61,500 Indian visited Virginia in 2024, injecting USD 105.6 million in the state’s economy
Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) recently concluded a two-city India Marketing Mission. Aimed at showcasing Virginia’s immense tourism offerings and establish trade engagements and partnership, reverberated with its iconic ‘Virginia is for Lovers’ brand. The mission engaged with over 100 representatives of the Indian travel trade and media over the course of five days through one-on-one meetings and hosted networking events.
The mission was led by VTC President and CEO, Rita McClenny. The mission was also accompanied by CEO of Visit Fairfax, Barry Biggar, along with representatives from Visit Fairfax, Luray Caverns, Visit Williamsburg and VTC itself.
Represented in India by leading tourism marketing company Sartha Global since 2018, India’s has emerged as the fastest growing tourism source market for Virginia. India’s has grown from being the fifth largest tourism source market in 2019, behind Canada, the UK, China and Germany, to now the second largest tourism source market in 2024, behind just Canada, signifying great potential that the Indian market offers as a tourism source market for Virginia.
Virginia received more than 53,000 visitors in 2023 who spent USD 91 million in The Commonwealth. An estimated 61,500 Indian visitors arrived in Virginia, pointing to 15% increase over 2023. Additionally, preliminary spending data shows Indian visitors spent approximately USD 105.6 million in Virginia in 2024.
Buoyed by the recent growth, Virginia is looking to attract more holiday-makers from India to explore its famous Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west, to the long sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast and the Chesapeake Bay in the east, there is a wide range of attractions, culinary hotspots and sites of significant American history across the entire state.
“Virginia truly is for lovers – lovers of life, and memorable times with friends and family,” said McClenny. “Our scenic beauty and diverse landscape make for the ideal backdrop for outdoor adventure and superior luxury stays, while our tantalizing culinary offerings and immersive cultural and historical experiences ensure there is always something new and exciting to discover. We are thrilled to be here and show more Indians the exciting potential of a Virginia holiday,” she added.
