Published on 23 Feb 2025
India's rank on the World Economic Forum's Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 has risen to 39th place and it contributes 7% to India’s GDP. The hotel and tourism industry in India has attracted a cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) of USD 17.1 billion between 2000 and 2023. This represents 2.57% of the total FDI inflow into the country during the same period.
India’s diverse geography and influence on tourism
Topographical Diversity:
Mountains: The Himalayas and other mountain ranges offer opportunities for adventure tourism (trekking, mountaineering), eco-tourism, and cultural exploration.
Example: The towering peaks of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest and Kangchenjunga, attract mountaineers and trekkers to regions like Ladakh and Sikkim.
Coastal Regions: India's extensive coastline boasts pristine beaches, ideal for relaxation, water sports, and marine life exploration.
Example: The beaches of Goa such as Calangute, and the coastal stretches of Tamil Nadu and Odisha are major draws for sun, sand, and sea tourism.
Plains and Plateaus: These regions support agricultural tourism, wildlife safaris, and historical site visits.
Example: The fertile plains of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, home to the Taj Mahal and Varanasi respectively, are essential for historical and cultural tourism.
Deserts: The Thar Desert provides unique opportunities for adventure tourism, cultural experiences, and eco-lodges.
Example: The Thar Desert, particularly around Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, offers a unique desert experience with camel safaris and forts.
Rivers and Backwaters: India's river systems, particularly the Ganges and Kerala backwaters, offer serene landscapes for cruises, houseboat stays, and spiritual experiences.
Example: The serene backwaters of Kerala, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom, are renowned for houseboat tourism and Ayurvedic retreats.
Climatic Variations:
Diverse Climate Zones: India's varied climate, from tropical to alpine, allows for year-round tourism, with different regions attracting visitors based on their preferred weather conditions.
Example: The lush Western Ghats, home to the Periyar National Park, experience a tropical monsoon climate, perfect for wildlife spotting and trekking.
Seasonal Tourism: Distinct seasons influence tourism patterns, with peak seasons for beaches, hill stations, and wildlife viewing.
Example: The Himalayan region, including Shimla, Darjeeling, and Nainital, offers temperate climates, making them popular hill stations for escaping the summer heat.
Ecological Richness:
Biodiversity: India's rich biodiversity, including diverse flora and fauna, attracts nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and eco-tourists.
Example: The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, are home to unique flora and fauna like the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed Macaque, attracting eco-tourists.
National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries: These protected areas offer opportunities for wildlife safaris and nature exploration.
Example: The Sundarbans, shared with Bangladesh, is a vast mangrove forest and home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Cultural Diversity:
Geographical Isolation: Diverse geographical features have contributed to the development of distinct cultures, languages, and traditions, enriching the tourism experience.
Example: The isolated Ladakh region, with its Tibetan Buddhist culture and stunning landscapes, offers a unique cultural experience.
Cultural Tourism: India's rich cultural heritage, including historical monuments, religious sites, and festivals, attracts tourists seeking authentic experiences.
Example: Rajasthan, with its forts, palaces, and colourful festivals like Holi and Diwali, is a major draw for cultural tourism.
Challenges faced by Indian tourism
Infrastructure Deficiencies
Connectivity gaps: Poor Road conditions, limited rail connectivity, and lack of airports in many tourist destinations, such as those in the Northeast and Himalayas, hinder seamless travel.
Basic amenities shortage: The absence of clean public toilets, safe drinking water, and proper waste disposal systems in many popular tourist spots, like certain beaches and hill stations, diminishes the overall tourist experience.
Accommodation crunch: Insufficient quality hotels and guesthouses, especially in peak tourist seasons, in places like Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Goa, leads to inconvenience and higher costs for travellers.
Safety and Security Concerns
Terrorism impact: High-profile attacks in cities like Mumbai have created a negative perception of India as a safe tourist destination, deterring potential visitors.
Tourist crime: Incidents of theft, harassment, and scams targeting foreign tourists, particularly in crowded areas like Delhi and Agra, erode traveller confidence.
Women's safety issues: Concerns about the safety of female travellers, especially in public transportation and isolated areas, have discouraged solo female tourists.
Environmental Challenges
Pollution blight: Air and water pollution in major tourist cities like Delhi and Agra, as well as noise pollution in popular beach destinations, degrade the overall tourist experience.
Overtourism damage: The excessive influx of tourists in iconic sites like Taj Mahal and Goa has led to environmental degradation, including littering, erosion, and damage to coral reefs.
Sustainable practices gap: Many tourist establishments lack eco-friendly initiatives, contributing to resource depletion and ecological imbalance.
Marketing and Promotion
Promotional gaps: India's diverse tourism offerings, including adventure, wellness, and culinary tourism, are often not effectively marketed to global audiences.
Negative image challenges: Overcoming negative stereotypes about India, such as poverty and hygiene issues, requires sustained and focused marketing efforts.
Internal Factors
Hygiene and sanitation issues: Poor hygiene standards in food establishments, public toilets, and accommodations can deter tourists.
Unorganized tourism sector: Lack of coordination among government agencies, private operators, and local communities hinders effective tourism development.
Geography
TOURISM
India’s diverse geography and influence on tourism
Challenges faced by Indian tourism
General Studies Paper 1
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