INTRODUCTION OF TOURISM
India is a large market for travel and tourism. It offers a diverse portfolio of niche tourism
products - cruises, adventure, medical, wellness, sports, MICE, eco-tourism, film, rural and
religious tourism. India has been recognized as a destination for spiritual tourism for domestic
and international tourists. In his Independence speech from Red Fort, Prime Minister Mr.
Narendra Modi urged people to visit 15 domestic tourist destinations in India by 2022 to
promote tourism. India ranked 34 in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019
published by the World Economic Forum.
In WTTC’s Economic Impact 2019 report, India’s Travel & Tourism GDP contribution grew
by 4.9%, which was the third-highest after China and the Philippines. Additionally, the report
also highlights that between 2014 and 2019, 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).
The Ministry of Tourism has created a policy for development and promotion of caravan and
caravan camping parks. On January 25, 2021, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Mr.
Prahlad Singh Patel announced plan to develop an international-level infrastructure in Kargil
(Ladakh) to promote adventure tourism and winter sports.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced a new scheme called ‘All India
Tourist Vehicles Authorisation and Permit Rules, 2021’, in which a tourist vehicle operator
can register online for All India Tourist Authorisation/Permit. This permit will be issued
within 30 days of submitting the application.
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation selected Pochampally in Telangana as one
of the best tourism villages in November 2021.
From November 15, 2021, India allowed fully vaccinated foreign tourists to visit India, which
in turn will help revive the Indian travel and hospitality sector.
In 2020, the travel & tourism industry’s contribution to the GDP was US$ 121.9 billion; this
is expected to reach US$ 512 billion by 2028. In India, the industry’s direct contribution to
the GDP is expected to record an annual growth rate of 10.35% between 2019 and 2028.
The travel market in India is projected to reach US$ 125 billion by FY27 from an estimated
US$ 75 billion in FY20.
The Indian airline travel market was estimated at ~US$ 20 billion and is projected to double
in size by FY27 due to improving airport infrastructure and growing access to passports.
There has been an increase in the demand for luxury stay among Indian consumers, due to
rising consumer spend. In line with this, key players are expanding their presence to cater to
this demand.
In October 2021, firms such as Accor and Wyndham Hotels and Resorts announced to add
new hotels and properties in India to expand footprint in the country.
Accor, a French hospitality major, will expand its India portfolio by adding nine additional
hotels in the mid-scale and economy categories, bringing the total number of hotels to 54 in
the country.
OYO estimates India to present a US$ 26 billion opportunities by 2030. To further strengthen
its position in India, in October 2021, the company filed its draft red herring prospectus
(DRHP) for an initial public offering (IPO) of Rs. 8,430 crore (US$ 1.2 billion) with the
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
In 2020, the Indian tourism sector accounted for 31.8 million jobs, which was 7.3% of the
total employment in the country. By 2029, it is expected to account for about 53 million jobs.
International Tourists arrival is expected to reach 30.5 billion by 2028. e-Visa facility was
offered to 171 countries as of March 2021. The government introduced a scheme to boost the
tourism sector by providing one-month free tourist visa to 5 lakh tourists until March 31,
2022.
In April 2021, the percentage share of FTAs was highest from USA (26.85%), followed by
Bangladesh (15.65%), Afghanistan (6.92%), UK (5.87%), Nepal (4.59%), Canada (4.27%),
Iraq (2.99%), Portugal (2.40%), Germany (1.42%), Russian Fed (1.41%) Maldives (1.39%),
France (1.33%), Sudan (1.21%), Korea (Rep.) (1.18%), and Australia (1.02%).
In April 2021, the percentage share of FTAs in India was highest at Bengaluru Airport
(29.96%), followed by Mumbai Airport (17.48%), Ahmedabad Airport (15.72%), Delhi
Airport (9.21%), Cochin Airport (4.91%), Chennai Airport (4.04%), Hyderabad Airport
(3.34%), Lucknow Airport (2.40%), Bhavnagar Seaport (2.37%), Kolkata Airport (2.11%),
Calicut Airport (1.41%), Amritsar Airport (1.35%), Kakinada Seaport (1.32%), Dabolim
(Goa) (0.91%), Mangalore Airport (0.72%).
Between January 2021 and April 2021, the number of FTAs was 376,083 as compared to 2.35
million in January- April 2020 registering a negative growth of -84.0%.
Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, 77 projects have been sanctioned of worth Rs. 6,035.70
crore (US$ 863.60 million). The Ministry of Tourism has approved 16 projects for over Rs.
1,300 crore (US$ 171.2 million) in India's North East under the “Swadesh Darshan” Scheme.
The Ministry of Tourism launched the NIDHI portal to understand the geographical spread of
the hospitality sector, its size, structure and existing capacity in the country. NIDHI will serve
as a common data repository for the Ministry of Tourism, State Departments of Tourism and
Industry; this will enable the Central and State Governments to deliver better support and
services including policies and strategies for the tourism sector. As of December 31, 2020,
34,399 accommodation units have been registered on the portal.
The launch of several branding and marketing initiatives by the Government of India such as
‘Incredible India!’ and ‘Athiti Devo Bhava’ has provided a focused impetus to growth. The
Indian Government has also released a fresh category of visa - the medical visa or M-visa, to
encourage medical tourism in the country. The Government is working to achieve 1% share in
world's international tourist arrivals by 2020 and 2% share by 2025.
Amid the relaxation provided by the government after the COVID lockdown, the Indian
Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has urged the government to finalise a roadmap for
