brief history of tourism in india

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History of tourism in India: Growth and Development

• November 22, 2023

Table of Contents

India, one of the world’s oldest civilizations, is a mixture of numerous cultural stories. The country is one of the most sought-after journey destinations within the world, with a wealth of attractions and a rich historical legacy. Stretching from the snow-covered Himalayan heights to the tropical rain forests of the south, it encompasses an area of 32,87,263 sq. km. India, the 7th-largest state internationally, is distinguished from the rest of Asia by means of its precise topography, that is shaped via mountains and the sea.

History of Tourism Development

In 1945, the authorities of India established a committee headed by Sir John Sargent, who served as the government’s educational adviser at the time. This marked the beginning of deliberate attempts to broaden tourism in India (Krishna, A.G., 1993). Following that, a deliberate technique to tourism improvement was followed in 1956 alongside the second  five year Plan. From the isolated making plans of single unit facilities within the 2nd and 3rd five year Plans, the technique has evolved. With the implementation of the 6th Plan, tourism turned into a key tool for each financial boom and social integration, ushering in a new generation.

But, the tourism industry failed to  take off until the 1980s. The authorities made some essential decisions. In 1982, the National Policy on Tourism was declared. A comprehensive plan for reaching sustainable tourism growth was advanced later in 1988 by using the National Committee on Tourism. A National action Plan was created in 1992, and the National Strategy for Tourism Promotion was written in 1996. The central and state governments, public sector initiatives, and the private sector were acknowledged for their contributions to the increase of tourism in 1997 by the brand new Tourism coverage. It has also been acknowledged that the improvement of tourism facilities calls for the participation of Panchayati Raj establishments, neighborhood authorities, non-governmental agencies, and the youth of the area.

Present Condition of Tourism Sector in India

With 6.23% of India’s GDP and 8.78% of all jobs generated with the aid of the sector, tourism is currently India’s biggest service sector. Over five million foreign tourists and 562 million domestic travelers visit India every year. At a 9.4% annual growth rate, the tourism region in India is anticipated to generate about US$275.5 billion through 2018 from about US$ a hundred billion in 2008.  In addition “Incredible India” marketing campaign, the Ministry of Tourism is the primary organization for the growth and promotion of travel to India.

India’s Tourist Attractions:

India is famous for treating all of its visitors, irrespective of their origins, with richness. Its welcoming customs, diverse population, wealthy cultural legacy, and colorful fairs and fairs furnished tourists with long-lasting draws. Some of the other sightseeing locations are: technological parks and technology museums for science tourism; centers of pilgrimage for non spiritual tourism; beautiful beaches, forests, and natural world and landscapes for eco-tourism; snow, rivers, and mountain peaks for journey tourism; historical past, trains, and accommodations for historical past tourism. vacationers are drawn to yoga, ayurvedic, and herbal fitness .

Overseas tourists primarily purchase Indian handicrafts, particularly rings, carpets, leather goods, ivory, and brass work.

The market research report “Booming Medical Tourism in India” claims that despite the economic downturn, medical tourism is the tourism industry segment in India that is expanding the fastest. The report goes on to say that there is a lot of potential in the medical tourism sector in India. Its allure as a medical tourism destination is increased by elements like the low cost, scope, and variety of treatments offered in the nation.

The market research studies report “Booming medical Tourism in India” claims that notwithstanding the financial downturn, medical tourism is the tourism industry segment in India that is increasing the fastest. The file goes on to say that there is a lot of capacity in the medical tourism sector in India. Its attraction as a scientific tourism destination is extended by means of factors just like the low cost, scope, and variety of remedies supplied in the country.

Advantages of Tourism Industry

Growth in  employment and profits: In India, tourism has grown to be a tool for lowering poverty, creating jobs, and creating sustainable human development. It makes up 8.78% of all jobs in India and 6.23% of the India’s GDP. There are presently about 20 million employed in India’s tourism sector.

Increase in forex profits: In India, tourism contributes significantly to foreign exchange income. This is useful to the state’s stability of payments. At a 9.4% annual growth rate, the tourism sector in India is anticipated to generate approximately US$275.five billion through 2018 from approximately US$100 billion in 2008.

Preservation of the Environment and National Heritage: by designating positive locations as heritage sites, tourism contributes to the preservation of some of historically great places.  For Example, if the Tourism branch had not worked on preserving the Taj Mahal, the Qutub Minar, the Ajanta and Ellora temples, and many others., they would have been destroyed . Similarly, tourism contributes to the upkeep of many endangered species’ natural habitats.

India’s tourism area is expanding and has a enormous ability to reinforce the nations overall financial and social improvement in addition to creating jobs and bringing in considerable amounts of forex. However a lot of extra work desires to be achieved. For tourism in India to make a contribution to the protection and sustainability of the diversity of the country’s natural and cultural environments, ecotourism must to be endorsed. The development of tourism in India has to prioritize the sustainable development of indigenous cultures inside the areas it operates in, while also imparting accommodations and entertainment for tourists in a way that minimizes any negative effect on the surroundings.

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Tourism in india: history and development.

Author: Bhatia, A.K.

Publisher: Sterling publishers, New Delhi

Source: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi

Type: E-Book

Received From: Archaeological Survey of India

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CHAPTER -IV HISTORY OF TOURISM IN INDIA Tourism in the early period

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Indian history dates back to 3000 BC. Excavations in Punjab and Gujarat reveal that the Indus Valley civilisation was a highly developed urban civilisation. In fact the two cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, situated on two sides of the river Ravi , are known to have been built on a similar plan. But that only meant a new wave of urbanisation was taking place along the Ganges around 1500 BC. This has been recorded in the Rig Veda - the earliest known literary source composed in this period that sheds light on India 's past.

The Great Dynasties

By 6th century BC, the Magadh rulers dominated the Northern plains. It was also the time when new thinking emerged in the form of Buddhism and Jainism to challenge Hindu orthodoxy. The Magadh rule was followed by the rule of Chandragupta Maurya (322-298 B.C.), one of India 's greatest emperors. The Mauryan reign peaked under the reign of Ashoka the Great who extended his empire from the Kashmir and Peshawar in the North to Mysore in the South and Orissa in the East. Not only was Ashoka a great ruler, he was one of the most successful propagators of Buddhism in the country. After Ashoka's death in 232 B.C. the empire began to disintegrate and the country was repeatedly raided and plundered by foreign invaders, leaving India disunited and weak for the next 400 years. Stability returned with the reign of Chandra Gupta I (380-412 A.D.). His rule is considered the golden period in Indian history when art and culture flourished and the country prospered.

Unlike the North of India, foreign invasions had little impact on life in South India which also saw the rise and decline of many empires. These included the Cholas whose rule extended to Sri Lanka and South East Asia , the Pandyas, the Cheras, the Pallavas and the Chalukyas. Under the various rulers, arts and craft in the South also saw the emergence of various styles of architecture and some of the grandest architectural accomplishments in the South - the most famous being the exquisitely crafted Chola bronzes. These were followed by the Hoysala and the Vijaynagar empires - among the greatest Hindu empires.

The Muslim Invasions

The first Muslim invasions of the country started with the Mahmud of Gazni, who plundered the sub-continent for its riches between 1001 and 1025. Later Mohamed Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan, the Tomar ruler of Delhi and left it in charge of his deputy, Qutub-ud-din, the man who built the Qutub Minar in Delhi . His rule was followed by that of the Khilji, Tughlaq, Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Known as the Sultanate of Delhi, it was during this period that the Muslim rulers introduced Islamic concepts of society and governance to most of the sub-continent, though the South remained largely untouched.

In 1525, Babur, a descendant of Timur, as well as Genghis Khan invaded Punjab and eventually founded the Mughal empire in India . His rule was followed by that of his son Humayun. Humayun was ousted by Afghan chieftain Sher Shah but resumed power after Sher Shah's death. Sher Shah is, however, remembered as the one to build the Grand Trunk road spanning from Peshawar to Patna . Humayun's reign was followed up by his son Akbar who actually consolidated power and extended the empire across North India and parts of South India . One of India 's wisest rulers and most able administrators, Akbar's reign is considered to be one of the best the country has known. Akbar was succeeded by Jahangir, followed by his son Shah Jahan - best known as the builder of the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. Shah Jahan's reign was followed by Aurangzeb's. The death of Aurangzeb saw the decline of the Mughal rule in India .

British Rule

Over the centuries India had always been attractive to traders, and one of the first Europeans to come to India was the Portuguese trader Vasco da Gama who landed at Calicut , sailing via the Cape of Good Hope in 1498. The Portuguese established their colony in Goa in the 16th Century but they did not expand it though their rule continued till 1961. Vasco da Gama was followed by the French, the Dutch and the English, all of whom were lured by the commercial interests that India offered. By the last quarter of the 18th century the English established themselves as the dominant power in India and they set about making revolutionary changes in the social, political and the economic life of the country.

