Bengal Emerges as India’s Third-Largest Tourism Destination
Bengal has established itself as one of India’s premier tourism destinations for international travelers, according to statements made in the state assembly. The state recorded 32 lakh international tourist arrivals in 2023–24, positioning it as the third highest tourism destination in India after Maharashtra and Gujarat, as announced by Bengal’s tourism minister Indranil Sen.
Strong Growth Trajectory and Market Position
The 2023–24 figure represents substantial growth compared to previous years. International tourist arrivals increased from 27.1 lakh in 2022–23 and 10.4 lakh in 2021–22, demonstrating a significant recovery and expansion in Bengal’s tourism sector following the Covid-19 pandemic. Sen characterized this trajectory as evidence of the state’s "growing global appeal and tourism turnaround post-Covid."
Bengal’s share of India’s total international tourist arrivals reached 14.8% in the last year, reflecting the state’s strengthened position within the national tourism landscape. In response to a question from BJP MLA Bishwanath Karak during assembly proceedings on Thursday, Sen emphasized the magnitude of this achievement, stating, "This is a huge achievement. Bengal is firmly on the international tourism map."
The tourism data was sourced from official India tourism records, providing the factual basis for these performance metrics and comparative rankings.
Key Points
- International Tourist Arrivals 2023–24: 32 lakh
- International Tourist Arrivals 2022–23: 27.1 lakh
- International Tourist Arrivals 2021–22: 10.4 lakh
- Bengal’s Share of India’s Foreign Tourist Arrivals: 14.8%
- National Ranking: Third highest in India after Maharashtra and Gujarat
- Key Person: Indranil Sen, Bengal’s tourism minister
- Location: Kolkata (assembly announcement venue)
- Key Stakeholder: BJP MLA Bishwanath Karak (question posed)
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