India’s Tourism Sector to Top Rs 22 Lakh Crore Turnover in 2025: WTTC Report

A recent report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects that India’s travel and tourism sector will contribute an estimated Rs 22 lakh crore to the national economy in 2025. This surge is driven by a continued increase in both foreign and domestic tourist footfall, and the sector’s employment is expected to top 48 million jobs nationwide.

Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, highlighted that international visitors’ spending in India is forecast to reach Rs 3.2 lakh crore in 2025. In 2024, international tourist expenditure hit a record Rs 3.1 trillion (approximately $36.8 billion), marking a 9 percent rise over the pre-Covid peak. Simpson noted, “Domestic travel spending was crucial to the post-pandemic recovery, and India’s travel and tourism future looks very bright.” She emphasized that India has achieved unprecedented growth in 2024, with international arrivals at all-time highs following a period of strong domestic reliance.

Domestic tourism continues to be the sector’s driving force. In 2024, spending by domestic travellers reached Rs 15.5 lakh crore ($185.6 billion)—a 22 percent increase over pre-pandemic levels. Combined domestic and international tourism expenditure is projected to push the sector’s overall contribution to nearly Rs 21 lakh crore in 2024, accounting for 6.6 percent of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Simpson underscored the WTTC’s support for the Government of India’s initiative to simplify the e-visa process. Despite existing visa-on-arrival and e-visa facilities, reciprocal arrangements and lengthy wait times for applicants from key markets—such as the United States, where appointments are fully booked until 2026—continue to deter potential visitors. “Streamlining travel to India is one of the fastest ways to boost international arrivals and spending,” she said.

India’s travel and tourism industry is also a major employment generator. In 2024 alone, the sector created over 46 million jobs, representing more than 9 percent of total employment in the country. “The travel and tourism industry is a very important employer in India,” Simpson remarked, noting its vital role in driving economic growth and providing livelihoods across urban and rural communities.

Looking ahead, the WTTC report anticipates that with continued policy reforms—particularly in visa facilitation—India’s inbound tourism will climb even higher. “As we simplify entry procedures and invest in infrastructure, India will further consolidate its position as a global tourism powerhouse,” Simpson added.

In summary, India’s tourism sector has rebounded strongly from the pandemic, and with projected turnover of Rs 22 lakh crore in 2025, along with nearly 48 million jobs, the industry is set to play an increasingly significant role in the nation’s economic trajectory.