World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day History

World Tourism Day is an international observance, celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value. The day aims to highlight the need for sustainable tourism practices to preserve and protect national and global heritage and resources. Established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), this day is an opportunity to showcase the potential of tourism in enabling inclusive growth, fostering economic development, and promoting cultural exchange among different nations.

First celebrated in 1980, World Tourism Day holds special significance for India, as the country has immense potential for tourism growth, given its rich history, diverse culture, and myriad landscapes. India boasts a plethora of incredible destinations, ranging from the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas to the backwaters of Kerala, and from the deserts of Rajasthan to the pristine beaches of Goa. The UNWTO has recognized India's potential and has recently partnered with the Ministry of Tourism to develop strategies for enhancing rural tourism and promoting sustainable development.

In India, World Tourism Day is marked by various events, programs, and workshops organized by government entities, such as the Ministry of Tourism, state tourism departments, and private organizations. These events aim to generate awareness among the public about the importance of tourism in the country's economy and cultural exchange. Seminars and conferences are held to discuss ways for boosting tourism while preserving the environment and cultural heritage. India also hosts numerous cultural events, exhibitions, and food festivals, showcasing the incredible regional diversity to promote domestic and international tourism. World Tourism Day is observed annually in India on September 27, coinciding with the global date for this observance.

World Tourism Day facts

• The theme for World Tourism Day in 2025 was Tourism and Sustainable Transformation. In 2024 the theme was Tourism, Justice, and Peace: Bridging Barriers and Amplifying the Voices of the Unheard. In 2023 the theme was Tourism and Green Investments.
• Globally, travel and tourism’s direct contribution to GDP was approximately 5.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2021.
• France continues to be the most visited country in the world with nearly 90 million tourists every year.
• India is home to 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including historical places like the Taj Mahal, the ancient city of Hampi, and the Konark Sun Temple, as well as natural sites like the Sundarbans and the Western Ghats.
• India has gained prominence as a destination for medical tourism, owing to its high-quality healthcare facilities and affordable treatment options. The country offers alternative healing systems like Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, attracting a large number of health-conscious tourists.

In the News and Trending in India for World Tourism Day

Top things to do in India for World Tourism Day

• India's rich cultural diversity offers a plethora of vibrant festivals. On World Tourism Day, you can participate in cultural events or festivals happening in different parts of the country, such as Durga Puja in West Bengal, Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra, or Pongal in Tamil Nadu.
• Visit India's numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, like Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, and Bandipur, to catch a glimpse of tigers, elephants, and other local wildlife.