Bengaluru Hosts the 25th Edition of the India International Travel Mart (IITM)

In late July 2025, the bustling city of Bengaluru became the focal point for the travel and tourism world, as it hosted the 25th edition of the India International Travel Mart (IITM). This major event, which began on July 24 at Tripura Vasini in the iconic Palace Grounds, ran for three days. It was expected to draw tourism professionals, stakeholders, and curious travelers from across the globe to experience India’s rich tourism offerings. With a lineup of 800 exhibitors from 25 Indian states and 20 international destinations, this year’s fair has become a key milestone in India’s efforts to enhance its position in the global tourism arena.

Arunachal Pradesh Seeks to Elevate Its Tourism Profile

At the inauguration of the fair, Pasag Dorjee Sona, the Tourism Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, made a compelling case for his state’s tourism potential. He explained that Arunachal Pradesh is making tourism a cornerstone of its development strategy. Minister Sona emphasized that tourism has a vital role to play in bringing both economic benefits and peace to the region, while fostering a greater understanding of the state’s cultural and natural heritage. He acknowledged that while many states in India are focusing on tourism, Arunachal Pradesh needs to actively engage with new markets to ensure growth. The IITM was viewed as an excellent opportunity to reach out to global travelers eager to explore lesser-known destinations in North-East India, which boast unique landscapes, wildlife, and traditions.

Important Participants Converge to Support the Event

The event was attended by numerous influential figures from both the government and private sectors, including Dr. R. Rajendra, Director of the Department of Tourism, Karnataka, and Sri. Syamaraju, President of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India. Their presence underscored the importance of the IITM not only as a platform for promoting tourism within Karnataka but also as a means to highlight India’s attractiveness as a global tourism hub. Together with Sri. Prashant Shankhinamath, Managing Director of Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited, they reinforced the collaboration between the state government and the private sector, which is essential to attracting both domestic and international tourists.

IITM: India’s Premier Travel Fair

IITM 2025 stands as a beacon of India’s travel and tourism industry, bringing together professionals from various sectors such as hospitality, leisure, adventure, and destination marketing. This year, the fair attracted exhibitors representing a diverse range of Indian states, as well as international destinations eager to tap into India’s vast travel market. The IITM serves as a meeting point for corporate buyers, travel agents, and individual travelers who are looking for new and exciting travel experiences. The fair highlights a wide range of options, from spiritual and cultural tourism to wildlife and adventure travel, showcasing how diverse the travel landscape in India has become.

Diverse and Immersive Travel Experiences on Display

One of the major attractions of IITM 2025 was the vast variety of travel experiences it offered. Among the top highlights were destinations in India’s North-East, where tourists could embark on adventures such as seeing the Indian rhinoceros in its natural habitat. Another key draw was Rajasthan, known for its vibrant festivals that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. Furthermore, Karnataka presented itself as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking historical and cultural insights, with its famous heritage sites, temples, and palaces taking center stage.

As immersive travel gains traction globally, this year’s IITM reflected the growing desire among travelers to connect on a deeper level with the places they visit. Instead of just sightseeing, many travelers are now looking for authentic experiences where they can engage with local communities, learn about cultural practices, and explore nature in a more meaningful way.

Karnataka Takes Center Stage: Cultural Tourism Promoted

One of the key themes at the fair was the spotlight on Karnataka, particularly its Mysuru Dasara Festival. Known for its spectacular celebrations, the festival exemplifies Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. In addition to the festival, the fair showcased Karnataka’s archaeological treasures and historical landmarks. The state’s deep historical roots, expressed through its temples, forts, and palaces, have made it a prime destination for cultural tourism. As Karnataka continues to grow in popularity among international travelers, the fair positioned it as an ideal destination for those seeking a rich, cultural experience, especially in light of the increasing global interest in history and heritage.

Business and Networking Opportunities at IITM

The IITM serves not only as a tourism exhibition but also as a dynamic platform for the business side of travel and tourism. This year, it provided an excellent opportunity for professionals to connect, share ideas, and explore new business ventures. Networking was one of the key components, allowing hotels, tour operators, and other stakeholders to form valuable partnerships, both domestically and internationally. Through these face-to-face interactions, businesses had the chance to engage with clients and partners, expand their reach, and discuss the future of tourism.

The growing presence of technology companies and international tourism bodies at the fair reflects the importance of staying ahead of digital trends and fostering cross-border partnerships. This will undoubtedly impact the travel industry in the coming years, as global connectivity continues to increase and new trends shape the travel preferences of tomorrow’s tourists.

Bengaluru: An Ideal Host for IITM

Bengaluru, with its status as a global tech hub, was the perfect venue for an event of this magnitude. Known for its modern infrastructure, cosmopolitan nature, and highly educated population, the city has become a key destination for both domestic and international travelers. Its growing global appeal made it a fitting location for the IITM, as it is a city where technology and culture coexist, attracting a diverse audience with varied interests. The city’s multicultural atmosphere and easy connectivity have helped make it a prime choice for international events like IITM, positioning Bengaluru as a gateway to India for international travelers.

India’s Growing Influence in the Global Tourism Landscape

The IITM 2025 was more than just a local event; it underscored India’s growing influence in the global tourism sector. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, India is rapidly becoming a key player in the international tourism market. This year’s fair was not only about showcasing India’s diverse tourism offerings but also about connecting with global tourism trends. One of the primary discussions at the event revolved around the rising importance of responsible tourism. Today’s travelers are increasingly concerned with the environmental and social impacts of their travels. This trend was evident at the fair, where exhibitors highlighted sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-friendly hotels, conservation initiatives, and community-based tourism.

The rise of sustainable travel and the growing focus on cultural preservation are set to have significant global effects. Tourists and businesses alike are seeking destinations that emphasize responsible tourism, making events like the IITM critical for shaping the future of travel.

Shaping the Future of Global Travel

The event’s lasting impact will extend far beyond Bengaluru and India. As the global tourism industry continues to recover and grow, it will be influenced by the discussions, partnerships, and trends that emerged at the IITM 2025. Tourism businesses will have the chance to tap into new markets and adapt to emerging trends, including an increasing demand for personalized and immersive travel experiences.

The fair also highlighted the evolving nature of tourism, where cultural exploration and authenticity are becoming key priorities for travelers. As a result, destinations that offer unique, immersive, and responsible travel experiences are set to gain prominence in the global tourism market.

The Global Significance of IITM 2025

The IITM 2025 in Bengaluru has become a defining moment for the travel industry, offering a clear glimpse of the future. By showcasing India’s rich tourism potential and its emerging global influence, the fair has set the stage for future developments in the global travel and tourism industry. It is clear that IITM will continue to play a crucial role in fostering international collaboration, sustainable tourism practices, and new business opportunities across the globe.