Towards Independence

The disintegration of the Mughal empire, fighting among the Maratha rulers and inability of the various rulers across the country to unite against a common enemy saw the British consolidate their position in the country. However, the 19th century saw a revival of national pride and social reform and the Indians began to tire of the suppressive British rule. Things reached a flash point in the second half of the 19th century when the first war of independence in 1857 broke out in Meerut . It was sparked off by the introduction of a new rifle and cartridge by the British in the Army. The cartridges which soldiers had to bite off, allegedly contained pork and beef tallow, which offended the religious sentiments of both Hindus and Muslims. The soldiers rebelled, reached Delhi and proclaimed Bahadurshah Zafar the sovereign ruler of India . They were eventually overpowered by the British.

But there was no looking back for the Indians who wanted social reform and freedom. The Indian National Congress was set up and educated Indians started formulating strategies to assert their birthright to independence. The anti-British sentiment became a mass movement with the arrival of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who devised a unique strategy for India 's freedom struggle based on non-violence and civil disobedience. He conceived and led the non-cooperation movement in 1922, the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. All of which pushed the British into agreeing to transfer power on August 15, 1947, the day that is now celebrated as India 's Independence Day. Today, India is the world's largest democracy with a federal form of government.

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India Tourism

Tourism in india.

India is a country that attracts millions of tourists every year and is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. These visitors are attracted to its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It has many historic sites as well like the Taj Mahal, Golden Temple, Red Fort, etc. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that tourism is one of the main sources of revenue for the country! 

Tourism in India has been seen as a major tool to bring about socio-economic development to the people of the country. India’s tourism industry has grown steadily in recent years. Not only this, India Tourism industry also provides employment opportunities to several people from all parts of the world. There are ample numbers of hotels, resorts, food joints and various other amenities available for tourists arriving in India. 

No wonder Tourism is an important foreign exchange earner for India. The Department of Tourism, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India is the apex body for the largest development and promotion of Indian tourism. To promote tourism in India, the government has been implementing a number of campaigns and schemes. These include Incredible India campaign along with a number of planned events such as the International Travel Mart, Destination India Exhibitions worldwide and Indian Cultural Festivals Abroad to attract foreign tourists.

India is a vast country with a lot to offer. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that millions of people pay India a visit every year. The country offers a variety of sights and sounds to enjoy, from the vibrant cities to the peaceful countryside. With its diversity of tourist attractions, India is also known for yoga and meditation. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the tropical beaches of Goa, from the wildlife of Assam to the largest tea field of Kerala, there is something new in every corner of this country. Moreover, with major cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh, and Delhi being so well connected by air, road, and rail networks from across the globe, it’s easy to get around and explore some of the most iconic landmarks in India.

Highlights of India Tourism

Goa tourism.

temples in india

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Restaurants In India

Uttarakhand tourism, rivers in uttarakhand, rameswaram map, jagannath map, about india.

A country with a rich and colourful history, India is home to some of the world’s most fascinating cultures. India is a country located in South Asia and the capital of India is New Delhi. The Government of India, the Constitutional Republic represents a highly diverse population of thousands of ethnic groups and the many languages spoken in the country.

According to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB), it has a population of over 1.2 billion, making it the second-most populous country in the world. Built-in approximately 9,000 years ago, India was largely self-contained and became a cultural arena associated with Hinduism. The roots of this tradition can be traced to the Indus civilization.

Other religions such as Buddhism and Jainism originated in India, where Buddhism spread throughout Asia, while both religions are quite popular in the subcontinent. India has also developed a rich intellectual life in such fields as astronomy, fine art, architecture, mathematics, and music.

The country has been recognized for its economic development since gaining independence in 1947. It has become the seventh-largest country in the world, and it is geographically distinct from other Asian nations because of its location between mountains and the sea. India is a country of many contrasts, from the Indian Ocean to snow-capped peaks and the deserts in Rajasthan to the green forests of Kerala.

Book Flights to India

India Quick Overview

Official Name:

Bharat (Sanskrit), Republic of India (English)

Capital Of India:

Population:

1,210,569,573 (2011 Census)

3,287,263 square kilometres

Geographical Location:

Latitudes 8° 4′ and 37° 6′ North

Longitudes 68° 7′ and 97° 25′ East

Coastline Length:

Major Religions:

Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism

National Anthem:

Jana Gana Mana by Rabindranath Tagore

National Song:

Vande Mataram by Bankimchandra Chatterji

National Emblem:

An adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath

National Animal:

Royal Bengal Tiger

National Bird:

National Flower:

National Tree:

National Fruit:

National Currency:

National Sport:

Hockey (Unofficial)

There are two official languages of the Union Government of India – Hindi and English.

National Flag:

The national flag of India is a horizontal rectangular tricolour of India, saffron, white and India green; A 24-spoke wheel, in dark blue colour at its centre, with the Ashoka Chakra.

History of India

India’s history can be broken down into three major phases. The first phase is the ancient period known as Ancient India, which covers thousands of years that began when humans first settled in India. This period includes the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300-1300 BCE), which is considered one of the world’s oldest civilizations and a precursor to modern Indian culture.

In medieval India, a period in Indian history is seen as lasting from the ancient period to the Mughal Empire. This long span of time begins in the 6th century AD and ends in 1526 when the empire was established. Some historians believe that it started later than these dates and ended earlier.

In the early 20th century, India was also experiencing a period of change. In 1857, the Indian independence movement began in Bengal with the first nationalistic revolutionary movement. The British Empire controlled India at this time and it lasted until 1947 when India gained its independence.

Culture of India

India has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its diverse population. The country’s culture has been shaped by various external and internal influences. Over the centuries, India has seen a significant fusion of Hindus, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists. These religions are collectively known as Indian religions as they originated in India.

“Unity in diversity” – these are words that do not just hold meaning but can be applied to a country like India. From the time of Mauryas, Cholas and Mughals to the period of the British Empire, India has always been famous for its traditions and hospitality.

Due to warm relations and a sense of celebration, India has a special place in the global community. Its vibrant culture is an amalgamation of religions, festivals, food, arts, crafts and dance. The country is vibrant, eclectic, and attracts many tourists for its culture. Popularly known as the land of God, the country of India has everything from culture to values, customs and traditions that defines its beauty. Also, explore the beauty of  Indian Tribes  that adds colour and beauty to the culture of India. 

Best Time To Visit In India

Month: Jul to Sep

Climate: Hot

Monsoon in India: Monsoon holidays are definitely memorable as they offer a wide range of experiences. Monsoons can be relaxing, especially with the cooler temperatures of the rainy season. Contrary to popular belief, the monsoon in India can be a wonderful time to explore this beautiful country. Whether you want to take advantage of Ayurveda in South India or explore some of the natural destinations of India, the monsoon is the best time to enjoy it everywhere in India.

Month: Apr to Jun

Climate:Hot & Humid

Summer in India: In the summer, you can enjoy pleasant weather while exploring wonderful sights and interesting things to do. India has many tourist destinations for you to visit in summer across the country. You can go to the pristine beaches of Andaman, Goa or Kerala, visit holy places in the high peaks of Uttarakhand, romantic hill stations in India, and so on. For adventure seekers, summer brings excellent opportunities for enjoying various adventurous activities in India!

Month: Dec to Feb

Climate:Very Cool

Winter in India: As the temperature drops, most of the country experiences chilly air that also is a great time to visit in India. The months from November to March are ideal for exploring this wonderful country and enjoying its festivities. Pleasant climate, charming surroundings and variety of activities like snow skiing, paragliding, camping, etc provide a unique holiday experience at the most visited holiday destinations in India.

Estimated Budget Required To Travel To India

When planning a trip to India, it is important to consider the costs associated with travelling within the country. Although many people enjoy visiting India for its cultural significance, for some travellers the cost of the trip will vary depending on the activities they do. For an individual, a week in India usually costs INR 17,000 to 18,000. So for two people, a week would cost around INR 36,000. If a couple is planning to travel to India for two weeks, they will spend around Rs 70,000- 72,000 during their India tour. While the price of food in India may vary, the average cost is INR 500-600 per day. Depending on spending habits, an average meal would cost around Rs 200-300 per person and breakfast would be cheaper than lunch or dinner.

