India’s tourism industry may be gaining some traction amongst travellers but it has a long way to go, according to the country’s Australian representatives.
Speaking at a travel agent update last week, Incredible India’s assistant director said tourism growth to the country is well below its potential – an error the group aims to correct with new initiatives such as e-visas.
“The government is very aware of tourism growth, but figures are well below its potential. Especially from destinations like Australia.”
Vibahava Tripathi, Incredible India assistant director
Image: Incredible India
He said last year around 6.7 million holidaymakers visited India. Of that, 218,967 was Australian travellers – an increase from 202,105 in 2012.
He said in particular, river cruising in India was popular amongst Australian and in 2016 one Australian tour company [he wouldn’t identify which company] has almost sold out of its 2016 premium river cruising product.
“These are cabins selling for around $30,000 a room. Australians have money to spend and they want to spend it in India.”
Vibahava Tripathi, Incredible India assistant director
Growth was part of the reason why Australia was one of 43 countries to be included in India’s new visa on arrival scheme launched earlier this month.
Image: Incredible India
The new visa system is in addition to the existing visa process and allows travellers to apply for a 30-day single entry visa online before picking it up at one of seven major Indian international airports.
Mr Tripathi said he expects the new scheme to have a positive impact on tourism from Australia and prompt last minute travellers to consider India as a destination.
He explained the new 30-day visa will also give travellers, particularly Australians, the chance to experience India, particularly as there’s still a lot of uncertainty about the destination.
Image: Incredible India
Did you know, India has over 29 states and around 22 languages. That’s right, every 15 kilometres there’s a different dialect spoken.
Each state is also not only divided by language and border, but colour. He said the country is popular for its colours and travellers can literally see districts changing based on the colours used around town.
In the next 15 years, Mr Tripathi expects North India to be in demand, particularly with new government initiatives to build the area’s tourism appeal.
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