Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday took a fresh swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mocking his frequent foreign visits and specifically highlighting his surprise stopover in Pakistan’s Lahore in 2015 to meet the then Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif.
“It seems that when the PM is flying in his plane, he looks down and asks, ‘Which country is that?’ When told it’s so-and-so, he says, ‘No worries, we will reach an hour late where we are going; let’s land here now.’ He decides to land just anywhere. That’s how he landed in Pakistan too,” Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann said in Punjabi in the state assembly on Friday, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
“The PM decided, just like that, to visit Pakistan. He had biryani and came back. We cannot go to Pakistan, but he can land there!” Mann added.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday criticised CM Bhagwant Mann for his remarks on the foreign trips of PM Modi. While disassociating itself from the remarks, the MEA stated that the statement from the Punjab chief minister was “irresponsible” and “regrettable”.
Bhagwant Mann, while taking a jibe at PM Modi’s foreign visits, stated that the prime minister is visiting countries with populations less than even 10,000. PM Modi on Thursday returned to India after his five-nation visit to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia.
“We have seen some comments made by a high state authority about India’s relations with friendly countries from the Global South. These remarks are irresponsible and regrettable and do not behove the state authority,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated.
“The Government of India disassociates itself from such unwarranted comments that undermine India’s ties with friendly countries,” he added.
“Don’t I have the right to ask about the country’s foreign policy and what did he do there? Why does Adani’s business start wherever he (PM) goes? I will continue to ask in the future as well. With 140 crore people in the country, he should engage with them and address their concerns. He says he will stop the Ukraine war (Ukraine-Russia), but he can’t even resolve water issues between Punjab and Haryana,” Mann told reporters on MEA condemning his statements on PM Modi’s five-nation visit.
Viking will offer its first river cruises in India beginning in 2027, debuting the itineraries after seeing how guests enjoyed visiting the country on the line’s ocean cruises.
A rendering of accommodations on the Viking Brahmaputra. Photo Credit: Viking
Viking will sail the Brahmaputra River on the 80-guest Viking Brahmaputra. Viking will sail one 15-day itinerary that starts and ends in Delhi. The trip includes an eight-day river cruise and a guided land tour.
Travelers will have the opportunity to visit 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as they explore India’s Golden Triangle. Itinerary highlights include touring the Taj Mahal, seeing Jaipur’s Palace of the Winds and visiting Guwahati’s temple.
Viking will offer pre- and post-departure land extensions, including in Delhi, Dubai, Kathmandu and Cochin/Mumbai.
The Viking Brahmaputra will have 40 staterooms and will have the brand’s signature Scandinavian design. All staterooms and suites will have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a veranda.
India, United States, China, Germany, Japan, UK, France, Mexico, Italy, Spain: India’s Rising Role in the Global Tourism Economy and What It Means for Future Growth
Home»India Travel News» India, United States, China, Germany, Japan, UK, France, Mexico, Italy, Spain: India’s Rising Role in the Global Tourism Economy and What It Means for Future Growth
Friday, July 11, 2025
India has officially broken into the top 10 largest tourism economies in the world, an impressive leap that highlights the country’s emerging dominance in the global travel sector. In 2025, India’s tourism industry is projected to contribute a staggering $231.6 billion to the global economy, marking a significant step forward from its previous ranking of tenth. This growth comes amid a global tourism boom as the industry rebounds post-pandemic.
Tourism has always been a crucial sector for the Indian economy, and the rise to the eighth spot on the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Economic Impact list places India among global leaders like the United States, China, and Germany. With 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a rich cultural tapestry, and a rapidly expanding middle class, India is positioned for further growth in the coming years. Here’s a closer look at the shifting dynamics of the global tourism economy and how India is increasingly becoming a key player on the world stage.
India’s Growing Impact on Global Tourism
India’s rise in global tourism rankings is a result of several critical factors:
Post-Pandemic Recovery: The tourism sector’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic has been remarkable, and India’s share in international tourism spending has grown as global travel picks up.
Increased Tourism Spending: Compared to pre-pandemic levels, India has seen a significant uptick in both domestic and international tourism spending. The sector’s resilience despite challenges such as climate change and local tourism fatigue has been impressive.
Cultural and Historical Appeal: With its vast array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultural festivals, and ancient monuments, India is attracting millions of international visitors seeking diverse experiences. From the Taj Mahal to the temples of Khajuraho, India’s rich history and vibrant culture are undeniable draws for tourists.
Government Initiatives: The Indian government has launched several initiatives to boost the tourism sector, including marketing campaigns, infrastructure development, and policies aimed at making India a more attractive destination for international travelers.
A Global Tourism Snapshot for 2025
The global tourism industry is projected to reach a value of $16 trillion by 2034, making up more than 11% of the world’s GDP. As economies recover from the effects of the pandemic, countries are experiencing rapid growth in travel-related industries. According to the WTTC, the top 10 largest tourism economies in the world in 2024–2025 are:
United States – $2,360 billion
China – $1,300 billion
Germany – $487.6 billion
Japan – $297 billion
United Kingdom – $295.2 billion
France – $264.7 billion
Mexico – $261.6 billion
India – $231.6 billion
Italy – $231.3 billion
Spain – $227.9 billion
What Drives India’s Tourism Success?