Regions In India

The country can be divided into four distinct regions: North, West, South and East. India is both a beautiful and varied country and features many different landscapes. It is a beautiful destination surrounded by cold mountains, dry deserts, vast plains, hot and humid plateaus vast beaches and tropical islands. It is a country that offers something for everyone and every type of tourist. The diversity of the destinations, the ease of access and affordability have made India one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Asia. Whether you’re looking for magnificent palaces, exotic wildlife or beaches, India has it all. With each region offering unique attractions, there is something for everyone – be it adventure seekers or heritage lovers.

Amazing Domestic Packages

Shimla Packages

7,499/- 3D/2N

Includes : Pickup and drop from Chandigarh, Complete Sight-seeing in Cab, Inclusive of All taxes

Goa Packages

8,900/- 4D/3N

Includes : Twin sharing, Free Transfers, Breakfast, Free drop at Vagator Beach, 1-day Sightseeing Tour

Kerala Packages

11,500/- 4D/3N

Includes: 2 nights in Munnar, 1 night in Kumarkom, Daily breakfast, All transfers and sightseeing

Andaman Packages

15,999/- 5D/4N

Includes : 1 night Havelock, 3 nights Port Blair, Daily breakfast, All transfers and sightseeing

Facts about India

• India is the only country that has not invaded any other nation in the past 10,000 years.
• India was once one of the richest countries in the world before being invaded by the British in the early 17th century. It is also one of the first places in the world where diamonds were found.
• Sanskrit is a very old language that belongs to the Indo-European family of languages, from which most modern European languages originate.
• Saint Gyandev is credited with creating Snakes and Ladders in the 13th century. The ladders in the game represent virtues, while snakes symbolise vices. The game has undergone several modifications over the years, but its original meaning remains unchanged.
• Chess is a two-player strategy board game that was invented in India. It was originally called “Chaturanga”, which means “four members of an army” in Sanskrit. Today, chess is one of the most popular games in the world and has inspired many variations, including Blitz chess.
• Brahmagupta was the first to develop the concept of zero, while Aryabhata developed the place value system. In the sixth century, Brahmagupta wrote a book called Brahmasphutasiddhanta, which described zero and how it could be used as a number in mathematical equations. Aryabhata developed the place value system, which is still used in modern-day mathematics.
• In the sixth century, Budhayana was the first person to calculate the value of pi. He did this well before any mathematician in Europe. Bhaskaracharya calculated the time (365.258756484 days) taken by the Earth to orbit the Sun long before Western astronomers.
• Ayurveda, which is the earliest school of medicine in the world, was born in India thousands of years ago. In fact, it is said that Ayurveda was created by Lord Brahma himself.
• The Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has won the SKYTRAX Award 2020 for being in the ‘Best Airport category’ in the world and is awarded the ‘Best Airport Staff in India & Central Asia’ at the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2021.
• India is the only country with over 300,000 mosques and 2 million Hindu temples.

Major Celebrations in India

1.    Republic Day: Republic Day is an important holiday in India. It is celebrated on January 26 every year to honour the constitution of India, which was adopted on this day in 1950.

2.    Independence Day: On August 15, Indians celebrate Independence Day to commemorate freedom from British rule in 1947.

3.    Gandhi Jayanti: Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on October 2 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who was popularly known as the Father of the Nation.

4.    Holi: Holi is a popular Indian festival that celebrates the eternal and divine love of Radha and Krishna. It is a popular festival, known as the festival of Colours, Love, and Spring. 

5.    Baisakhi: Celebrated in the month of April, Baisakhi or Vaisakhi is one of India’s most popular harvest festivals. It marks the formation of Khalsa Panth under the guidance of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, in 1699.

6.    Eid: Eid al-Fitr, is marked as the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of celebration and fasting. It is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal (in the 10th month of the Islamic calendar).

7.    Onam: Onam, or Thiruvonam, is an ancient harvest festival of Kerala. It is celebrated throughout the state with great joy and happiness. Onam is a colourful festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali and his legendary return to Kerala every year.

8.    Diwali: Diwali is the festival of lights that celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is one of the major Hindu festivals, as well as celebrated by Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists, symbolizing the eradication of darkness and negativity.

Things to Buy in India

• Traditional Indian paintings, Art and Crafts
• Authentic Indian curry powder/Pickles
• Popular Indian Tea
• Assam silk, Sarees and kurtas from West Bengal 
• Kondapalli toys
• Kashmiri carpets and Pashmina shawls
• Natural Ayurvedic Products
• Spices and Herbs from Spice Capital of India
• Leather products from the Leather City of India
• Rajasthani Jewellery/tribal jewellery
• Karnataka Sandalwood carvings 
• Punjabi Jutti (footwear)

Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in India

There are so many  places to visit in India . Some of them are mentioned below:

1.    Jammu & Kashmir – Heaven On Earth: Jammu and Kashmir is a beautiful state situated in the northwest of India in the Himalayan Region. From lush green valleys to snow-capped mountains, there is something for everyone in this scenic state. Its natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting activities make it a great place to visit. There are many  tourist destinations in Jammu & Kashmir  and the state is popular for its traditional handicrafts, apples, and dried fruits. The place offers a breathtaking view to its visitors and introduces a green valley surrounded by deep forest.

2.    Ladakh – The Land Of High Passes: Ladakh offers breathtaking mountain scenery and a large number of monasteries and temples that are well worth a visit. History buffs will also enjoy visiting the ancient kingdom of Lo Manthang, located in the Mustang district of Ladakh. The landscapes are rugged and varied, with high mountain peaks, fertile valleys, and stark deserts. And, there are plenty of things to do in Ladakh including trekking, biking, and white water rafting.

3.    Shimla – Queen Of Hills: Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India, known for its stunning Himalayan scenery. It is one of the most popular travel destinations in India. Its stunning scenery and cool climate make it a perfect place to escape the heat of the Indian summer. With its stunning natural beauty and rich culture,  Shimla hill station  attracts visitors from all over the world.

4.    Delhi – The Heart Of India: Delhi is an ancient city with a rich history, dating back to the Mahabharata era. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by a number of different dynasties, each of which has left its mark on the city. Today, Delhi is a bustling metropolis and one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. There are many places to visit in Delhi, from historical sites and temples to modern shopping malls and restaurants.

5.    Rajasthan – The Land Of Kings: Rajasthan is a land of forts, palaces, deserts and tigers. The vast region in northwest India is one of the most colourful in the country. It is one of the most colourful and culturally rich states in the country. It was once the home of maharajas, their grand palaces and opulent lifestyles. There are plenty of  places to visit in Rajasthan , visitors can explore hill forts and hunting lodges from the era of the Rajput kings, marvel at intricately carved temples, wander through pink sandstone cities and visit Ranthambore National Park.

6.    Sikkim – Indrakil (The Garden Of The War God Indra): Sikkim is known for its natural beauty, with its landscape consisting of tall mountains, glaciers, valleys, and rivers. Located near the borders of Nepal and Bhutan, it is home to a diverse mix of cultures and ethnic communities. Moreover, from snow-capped mountains and mighty rivers to serene lakes and dense evergreen forests, there are a number of  tourist places in Sikkim . Some popular destinations include Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Gurudongmar Lake. The state is blessed with natural beauty that is unrivalled by any other state in the country.

7.    Mumbai – The City Of Dreams: Mumbai, the Hollywood city of India and home to more than 21 million people, is a city rich in culture and history. It’s a place where you can witness the ancient and the modern coexist side by side. From historical monuments like Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and Town Hall to Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves and Marine Drive, there are many  places to visit in Mumbai . If you’re looking for an adventure, or simply want to experience another side of India.

8.    Goa – Pearl Of The Orient: Goa is one of the most beautiful and sought-after tourist destinations in India. From its stunning beaches to its lush forests, there are many things to see and do in Goa. If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up some sun,  Goa’s beaches  are definitely worth a visit. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can head to one of the state’s many national parks or wildlife sanctuaries. No matter what you’re into, Goa has something for you.

9.    Bangalore – Silicon Valley Of India: Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, has a population of over 10 million and is one of the most cosmopolitan and culturally diverse cities in India. It is also one of the most important industrial and commercial hubs in the country. There are many tourist  places to visit in Bangalore , which are famous for their natural beauty, historical monuments, and temples. Bangalore is a city located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka.

10. Ooty – A Scenic Hill Town: Ooty is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is a hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu. The place is well known for its natural beauty and pleasant climate. Ooty also has a lot of tourist attractions such as the Ooty Lake, Dodabetta Peak, Thread Garden, Rose Garden, and others. It contains many colonial-era bungalows and churches, as well as hiking trails and a botanical garden. All these places are very beautiful and worth visiting.

