the US, where visa appointment backlogs extend into 2026.
Domestic Tourism: The Backbone of India’s Travel Economy
While international arrivals dominate headlines, domestic tourism remains the cornerstone of India’s travel industry. In 2024, domestic visitor spending reached a staggering ₹15.5 trillion (USD 185.6 billion), marking a 22% increase from 2019 levels. This growth is driven by younger demographics, rising disposable incomes, and a renewed post-pandemic focus on local exploration.
The WTTC report highlights that domestic tourists accounted for nearly 84% of total visitor spending in 2024, underscoring their critical role in the sector’s resilience. By 2025, domestic spending is projected to rise further to ₹16.8 trillion, reflecting sustained demand for travel within the country.
Total Tourism Contribution Reaches ₹21 Trillion
India’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed ₹20.9 trillion (USD 249.3 billion) to the national GDP in 2024, representing a 20% jump from 2019 levels. This accounts for approximately 6.6% of the national economy. Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts this figure to grow to ₹22.5 trillion in 2025 and nearly double to ₹41.9 trillion by 2035, contributing an estimated 10.9% to the national GDP.
This growth will be fueled by strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, including smart mobility solutions, high-speed rail networks, and airport expansions. Additionally, small and medium tourism enterprises are expected to play a pivotal role in driving innovation and inclusivity within the sector.
Job Creation and Business Travel Revival
Tourism has emerged as a vital employment generator, supporting 46.5 million jobs in 2024—equivalent to 9.1% of total employment in India. WTTC predicts this number will surpass 48 million in 2025 and reach nearly 64 million by 2035, offering significant opportunities across diverse demographics and geographies.
Another noteworthy trend is the revival of business travel. Combined domestic and international business travel spending hit ₹1.1 trillion in 2024, exceeding 2019 levels by 2.6%. As India continues to cement its status as a hub for global trade, innovation, and startup activity, this segment is set to play a crucial role in the broader recovery of the travel industry.
Global-Local Partnership to Strengthen Advocacy
To bolster advocacy efforts and streamline policies, WTTC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Travel & Tourism Council – India Initiative (WTTCII). This partnership aims to align India’s tourism priorities with international benchmarks, promote sustainability practices, and create a unified policy framework to support the sector’s rapid growth.
Looking Ahead
With projections indicating that India will become one of the world’s top three tourism economies by 2035, the future looks bright. However, sustaining this growth will require targeted investments in tourism infrastructure, tech-enabled services, and global marketing initiatives.
As travellers around the world increasingly turn their attention to India, now is the perfect time to explore its vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and unparalleled cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, luxury escapes, or immersive adventures, India offers something for everyone.
