Category Archives: States

The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) reveals a significant recovery of India’s Travel & Tourism sector, with domestic tourism playing a pivotal role. The data shows that whilst domestic tourism is driving the recovery of the sector in India,  international travel spend remains below pre-pandemic levels. According to the global tourism body’s latest research, the sector’s contribution to India’s GDP reached just over INR 19.13TN in 2023 – almost 10% ahead of 2019 levels. Employment in Travel & Tourism grew by 10% to reach just under 43MN, 8% more than in 2019. Domestic visitor spending was 15% ahead of 2019, reaching INR 14.64TN however international visitor spending remained more than 14% behind 2019 last year – INR 0.4TN less being spent by international visitors last year than in 2019. Such strong growth in domestic visitor spending is evidence that domestic visitors have led the sector’s path toward post-pandemic recovery. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; “India’s Travel & Tourism sector is bouncing back with remarkable vigour, driven by a surge in domestic tourism.

Recognising the crucial role played by qualified tourist guides in adventure tourism in India, the Ministry of Tourism has stated that it will prioritise the enhancing of training and certification of these guides, through nationally accepted certification process. It encourages individuals to upgrade their skills through its Incredible India Tourist Guide (Adventure) certification programme conducted by the Indian Institute of Travel & Tourism Management (IITTM).

Clarks Safari announces the opening of its flagship property, Clarks Safari Haridwar, strategically located in the heart of the city. This luxury property features 22 well-appointed rooms, designed to cater to spiritual travelers, corporates, and families seeking a comfortable stay at competitive rates. Spread over more than 9000 sqmt Clarks Safari Haridwar offers a range of amenities and facilities, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable stay for all guests. The property boasts four banquet halls with a combined seating capacity of 500 pax, making it an ideal venue for conferences, product launches, and corporate events.

Courtyard by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Goa Colva, marking the debut of the Courtyard by Marriott brand in the state. Strategically located in one of the most popular parts of Goa, known for its white sand beaches, susegad lifestyle and Indo-Portuguese architecture, this 91-room hotel is an embodiment of the all things Goan. “We are thrilled to introduce the exceptional hospitality and top-tier facilities of Courtyard by Marriott brand to one of the most idyllic locations in India,” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President South Asia, Marriott International. “Goa, especially the Southern region, is a well-known paradise for vacationers with its white sand beaches, stunning sunsets, and relaxed ambience. The opening of Courtyard by Marriott Goa Colva, marks Marriott International’s 10th property in Goa, and further compliments our commitment to growth in the region, bringing a diversified portfolio for different types of travellers to this popular leisure destination.”

Tourism in Himachal Pradesh has seen a surge this year. By May 2024, the state recorded over 7.4 million tourists. This marks a rise of 3.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. Solan district has emerged as the destination with the highest tourist arrival surpassing Shimla. Kasauli and Chail are also gaining popularity.

Jaiveer Singh, Minister of Tourism and Culture, Uttar Pradesh, inaugurated the Saryu Mahotsav in Ayodhya at Ram ki Paidi today. The Tourism and Culture Minister said that, “the aim of the festival is to raise public awareness about the conservation of water, forests, and land while promoting our harmonious coexistence with nature.” He also highlighted the adverse impacts of increasing urbanization and industrialization on the environment. Rivers are drying up and traditional water sources such as ponds, tanks, and wells are getting depleted of water levels. He also stressed the urgent need for prudent use of water resources and the protection of forests to ensure a healthy environment and sufficient natural resources for future generations. Growing issues of global warming, climate change, and ecological imbalance due to increased human interference are posing a significant threat to nature and its resources. He remarked that rivers are lifelines; great civilizations have thrived along their banks. To rejuvenate these vital water bodies, collective awareness and efforts are necessary. In maintaining a balance with nature, it is imperative to save rivers, ponds, and natural water sources. The Saryu Mahotsava is being organized to foster public awareness about the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Nature is essential for human survival. Therefore, it is crucial to keep our rivers, forests, land, and natural water sources alive. Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department in order to create awareness about the same is inviting people to take part in this Mahotsava.

Sharing latest insights on domestic tourism, Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) said, “Domestic tourism has been powering our growth trajectory this summer. We have achieved both our top-line and passenger numbers of 12 months of 2023, within the first six months of 2024.Indians are displaying keen appetite to explore their own country and we are witnessing exponential demand for multiple domestic trips – Young India’s working professionals and DINKs are opting for multiple mini-cations, combining public holidays with weekends for short getaways, in addition to longer domestic vacations lasting 15 days.”

Speaking at the 17th Outlook & Update Meeting by PATA India Chapter in New Delhi, Manisha Saxena, DG, Tourism, has said that it is important to segment the offerings across India. “We cannot offer everything to everyone. We need to work with state governments to create more accommodation as this is a big bottleneck, especially for MICE,” she said.

Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Goa, assured that the number of visitors to Goa has surged in the just-concluded tourist season touching the one crore mark. There has also been a rise in the number of international tourists, which is 150 per cent above pre-COVID figures. Goa continues to see the arrival of tourists in monsoon season as well.

Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister, Meghalaya, announced at Convocation 2024 of ICFAI University Meghalaya that the state government is planning to invest ₹5,000 crore in the tourism sector, expecting to create around 50,000 jobs. He urged the youth to leverage the upcoming changes and contribute in the sector for better future.