Get The Best India Travel Tourism Guide With Travanya

The country of India is not only famous for its breathtakingly wonderful monuments but also for its natural beauty in this country. Explore is a land of diversity with numerous tribal groups, languages, religions and exotic cuisines. Travelling abroad is a great experience but nothing like the diversity of landscapes and cultures in India. Working as a leading tour & travel company, we encourage travellers to travel more in India, as our India tour packages introduce travellers to the incredible beauty of the country.  

Whether you are planning your honeymoon in beautiful Kashmir or the picturesque islands of Goa, the Travanya India tourism guide will help you choose the best tourist places in India. We are a team of travel professionals who are committed to providing the best travel experience to our clients. We at Travanya spend a lot of time brainstorming, designing and planning holidays in India that are guaranteed to make travelling with us an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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• Basic Statistic Direct contribution of tourism and hospitality to GDP in India 2012-2028
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Direct contribution of tourism and hospitality to GDP in India from 2012 to 2017, with an estimate until 2028 (in billion U.S. dollars)

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Distribution of revenue from tourism to GDP in India from 2013 to 2022, by segment

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Number of direct and indirect jobs in the travel and tourism sector across India from financial year 2014 to 2022, with projection for 2023 (in millions)

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Number of foreign tourist arrivals in India from 2008 to 2022

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Number of visitors to national monuments across India from financial year 2017 to 2023, by type (in millions)

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Leading ticketed monuments in India in financial year 2023, by number of domestic visitors (in 1,000s)

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Leading ticketed monuments in India in financial year 2023, by number of foreign visitors (in 1,000s)

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Purposes of using an online travel agency in India as of June 2023, by age group

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• Premium Statistic Market size of travel and tourism market in India 2023-2030
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Distribution of Indian travel market from financial year 2018 to 2020, with an estimate for 2027, by type

Travel market distribution in India FY 2018-2027, by booking channel

Travel market distribution across India from financial year 2018 to 2020, with an estimate for 2027, by booking channel

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Value of hotel market in India from financial year 2018 to 2020, with an estimate for 2027 (in billion U.S. dollars)

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Cultural Tourism in India

Last updated on October 3, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

What is Cultural tourism? Why Cultural tourism is significant in India? What is being done to promote cultural tourism in India? Read further to know more

India has a wide variety of attractions that showcase its extensive cultural heritage. India attracts tourists from all over the world because of its abundance of spectacular heritage monuments.

As a result of cultural tourism in India, people have visited historic temples, regal palaces, scenic beaches, and attractive hills.

Table of Contents

Present scenario of the tourism sector in India

With 1.52 million foreign visitors anticipated in 2021, India is one of the top tourism destinations in the globe. India’s foreign exchange revenues increased by roughly $8.8 billion as a result of this. There were also about 680 million domestic travellers.

India is a much-liked tourist destination thanks in large part to its distinct culture, history, and position as one of the world’s oldest civilizations, as well as its plethora of breathtaking natural attractions. As a result, there are 40 UNESCO world heritage sites (32 cultural, 7 natural & 1 mixed). With towns, forts, tombs, tunnels, rock shelters, and churches, India has a lot to offer tourists.

What is Cultural tourism?

Cultural tourism is a kind of tourism that enables visitors to take part in local cultural celebrations like festivals and traditions. The traveller can thus have genuine cultural contact with the people.

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Furthermore, because cultural tourism is a significant development engine, it enables local societies to embrace their culture. Communities, therefore, make a point of praising and supporting their culture since it sets them apart from other communities.

As nations recognise the value of cultural tourism and how it can boost local economies, they are focusing on developing cities and villages that will captivate tourists from across the world to experience and observe the culture in a way that has never been possible before.

Why Cultural tourism is significant in India?

• Tourists travel to India to experience it for themselves because of the country’s well-known rich cultural legacy and mysticism.
• Some of the most important civilizations and faiths in the world have their roots in India and were nurtured there. India is a popular travel destination because of its numerous World Heritage Sites and unparalleled cultural vibrancy.
• Since time immemorial, India has been regarded as the land of ancient history, legacy, and culture, which is the main reason for its current stratospheric ascent in the tourism sector.
• Over the years, India has had numerous kings, and each of them had an impact on Indian culture. Different cultures have left their mark on dance, music, celebrations, architecture, traditional customs, food, and languages.
• The richness and diversity of India’s heritage and culture can be attributed to the influence of all these different cultures. This cultural wealth helps to project India as the top destination for cultural tourism, boosting that industry in India.
• To promote cultural tourism in India, the Indian government established the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. The ministry recently launched the “Incredible India!” campaign, which has contributed to the expansion of India’s cultural tourism industry.

Various sites of cultural tourism centres in India

India’s diversity is a result of the country’s mixture of religious and cultural traditions. The nation is home to a large number of world historic monuments that have an enticing influence and have long drawn visitors from around the world. We would be delighted to familiarise ourselves with the many customs and civilizations that make up India’s cultural heritage.

The Pushkar fair (Rajasthan), Taj Mahotsav (Uttar Pradesh), and Suraj Kund mela are just a few of the fairs and festivals that travellers can attend in India (Haryana). sites include the Taj Mahal (Uttar Pradesh), the Hawa Mahal (Uttar Pradesh), Hampi (Karnataka), the Ajanta & Ellora caves (Maharashtra), and Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu) (Rajasthan).

Rajasthan is the most popular state in India for cultural tourism among the several states. Rajasthan is known for having a rich cultural legacy, which is the reason behind this. The state is well known for its numerous exquisite palaces and forts that highlight Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage. Rajasthan’s rich cultural legacy is also reflected in the numerous folk songs and music. Rajasthan has many festivals and fairs, including the camel festival, the Marwar festival, and the Pushkar festival. All of these draw a lot of people to Rajasthan since they allow them to experience the state’s vibrant culture.

Tamil Nadu is renowned for cultural tourism in India as well because it exhibits Dravidian customs and culture. Its numerous temples reflect India’s rich cultural heritage. Numerous tourist attractions in Uttar Pradesh attest to the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The Taj Mahal in Agra is the most well-known structure. Many tourists also go to Uttar Pradesh cities like Varanasi, Allahabad, Vrindavan, and Ayodhya because they capture exquisite scenes from India.

In India, Uttaranchal is renowned for its cultural tourism industry. The Himalayas, known as the “abode of the Gods,” are located in this state. The Kumaon and Garhwal regions of the state are home to numerous historic temples.

Government initiatives to boost India’s cultural tourism

Some of the government initiatives to boost cultural tourism in India are:

PRASHAD Scheme

• The Ministry of Tourism introduced the “National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD)” in 2014–15 with the goal of holistically developing recognised pilgrimage places.
• In October 2017, the program’s name, which had previously been PRASAD, was changed to “National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)”.
• The respective State/Union Territory Government shall implement the initiatives listed under this scheme through the designated agencies.
• Under its provisions, the Ministry of Tourism offers State Governments Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for boosting tourism at predetermined locations.
• The Central Government will contribute 100% of the funds needed for components covered by public funding under this programme.
• It also tries to incorporate corporate social responsibility (CSR) and public-private partnerships (PPP) for the project’s increased sustainability.

HRIDAY scheme

• The National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana, an HRIDAY programme, was introduced on January 21, 2015, by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• The goal of this programme is to protect and promote the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The HRIDAY programme seeks to preserve cultural assets while also promoting urban planning and historic cities’ economic development.
• The National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana places a strong emphasis on the heritage cities’ accessibility, security, safety, way of life, cleanliness, and quick service delivery.
• Buddhist Tourism Circuit
• The Buddhist circuit is a route that follows in the footsteps of the Buddha from Lumbini in Nepal where he was born, through Bihar in India where he attained enlightenment, to Sarnath and Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh in India, where he gave his first teachings and his final resting place.
• Kushinagar is the centre of the Buddhist circuit, which consists of pilgrimage sites at Lumbini, Sarnath, and Gaya.

Palace on Wheels

• A luxurious tourist train is called The Palace on Wheels. To promote tourism in Rajasthan, it was started by the Indian Railways in collaboration with the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation. The name has since changed to Heritage Palace on Wheels.
• In August 2009, the train service underwent renovations and was reopened with new furnishings, itineraries, and menus.
• The idea for the Palace on Wheels came from the historical royal significance of the coaches, which were designed to serve as the private trains for the former kings of Rajputana, Baroda, the Nizam of Hyderabad, and primarily the Viceroy of British India.
• Each saloon showcases the state’s cultural character through the use of furnishings, handicrafts, paintings, and other decorations. The interior of the train was designed by Rashmi Gupta, an architect from Jaipur.

What is being done to promote cultural tourism in India?