India’s tourism economy benefits from several factors that position it as one of the most attractive global destinations:
1. Rich Cultural Heritage
India is home to 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranking it as the sixth country globally with the most such sites. These sites, which range from architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal to natural landscapes like the Western Ghats, are key attractions for both cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers.
2. Diverse Tourism Offerings
India offers an incredibly diverse range of tourism experiences, from spiritual journeys in Varanasi to beach vacations in Goa. Whether it’s exploring the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh or the dense jungles of Kerala, India’s tourism offerings cater to various tastes and budgets. Additionally, the country’s growing emphasis on wellness tourism, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism is attracting more international visitors each year.
3. Emerging Middle Class
The rapid growth of India’s middle class is a major driver of domestic tourism. With increasing disposable incomes, more Indians are traveling within their country, bolstering the local tourism sector. Moreover, a burgeoning interest in international travel has contributed to India’s position as a top outbound tourism market as well.
4. Government Efforts and Infrastructure Development
The Indian government has been proactive in improving tourism infrastructure. Initiatives like the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and Dekho Apna Desh aim to promote India’s rich cultural heritage, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall visitor experience. Additionally, the Prasad Scheme for pilgrimage tourism and increased focus on promoting state tourism boards have helped elevate India’s image as a top global tourist destination.
5. Growth in Digital Platforms
With the rise of online travel agencies (OTAs) and digital platforms, booking travel in India has become easier than ever. Websites like MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, and Goibibo provide travelers with a wide variety of options for booking flights, hotels, and tours, streamlining the travel experience.
India’s Tourism Industry at a Glance
India’s tourism economy is forecasted to grow rapidly over the next decade. By 2034, the WTTC projects that India will rise to fourth place in the global tourism rankings, with its contribution expected to surpass $500 billion. This growth will be driven by continued infrastructure improvements, increased international visitation, and the rising popularity of India as a destination for both business and leisure.
Key statistics:
42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
$231.6 billion contribution to global tourism
4th position forecast by 2034
Strong growth in domestic tourism
Regional Players in Asia and Emerging Markets
While India’s rise is impressive, it’s not the only country experiencing significant growth in tourism. Several Asian economies, such as Hong Kong, Malaysia, and the Philippines, are becoming important players in the regional tourism scene. Additionally, countries like Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Kenya have seen massive growth in tourism spending since the pandemic, reflecting broader shifts in global travel patterns.
Conclusion: A Thriving Future for Indian Tourism
India’s entry into the top 10 tourism economies globally is a testament to the country’s rising influence in the travel industry. As the nation continues to invest in infrastructure, promote its cultural heritage, and cater to the evolving needs of global travelers, it’s poised for continued growth. With its diverse offerings, vibrant cities, and rich traditions, India’s tourism industry is ready to meet the demands of a new generation of travelers eager to explore the wonders of the subcontinent.
For travelers seeking a mix of history, adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty, India is an increasingly attractive destination. From its bustling cities to tranquil hill stations and pristine beaches, the country’s tourism potential remains vast, ensuring it will remain a cornerstone of the global travel economy for years to come.
Viking announced a new river journey through one of India’s most captivating regions is coming soon—and it promises an unforgettable blend of culture, comfort, and adventure.
If you’ve ever wanted to see India by river voyage, you’ll soon be able to.
Viking announced the launch of its new river boat tour of India via the Brahmaputra River on the Viking Brahmaputra. (The Brahmaputra River flows through three countries: northeastern India, Bangladesh, and southwestern China.)
The 80-guest vessel with 40 outside staterooms is currently under construction and is scheduled to debut in 2027, when it will set sail between two cities—Guwahati and Nimati Ghat—in the northeastern state of Assam. Guests will be able to enjoy Viking’s signature Scandinavian design, staterooms with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and a veranda, a spa and fitness center, and an open-air bar.
On the river voyage, guests will have the opportunity to see Guwahati’s temple, search for one-horned rhinos and buffaloes in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park, and delve into the cultures of the large river island of Majuli.
The launch of the Viking Brahmaputra is part of Viking’s brand new 15-day itinerary “Wonders of India,” which includes the 8-day Brahmaputra River voyage as well as a fully-guided program on land, with overnight stays in popular destinations like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra.
The “Wonders of India” voyage will begin and end in Delhi, the capital of India, and the hotel stays on land will bracket the river journey in the middle. The itinerary takes guests to as many as 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immersing travelers in India’s cultural treasure and heritages. Participants can learn about the history of India’s Golden Triangle by exploring the famous Taj Mahal in Agra, strolling through the tangled streets of Old Delhi, and visiting Jaipur’s Palace of the Winds.
“With its rich heritage, deep cultural traditions and fascinating natural wonders, India is a vast and vibrant country that has captured the imagination of explorers for centuries,” Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure. “In recent years, our guests have particularly enjoyed visiting Indian ports on our ocean itineraries. We are now delighted to introduce a new way for curious travelers to explore the heart of this phenomenal country, in-depth and in Viking comfort.”
Travelers from North America can save up to $5,000 per couple plus airfare from $999, if they book between now and July 31, 2025. Bookings can be made by contacting Viking toll-free at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or by contacting a travel advisor for booking details.
