Oct 15, 2024
By: Kapil Yadav
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Booking.com and Accenture launched ‘How India Travels 2024 - The Inbound Edit,’ report, highlighting the inbound travel sector's recovery, evolving traveller preferences, economic impacts and emerging trends.
Credit: Booking.com
India welcomed over 9 million foreign tourists in 2023, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation.
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Foreign Exchange Earnings from tourism reached USD 15.3 billion in the first half of 2024, marking a 17.6% increase from 2023, indicating a robust recovery in the sector.
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A survey revealed that 52% of inbound travellers view India as a standalone destination, while 22% plan to combine their visit with other Asian countries.
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Emerging source markets for inbound tourism include the US, UK, Germany and UAE, reflecting a shift from traditional markets like China and Canada.
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While major cities remain popular, destinations like Hampi and Leh are gaining traction, highlighting the diverse offerings of India's tourism landscape. Other famous off-beat destinations are Patnitop, Pahalgam, Madikeri, Vijayawada and Khajuraho.
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44% of inbound travellers have previously visited India and wish to return, demonstrating strong satisfaction and a desire for diverse experiences across multiple destinations.
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52% of travellers prefer complete travel packages, while 40% seek to book individual components separately, indicating a shift towards personalised travel experiences.
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Survey responses indicate that limited customisation options and information overload hinder traveller experiences, presenting opportunities for improvement in the tourism industry.
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The Indian government aims to elevate inbound tourism tenfold by 2047 through improved infrastructure, technology integration and enhanced safety measures for visitors.
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India's tourism industry is evolving to offer rich, authentic experiences supported by strategic initiatives that cater to both budget and luxury travellers.
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