resumption of international flights and facilitate e-visas and tourist visas. The Indian Railway
Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) runs a series of Bharat Darshan tourist trains
aimed at taking people to various pilgrimages across the country.
Subsequently in November end, India introduced a graded relaxation of its visa and travel
restrictions for more categories of foreign nationals and Indian nationals.
Post the pandemic crisis, the government plans to tap into regional tourism by opening doors
for South Asian country tourists.
In November 2021, the Ministry of Tourism signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation to strengthen hospitality and tourism
industry. The ministry has also signed an MoU with Easy My Trip, Cleartrip, Yatra.com,
Make My Trip and Goibibo.
In November 2021, the Indian government planned a conference to boost film tourism in the
country with an aim to establish domestic spots as preferred filming destinations. This move
is expected to create jobs and boost tourism in the country.
The Government is also making serious efforts to boost investment in the tourism sector. In
the hotel and tourism sector, 100% FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) is allowed through the
automatic route. A five-year tax holiday has been offered for 2-, 3- and 4-star category hotels
located around UNESCO World Heritage sites (except Delhi and Mumbai).
Government is planning to boost the tourism in India by leveraging on the lighthouses in the
country. 71 lighthouses have been identified in India which will be developed as tourist spots.
The lighthouses will feature museums, amphi-theatres, open air theatres, cafeterias, children’s
parks, eco-friendly cottages and landscaping according to its capacity. India is often termed as
the hotspot for bio-diversity and its rich natural heritage is unparalleled in many ways. As of
December 2020, the country comprised ~104 national parks and 566 sanctuaries.
The Government of India also announced to develop 17 iconic tourist sites in India into
world-class destinations as per Union Budget 2019-20. Ministry of Tourism launched
DekhoApnaDesh webinar in April 2020 to provide information on the many destinations and
the sheer depth and expanse of the culture and heritage of Incredible India. Until July 2021,
90 webinars have been conducted under the series.
In October 2021, Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi launched the Kushinagar International
Airport in Uttar Pradesh to boost tourism.
In July 2021, the ministry drafted a proposal titled ‘National Strategy and Roadmap for
Medical and Wellness Tourism' and has requested recommendations and feedback from
several Central Ministries, all state and UT governments and administrations as well as
industry partners to make the document more comprehensive.
In May 2021, the Union Minister of State (IC) for Tourism & Culture Mr. Prahlad Singh Patel
participated in the G20 tourism ministers' meeting to collaborate with member countries in
protecting tourism businesses, jobs and taking initiatives to frame policy guidelines to support
the sustainable and resilient recovery of travel and tourism.
Ministry of Tourism has introduced the Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) and
Incredible India Tourist Guide (IITG) Certification Programme, aimed at creating an online
learning platform of well-trained tourist facilitators and guides across the country. The IITF
concept is aimed to promote micro-tourism, i.e., tourism in less explored areas of the country.
As per the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in FY21, the
Indian hotel industry has taken a hit of >Rs. 1.30 lakh crore (US$ 17.81 billion) in revenue
due to impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN INDIA
Tourism in India is important for the country's economy and is growing rapidly. The World
Travel and Tourism Council calculated that tourism generated ₹16.91 lakh crore (US$220
billion) or 9.2% of India's GDP in 2018 and supported 42.673 million jobs, 8.1% of its total
employment.[1] The sector is predicted to grow at an annual rate of 6.9% to ₹32.05 lakh crore
(US$420 billion) by 2028 (9.9% of GDP).[2] In October 2015, India's medical tourism sector
was estimated to be worth US$3 billion, and it is projected to grow to US$7–8 billion by
2020.[3] In 2014, 184,298 foreign patients travelled to India to seek medical treatment.[4]
Over 17.9 million foreign tourists arrived in India in 2019 compared to 17.4 million in 2018,
representing a growth of 3.5%.[5] This makes India the 22nd most visited nation in the world
and 8th in Asia and Pacific .[6] Domestic tourist visits to all states and union territories
numbered 1,036.35 million in 2012, an increase of 16.5% from 2011.[7] In 2014, Tamil
Nadu, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh were the most popular states for tourists.[8] Delhi,
Mumbai, Chennai, Agra and Jaipur were the five most visited cities of India by foreign
tourists during the year 2015. Worldwide, Delhi is ranked 28th by the number of foreign
tourist arrivals, while Mumbai is ranked 30th, Chennai 43rd, Agra 45th, Jaipur 52nd and
Kolkata 90th.[9]
The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019 ranked India 35th out of 140 countries
overall. India improved its ranking by 6 places over the 2017 report which was the greatest
improvement among the top 25% of countries ranked. The report ranks the price
competitiveness of India's tourism sector 13th out of 140 countries. It mentions that India has
quite good air transport infrastructure (ranked 33rd), particularly given the country's stage of
development, and reasonable ground and port infrastructure (ranked 28th). The country also
scores high on natural resources (ranked 14th), and cultural resources and business travel
(ranked 8th).[10] However, some other aspects of its tourism infrastructure remain somewhat
underdeveloped.[11] The nation has many hotel rooms per capita by international comparison
and low ATM penetration.[12] The World Tourism Organization reported that India's receipts
