India’s Travel & Tourism sector reached unprecedented heights in 2024, with international visitor spending hitting INR 3.1TN — 9% above the pre-pandemic peak of 2019, according to new data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Domestic tourism also surged, with spending rising to INR 15.5TN, a 22% increase over 2019 levels. In total, the sector contributed nearly INR 21TN to India’s economy, supporting almost 46.5MN jobs, equivalent to 9.1% of national employment.
India welcomed 20MN international visitors in 2024, reaffirming its status as a top global destination. However, WTTC has urged the Indian government to enhance tourism promotion and simplify visa processes, noting delays in key markets such as the U.S. “Making it easier to visit India is one of the fastest ways to boost international arrivals,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO. WTTC also signed an MoU with WTTCII to strengthen India’s global tourism voice.
Business travel also posted record gains, with combined domestic and international spending surpassing INR 1.1TN. Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts India’s tourism economy will grow to INR 22TN in 2025 and INR 42TN by 2035, with employment projected to reach nearly 64MN. Luxury travel and SME-driven innovations are expected to drive this expansion.
To maintain momentum, WTTC calls for sustained investment, policy consistency, and infrastructure upgrades. With its blend of heritage, natural beauty, and innovation, India is poised to become one of the world’s most dynamic tourism economies, driving growth and opportunities across the nation’s diverse communities.
