Unveiling India

India, one of the world's oldest civilizations, is a captivating blend of diverse cultures and experiences. This mesmerizing country boasts a rich heritage and an array of attractions, making it a highly sought-after tourist destination. 

From the majestic Himalayan peaks to the lush tropical rainforests in the south, India's vast expanse offers a remarkable variety of landscapes. Bordered by the magnificent Great Himalayas in the north, the country extends southwards, gradually tapering off into the Indian Ocean, embraced by the Bay of Bengal on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. 

India's Top Tourist Destinations

India possesses a rich and illustrious heritage, resonating with the opulence, achievements, and profound history of dynasties, rulers, civilizations, arts, crafts, cultures, and religions. The country's remarkable legacy is vividly reflected in its architectural marvels, monuments, artistic expressions, and the preservation of its past through museums and galleries. The significance of these structures is further highlighted by their recognition as UNESCO heritage sites. Among the renowned wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra stands out as a captivating masterpiece. This ethereal marble monument exudes a breath-taking beauty that invites exploration and marvels at its grandeur and is regarded by many as an epitome of Mughal architecture. 

The top 5 destinations that are gaining popularity among tourists for their scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage are:

• Located in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have become increasingly popular among tourists seeking pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can enjoy activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and exploring the lush forests. Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach, and Neil Island are among the top attractions.
• Known as the "Scotland of India," Coorg is a picturesque hill station in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It offers a serene escape with its lush coffee plantations, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can indulge in trekking, birdwatching, and experiencing the local Kodava culture.
• The Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is a vast salt marsh located near the Pakistan border. It is known for its mesmerizing white salt desert, especially during the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival held annually. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunsets, explore traditional handicrafts, and even stay in tented accommodations.
• Located in the state of Karnataka, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an emerging destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. The ruins of the ancient Vijayanagara Empire showcase splendid temple complexes, palaces, and intricate stone carvings. Hampi is also surrounded by a scenic landscape, making it an ideal destination for photography, hiking, and exploring the local culture.
• Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, is nestled in the eastern Himalayas and is gaining prominence as a scenic and culturally rich destination. It is home to the famous Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world. The town offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, river rafting, and exploring the tribal culture of the region.

Some of the lesser-known landmarks that are attracting tourists are: 

• Dhanushkodi In Tamil Nadu is a ghost town situated on the southern tip of Rameswaram Island which was destroyed in a cyclone in 1964 and remains uninhabited. The desolate landscape ruined buildings, and the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean make it a hauntingly beautiful place to visit.
• Mawlynnong, a small village in Meghalaya and often referred to as "Asia's Cleanest Village” is known for its cleanliness and eco-tourism initiatives. The village offers a glimpse into the Khasi tribal culture and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, living root bridges, and waterfalls.
• Nestled in the high Himalayas, Spiti Valley offers rugged landscapes, pristine beauty, and a sense of untouched wilderness. It is known for its remote villages, ancient monasteries, and stunning mountain vistas. Trekking, camping, and exploring the unique Tibetan culture are popular activities in this raw and captivating destination.
• Ziro Valley, located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, is a picturesque destination with lush greenery, rice fields, and rolling hills. It is home to the Apatani tribe, known for its unique culture and sustainable agricultural practices. The valley offers opportunities for hiking, interacting with local communities, and experiencing tribal festivals and traditions.
• Situated on the border of Nagaland and Manipur, Dzukou Valley is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora. Trekking to Dzukou Valley is a popular activity, rewarding visitors with panoramic views, pristine streams, and vibrant flowers, especially during the monsoon season. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The top tourist destinations for international travellers are:

• The vibrant state of Rajasthan in northwest India is a favourite among foreign tourists due to its rich cultural heritage, magnificent palaces, and colourful traditions. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the erstwhile Maharajas. The magnificent forts, bustling bazaars, and camel safaris in the Thar Desert make Rajasthan a captivating destination.
• Known as "God's Own Country," Kerala in southern India is loved by foreign tourists for its serene backwaters, lush green landscapes, and tranquil beaches. The serene backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, the picturesque hill station of Munnar, and the pristine beaches of Kovalam and Varkala that offer a peaceful retreat. Ayurvedic treatments, traditional houseboat cruises, and cultural performances are also popular attractions.
• Goa, situated on India's western coastline, is a renowned tourist spot celebrated for its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and energetic nightlife. Foreign tourists are drawn to the golden sands of beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna, where they can relax, enjoy water sports, and indulge in beachside parties. The Portuguese-influenced architecture, delicious seafood, and bustling markets add to the charm of Goa.

Indian Tourism Industry

The tourism and hospitality sector holds a significant position in India as a major contributor to employment generation and foreign exchange earnings. In order to promote investment and growth in the tourism and hospitality sector, India allows 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) under the automatic route. This policy has been instrumental in attracting foreign capital and fostering development in the industry.

Over the past eight years, from 2014 to 2022, India has witnessed significant inflows of FDI amounting to $ 9.2 billion in the hotel and tourism sector.   