from tourism during 2012 ranked 16th in the world, and 7th among Asian and Pacific
countries.[13]
The Ministry of Tourism designs national policies for the development and promotion of
tourism. In the process, the Ministry consults and collaborates with other stakeholders in the
sector including various central ministries/agencies, state governments, union territories and
private sector representatives. Concerted efforts are being made to promote niche tourism
products such as rural, cruise, medical and eco-tourism.[14] The Ministry of Tourism
maintains the Incredible India campaign focused on promoting tourism in India.
At Adventure Outdoor, we truly believe that the nature of what “adventure’ offers is very
appealing to students, therefore a motive to excel and innovate new ways to grow adventure
in the region. The outdoor recreation industry represents a new economy. The leaders of this
economy will need to have a deep understanding of our local natural resources and integrate
the components of innovation, health, and wellness into a vision for what comes next
Everyone wins when you do the right things for the environment, the community, and the
venture. We want to offer the young generation a chance to be part of the foundation we are
building for adventure tourism in the emirates and the region.
Adventure Tourism Is the Fastest-Growing Global Niche. What does this mean? It means that
there’s plenty of room for young experts to enter the field. It’s not just the "guides" that the
adventure tourism industry needs. It’s everything that goes with it, from adventure tourism
accommodations to trip planners, event managers, marketing and finance directors,
advertising, public relations, and communications. We want to highlight that adventure
tourism requires more than just guides, and various careers within adventure tourism play a
big role in attracting high-value customers, supporting local economies, and encouraging
sustainable practices.
The continued growth of this sector creates net positive impacts not only for tourism, but also
for destination economies, their people, and their environment.
MARKET SIZE
India is the most digitally advanced traveller nation in terms of digital tools being used for
planning, booking, and experiencing a journey. India’s rising middle class and increasing
disposable income has supported the growth of domestic and outbound tourism.
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.
The travel market in India is projected to reach US$ 125 billion by FY27 from an estimated
US$ 75 billion in FY20.
The Indian airline travel market was estimated at ~US$ 20 billion and is projected to double
in size by FY27 due to improving airport infrastructure and growing access to passports.
The Indian hotel market including domestic, inbound and outbound was estimated at ~US$ 32
billion in FY20 and is expected to reach ~US$ 52 billion by FY27, driven by the surging
demand from travelers and sustained efforts of travel agents to boost the market.
During 2019, foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in India stood at 10.93 million, achieving a
growth rate of 3.5% y-o-y. During 2019, FEEs from tourism increased 4.8% YoY to Rs.
1,94,881 crore (US$ 29.96 billion). In 2019, arrivals through e-Tourist Visa increased by
23.6% YoY to 2.9 million. In 2020, FTAs decreased by 75.5% YoY to 2.68 million and
arrivals through e-Tourist Visa (Jan-Nov) decreased by 67.2% YoY to 0.84 million. As of
March 2021, the e-Tourist Visa facility was extended to citizens of 171 countries.
In April 2021, the percentage share of FTAs was highest from USA (26.85%), followed by
Bangladesh (15.65%), Afghanistan (6.92%), UK (5.87%), Nepal (4.59%), Canada (4.27%),
Iraq (2.99%), Portugal (2.40%), Germany (1.42%), Russian Fed (1.41%) Maldives (1.39%),
France (1.33%), Sudan (1.21%), Korea (Rep.) (1.18%), and Australia (1.02%).
In April 2021, the percentage share of FTAs in India was highest at Bengaluru Airport
(29.96%), followed by Mumbai Airport (17.48%), Ahmedabad Airport (15.72%), Delhi
Airport (9.21%), Cochin Airport (4.91%), Chennai Airport (4.04%), Hyderabad Airport
(3.34%), Lucknow Airport (2.40%), Bhavnagar Seaport (2.37%), Kolkata Airport (2.11%),
Calicut Airport (1.41%), Amritsar Airport (1.35%), Kakinada Seaport (1.32%), Dabolim
(Goa) (0.91%), Mangalore Airport (0.72%).
Between January 2021 and April 2021, FTAs was 376,083 as compared with 2.35 million
between January 2020 and April 2020, registering a negative growth of -84.0% Y-o-Y due to
COVID-19.
By 2028, international tourist arrivals are expected to reach 30.5 billion and generate revenue
over US$ 59 billion. However, domestic tourists are expected to drive the growth, post
pandemic.
International hotel chains are increasing their presence in the country, and it will account for
around 47% share in the tourism and hospitality sector of India by 2020 and 50% by 2022.
As per the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in FY21, the
Indian hotel industry has taken a hit of >Rs. 1.30 lakh crore (US$ 17.81 billion) in revenue
due to impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The United Nations World Tourism Organization selected Pochampally in Telangana as one
of the best tourism villages in November 2021.
INVESTMENTS
India was globally the third largest in terms of investment in travel and tourism with an inflow
of US$ 45.7 billion in 2018, accounting for 5.9% of the total investment in the country.
The hotel & tourism sector received cumulative FDI inflow of US$ 15.89 billion between
April 2000 and June 2021.
Indian government has estimated that India would emerge with a market size of 1.2 million
cruise visitors by 2030-31. Dream Hotel Group plans to invest around US$300 million in the
next 3-5 years for the development of the cruise sector in India.
GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES
The Indian Government has realised the country’s potential in the tourism industry and has
taken several steps to make India a global tourism hub.
Some of the major initiatives planned by the Government of India to boost the tourism and
hospitality sector of India are as follows:

From November 15, 2021, India allowed fully vaccinated foreign tourists to visit India,
which in turn will help revive the Indian travel and hospitality sector.

In the Union Budget 2022-23, an additional US$ 316.3 million was earmarked for
Ministry of Tourism.

In November 2021, the Ministry of Tourism signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation to strengthen
hospitality and tourism industry. The ministry has also signed an MoU with Easy My
Trip, Cleartrip, Yatra.com, Make My Trip and Goibibo.

In November 2021, the Indian government planned a conference to boost film tourism
in the country with an aim to establish domestic spots as preferred filming
destinations. This move is expected to create jobs and boost tourism in the country.

In October 2021, Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi launched the Kushinagar
International Airport in Uttar Pradesh to boost tourism.

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly disrupted the Tourism industry. In September
2021, the Ministry of Tourism announced plans to allow international tourists to enter
India and formal protocols are under discussion. According to the previous
announcements, the first five lakh foreign tourists will be issued visas free of cost.

In September 2021, the government launched NIDHI 2.0 (National Integrated
Database of Hospitality Industry) scheme which will maintain a database of
hospitality sector components such as accommodation units, travel agents, tour
operators, & others. NIDHI 2.0 will facilitate the digitalization of the tourism sector
by encouraging all hotels to register themselves on the platform.

In July 2021, the ministry drafted a proposal titled ‘National Strategy and Roadmap
for Medical and Wellness Tourism' and has requested recommendations and feedback
from several Central Ministries, all state and UT governments and administrations as
well as industry partners to make the document more comprehensive.

In May 2021, the Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture Mr. Prahlad Singh
Patel participated in the G20 tourism ministers' meeting to collaborate with member
countries in protecting tourism businesses, jobs and taking initiatives to frame policy
guidelines to support the sustainable and resilient recovery of travel and tourism.

Government is planning to boost the tourism in India by leveraging on the lighthouses
in the country. 71 lighthouses have been identified for development as tourist spots.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced a new scheme called
‘All India Tourist Vehicles Authorisation and Permit Rules, 2021’, in which a tourist
vehicle operator can register online for All India Tourist Authorisation/Permit. This
permit will be issued within 30 days of submitting the application.

In February 2021, the Ministry of Tourism under the Government of India's Regional
Office (East) in Kolkata collaborated with Eastern Himalayas Travel & Tour Operator
Association (resource partner) and the IIAS School of Management as (knowledge
partner) to organise an ‘Incredible India Mega Homestay Development & Training’
workshop. 725 homestay owners from Darjeeling, Kalimpong and the foothills of
Dooars were trained in marketing, sales and behavioural skills

On January 25, 2021, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Mr. Prahlad Singh Patel
announced plan to develop an international-level infrastructure in Kargil (Ladakh) to
promote adventure tourism and winter sports.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) runs a series of
Bharat Darshan tourist trains aimed at taking people to various pilgrimages across the
country.

On November 4, 2020, the Union Minister of State (IC) for Tourism & Culture Mr.
Prahlad Singh Patel inaugurated the “Tourist Facilitation Centre” facility constructed
under the project “Development of Guruvayur, Kerala” (under the PRASHAD
Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism).

Under Budget 2020-21, the Government of India has allotted Rs. 207.55 crore (US$
29.70 million) for development of tourist circuits under PRASHAD scheme.

The Ministry of Tourism’s ‘DekhoApnaDesh’ webinar series titled ‘12 Months of
Adventure Travel’ on November 28, 2020, is likely to promote India as an adventure
tourism destination.

On January 26, 2021, Maharashtra Chief Minister Mr. Uddhav Thackeray inaugurated
Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur. It is India’s
largest zoological park spread over 564 hectares and expected to attract ~2.5 million
tourists a year.

The Ministry of Tourism developed 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 will effectively
implement guidelines/SOPs issued with reference to COVID-19 for safe operations of
hotels, restaurants, B&Bs and other units.

Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as ‘Statue of Unity’, was inaugurated
in October 2018. It is the highest standing statue in the world at a height of 182 metre.
It is expected to boost the tourism sector in the country and put it on the world tourism
map.

Under Budget 2020-21, the Government of India has allotted Rs. 1,200 crore (US$
171.70 million) for development of tourist circuits under Swadesh Darshan for eight
Northeast states.
STATE GOVETRNMENT INITIATIVES

In October 2021, the Tripura government collaborated with Infovalley Educational &
Research (P) Ltd. as part of a public-private partnership (PPP) to run the State Institute
of Hotel Management (SIHM). Through the SIHM, the government aims to empower
the youth and contribute to the growth of hotels and hospitality management in the
state.

In July 2021, the Kerala government, in collaboration with Vythiri in Wayanad, has
initiated a campaign to vaccinate all tourism and hospitality stakeholders.

The Ministry of Tourism sanctioned three projects for a total amount of Rs. 179.68
crore (US$ 24.24 million) under the Swadesh Darshan scheme in Gujarat. The
Ministry of Tourism has approved 16 projects for over Rs. 1,300 crore (US$ 171.2
million) in India's North East under the “Swadesh Darshan” Scheme.

In July 2021, the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) invited
applications to operate shacks in six major beaches of the state.

In July 2021, the Tamil Nadu state government decided to implement an integrated
mega tourism plan, which included new lighting arrangements for the Thiruvalluvar
statue at Kanyakumari, starting renovations at Poompuhar tourist spot and improving
roads leading to tourist spots, spiritual places and adventure tourism spots. It also
includes unveiling a new tourism policy, establishing more hotels, resorts, and
convention centres and increasing contribution of public and private sectors in the
tourism sector.

In July 2021, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority urged stakeholders in the tourism
sector in the state to register with the Andhra Pradesh Tourism under the Tourism
Trade Registration and Facilitation Guidelines 2020.

In June 2021, the Odisha state government announced to provide a financial package
for the COVID-hit tourism sector of the state.
ACHIVEMENTS
Following are the achievements of the Government during 2019-20:

During 2019-20, an additional fund Rs. 1,854.67 crore (US$ 269.22 million) was
sanctioned for new projects under the Swadesh Darshan scheme.

Ministry of Tourism sanctioned 18 projects covering all the North Eastern States for
Rs. 1,456 crore (US$ 211.35 million) to develop and promote of tourism in the region
under Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes.

Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as ‘State of Unity’, was inaugurated in
October 2018 and the total revenue generated till November 2019 stood at Rs. 82.51
crore (US$ 11.81 million).
Growth of Tourism in India
Tourism in India is important for the country's economy and is growing rapidly. The World
Travel and Tourism Council calculated that tourism generated ₹16.91 lakh crore (US$220
billion) or 9.2% of India's GDP in 2018 and supported 42.673 million jobs, 8.1% of its total
employment. The sector is predicted to grow at an annual rate of 6.9% to ₹32.05 lakh crore
(US$420 billion) by 2028 (9.9% of GDP). In October 2015, India's medical tourism sector was
estimated to be worth US$3 billion, and it is projected to grow to US$7–8 billion by 2020. In
2014, 184,298 foreign patients travelled to India to seek medical treatment.
Source countries for foreign tourist arrivals in India in 2019
Rank
Country
Number
Share in %
1
Bangladesh
2,577,727
23.58
2
United States
1,512,032
13.83
3
United Kingdom
1,000,292
9.15
4
Australia
367,241
3.36
5
Canada
351,859
3.22
6
China (mainland)
339,442
3.11
7
Malaysia
334,579
3.06
8
Sri Lanka
330,861
3.03
9
Germany
264,973
2.42
Russia
251,319
2.3
7,330,325
67.06
10
Total of top 10
Foreign and domestic tourist visits by State Share of top 10 states/UTs of
India in number of foreign tourist visits in 2017
Rank
State/Union Territory
Maharashtra
5,078,514
18.9
2
Tamil Nadu
4,860,455
18.1
3
Uttar Pradesh
3,104,062
13.3
4
Delhi
2,379,169
10.2
5
Rajasthan
1,489,500
6.4
6
West Bengal
1,475,311
6.3
7
Kerala
977,479
4.2
8
Bihar
923,737
4.0
9
Karnataka
636,502
2.7
Goa
541,480
2.3
20,620,863
88.4
2,705,300
11.6
23,326,163
100
Total of top 10 states
Total
Share in %
1
10
Others
Number
Share of top 10 states/UTs of India in number of domestic tourist visits in
2017
Rank
State/Union Territory
Number
Share in %
1
Tamil Nadu
345,061,140
20.9
2
Uttar Pradesh
233,977,619
14.2
3
Karnataka
179,980,191
10.9
4
Andhra Pradesh
165,433,898
10.0
5
Maharashtra
119,191,539
7.2
6
Telangana
85,266,596
5.2
7
Madhya Pradesh
78,038,522
4.7
8
West Bengal
79,687,645
4.8
9
Gujarat
48,343,121
2.9
Rajasthan
45,916,573
2.8
Total of top 10 states
1,380,896,844
83.6
271,588,513
16.4
1,652,485,357
100
10
Others
Total
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA
1. Manali
Situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Manali draws tourists with its
natural beauty and tranquillity. The hill station is frequented by travellers from across
the country, especially during the summer season when cities reel under the scorching
heat. Snow-capped mountains, dense forests, riverine valleys and sparkling streams
add to the beauty of the hill station and make it one of the most popular holiday
destinations in India.
2. Munnar
Nestled in the Western Ghats in the state of Kerala, Munnar is counted among the most
serene and beautiful places in India. The hill station boasts impeccable natural beauty
in the form of rolling hills, scenic valleys, virgin forests, waterfalls, streams, national
parks, tea and spice plantations and winding walkways. However, it is the unmissable
colonial charm of Munnar that attracts many tourists time and again.
3. Leh Ladakh
Leh Ladakh is the most famous breathtaking landscapes, crystal clear skies, the highest
mountain passes, thrilling adventure activities, Buddhist monasteries and festivals.
4. Coorg
Surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and boasting a lush green landscape, Coorg
or Kodagu is yet another cliched holiday destination that is worth the hype. This hill
station is in the state of Karnataka and a popular weekend getaway for nature lovers
and solace seekers. From lush green hills and sparkling streams to quaint villages and
vast expanses of coffee and spice plantations, the charm of Coorg is unmatchable.
5. KERALA
Head south of Goa, and you'll trade beaches for tranquil backwaters in Kerala. Nothing beats
the experience of hopping aboard a traditional thatched-top houseboat in Alleppey (also
known as Alappuzha) and slowly floating through palm-fringed lagoons and rivers, either
as a day trip or overnight adventure.
6. Darjeeling
Sightseeing in India doesn't get much better than what you'll discover in Darjeeling. The hill
station in West Bengal is beloved for its lush green tea plantations, awe-inspiring snowcapped peaks (including Khangchendzonga, the world's third-highest mountain), and
serene Buddhist monasteries.
7. Andaman Islands
Andaman Islands are the go-to place in India if you're looking for a classic beach vacation.
They'll treat you to powder-white sand beaches flanked by coconut palms, pastel-streaked
sunsets, the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and dense jungle landscapes. No postcard
could possibly capture the majesty of this gorgeous destination.
8. Rishikesh
Rishikesh attracts people from all over the world like a magnet since decades owing to its
religious and scenic attributes. Also, one of the most sought-after destinations for adventure
seekers, this locale is nestled amidst the foothills of Himalayas. Surrounded by lush green
forests and with the fast-flowing crystal-clear Ganges crisscrossing this town, Rishikesh is
indeed a place for perfect holidays. Rishikesh is also a popular name amongst health fanatics
as it is believed to be the ‘Yoga capital’ of the world.
9. Amritsar
Amritsar is a city close to India’s border with Pakistan that is the beating heart of Punjab as
well as a principal place of worship for Sikhs. The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) is
considered the holiest shrine in Sikhism and draws people from all over the world to marvel
and worship at it. Many tourists return to the temple after darkness falls to listen to the sounds
of prayer emanating from it.
10.Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad
Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad are rock cut Buddhist caves that date back as far as
the 2nd century BC to 800 AD. The Ajanta Caves mainly consist of rock cut monuments
dedicated to the ancient Buddhist traditions, while Ellora cave contain Hindu, Buddhist and
Jain monuments built during the Rashtrakuta Empire.
ADVENTURE TOURISM IN INDIA
Adventure tourism is hugely popular in India. India is known to have diverse topography,
adventure tours, which will help to get over the boredom induced by the unidimensional city
life.
The mighty mountains, the sapphire seas and plenty of other water bodies, the vast variety of
wildlife and the defying deserts, India has everything in her to pull the thrill-loving crowd.