The tourist industry has been growing as a result of numerous causes. Let’s look at them now:

Hospitality and food

• The Indian hospitality industry is a major contributor to this expansion. The public and commercial hospitality sectors have developed adequate resorts and hotels that offer excellent conventional and delectable options to tourists to accommodate and feed them.
• Additionally, eating has given visitors to India another reason to go. This nation provides a wide variety of culinary delicacies that are practically unmatched.

Activities and events

• Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and MCT (Ministry of Culture & Tourism) have worked together to promote Indian culture throughout the world. To accomplish this, several Indian Cultural Centers on both the national and international levels organise a variety of programmes and events, including yoga coaching, music, dance, and language classes in Hindi and Sanskrit.
• To promote the culture and variety of the nation, there are various activities like festival celebrations and art exhibitions. Through a Global Engagement Scheme, the Ministry of Culture also promotes Indian culture abroad. In this programme, Indian festivals are promoted and various cultural organisations abroad receive financial and infrastructural assistance.

Creation of world-class tourism infrastructure

• The Swadesh Darshan programme , which was introduced by the Indian Tourism Ministry, has been another step done by the Indian government. It aided in the creation of theme-based circuits that cater to both mainstream tourist and specialist markets.
• Under this programme, world-class infrastructure has been built to promote Indian culture and history. 27 projects totalling 2261.50 crores have been approved for 21 states and Union Territories since 2015.

Generation of tourism markets abroad

• Through a marketing strategy and integrated campaigns using international media, the Indian Tourism Ministry has been pushing India as a top travel destination.
• Since October 2021, the top 20 source markets abroad have seen all of these promotional activities carried out by the synergized combination of all the tourism offices abroad.
• For instance, proposals for organising events with themes like Spirit of Gujarat in nations with a Gujarati Diaspora have been sent to the Indian government. Gujarat’s culture and heritage will be the main focus of this event.
• Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is another festival with a distinct subject that would be promoted on Independence Day and Republic Day of India. It would foster a sense of pride in one’s country and emphasise how the people contributed significantly to India’s independence.
• Another instance of this project is the International Buddhist Conclave, which takes place every two years. This gathering celebrates Buddhist heritage .

Additional initiatives are taken by the Government of India

• Issuing the Tourist e-Visa to a chosen few nations is another effective government measure that would help India’s tourism grow. Teams have been chosen by the Indian government to take part in significant travel shows and international tourism expos. Several roadshows have also been held to advertise India as a tourist destination.
• In addition to all these activities, the government is also setting up training courses and workshops to attract qualified people to this profession. Here, providing a better experience is the goal.

Easy setup of tourism businesses

• The Indian Ministry of Tourism has made conducting business easier and assisted in establishing Web-based Delivery Systems for the general population. To make the process of submitting business applications for government approval transparent, it recognises the Trade and Travel Service Providers and aids hotels and resorts in classifying under a single directory. With effect from January 2016, this was done online along with the integration of payment gateways.

Development of a mobile app

• The Indian Tourism Ministry introduced the Swachh Paryatan mobile application in February 2016. This enables citizens to report any problems with sanitation and hygienic conditions at different national tourist attractions.

Scaling greater heights

• The government’s measures will be essential moving ahead to build a sustainable system that will attract new participants to the cultural tourism sector while bolstering the performance of the current ones.
• However, there is still much to learn about the enormous potential of India’s cultural tourism sector. If properly developed, this industry can increase its GDP contribution to India and increase employment possibilities there. To do this, it is necessary to stimulate related industries including transportation, infrastructure, lodging, and hospitality.

The government is paying attention to India’s expanding cultural tourism industry and taking the necessary steps to support it in maintaining this development. The industry, however, still has a lot of unrealized potentials. If appropriately utilised, this can increase the industry’s contribution to India’s GDP and provide job possibilities there.

By bringing revenue to historic sites, ruins and mausoleums, tourism has the potential to enhance and safeguard heritage and culture.

Related Posts

• Riverine-Based Religious Tourism Circuit
• Tourism Sector

Article written by Aseem Muhammed

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• Updated On Sep 6, 2022 at 04:47 PM IST

A brief history of travel

Be it hunting-gathering, leisure, exploration, research or breaking the monotony through virtual tours during the Covid-19 pandemic, travel has donned different roles with changing times. Sanjar Imam encapsulates how travelling has been an integral part of human existence throughout history. Read on to understand how the travel industry got its current shape in this first of a series of articles.

• Published On Sep 6, 2022 at 11:27 AM IST

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Tourism Sector in India – Explained, pointwise

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• 1 Introduction
• 2 What is the current status of Tourism Sector in India?
• 3 What are the driving factors of Tourism Sector in India?
• 4 What are the challenges faced by the Tourism Sector in India?
• 5 What steps have been taken for the development of Tourism Sector in India?
• 6 What more steps can be taken going ahead?
• 7 Conclusion

Introduction

A three-day National Conference of Tourism Ministers of States was held for the first time in Dharmsala (Himachal Pradesh) recently. The purpose of the Conference was to discuss, debate, and deliberate on modes and mechanisms to develop tourism sector in India. The meeting came up with ‘ Dharamshala Declaration ‘. The Dharamshala Declaration aims to recognise India’s role in contributing towards global tourism as well as focus on recovery by also promoting domestic tourism, which has been overlooked for long. India is a vast country with huge geographical, climatic, landscape, wildlife, heritage and cultural diversity. As such India has huge tourism potential. Yet this potential has remained under-utilized. In this context, the Ministry of Tourism has undertaken several initiatives to boost tourism in India.

What is the current status of Tourism Sector in India?

Before the onset of the pandemic, the contribution of tourism sector to India’s GDP had reached ~US$ 250 billion in 2018. However, the contribution had fallen to US$ 122 billion in 2020 due to pandemic. The share of Tourism to GDP has hovered around ~5-6%. With post-pandemic recovery, the tourism industry is  expected to reach US$ 512 billion by 2028.

Source: IBEF

Tourism Sector is the third-largest foreign exchange earner for the country in 2019.  The foreign exchange earnings between 2016 and 2019 increased at a CAGR of 7%, but dipped in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2028, Indian tourism and hospitality is expected to earn US$ 50.9 billion as visitor exports compared with US$ 28.9 billion in 2018. Foreign Tourist arrivals had reached 10.9 million in 2019, before falling to 2.7 million in 2020 due to the pandemic.

India was ranked 34th in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019 published by the World Economic Forum. The Economic Impact 2019 Report published by the World Tourism and Travel Council (WTTC) has noted that between 2014-19, India witnessed the strongest growth in the number of jobs created (6.36 million), followed by China (5.47 million) and the Philippines (2.53 million).

In 2020, the Indian tourism sector accounted for 39 million jobs, which was 8% of the total employment in the country. By 2029, it is expected to account for about 53 million jobs. Tourism sector provides diverse opportunities for jobs like in hospitality/hotels/accommodation, transportation, tour guides, travel operations etc.

Source: IBEF. Components of Tourism Sector

What are the driving factors of Tourism Sector in India?

The Tourism Sector in India is driven by various factors like diverse attractions, robust demand (like for medical tourism) and attractive opportunities.

In addition to the above, rapidly expanding India economy is providing huge opportunities for business tourism. According to the World Bank, India has overtaken Japan to become the world‟s third  largest  economy in  terms  of purchasing power parity (PPP). India holds a 6.4% share of global GDP on a PPP basis. Because of the economic growth, foreign players are interested to establish their operational facilities in the country. Domestic investors have also made huge investments to expand their business. Tourism industry gets benefited from the growing economic environment and investment made by  both  domestic and foreign investors. The  country‟s growing  economic environment acts as one of the major influential driver for tourism growth and development of the country.

What are the challenges faced by the Tourism Sector in India?

Awareness : Despite promotional campaigns by the Government, the awareness regarding India as a tourist destination remains low. Even among domestic tourists, the choice is limited to few popular destinations which remain overcrowded, while many other potential places receive low footfalls of tourists. The information portals and centres are poorly managed. There is lack of promotional campaigns in foreign countries. The absence of online branding campaigns fail to provide information to attract tourists.

Infrastructure and Safety : Many popular destinations lack air connectivity, especially in the hilly regions. Moreover, there is lack of proper hygienic facilities in may places. Lack of cleanliness is off-putting to many tourists. In addition there are safety concerns especially among foreign visitors because of few cases of harassment. Poor experience of some tourists leads to bad word-of-mouth information impacting perception of potential tourists.

Communication : Many tourists face communication problem while in India. This makes them dependent on tourist guides or travel operators to curate their travel in India.

Lack of Skilled Manpower : There is dearth of skilled manpower especially multi-lingual tour guides or hotel staff. The sector is dominated by small unorganized players who can’t spend on skilling their employees or sensitising them to cultural values of the foreign tourists. This impacts tourist experience.

