India's Tourism Triumph: Over 7.24 Million Foreign Visitors in 2023

India's Tourism Triumph: Over 7.24 Million Foreign Visitors in 2023

By Author

Published on December 22, 2023

India's appeal as a global tourist destination continues to rebound post-pandemic, with the country witnessing a significant uptick in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs). According to the latest government data, India welcomed over 7.24 million foreign tourists till October 2023. This figure marks a notable rise from the previous years, showcasing the country's growing allure among international travelers.

Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy shared these statistics in a written response to a query in the Lok Sabha. The data, sourced from the Bureau of Immigration, reflects a steady recovery in the tourism sector. In comparison, foreign tourist arrivals were at 10.56 million in 2018, 10.93 million in 2019, but saw a sharp decline to 2.74 million in 2020 and 1.52 million in 2021 due to the pandemic. The numbers improved to 6.44 million in 2022, with 2023 already surpassing this figure by October.

In addition to these encouraging numbers, Reddy also mentioned government initiatives to further boost tourism. A notable project is the development of infrastructure and facilities at the erstwhile Bharat Gold Mines Limited (Kolar Gold Fields) into a tourist destination, undertaken by the Ministry of Mines in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.

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The government's focus isn't solely on new developments. Despite the non-approval of the 'Development of Iconic Tourism Destinations' scheme proposed in the Union Budget for 2019-20, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 76 projects across the country, amounting to Rs 5,294.11 crore. This includes two projects in Maharashtra and one in Odisha.

This surge in foreign tourists is a positive sign for India's tourism sector, indicating a strong recovery and renewed interest in the country's diverse cultural and natural offerings. With continuous efforts to develop and enhance tourist destinations, India is poised to reclaim its status as a leading global tourism hotspot.


Celebrate Double the Sweetness this Diwali with The Malabar Coast

Celebrate Double the Sweetness this Diwali with The Malabar Coast

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 10, 2025

This festive season, The Malabar Coast is adding an extra dose of joy and sweetness to your celebrations. In honour of Diwali (20th & 21st October) and National Dessert Day (14th October), the brand is offering an irresistible 1+1 on its signature Rawa Kesari dessert, a traditional South Indian delicacy made with pure ghee, aromatic saffron, and a touch of love.

Available at Noida, Gurugram, and Indore outlets, this limited-time offer brings double the happiness and double the flavour. Whether you’re sharing it with family or treating yourself, each bite of this authentic dessert is a reminder of festive warmth and indulgence.

Offer Details:

  • What: 1+1 on Rawa Kesari Dessert
  • When: National Dessert Day (14th October) and Diwali (20th & 21st October)
  • Where: Noida: Block B, Industrial Area, Sector 62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201309
  • Gurugram: Ground Floor, M3M Atrium, Shops 6–8, Sector 57, Gurugram, Haryana 122003
  • Indore: Phoenix Citadel Mall, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452016

Celebrate the season of light and sweetness with every spoonful of authentic Rawa Kesari. Because happiness, like desserts, is best when shared!.


Shambhavi Mishra Appointed Head of Marketing at Gourmet Investments

Shambhavi Mishra Appointed Head of Marketing at Gourmet Investments

By Hariharan U

Published on October 10, 2025

Gourmet Investments Pvt. Ltd. is pleased to announce the appointment of Shambhavi Mishra as Head of Marketing. Over the past two years, Shambhavi has led marketing for PizzaExpress and Chili’s American Grill & Bar, driving digital-first campaigns, consumer engagement, and high-impact initiatives.

In her expanded role, she will now oversee marketing across the company’s entire portfolio of global dining icons, including P.F. Chang’s, with a focus on strengthening brand presence and cultural relevance in India’s evolving dining landscape.

Previously, as AVP – Marketing at Impresario Handmade Restaurants, she led strategy for brands such as SOCIAL, antiSOCIAL, Smoke House Deli, Boss Burger, Lucknowee, and HungLi across 47+ locations. At SOCIAL, she redefined F&B marketing by blending community-building, culture-first partnerships, and workspace strategies, establishing the brand at the heart of India’s creative and entrepreneurial scene.

Shambhavi has also collaborated with marquee global brands like Amazon, Netflix, Spotify, Tinder, Bumble, Budweiser, Absolut, Flipkart, and cultural phenomena like Stranger Things, Game of Thrones, and Gully Gang, while creating original IPs such as Fresh Cuts, Satrangi Mela, Culture Chutney, and Deluxe Thali, celebrating art, music, sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity.

An alumna of ISB and MICA, with a degree from the Institute of Technology & Management, Shambhavi is known for her strategic clarity, entrepreneurial mindset, and digital-first approach. She is widely regarded as a dynamic voice in India’s F&B industry, shaping brand stories that resonate deeply with modern audiences.

Beyond marketing, she champions women’s safety, gender inclusivity, and diversity, embedding these values into workplace culture and consumer experiences.


Zuper Hotels Launches ‘Vaarsa by Bay Hotels’ in Alibaug

Zuper Hotels Launches ‘Vaarsa by Bay Hotels’ in Alibaug

By Hariharan U

Published on October 10, 2025

Alibaug welcomes a new serene escape with the launch of Vaarsa by Bay Hotels, powered by Zuper Hotels & Resorts. This tropical getaway is designed for couples, families, and groups, offering 25 specially curated rooms across four categories, blending budget-friendly comfort with personalized experiences.

The property’s colorful décor in tropical shades of blue, green, and brown complements its coastal setting, inviting guests to relax by the azure poolside, soak in the sea breeze, or gather around a bonfire. Indoor games and leisure amenities ensure that every stay caters to both relaxation and fun.

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Dining at Vaarsa is an experience in itself. Expert chefs prepare authentic coastal cuisines, fresh seafood, and agri-based dishes, while in-room dining allows guests to enjoy a curated menu from the comfort of their rooms.

Accommodations are designed for comfort and charm, Deluxe Rooms combine simplicity with cozy elegance, Super Deluxe Rooms offer pool-facing views and abundant relaxation. Premium Rooms feature private balconies for a breezy retreat. Executive Rooms evoke old-Portuguese charm with modern amenities and heritage touches.

Mehfooz Khan, Corporate General Manager, Food & Beverage at Zuper Hotels & Resorts, said, “Luxury has been reimagined at Vaarsa by Bay Hotels, keeping guests’ needs and budgets in mind. The property offers a personalized tropical escape where comfort, value, and immersive experiences go hand in hand.”

Vaarsa by Bay Hotels also caters to destination weddings and corporate gatherings, blending natural beauty, authenticity, and modern facilities to create unforgettable events by the coast

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