Some popular adventure sports have grown into major tourism platforms in India like
Mountaineering, Trekking, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Skiing, River/White Water Rafting, etc.
Adventure Tourism Is the Fastest-Growing Global Niche. What does this mean? It means that
there’s plenty of room for young experts to enter the field. It’s not just the "guides" that the
adventure tourism industry needs. It’s everything that goes with it, from adventure tourism
accommodations to trip planners, event managers, marketing and finance directors,
advertising, public relations, and communications. We want to highlight that adventure
tourism requires more than just guides, and various careers within adventure tourism play a
big role in attracting high-value customers, supporting local economies, and encouraging
sustainable practices.
The continued growth of this sector creates net positive impacts not only for tourism, but also
for destination economies, their people, and their environment.
Understanding Adventure Tourism
Adventure tourism is defined as the movement of the people from one to another place
outside their comfort zone for exploration or travel to remote areas, exotic and possibly
hostile areas. Adventure tourism is a type of tourism in which tourists engage in adventure
activities such as trekking, climbing, rafting, scuba diving, or the likes.
Adventure tourism gains much of its excitement by allowing the tourist to step outside their
comfort zone. This may be from experiencing culture shock or through the performance of
acts that required some degree of risk whether real or perceived. It is also about connecting
with a new culture or a new landscape and being physically active at the same time. It is not
only about being risky or pushing your boundaries. In fact, it is especially important to know
and respect your limits while you are in an unfamiliar area.
Adventure travel is a leisure activity that takes place in an unusual, exotic, remote, or
wilderness destination. It tends to be associated with high levels of activity by the participant,
most of it outdoors. Adventure tourists expect to experience various levels of risk, excitement,
and tranquility and be personally tested. In particular, they are explorers of unspoiled, exotic
parts of the planet and also seek personal challenges. The main factor distinguishing
adventure tourism from all other forms of tourism is the planning and preparation involved.
Definitions of Adventure Tourism
Adventure tourism is a new concept in the tourism industry. The tourism industry adopted
adventure tourism, but there is not any specific definition of adventure tourism. Most
commentators concur that adventure tourism is a niche sector of the tourism industry, but
there are many other niche sectors in tourism that have the same characteristics that overlap
with adventure tourism such as ecotourism, activity tourism, or adventure travel.
One of them can confuse. Adventure tourism is a complicated and ambiguous topic. Some
important definitions of adventure tourism are as following:
A) According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA): “adventure tourism is
a tourist activity that includes physical activity, cultural exchange, or activities in nature.”
B) According to Muller and Cleaver: “Adventure tourism is characterized by its ability to
provide the tourist with relatively high levels of sensory stimulation, usually achieved by
including physically challenging experiential components with the tourist experience.”
C) The Canadian Tourism Commission in 1995 defines adventure tourism as: “an outdoor
leisure activity that takes place in an unusual, exotic, remote or wilderness destination,
involves some form of unconventional means of transportation, and tends to be associated
with low or high levels of activity.”
D) According to Sung et al: “adventure tourism is the sum of the phenomena and
relationships arising from the interactions of adventure touristic activities with the natural
environment away from the participant’s usual place of residence area and containing
elements of risk in which the outcome is influenced by the participation, setting, and the
organizer of the tourist’s experience.”
E) According to UNWTO:” adventure tourism can be domestic or international, and like all
travel, it must include an overnight stay, but not last longer than one year.”
Types of Adventure Tourism
Adventure tourism has grown exponentially all over the world in recent years with tourists
visiting destinations previously undiscovered. This allows for new destinations to market
themselves as truly unique, appealing to those travellers looking for a rare, incomparable
experience.
Adventure tourism includes various activities like caving, hiking, sailing, trekking, etc.
Adventure tourism is categorized into two categories:
•
Hard Adventure
•
Soft Adventure
Hard Adventure
Hard adventure refers to activities with high levels of risk, requiring intense commitment and
advanced skills. Hard tourism includes the activities like climbing mountains/rock/ice,
trekking, caving, etc.
Hard adventure activities are highly risked in nature. Professional guides and advanced levels
of skills are required to perform these activities. Many tourists died during climbing
mountains, caving every day.
Soft Adventure
Soft adventure refers to activities with a perceived risk but low levels of risk, requiring
minimal commitment and beginner skills; experienced guides lead most of these activities.
Soft tourism includes the activities like backpacking, camping, hiking, kayaking, etc.
Soft adventure activities are low-risk in nature. Professional guides lead these activities. Soft
adventure is a popular category in adventure tourism as it caters to a wider audience.
Adventure Tourism Activities
Adventure travellers are early adopters by nature, meaning they are generally more willing to
try new destinations, activities, and travel products. Popular activities change rapidly, and it
seems there is a new twist on an existing sport every year.
Some activities have low risk and some have high. Adventure tourism activities are classified
into two types:
Hard Adventure Activities
Hard adventure activities are highly risky and dangerous in nature. These activities are as the
following:
• Caving
• Mountain Climbing
• Rock Climbing
• Ice Climbing
• Trekking
• Sky Diving
Soft Adventure Activities
These activities are less dangerous and risk as compared to hard adventure activities. These
activities are mostly led by professional guides. An example of these activities are:
• Backpacking
• Bird watching
