India Heritage Tourism Market (2025 - 2033) Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Cultural Heritage, Natural Heritage, Intangible Heritage), By Age Group (30 & Under, 31 - 50, 51 - 70), By Booking Mode (Offline, Online), And Segment Forecasts

India Heritage Tourism Market Size & Trends

The India heritage tourism market size was estimated at USD 31.98 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 57.14 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2025 to 2033. The market is driven by its rich cultural diversity, ancient monuments, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Government initiatives like Dekho Apna Desh and improved infrastructure boost domestic and international tourist inflow. Rising global interest in spiritual and experiential travel also fuels demand. Additionally, digital promotion and heritage hotel conversions enhance visitor experiences.

In India, a key trend in heritage tourism is the rising demand for experiential travel, where visitors immerse themselves in local traditions and lifestyles. Activities such as pottery-making in Rajasthan, classical dance workshops in Kerala, and heritage walks through old Delhi or Varanasi offer authentic, hands-on cultural experiences. For instance, pottery workshops are conducted in Rajasthan as a tourist attraction, offering a personalized hands-on experience and hands-on practice to the tourists, aiming to create the timeless art of pottery. This deeper engagement attracts younger travelers and global cultural enthusiasts seeking more than passive sightseeing. The growing influence of social media has also spotlighted India's vibrant festivals and visually striking historical sites, further boosting interest in heritage-rich destinations.

Demographic shifts and sustainable tourism are increasingly shaping India's heritage tourism market. With growing urbanization and a rising middle class, there’s a renewed interest in rural heritage and traditional lifestyles as a means of cultural reconnection. Heritage tourism is being used to revive local economies, preserve crafts, and support artisan communities, especially in historically rich yet economically marginalized regions. Sustainability is now central, with travelers seeking eco-conscious experiences, such as staying in heritage homestays, enjoying farm-to-table regional cuisine, and exploring lesser-known cultural sites in a responsible, often luxurious manner that respects both environment and tradition. The Ministry of Tourism established Sustainable Tourism Criteria for India (STCI) and includes niche tourism products or developing additional niche products such as Adventure, Medical Wellness, Golf, Polo, and Eco/ Wildlife/ Caravan Tourism.

Consumer Survey & Insights

According to the Ministry of Tourism data published in February 2025, the country is home to 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites, attracting millions of tourists. However, the Taj Mahal holds the top spot in most visited sites, attracting 6.10 million domestic and 0.68 million international tourists. Tourism contributed about 5% of the nation’s GDP in 2023. The international tourists' visits accounted for 19.25 million, registering a 124.11% growth in 2022.

Type Insights

Cultural heritage tourism accounted for a share of 56.0% in 2024. The growth of India’s cultural heritage tourism is largely fueled by rising demand for immersive, experience-based travel and strategic efforts to preserve and promote the country's rich cultural assets. Government programs such as Swadesh Darshan, along with enhanced digital infrastructure and improved connectivity to remote heritage sites, are driving increased tourist interest, especially post-pandemic. The Government of India launched the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign to promote domestic tourism in the nation, attracting Indians keen on architecture and heritage sites. Additionally, social media and influencer-driven exposure of offbeat destinations, along with a growing focus on sustainable, community-led preservation, are expanding interest beyond iconic sites such as the Taj Mahal and Jaipur, deepening the appeal of India’s cultural heritage tourism.

The natural heritage tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2025 to 2033, reflecting rising demand for eco-conscious and nature-based travel experiences. India's natural heritage tourism market is driven by its vast and diverse landscapes, from the Himalayas to the Western Ghats and the Sundarbans. Growing environmental awareness and interest in eco-tourism have boosted demand for nature-based heritage experiences. For instance, according to the Department of Tourism Maharashtra, Sinhagad Fort is a popular tourist destination throughout the year but the best time to visit is the monsoon season, offering nature lovers a lush green sight. Government initiatives promoting biodiversity hotspots and sustainable tourism practices further support this trend. Improved access, digital promotion, and the appeal of wellness retreats in scenic, heritage-rich environments also attract both domestic and international travelers.

Age Group Insights

Travelers in the 51-70 age group accounted for a share of 58.7% in the overall Indian heritage tourism industry in 2024. The 51-70 age group is a significant driver of India’s heritage tourism due to increased leisure time, financial stability, and a desire to reconnect with cultural roots. This demographic values meaningful, nostalgic experiences, including temple visits such as the Char Dham yatra, historical tours, and traditional festivals. Improved travel infrastructure and health-focused amenities make heritage travel more accessible and comfortable for older travelers. Additionally, curated group tours and spiritual circuits appeal strongly to their preferences for guided, enriching journeys.

Travelers in the 31-50 age group in India's heritage tourism industry are expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2025 to 2033. The 31-50 age group fuels India’s heritage tourism through a strong interest in educational and culturally enriching family travel. This segment often seeks balanced experiences that combine history, adventure, and local culture, making destinations with interactive museums, heritage walks, and storytelling tours appealing. With higher disposable incomes and digital planning tools, they prioritize personalized and well-organized trips. Their preference for short getaways and experiential stays also supports the rise of boutique heritage hotels and immersive regional tourism.

Booking Mode Insights

Booking through offline mode generated a revenue share of 69.0% in 2024 in the Indian heritage tourism industry. Offline bookings in India's heritage tourism market are driven by trust, personalized service, and accessibility for travelers less comfortable with digital platforms. Many prefer travel agents or local tour operators for curated heritage experiences, especially in older age groups or rural areas. Face-to-face interactions provide reassurance when planning complex itineraries involving historical sites, permits, or cultural events. Additionally, word-of-mouth and community networks play a key role in offline travel decisions, particularly for religious and traditional heritage circuits.

Booking through online mode is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2025 to 2033. Online bookings in India’s heritage tourism market are driven by convenience, real-time information, and access to user reviews, allowing travelers to easily compare heritage experiences and accommodations. The rise of mobile apps, virtual tours, and digital payment options especially appeals to tech-savvy and younger tourists. The emergence of various authentic travel booking partners, such as IRCTC Tourism for travelling through the railway, and other e-commerce booking sites such as MakeMyTrip, Yatra.com, and redBus offer rapid booking services at the click, offering convenience to the tech-savvy consumers.

Key India Heritage Tourism Companies Insights

Key players operating in the India heritage tourism market are undertaking various initiatives to strengthen their presence and increase the reach of their products and services. Strategies such as expansion activities and partnerships are key in propelling the market growth.

Recent Developments

• In April 2024, MakeMyTrip and Singapore Tourism Board collaborated by signing a year-long MoU to boost inbound travel from India through joint activations, marketing campaigns, and curated holiday packages.

• In October 2021, EaseMyTrip signed a non-binding agreement to acquire Traviate, marking its first-ever takeover and aiming to fast-track expansion into the B2B hotel and holiday segment.

India Heritage Tourism Market Report Scope

India Heritage Tourism Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the country level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the India heritage tourism market report based on type, age group, and booking mode:

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

  • Cultural Heritage

  • Natural Heritage

  • Intangible Heritage

• Age Group Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

  • 30 & Under

  • 31-50

  • 51-70

  • 70 & Above

• Booking Mode Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

  • Online

  • Offline