New Delhi: The Indian tourism sector is forecast to spin over Rs 5,12,356 crore ($59 billion) by 2028, with foreign tourist arrivals touching 30.5 million, a report revealed in August. Domestic travel is ablaze, set to double to 5.2 billion visits by 2030 from 2.5 billion in 2024, said the Capitalmind PMS report, citing Tourism Ministry data.

Visitor spending has already leapt from Rs 12.74 trillion in 2019 to Rs 14.64 trillion in 2023, and could crest Rs 33.95 trillion by 2034. Improved air, road, and rail connectivity, alongside heavy infrastructure investments, are fuelling this boom.

Domestic air travellers are expected to more than double to 693 million by FY30 from 307 million in FY24, while the travel market could soar to $125 billion by FY27.

States like Uttar Pradesh (478.53 million) and Tamil Nadu (286.01 million) lead in domestic visitors, while Maharashtra and Gujarat shine in attracting foreign guests. Luxury is India’s new calling card—Ayurveda retreats, palaces, and yoga spas are drawing seekers who once flocked to Europe.

—Bureau reports