India’s tourism sector recorded a steady rise in 2024-25, with both foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) and domestic tourist visits (DTVs) increasing significantly. According to government data, the country welcomed approximately 56 lakh foreign visitors and 303.59 crore domestic tourists, reaffirming its position as one of the world’s preferred travel destinations.
Growth in monument tourism
The latest India Tourism Data Compendium 2025 reveals that among the 145 Centrally Protected Ticketed Monuments of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Taj Mahal in Agra remains the most-visited monument in the country.
In 2024, the Taj Mahal drew 6.26 million domestic tourists and 0.65 million foreign tourists, making it the most popular heritage attraction for both groups.
The Qutub Minar in New Delhi ranked third, registering 3.20 million domestic visitors and 0.22 million foreign tourists, highlighting its continued appeal among travellers.
Monuments that ranked second
The Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, secured the second position in terms of domestic tourist footfall, while Agra Fort was ranked second among foreign tourists.
Tourism officials attribute this steady flow of visitors to improved connectivity, enhanced visitor facilities, and a growing interest in cultural and heritage tourism.
Heritage recognition and cultural appeal
India, known for its ancient history and architectural marvels, is home to 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites continue to attract global attention for their cultural richness, craftsmanship and historical significance.
Officials note that India’s enduring appeal lies in the diversity of its heritage—from Mughal architecture and ancient temples to forts, archaeological remains and spiritual sites.
Tourism growth stabilises after pandemic recovery
While the overall visitor growth in 2024-25 rose by 1.75 per cent, it remained modest compared to the dramatic rebound that followed the pandemic years.
Tourism to protected monuments had earlier witnessed a significant surge of 92.8 per cent in 2021-22 and 88.6 per cent in 2022-23, recovering from the sharp 70.7 per cent decline recorded in 2020-21 due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Officials expect footfall to continue rising gradually as domestic travel remains robust and international arrivals improve with global recovery in aviation and tourism.
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India recorded strong tourism numbers in 2024-25, with the Taj Mahal emerging as the most-visited monument among both domestic and foreign tourists.