More good news arrives in the form of new data compiled by the Indian Ministry of Tourism. Figures show that North America and West Asia constitute the strongest growth for tourism to India. The number of foreign tourists visiting India increased from 7.99 million in 2007 to 8.27 million in 2008.
Growth in tourists has been greatest from Denmark, (by 24.1 percent), Brazil (by 21.8 percent), Russia (by 21 percent) and Norway (by 18.6 percent), followed by countries such as Israel, Bahrain and UAE. Traditionally, the UK has also provided the highest number of visitors but this year has been pushed to second place by the USA.Tourists from neighboring countries Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have also increased sharply.
After a drop of about 10 percent in foreign tourist arrival between October 2008 and June 2009, the inbound tourist market is showing definite signs of revival. Tourist arrivals in July 2009 have increased substantially although, less than July 2008 levels, but foreign exchange earnings have risen sharply in real terms.
The Indian ministry of tourism plans to continue its marketing campaign in the USA market with the colorful Incredible India ! campaign planned at the Oscar, Grammy and BAFTA award functions.
1. USA
2. UK
3. Bangladesh
4. Sri Lanka
5. Canada
6. France
7. Germany
8. Japan
9. Australia
10. Malaysia
Compared to world statistics in terms of tourist arrivals however, published by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, India ranks 41st in the world.
India still gets far fewer visitors than much smaller nations like Ukraine, Tunisia, Croatia and Saudi Arabia.!
In the times of recession, it is incredible to see the double growth in India tourism. India offers diversity in religions, cultures & phenomenal monuments, which attracts the tourists to India’s essence. That’s the impact created by “Incredible India campaign”.
ReplyDeleteyes, economically India may be faring slightly better than others but the Incredible India Campaign has to compete heavily for the same 'long and medium haul' dollar in a recessionary market. Congratulations to them and long may it continue - how important has the 'Slumdog Effect' been?
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