This story takes a dive into this whirlpool, how the outbound dragon can be being steered, how emerging destinations are forming new strategies to woo the Indian traveller, and what the planners themselves see as the way forward.

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) unveiled Hari Ganga Niwas – IHCL SeleQtions in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Nestled on the banks of the Ganges, this marks the second SeleQtions hotel following the acclaimed Pilibhit House in Haridwar.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flag off new trains in Bihar aimed at strengthening Bihar’s connectivity with different parts of the country, particularly with Telangana, Rajasthan, and Delhi. Total Amrit Bharat Express services rise to 30 across country with 26 services in Bihar

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, concluded its month-long landmark celebrations under World Tourism Day 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts announced the opening of Sterling Rampath Ayodhya, its 67th property and 57th destination. With this launch, Sterling aims to strengthen its presence in India’s fast-growing spiritual tourism segment, with Sterling Rampath Ayodhya becoming the brand’s 11th spiritual destination.

By joining Travel Marketplace, Riya will now bring cutting-edge travel technology solutions, apps, and content closer to its diverse customer base — ranging from individual travellers to large corporates and travel partners.

Additionally, the Ministry released the 66th edition of the India Tourism Data Compendium, marking record international and domestic arrivals, employment generation, and economic contributions. India now ranks 20th globally in international tourist arrivals and continues strengthening its tourism infrastructure. These outcomes were a part of Ministry’s celebration of World Tourism Day 2025.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) continues to reaffirm its position as India’s premier gateway, welcoming over 5 million international passengers between January 2025 and August 2025. Over the past three years, international arrivals at the airport have grown at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 21 percent.

Ventive Hospitality Limited (“Ventive Hospitality”) announced that it proposes to enter into definitive agreements to acquire a 76% stake in Soham Leisure Ventures Pvt. Ltd. (Soham). Soham owns the 104 operational keys to the Hilton Goa Resort and a land parcel in Goa.

Summit Hotels & Resorts, announced its formal entry into the luxury hotel market with the launch of its flagship brand, The Summit, in Siliguri. Scheduled to open in May 2027, this landmark property aims to boost a bold strategic expansion for the brand, long known for its mountain-based portfolio, into the high-end urban hospitality space.