Visa Process : The Government had started the e-visa process (online) which has led to increase in foreign tourists. However, the visa-on-arrival facility is limited to very few countries, limiting foreign tourists.

Currency Fluctuations : Another issue is the fluctuations in the currency exchange rates. The inability to know the value of a currency means that long-range tourism prices are especially hard to predict and the fallout from this monetary instability is already impacting multiple tourism support systems.

Although the coronavirus crisis has short-term destructive effects on the tourism industry, it is challenging the practices of the tourism industry and is drawing attention to a succession of issues like poor risk management in the travel industry, viral globalization, and travel of diseases with tourists to cross borders.

What steps have been taken for the development of Tourism Sector in India?

Infrastructure : The Government has been increasing investments in strengthening of the country’s road and rail networks and promoting port development is a significant driver for the growth of the Tourism sector. The Adarsh Station Scheme is helping modernize railway stations, while the Regional Connectivity Scheme – UDAN ( Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik ), is helping make air travel more economical and widespread to hitherto unserved routes. The Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes aim to stimulate growth in niche tourism segments such as religious, heritage, wellness, medical, adventure, MICE, wildlife etc. Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, the Government has launched several theme based circuits like Buddhist circuit which covers destinations associated with the life of Lord Buddha.

Promotional Campaign : Promotional activities such as the Incredible India 2.0 campaign focuses on niche tourism products including yoga, wellness, luxury, cuisine wildlife among others. “ Find the Incredible You ” Campaign focuses on the promotion of niche tourism products of the Country on digital and social media.

Information Helpline : The government has introduced the concept of e-tourist and e-medical visas which has helped increase inbound tourists to the country. Additional initiatives such as Atithi Devo Bhava , a 24×7 multi-lingual Tourist Helpline, among others have helped improve the safety and security of tourists. On a pilot basis, an ‘ Incredible India Helpline ’ has been set up to guide the tourists.

Safety : The Ministry of Tourism has adopted a code of conduct for safe tourism, which contains a set of guidelines to encourage tourism activities to be undertaken with respect to basic rights like dignity, and  safety of both tourists and local residents, in particular women and children.

Investment : The government allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment in the Travel and Tourism sector through the automatic route to increase investments across the sector. More recently, the GST rate cut on hotel room tariffs across the board has been a positive move for the industry and is expected to boost the sector’s competitiveness globally.

Cleanliness and Hygiene : Major cleanliness campaign has been launched under the Swachh Bharat movement for protecting and preserving the sanctity of monuments of national heritage . The Ministry of Tourism has also launched awareness campaign to ensure cleanliness of surroundings and help create a Swachh Bharat, Swachh Smarak .

Assistance to States : Financial assistance to states, including places of religious importance, for various tourism projects in consultation with them subject to availability of funds, inter-se priority, liquidation of pending utilisation certificates and adherence to the scheme guidelines.

Digital Database : In September 2021, the Government launched NIDHI 2.0 (National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry), a scheme which will maintain a hospitality database comprising accommodation units, travel agents, tour operators and others. NIDHI 2.0 will facilitate digitalisation of the tourism sector by encouraging hotels to register themselves on the platform.

Skilling : The Ministry of Tourism has introduced the Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) and Incredible India Tourist Guide (IITG) Certification Programme to create an online learning platform of well-trained tourist facilitators and guides across the country.

The Ministry of Tourism had launched an initiative called SAATHI (System for Assessment, Awareness & Training for Hospitality Industry) by partnering with the Quality Council of India (QCI) in October 2020. The initiative was focused on effective implementation of guidelines/SOPs issued with reference to COVID-19 for safe operations of hotels, restaurants, and other units.

What more steps can be taken going ahead?

First , The government should continue to promote India’s diversity and rich heritage to re-establish its position as a tourist paradise. The promotional campaigns should target both domestic and foreign tourists. Similarly, the extent of theme-based tourist circuits can be expanded.

Second , the skilling initiatives should be scaled-up . Tourism sector has a potential to provide lot of livelihood opportunities in smaller cities/towns (below tier-2 level). It can help address the issue of jobless growth.

Third , there is need to balance the promotion of tourism with safeguarding the physical, social, and cultural environment in the destination areas. The government should also promote green and sustainable tourism to tackle issues relating to water crisis, pollution, waste management, etc.

Fourth , the Government should further reform the tourist visa norms and processes to facilitate tourism. The Government should also explore the possibility of expanding the visa-on-arrival facility.

Fifth , the focus should also be on supporting and promoting the emerging segments of tourism.

Source: IBEF. Emerging Segments of Tourism.

The tourism sector in India is gradually recovering from the impact of the pandemic. Even during the pandemic, the sector had shown resilience by adapting its operations to ensure safe practices and social distancing. The sector has huge untapped potential in India. The multiplier effect associated with the tourism sector can help raise the income levels and ensure inclusive growth. A burgeoning tourism industry can prove to be vital in ensuring India’s transition to a high income economy.

Syllabus : GS III, Indian Economy and issues related to growth.

Source : The Hindu , Hindustan Times , IBEF

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History of Hotel Industry in India

Delving into the vibrant and evolving panorama of the hotel industry in India offers remarkable insights into its rich history and promising future. From its nascent stage during the British rule, to transforming through the times of the country’s independence and subsequent economic liberalization, the industry presents a riveting narrative. The hospitality sector in India has not only evolved but has emerged as a powerhouse, boasting a tapestry of both renowned hospitality chains and unmissable landmark hotels. Moreover, the industry has not remained immune to global influences, adopting modern trends, practices, and technological advances. Yet, like every other sector worldwide, it has had to endure the impacts of global occurrences, COVID-19 being the most recent.

The Beginnings of India’s Hotel Industry

Initial pacesetters in the indian hospitality industry.

The hotel industry in India has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. During British rule, the setting up of initial hotels was primarily driven by the need for suitable accommodations for visiting British officials and growing number of travelers. One of the first established hotels was The Park Hotel in Bengal, established in 1803 by Captain Smith. The year 1840 saw the setting up of another landmark establishment, The Great Eastern Hotel in Calcutta, popularly known as “the Jewel of the East.”

Becoming a Tale of Cities

Many of the first hotels were designed to mimic opulent European palaces, offering the height of luxury for guests. With English-speaking staff, fine dining experiences, and sometimes even imported British furniture, these early establishments set a high standard for the Indian hospitality industry. Not only were they instrumental in shaping the industry, but they’ve also left a lasting architectural legacy, with some still operating today.

Post-Independence Expansion

Post-independence in 1947, the Indian hotel industry expanded significantly with the rise in domestic and international tourism and the thrust on economic development and international interaction. Several hotel groups were established including the Oberoi Group in 1934 and the Indian Hotels Company, operator of the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, which remains one of South Asia’s largest and finest group of hotels.

Policy Developments and Hotel Industry Expansion

In 1961, the Government of India enacted the Hotel Reception Act to promote the growth of the hotel industry further through FDI and concessional loans. Granting ‘industry’ status to the business of hotels, facilitated increased access to funding and foreign investment. Several international hotel chains like Hyatt and Hilton began investing in India, contributing to the growth and modernization of the hotel industry, that we see today.

Shift Towards Budget Accommodations

While the early era of the hotel industry in India was marked by luxurious establishments primarily catering to the affluent, by the late 20th and early 21st century, there was a significant trend towards budget accommodations. This was fueled by factors such as increased domestic travel and the rise of the middle-class demographic in India . Recognizing this demand, multiple local brands such as FabHotels, OYO Rooms, and Treebo Hotels emerged to provide affordable, standardized accommodations throughout the country. In recent years, the concept of specialty lodging like homestays and serviced apartments has also started gaining popularity.

The story of the hotel industry in India is a journey through time, characterized by colonial influences, steady expansion, structural evolution, and present-day adaptation. As the industry continues to develop and reinvent itself, it upholds its rich traditions and heritage, while embracing the ever-changing needs of its diverse clientele.

Impact of Independence and Economic Liberalisation

The birth of the hotel industry post-independence and the arrival of its first establishments.

In correlation with India’s independence, the inception of the country’s hotel industry commenced. The early years post-independence in 1947 saw the birth of several homegrown hotel firms. These included the grand opening of the legendary Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai in 1903. Following this were enterprises like East India Hotels (now referred to as EIH Ltd.), the Oberoi Group, the Indian Hotel Company Limited (IHCL), and the Hotel Leela Venture.

Period of Government Intervention

Till the 1980s, the industry was heavily regulated and primarily operated by the government. In 1950s and 1960s, The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) was established, which played a major role in promoting hotels and tourism in the country. Another body, the Hotel Corporation of India Ltd., was set up in 1971 to manage hotels in major cities and tourist destinations.

