India has strengthened its position globally in terms of tourism, accounting for 1.45% of total international arrivals and 2.1% of worldwide tourism receipts, ranking 39th on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024, as per the data released by the .

India recorded 18.89 million international tourist arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2023, with foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) reaching 9.52 million, achieving 87% of pre-pandemic levels, and non-resident Indian arrivals at 9.38 million, exceeding previous year’s record by 34.38%. South Asia, North America, and Western Europe contributed the largest shares of FTAs. Air travel dominated (79.4%), with Delhi and Mumbai handling most arrivals. Foreign exchange earnings totaled US$ 28.077 billion, and the Taj Mahal remained the top visited ASI monument.

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Domestic tourism also saw robust growth, with 2,509.63 million visits, led by Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, while Maharashtra and Gujarat attracted the highest number of foreign tourists.


Because Uttar Pradesh is basically India’s all-in-one travel buffet. This year, it hosted the world-famous Kumbh Mela which shattered many records in one time in terms of tourism. There is the Taj Mahal in Agra, drawing crowds in maximum numbers every day. Then there’s Varanasi, where the Ganga ghats turn everyday rituals into a live spiritual theatre, complete with chants, lamps, and a vibe that’s older than time. And if that wasn’t enough, Lucknow steps in with its Nawabi charm, with grand arches, kebabs that melt faster than ice cream, and a culture so rich that one needs to see to believe it. With a line-up like this, no wonder UP is where domestic tourists keep hitting “book now.”

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Apart from these, here are also some must-visit destinations that make UP the beating heart of Indian travel.

The Taj Mahal: A shared favoriteAcross both domestic and international segments, the Taj Mahal remains India’s most visited Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) ticketed monument. In 2023, it attracted 6.10 million domestic and 0.68 million foreign tourists, highlighting its universal appeal. This iconic monument is a testament to India’s rich heritage and continues to anchor the tourism patterns of both Indian and international travelers.

Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the oldest places in the world, where pilgrims arrive in droves to take a dip in the Ganga, attend the famous evening aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, and wander through alleys older than memory. Spiritual seekers, backpackers, and photographers all find their moment here. No surprise that Varanasi alone pulls millions of visitors each year, making it one of India’s most visited cities.

Ayodhya
After the grand Ram Mandir opening, Ayodhya has catapulted into the global spotlight. Pilgrims and tourists are pouring in to witness the temple that has been decades in the making. This city also offers a chance to walk through epics, where every lane hums with stories from the Ramayana. Ayodhya is rapidly becoming one of UP’s most important travel hotspots.

Agra

Even if you’ve seen it a dozen times, the Taj Mahal always looks like that first crush. Agra doesn’t stop at the Taj though, the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri add a regal flavor to the city’s offerings. Together, they make Agra a mandatory stop on every traveler’s list, explaining why it remains UP’s biggest magnet for international visitors.

Prayagraj

Imagine a city that hosts the world’s largest human gathering — that’s Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela. Even outside of mela years, the sacred Triveni Sangam draws a steady stream of pilgrims and curious tourists alike. The city also boasts colonial architecture and a rich literary history, making it more than just a religious hub.

Mathura-Vrindavan
If there’s one festival that turns an entire region into a tourist attraction, it’s Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan. The birthplace of Lord Krishna goes beyond temples — it’s an explosion of colors, music, and energy. Visitors come not just for faith but for the sheer joy of being swept into one of the world’s most vibrant celebrations.