India offers a range of tourism experiences that cater to various niche interests. These niche tourism products open opportunities for foreign investors and encompasses activities such as cruises, adventure sports, medical tourism, wellness retreats, golf and polo, MICE events (meetings, incentives, conferencing, exhibitions), eco-tourism, film tourism, rural tourism, and spiritual tourism. 

Under the RCS UDAN-3 Tourism program, the Ministry of Tourism collaborated with the Ministry of Civil Aviation to enhance connectivity and accessibility to key tourist destinations in India. This collaborative effort aimed to improve connectivity and establish tourism routes that would facilitate easier travel to iconic sites across the country. A total of 31 tourism routes have been successfully operationalized, till December 2022.  

Reviving Tourism: Visit India Year 2023

In an effort to promote tourism and capitalize on India's G20 Presidency and the grand celebrations of India@75 Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Ministry of Tourism has designated the current year as 'Visit India Year 2023'.  The primary focus is to attract inbound travellers to India and showcase the country's diverse tourism offerings to a global audience. The key priorities include highlighting the unique attractions of each state by showcasing India's rich cultural heritage, spirituality, natural beauty, and promoting various categories of tourism such as sustainable tourism, rural tourism, medical tourism, etc. The renowned 'Incredible India' brand will continue to be enhanced and refined to meet the evolving expectations of travellers from across the world.

The tourism sector is witnessing a positive rebound as international travel gradually resumes and Covid-19 restrictions ease. Foreign tourist arrivals in India during FY23 have shown a month-on-month growth, indicating a revival in tourism activities.  

In 2022, the number of foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in India skyrocketed to 6.19 million, a substantial increase compared to the 1.52 million arrivals recorded in the same period of 2021. This surge in tourist numbers reflects the growing appeal of India as a travel destination for international visitors. 

Additionally, India experienced a significant boost in foreign exchange earnings from tourism in 2022. The provisional figures indicate that the country received INR 1,34,543 crore in foreign exchange earnings, a remarkable increase from the INR 65,070 crore recorded in 2021. This surge in earnings showcases the positive economic impact of the increased tourist influx on India's tourism industry. 
Notably, Non-Resident Indian (NRI) arrivals have experienced significant growth, with a 52.6% increase in 2021 compared to 2020. This resulted in a total of 7 million international tourist arrivals in India. 

India's Budget Schemes for Tourism Sector

This year’s Union Budget highlighted the significance of domestic tourism in stimulating the local economy and shed light on the Ministry of Tourism's ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative. In the allocated budget of INR 2,400 cr for the Ministry of Tourism, a substantial portion of INR 1,742 cr is dedicated to the development of tourism infrastructure, while INR 242 cr is allocated for promotion and branding efforts.  

Additionally, INR 1,412 cr has been set aside for the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, a flagship initiative of the Ministry. Under this scheme, the Finance Minister emphasized the integrated and innovative approach to developing 50 tourist destinations, ensuring comprehensive tourism experiences through physical, digital, and virtual connectivity. This includes the availability of tourist guides and enhanced tourist security. These destinations will be developed as complete packages to offer a wholesome experience. 

Furthermore, an allocation of INR 250 cr has been designated for the PRASHAD Scheme, which aims to facilitate the holistic development of selected pilgrimage destinations across the country. 

In this year's budget allocation, the Ministry has also allocated INR 229 cr  specifically for tourism infrastructure and the promotion of North-Eastern States. The North East region of India is bestowed with scenic natural beauty and possesses a unique blend of historical, cultural, and ethnic heritage. 

Initiatives by The Ministry of Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism has implemented various initiatives aimed at boosting the tourism sector in India and attracting a higher number of tourists. These initiatives include the introduction of e-Visa facility for five sub-categories: e-Tourist visa, e-Business visa, e-Medical visa, e-Medical Attendant visa, and e-Conference visa. These e-Visa options are available for nationals of 166 countries, providing them with a convenient and streamlined process for obtaining visas.

To further enhance the e-Visa system, the government has made it more accessible and reduced the visa fees significantly. This move aims to make India a more attractive destination for travelers by simplifying the visa process and making it more affordable.

In an effort to increase India's competitiveness as a tourism destination, the Ministry of Tourism has also implemented a reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on hotel rooms. The GST rate for hotel rooms with tariffs ranging from INR 1,001 to INR 7,500 per night has been lowered to 12%, while those above ₹7,501 are now taxed at 18%. This reduction in GST aims to make accommodations more affordable for tourists and improve India's standing as a competitive tourism hotspot. 

Furthermore, the Ministry has opened new mountain peaks for mountaineering and trekking activities. This step aims to promote adventure tourism in the country, attracting thrill-seeking travellers who are eager to explore the scenic landscapes and challenging terrains that India has to offer.

India's Cultural Treasures

India takes pride in its numerous museums and galleries that serve as repositories of its rich culture, history, and archaeology. The remnants of Indian royalty are evident in the scattered forts and palaces throughout the nation. It is a vibrant tapestry where classical melodies blend harmoniously with mesmerizing paintings, ancient textiles, and other crafts. It is a land adorned with holy sites, ranging from grand temples and mosques to splendid churches, magnificent gurudwaras, and tranquil monasteries. India welcomes tourists from around the world to experience its cultural richness and spiritual heritage.