Impact of Economic Liberalisation on Hotel Industry

However, the hotel industry in India took a significant turn when the government introduced economic liberalization policies in 1991. The industry was opened up for private and foreign investments that spurred growth and brought in a revolution of international standards in the sector. Various international brands started entering the Indian market, leading to the emergence of a robust, competitive hospitality landscape.

With the liberalization of trade policies, foreign direct investment (FDI) was encouraged in the hotel industry. The impact of economic liberalization was transformative, as it provided a much-needed impetus to the industry, making it one of the fastest growing sectors of the Indian economy. The increase in influx of business and leisure tourists within the country and from abroad also significantly contributed to the growth of the industry.

Present Era: Growth and Expansion

In the subsequent years, the industry witnessed a period of consistent growth leading to an influx of both international and local hotel chains. The sector thrived on the high demand due to increasing purchasing power of the middle class, growing penchant for leisure travel, and a rise in corporate travel due to emergence of India as a business destination. Today, the hotel industry in India is characterized by presence of various global brands, diverse types of accommodation options, and a rising trend of unconventional lodging alternatives such as home stays and serviced apartments.

Government Policies & Initiatives

The Government of India, recognizing the importance of tourism and its potential in promoting economic growth, has undertaken various initiatives such as ‘Incredible India’ and ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ to promote India globally as a tourist hotspot. More recently, the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative identifies tourism and hospitality as a growth industry .

In summary, there was a significant transformation in the Indian hotel industry post-independence. This change was heavily driven by economic liberalizations, shifting the industry from government-controlled to a sector dictated by market forces. As a result, the Indian hotel industry has seen consistent growth, innovative approaches and a wide array of hospitality offerings.

Key Players and Landmark Hotels

Taj hotels resorts and palaces: the figurehead of luxurious indian hotels.

At the helm of this transformation has been one of India’s most iconic luxury hotel chains, the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. Established in 1903 by the founder of Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai was the first flagship property of the Taj Hotels and the country’s first harbor landmark. Its unique blend of red-domed, Indo-Saracenic architecture rapidly became a symbol of luxury and Indian hospitality. The Taj group has since flourished and now encompasses over 100 hotels across the globe, including internationally recognized properties such as the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur and the Lake Palace in Udaipur.

Oberoi Hotels: Luxury Redefined

Whether it’s opulence in architecture or unparalleled service, The Oberoi Group is another key player in the Indian hotel industry. Its founder, Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi, started with acquiring the lease for the Grand Hotel in Shimla in the 1930s. By the time of India’s independence in 1947, he owned several prestigious hotels across India. Within decades, Oberoi expanded its reach to seven countries. The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur and The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra are two of its properties that epitomize luxury.

ITC Hotels: Luxury with a Heart for Sustainability

ITC Hotels, a division of the ITC Limited, is a premier chain known for its ‘Responsible Luxury’ concept. Established in 1975, it became the second largest hotel chain in India with over 100 hotels. ITC created a unique identity of marrying opulence with eco-friendly initiatives. The ITC Maurya in New Delhi and the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai are examples of ITC’s commitment to sustainability and luxury, featuring green technologies and local sensibilities in design.

The Indian Hotels Company Limited

Commonly known as IHCL, The Indian Hotels Company Limited operates the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. IHCL was incorporated in 1899 by Tata Sons Ltd with the first property, The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, opening in 1903. According to an official statement, the Taj Hotel is renowned for its architectural magnificence and its place in history, not just as a mere stately hotel but an integral part of India’s legacy.

An Intellectual Property: Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts

The Leela Group is a premium luxury hospitality brand in India established in 1987 by C.P. Krishnan Nair. With unique architecture and a keen sense of elegance, the Leela Palaces are reminiscent of the royal palaces of India. The company owns eight luxury properties across the country in prime urban cities and magical holiday destinations. Particularly, The Leela Palace Udaipur and The Leela Palace New Delhi are notable for their grandeur and luxury.

Budget Hotels: New Players, New Game

The Indian hotel industry has also seen a boom in budget accommodations, with companies like OYO Rooms and Treebo Hotels leading the pack. OYO Rooms, which launched in 2013, quickly became the largest hotel chain in South Asia due to its affordable rates and standard amenities across properties. Similarly, Treebo Hotels, established in 2015, has disrupted the budget hotel market by focusing on quality and consistency in its services and properties across India.

Preserving History and Culture with Heritage Hotels

With the aim of protecting historical residencies like palaces, mansions (havelis) and forts from past eras, the government has converted these properties into heritage hotels. This initiative not only promotes tourism but also preserves these significant structures. Prominent examples include the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur and the Neemrana Fort Palace in Alwar. By carefully maintaining the original architecture and art pieces from their respective eras, these heritage hotels provide a luxurious stay coupled with a nostalgic trip into India’s royal history.

Current Trends and Innovations

The rise of boutique hotels.

Another trend that has rapidly caught on in the Indian hotel industry is the surge of boutique hotels. These hotels, moving away from the conventional ‘business hotel’ concept, emerged from a desire to create unique, personalized experiences for travelers . Catering to a specific section of the market that values exclusivity and uniqueness over standardized accommodation, boutique hotels offer exceptional service and a distinct theme. In cities steeped in history like Rajasthan, these hotels often adopt local architectural styles, traditions and cuisines, providing visitors with a deeply rooted cultural immersion.

Technology Integration in the Hotel Industry

Technological advancements have played a considerable role in modernizing the Indian hotel industry. High-speed internet, mobile check-ins, digital concierge services, and IoT-enabled rooms are transforming the customer experience. More recently, hotels have begun to invest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies to analyze customer data and preferences, enabling them to provide personalized service and targeted marketing. An example of this is AI-driven chatbots that assist hotel guests with reservation inquiries and other requests 24/7, thereby amplifying customer service and efficiency.

Sustainable Practices in Indian Hotels

Sustainable and eco-friendly practices have also gradually infiltrated the Indian hotel industry, as an increasing number of travellers have started preferring hotels that demonstrate a commitment to the environment. Hotels are adopting practices such as waste management solutions, energy-efficient operations, rooftop gardens, and sourcing local organic produce to reduce their carbon footprint. Some hotels have also started implementing water conservation methods and using renewable energy sources.

Luxury Segment Growth

India, renowned for its rich historical heritage and glamorous palaces, has seen significant growth in the luxury hotel segment. Luxury hotels, especially in historical regions, have helped in preserving architectural sites and converted old palaces and forts into luxury accommodations, thus offering a unique cultural experience to their affluent guests.

Adapting to the Sharing Economy

The entry of platforms like Airbnb has disrupted the traditional hospitality industry, prompting hotels to innovate to hold their market share. More hotels are now offering apartment-style accommodations and homestays to attract the younger demographic that prefers more flexible and local living experiences over traditional hotel stays.

Responding to Health and Wellness Trends

The global trend of health and wellness tourism has influenced the hotel industry in India, with many hotels incorporating wellness facilities and offering yoga retreats or Ayurveda therapies. This shift aligns with India’s rich history of holistic health practices.

Experiential Tourism

Experiential tourism trend, which emphasizes engaging with the local culture, history, people and environment of a destination, has shaped the hotel industry’s approach to its offerings. To cater to this demand, hotels are tying up with local service providers for adventure sports, culinary tours, heritage walks, etc., to provide an immersive experience beyond accommodation.

Observing current patterns in the Indian hotel industry, it becomes apparent that the sector is continually adapting to align with shifting consumer demands and international trends. Yet, it has also successfully maintained its deep-rooted cultural and historical significance. The mixture of creative integrative approaches into the Indian hotel industry signals a forward-thinking outlook towards its future expansion and advancement.

Impact of Global Events and Covid-19

Global events transforming india’s hotel industry.

The Indian hotel industry’s trajectory over time has been significantly shaped by numerous international events. These occurrences range from natural calamities to financial downturns, each inducing variances in the volume of tourists and travelers. These variations inevitably impact hotels’ occupancy levels and financial gain. A prime example of such a transformative global event includes the Covid-19 pandemic, which drastically affected the hotel industry across India.

Effects of Covid-19 on India’s Hotel Industry

Covid-19 immensely disrupted the Indian hotel industry, posing unprecedented challenges. With travel and tourism at a near-standstill and lockdown measures in place, the industry faced severe revenue losses. According to a report by JLL India, the pandemic led to a whopping 80% drops in the hotel sector’s revenue generation in 2020.

Lockdowns disrupted the regular operation of hotels, leading to significant revenue losses, and many hotels had to close their doors temporarily. These closures impacted many stakeholders, including employees and suppliers. Some establishments had to lay off staff, while others implemented salary cuts, further worsening the revenue situation.

