India’s travel and tourism industry is on a trajectory to double its economic contribution to ₹42 trillion by 2035, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). This significant growth is primarily fueled by a surge in domestic travel, which has become the cornerstone of the sector’s robust recovery post-pandemic.
In 2024, the sector contributed ₹21 trillion to the Indian economy and supported 46.5 million jobs. WTTC projects that by 2035, the industry will not only double in value but also create approximately 18 million new jobs, elevating total employment in the sector to around 63 million.
The dominance of domestic tourism is evident, with domestic visitor spending reaching ₹14.64 trillion in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 15%. In contrast, international visitor spending remained more than 14% below 2019 levels, indicating that while global travel is recovering, domestic travel is leading the charge in India’s tourism resurgence.
Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts that the sector’s GDP contribution will reach ₹43.25 trillion by 2034, representing 7.6% of the Indian economy. This growth is expected to be accompanied by a rise in employment, with the sector potentially employing almost 63 million people across the country.
The Indian government’s ambition to facilitate 100 million inbound tourists by the 100th anniversary of India’s independence in 2047, as part of the ‘Vision 2047’ initiative, is set to further bolster the sector. This strategic goal aims to position India as one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes.
However, to sustain this growth trajectory, increased investment in marketing and infrastructure is essential. Enhancing connectivity, upgrading facilities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices will be crucial in maintaining India’s competitive edge in the global tourism market.
As India continues to harness the potential of its domestic tourism market, the sector stands as a testament to resilience and adaptability, charting a course towards a prosperous and inclusive future.
