The Most Visited States In India By Foreign Tourists

Tourism is an important economic sector in India. In 2016, tourism generated ₹14.02 lakh crore that accounted for 9.6% of the GDP of the country. The tourism industry also supported  40.343 million jobs that accounted for 9.3% of the total employment of the country. Tourism is a fast growing industry in India and an annual growth rate of 6.8% is expected by 2027. 

In 2016, India welcomed 88.90 million foreign tourists. Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are the most visited states in India while Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Agra, and Jaipur are India’s most visited cities by foreign tourists. 

The Most Visited Indian States

1.Tamil Nadu

Interestingly, the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu attracts the largest number of foreign tourists to India. The state manages to surpass states with top attractions like the Uttar Pradesh with its Taj Mahal, Rajasthan with its spectacular palaces and forts, Karnataka with its wealth of natural and cultural attractions or even Goa with its world class beaches. According to an industry source, the huge foreign tourist footfall in Tamil Nadu could be attributed to the fact that a large number of residents of the state live and work abroad. The visits by these people and other non-resident Indians to their homes and families in Tamil Nadu could be a possible reason for a large number of foreign visits to the Indian state. However, Tamil Nadu also has its own marvellous tourist attractions. The state is dotted with temples and other places of worship. These places are no ordinary ones but are centuries old and have immense historical value. The awe-inspiring architecture and grandeur of these temples also impress tourists visiting these sites. The state also has beach destinations like Pondicherry where tourists are offered spiritual experiences at the various ashrams located here. Also, Tamil Nadu is a relatively safe state in India for foreign, and especially solo female travelers. The tourist sites here are also well managed and chaos-free. Thus, these factors could all play a role in rendering Tamil Nadu as the most visited Indian state.

2.Maharashtra

Maharashtra’s position in the second spot can be easily justified. The state hosts the financial capital of India, Mumbai. Several foreigners visit this city to conduct business. Also, Mumbai is home to the Bollywood film industry and popular beach resorts. Other parts of the state are also rich in natural and cultural attractions. Tiger tourism is also popular here. 

3.Uttar Pradesh

The location of the Taj Mahal, the monument and symbol of eternal love, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the Seven Wonders of the World is located in the city of Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Nearly all tourists to India make it a point to visit this architectural marvel. Besides the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh also hosts other historical, cultural, and natural attractions. The cities of Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi in the state are famous for their old world charm, historical buildings, and chaotic but unique city life. The UP also hosts hill stations like Nainital, Mussoorie, and others in the Himalayas.
        


Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, Bihar, Karnataka, and Goa are the other top touristed states in India.