The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, participated in ITB Berlin 2025, one of the world’s largest travel and tourism trade fairs, held from March 4-6 at Messe Berlin. ITB Berlin serves as a key platform for global industry leaders, including tour operators, hoteliers, travel agencies, transport companies, and technology firms, fostering networking and business collaborations.
The India Pavilion at the event was inaugurated by India’s Ambassador to Germany, Ajit Gupte, alongside Kandula Durgesh, Minister of Tourism, Andhra Pradesh, and Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, Minister of Tourism, Madhya Pradesh.
Germany Among India’s Top Tourism Markets
Germany remains one of India’s top ten source markets for inbound tourism, with approximately 200,000 German travelers visiting the country in 2023. To attract more international tourists, state tourism departments from Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala, among others, participated in the event to highlight their unique travel offerings.
The Ministry of Tourism led a delegation of nearly 40 stakeholders from India’s travel industry, showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity and a wide range of tourism products. The initiative aligns with India’s long-term vision of positioning itself as a year-round global travel destination. ITB Berlin also provided an opportunity for private sector representatives to reconnect with international business counterparts, introduce new travel packages, and explore fresh collaborations.
India Pavilion Highlights Diverse and Sustainable Tourism
The India Pavilion at ITB Berlin 2025 focused on the country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and specialized tourism experiences. Visitors had the chance to explore India’s offerings in spiritual and wellness tourism, wedding tourism, adventure and ecotourism, and gourmet experiences. The pavilion’s central theme revolved around sustainable tourism, reinforcing India’s commitment to responsible travel practices.
Among the key participants were state tourism departments from Andhra Pradesh and Chandigarh, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), and various travel agencies and service providers.
Gratis E-Tourist Visa Under ‘Chalo India’ Initiative
As part of its efforts to attract more international visitors, India recently introduced a gratis (free) e-tourist visa for foreign travelers under the Chalo India initiative. This initiative, launched by the Prime Minister, encourages members of the Indian diaspora to invite their non-Indian friends to explore India’s heritage and tourism offerings. The gratis e-tourist visa is available until March 31, 2025, making travel to India more accessible and cost-effective.
New Digital Push for Incredible India
To enhance the travel experience for global tourists, the government has launched a revamped Incredible India digital portal (www.incredibleindia.gov.in) and an Incredible India Content Hub. The new platform serves as a one-stop digital solution, offering detailed information on destinations, itineraries, and travel resources for visitors and industry stakeholders.
India’s Global Appeal as a Spiritual Destination
India’s reputation as a spiritual tourism hub was further reinforced with the successful conclusion of the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The 44-day religious gathering, known as one of the world’s largest spiritual congregations, attracted millions of devotees, highlighting India’s rich spiritual traditions and global appeal as a sacred destination.
India’s Tourism Push on the Global Stage
With its strong presence at ITB Berlin 2025, India is making a strategic push to boost inbound tourism, strengthen global partnerships, and establish itself as a premier travel destination offering diverse and immersive experiences. The emphasis on sustainability, digital innovation, and cultural tourism positions the country as a compelling choice for international travelers in the coming years.
