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India has a rich heritage, shaped by the achievements of ancient dynasties, civilizations, and diverse cultures. This remarkable legacy is showcased through its architectural marvels, monuments, artistic expressions, and well-preserved history in museums and galleries, with 42 UNESCO World Heritage sites standing as a testament to its global significance. The country’s diversity is further reflected in its 10 biogeographic zones, 80 national parks, and 441 wildlife sanctuaries, offering vast opportunities for investments in cultural, wildlife, eco, medical, and adventure tourism.
The hospitality sector plays a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the tourism industry. As travellers explore diverse regions, the quality of accommodations, food services, and overall guest experiences significantly influences their trip. The seamless connection between tourism and hospitality helps in attracting tourists and ensuring they have a positive, enriching experience throughout their journey.
Medical Tourism:
The country offers advanced medical procedures, from cardiac surgeries to cosmetic treatments, at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. Popular cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai attract international patients seeking high-quality care.
Adventure Tourism:
The Himalayan range is a hotspot for trekking and mountaineering, while Kerala’s backwaters offer kayaking and canoeing experiences. Adventure enthusiasts flock to places like Rishikesh for river rafting and Ladakh for motorbiking and mountain biking, making India a thrilling destination for outdoor activities.
Eco-Tourism:
India’s eco-tourism sector focuses on sustainable travel, protecting natural resources, and promoting environmental conservation. The country’s vast biodiversity and protected forests, such as those in Kerala, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, offer eco-friendly experiences like wildlife safaris, bird watching, and jungle trekking.
Cultural Tourism:
Visitors can explore grand temples, ancient forts, historical monuments, and take part in local festivals. Cultural tourism also offers a chance to experience India’s unique music, dance, and diverse food traditions.
Wellness Tourism:
India is globally recognized as the birthplace of Ayurveda and Yoga, both of which have become integral parts of wellness tourism. Visitors flock to wellness retreats in destinations like Kerala, Rishikesh, and Goa to experience holistic healing through Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, meditation, and wellness therapies.
Spiritual Tourism:
Pilgrims and spiritual seekers visit sacred sites such as the holy city of Varanasi, the Golden Temple in Amritsar, and the temples of Tamil Nadu. The country offers a unique blend of religious experiences, where people can engage in meditation, attend religious ceremonies, and experience inner growth.
MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Tourism:
India has rapidly developed into a prime destination for MICE tourism, attracting International business events, conferences, exhibitions, and corporate meetings. Cities like New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai provide modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art convention centers, and world-class hotels, making them attractive hubs for International business tourism.
Incredible India
launched in 2002, has evolved to promote the country’s tourism. In 2017, Incredible India 2.0 focused on digital promotion and niche tourism like adventure, medical, and wellness. By 2024, efforts expanded to promote niche tourism year-round. Additionally, India hosted the 46th World Heritage Committee session and announced an INR 86.3 million grant to UNESCO for conservation and capacity-building, reinforcing its commitment to global tourism leadership.
Vibrant Villages Programme
The government has allocated INR 48 billion for the period from FY 2022-23 to 2025-26 to support the development of 2,963 selected villages across 19 districts in northern border states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Ladakh. The program aims to promote tourism and culture by improving tourism-related infrastructure. In the initial phase, 25 vibrant villages were chosen for tourism and development promotion, alongside the creation of a Model Tourism Route, which will link 27 vibrant villages along the Bomdilla-Tawang route in Arunachal Pradesh.
National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)
The National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD), launched in 2014-2015, aims to develop pilgrimage destinations in a planned, sustainable, and prioritized manner to enhance the religious tourism experience. Recognizing the significant role of pilgrimage tourism in boosting domestic tourism, the scheme has approved 46 projects, with a total funding of INR 16.2 billion as of December 2023.