• Camping
• Canoeing
• Eco-tourism
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
• Hunting
• Kayaking/sea/whitewater
• Orienteering
• Safaris
• Scuba Diving
• Snorkeling
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Surfing
Adventure tourism activities sit well with the environment because the natural world provides
us with the resources for many of the activities that provide risk, challenge, sensory stimulus,
novelty, discovery, and so on.
FACTORS AFFECTING FOR ADVENTURE TOURISM
India has risen to the task of promoting adventure tourism, since past few years. Blessed with
astounding geographic diversity, India is rightly emerging as one of the leading, and most
sought-after destinations by both, Indian and foreign adventure tourists alike. This trend has
permeated both the sectors of travel in India: Religious travel as well adventure and experiential
travel.
Below are few of the prominent reasons that have augmented the growth of adventure tourism
in India:
GEOGRAPHICAL FACTORS:
India is known to be a land of diversity- both geographical as well as cultural. A vast expanse
of geographic land, stunning in its various forms, is available at the adventure-enthusiasts
disposal and they can choose to have their fill of thrill from all- aerial, water and land sports,
all within one beautiful nation, which also happens to be price sensitive. So tourists get a huge
variety at a cost much more affordable, than the same sports would be anywhere abroad.
YOUTH:
According to a recent report, India is expected to be the youngest country by 2020. The
percentage of youth will be 34.33% of the whole population. It is observed that large percentage
of the young are more inclined towards adventure sports, taking up the industrial growth a notch
higher than previous decade.
GST:
Goods and Services Tax (GST) has already taken the country up by storm, with a strong dose
of transparency into the market. Now, it is set to make tourism even more affordable for the
middle class of the country. The number of tourists for inbound travel are mostly from the
middle class and with GST making tourism even more affordable, adventure tourism in India
gets a boost from the unlikely ally.
Women travellers:
With a new wave of feminism rocking the nation, the female compatriots are embracing their
bolder side and venturing into uncharted territories, accepting, embracing and even taking
further, adventure sports with open arms. Our first Bungy Jumper, and our 50 thousandth Bungy
Jumper, were both women, and they are truly a force to reckon with, even in the sphere of
adventure sports.
AFFORDABILITY:
The purchasing power of the masses has gone up and a need to offer competitive prices to the
booming adventure travel and tourism industry has made the industry at large offer their
services at extremely affordable rates to the most sought-after market: the Indian Middle Class.
Such changes have built a powerful platform for adventure tourism to thrive on, on an
international scale.
GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES
Seeing the furore around adventure sports, the government has launched a slew of initiatives to
spur the growth. “Incredible India” has been one of the foremost movements to boost that cause
and its popularity has had a significant impact on the amount of tours conducted, and the dignity
attached to Indian Tourism and Adventure Sports in the minds of the people.
ATOI
Adventure Tour Operators Association of India, is a private national body that has been striving
hard to promote Adventure and Eco Tourism in India. The association was founded with an aim
to create awareness about the immense potential for adventure tourism in India and to harness
this potential in a safe, sensitive and environment friendly manner, and has today grown to
comprise of over 200 members across the country and abroad.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Title of the project: Study on Indian Youth’s Behavior and Attitude towards Adventure
Tourism.
Statement of the Problem: A Study on Indian Youths Behavior and Attitude towards
Adventure Tourism, this study is basically conduct to know the Indian Youths behavior and
attitude towards Adventure tourism, to know the how youths are fascinated towards the
adventurous activities.
Objectives of The Study:
 To understand the Adventure tourism.
 To know the places to be visited in Indian for adventures.
 To know the difference kinds of adventurous activities.
 To understand the behaviour and attitude of Indian Youths towards Adventure tourism.
Scope of the study:
This study will help to understand the behaviour & attitude of the Indian Youths and this study
will help me to understand the scope of adventure tourism sector.
The scope of research is the areas covered in the research are:
1. Geographical scope – This scope specifies the location of the study. The research
covers the sample from india. Namely, Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir, Maharashtra etc.
Reason behind the selecting the whole India is availability of the Adventure tourists.
2. The data is collected between May 15th 2022 to May 31st, 2022.
Data Analysis
12. Where do you go often?
Title
No of Respondents
%
Beaches
39
50%
Hill Station
19
25%
Forest
19
25%
Total
78
100%
Where do you go most often?
19; 25%
39; 50%
19; 25%
Beaches
Hill station
Forest
13. What is the General length of your trip?
Title
No of Respondents
%
1 to 2 days
22
28%
3 to 4 days
39
50%
A week
14
18%
A month
2
4%
Total
78
100%
Название диаграммы
A Month
A Week
3 to 5 days
1 to 2 days
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
14.What do you prefer?
Total
No of Respondent
%
Going independently
61
82%
With tourist egency
14
18%
total
75
100%
Название диаграммы
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Independently
Tourist agency
15.How important is cost when you choosing adventure Location?
Title
No of Respondent
%
Important
37
49%
Slightly important
4
6%
Extremly imortent
29
37%
Moderate important
6
8%
76
Название диаграммы
6; 8%
Important
37; 49%
29; 38%
Slightly imp
Extremely important
Moderately important
4; 5%
16. How much do you spend on a trip on an average ?
Title
No of Respondence
%
Up to 5k
44
58%
5k to 15k
25
32%
15k to 25K
6
8%
Above 25k
1
2%
Total
76
17. Have you enjoyed your last adventure tour ?
No of Respondence
%
Yes
74
97%
No
03
3%
Total
77
100%
Do you Enjoyed your last trip
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Yes
No
18. Give Your Feedback about your last trip?
Title
No of Respondence
%
1*
4
5%
2*
0
0%
3*
4
5%
4*
26
34%
5*
43
56%
Total
73
100%
Название диаграммы