The restriction on international travel significantly impacted luxury and high-end hotels in India that relied heavily on foreign tourists. Even as domestic travel was allowed during the eased lockdown periods, the fear of infection kept many potential local tourists at bay.

Strategies Adopted to Combat the Challenges

India’s hotel industry crafted innovative strategies to combat Covid-19’s impact. Some establishments pivoted their business models and services to adapt to the new normal. Many hotels started offering work-from-home (WFH) packages to capitalize on the increased need for people to work remotely. These packages provided a quiet and comfortable environment for clients, allotting rooms as personal working spaces while providing necessary amenities like Wi-Fi and refreshments.

Moreover, hotels started implementing stringent safety and hygiene standards to reassure guests. They adopted contactless services using technology, such as digital menus, online payments, and mobile applications for services.

To alleviate revenue pressure, some hotel establishments converted their properties into temporary quarantine facilities and catered to healthcare workers’ needs. As part of corporate social responsibility, certain hotels offered meals to frontline healthcare workers and people in need.

The pandemic highlighted the need to diversify sources of revenue for many hotels. This led to hotels looking at other avenues such as food delivery, hosting virtual events, and long-stay arrangements.

Finally, hotels heavily started promoting domestic tourism, targeting local travelers through attractive offers and packages. The idea was to fill in the void left by international tourists and capitalize on locals’ desire to break the monotony of lockdown and work from home.

Continuing Impact and Way Forward

While the worst may seemingly be over, the hotel industry is still reeling under the effects of the pandemic and is likely to continue to do so for some time to come. The onset of new Covid-19 variants and the wave of infections further derailed the recovery process. However, with the vaccination process speeding up and steady improvements in the situation globally, there is hope for an impending revival.

Overall, while the pandemic has posed significant challenges, it has also pushed the Indian hotel industry to innovate significantly. And while the road to recovery may take time, the strategies adopted during the crisis will likely serve the industry well in the long run.

The landscape of India’s hotel industry, as we observe today, is a testament to its resilient grit in the face of challenges, and its innovative spirit in embracing change. The industry has eulogized its past, learnt from its challenges, and adapted to modernity with an agile dynamicity. Looking back at its growth trajectory and current developments, it is evident that the industry is on an incessant journey towards enhancement, in an endeavour to offer optimal hospitality. The global pandemic has indeed left deep imprints, yet these extraordinary times have also moulded the industry and shown the way forward. The road to recovery and resurgence lies ahead, and undoubtedly, the Indian hotel industry is all equipped to chart its course resolutely and robustly.

Report | Intelligent Investment

Asia Pacific Hotels & Hospitality Sector Trends 2024

June 25, 2024 3 Minute Read

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With the Asia Pacific hotel market continuing to undergo structural change, hotel owners and operators are fine-tuning operational and branding strategies. Increased labour and utilities costs, limited new supply, and the prolonged peak of the interest rate cycle are among the driving factors. 

Major global hotel operators are expanding rapidly across the region, with almost half of the new hotels in the development pipeline being developed in conjunction with five hotel groups: Marriott (60,566 rooms), Accor (47,052 rooms), IHG (34,227 rooms), Hilton (31,606 rooms) and Wyndham (21,455 rooms). These operators continue to invest in loyalty programmes and niche segments to capture market share while also significantly expanding their technological capabilities.

Despite prolonged high interest rates globally, hotel investment in Asia Pacific has been resilient, driven by continued interest in Japan and Australia, a record-breaking year for serviced residence sales in mainland China, and a steady flow of deals in a strongly performing Korea market. 

This report explores the key trends impacting the hotel sector in Asia Pacific, including an analysis of the current market landscape, the latest activities of the major operators, asset management and investment trends, and ESG considerations.

Operators keep daily rates elevated as a result of limited supply, elevated demand and rising labour costs: While hotels have successfully adapted to lower levels of applicants and staffing, new labour-related issues present a challenge to owners and operators. With this challenge expected to persist for the rest of 2024, operators will look to keep daily rates high to capture some of these losses on balance sheets.

Major global operators continue to expand aggressively, with increased emphasis on lifestyle brands:  With the ‘big 5’ operators expanding their global market share from 20% to 24% over the past six years, the trend is set to continue as the push for greater presence across all segments continues.

A large part of this strategy is the expansion into the lifestyle sector, with the brand loyalty programs, avant-garde design and wellness initiatives driving the demand.

Investment robust despite debt-related headwinds; investors maintain preference for upscale+ branded assets: Amid ongoing capital market dislocation, the upscale+ segment has emerged as the most appealing segment for hotel investors in Asia Pacific. This has been driven by growth in global wealth and travellers’ willingness to spend more on accommodation following the prolonged border closures witnessed during the pandemic.

Adoption of Sustainability / ESG initiatives continues; hotels with strong ESG initiatives set to outperform: The Asia Pacific hotels and hospitality industry’s commitment to ESG initiatives continues to gain momentum. Rising energy costs, which have increased significantly since the onset of the pandemic, along with further commitment to ESG initiatives are set to accelerate the industry’s focus on sustainability. Other supportive factors include a shift in guests’ preferences toward more sustainable tourism, along with growing demand for disclosure around climate risk.

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More than 1,300 people died during Hajj, many of them after walking in the scorching heat

Muslim pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba, the cubic building at the Grand Mosque, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Monday, June 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool, File)

FILE - Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun as they arrive to cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual hajj, in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. More than 1,000 people died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced extreme high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, officials said Sunday, June 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

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CAIRO (AP) — More than 1,300 people died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced extreme high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, Saudi authorities announced Sunday.

Saudi Health Minister Fahd bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel said that 83% of the 1,301 fatalities were unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in soaring temperatures to perform the Hajj rituals in and around the holy city of Mecca .

Speaking with the state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV, the minister said 95 pilgrims were being treated in hospitals, some of whom were airlifted for treatment in the capital, Riyadh. He said the identification process was delayed because there were no identification documents with many of the dead pilgrims.

He said the dead were buried in Mecca, without giving a breakdown.

The fatalities included more than 660 Egyptians. All but 31 of them were unauthorized pilgrims, according to two officials in Cairo. Egypt has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies that helped unauthorized pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia, authorities said.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief journalists, said most of the dead were reported at the Emergency Complex in Mecca’s Al-Muaisem neighborhood. Egypt sent more than 50,000 authorized pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year.

Saudi authorities cracked down on unauthorized pilgrims, expelling tens of thousands of people. But many, mostly Egyptians, managed to reach holy sites in and around Mecca, some on foot. Unlike authorized pilgrims, they had no hotels to return to to escape the scorching heat.

In a statement Saturday, Egypt’s government said the 16 travel agencies failed to provide adequate services for pilgrims. It said these agencies illegally facilitated the travel of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia using visas that don’t allow holders to travel to Mecca.

The government also said officials from the companies have been referred to the public prosecutor for investigation.

According to the state-owned Al-Ahram daily, some travel agencies and Hajj trip operators sold Saudi tourist visas to Egyptian Hajj hopefuls, violating Saudi regulations which require exclusive visas for pilgrims. Those agencies left pilgrims in limbo in Mecca and the holy sites in scorching heat, the newspaper said.

Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun as they arrive to cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual hajj, in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

The fatalities also included 165 pilgrims from Indonesia, 98 from India and dozens more from Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria and Malaysia, according to an Associated Press tally. Two U.S. citizens were also reported dead.

The AP could not independently confirm the causes of death, but some countries like Jordan and Tunisia blamed the soaring heat. AP journalists saw pilgrims fainting from the scorching heat, especially on the second and third days of the Hajj. Some vomited and collapsed.

Historically, deaths are not uncommon at the Hajj, which has seen at times over 2 million people travel to Saudi Arabia for a five-day pilgrimage. The pilgrimage’s history has also seen deadly stampedes and epidemics.

But this year’s tally was unusually high, suggesting exceptional circumstances.

In 2015 a stampede in Mina killed over 2,400 pilgrims , the deadliest incident ever to strike the pilgrimage, according to an AP count. Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede. A separate crane collapse at Mecca’s Grand Mosque earlier the same year killed 111.

The second-deadliest incident at the Hajj was a 1990 stampede that killed 1,426 people.

During this year’s Hajj period, daily high temperatures ranged between 46 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) and 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) in Mecca and sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Meteorology. Some people fainted while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil .

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes it difficult to ensure their safety.

Climate change could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an “extreme danger threshold” from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj comes around 11 days earlier each year. By 2029, the Hajj will occur in April, and for several years after that it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.