India Achieves Record High in International Visitor Spend, Says WTTC

International

According to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), international visitor spending in India surged to an all-time high of ₹3.1 trillion in 2024, surpassing the previous 2019 peak by 9%.

The data reflects a strong recovery of inbound tourism after years of pandemic-driven domestic reliance.

Domestic travel remains robust, with ₹15.5 trillion in spending, up 22% from 2019. In total, India’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed nearly ₹21 trillion to the national economy last year—20% more than in 2019. The industry also supported a record 46.5 million jobs, accounting for 9.1% of total employment.

India welcomed 20 million international visitors in 2024, 2.3 million more than in 2019, cementing its status as a top-tier global destination. Business travel also reached historic levels, with combined domestic and international spend hitting ₹1.1 trillion, 2.6% above 2019 figures.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson commented:

“India’s Travel & Tourism sector is entering a bold new chapter. To sustain this growth, easing visa processes is essential. The government's plans to simplify e-visa access are welcome, but delays for markets like the U.S. remain a significant hurdle.”

WTTC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the WTTC India Initiative (WTTCII) to amplify India’s global tourism voice and ensure policy coherence through a strengthened public-private partnership model.

Looking ahead, WTTC forecasts ₹22 trillion in sector contribution for 2025, with employment expected to exceed 48 million. By 2035, the sector could nearly double its economic impact to ₹42 trillion, employing almost 64 million people.

With a rich blend of tradition, natural beauty, and innovation, India is positioned to become one of the world’s most dynamic tourism economies. WTTC urges the government to back this momentum with consistent policy support, particularly for SMEs and sustainable infrastructure.

For more information and to access the full research, including the latest Environmental Social Research (ESR), visit the WTTC Research Hub.