ASPIRATIONS ARE REDEFINING INDIA'S TRAVEL FUTURE

From leisure to business, India's travellers are driving demand for experiences, technology and trust, reshaping global tourism dynamics

- By Mahesh Iyer

INDIA'S ECONOMIC MOMENTUM is reshaping consumer behaviour across categories, but few reflect this transformation as vividly as the Indian travel sector. Travel is fast becoming a defining expression of India’s rising aspirations, confidence and global engagement. What we are witnessing is not just a recovery from the pandemic, but the reimagining of travel—across leisure, business and corporate segments. As travellers seek more purpose-driven, experience-rich journeys, India is emerging not only as a high-growth source market but also as a key influencer of global travel trends.

India’s travel economy is growing at an extraordinary pace. According to McKinsey, India’s outbound travel is projected to grow from 13 million trips in 2022 to over 80 million by 2040. International departures doubled in the decade to 2019. Overseas spending has already tripled since 2010, reaching $33 billion in 2023. And by 2030, India is expected to become the world’s fourth-largest spender on foreign travel, with annual spend crossing $410 billion. These numbers highlight more than just growth—they indicate transformation. With a middle class expected to double by 2047, the Indian traveller of tomorrow will be more informed, empowered and confident than ever before.

Experience-Led Leisure

For today's discerning Indian leisure traveller, the idea of travel has moved far beyond sightseeing. People are increasingly seeking immersive, experience-driven journeys—whether that means chasing the Aurora Borealis in Scandic countries, learning traditional art in Japan, or simply disconnecting through a wellness retreat in Kerala.