Maharashtra’s Tourism Industry Thrives With Record-Breaking Tourist Footfall In India, Marking A Strong Upward Trajectory In Domestic And International Travel Trends

Published on December 5, 2025

Maharashtra’s tourism industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with record-breaking tourist arrivals setting new benchmarks in both domestic and international travel. This surge highlights the state’s thriving appeal as a prime destination, supported by its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a robust infrastructure. The sharp increase in tourist footfall not only reflects the state’s improved tourism offerings but also indicates a broader trend of rising interest in Indian travel destinations. As Maharashtra continues to evolve with enhanced facilities and promotional efforts, it has firmly established itself as a leading hub for tourism, attracting visitors from around the globe.

Tourism in Maharashtra has experienced impressive growth over the last few years, reflecting the state’s increasing popularity as a destination for both domestic and international travelers. From 2022 to 2024, the state witnessed a steady rise in tourist visits, highlighting the expansion of Maharashtra’s tourism sector and the state’s commitment to improving its infrastructure.

Rise in Tourist Visits

In 2022, Maharashtra recorded a significant number of domestic tourist visits, with 11,12,97,624 DTVs (Domestic Tourist Visits) and 15,11,623 FTVs (Foreign Tourist Visits). This marked a strong foundation for the state’s tourism industry, showcasing the immense potential for growth. The growth trend continued in 2023, when the state saw a sharp increase in both domestic and foreign visits. Domestic visits surged to 16,13,59,527, while foreign tourist visits grew to 33,87,739. This upward trend indicated that Maharashtra was becoming increasingly popular not just for domestic tourists but also for international travelers looking to explore the state’s rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty.

The steady growth continued into 2024, when Maharashtra recorded an estimated 18,93,71,541 domestic tourist visits and 37,05,170 foreign tourist visits. This reflected a positive trajectory in both domestic and international tourism, confirming the state’s role as a key destination in India’s tourism landscape. The increase in foreign visitors, in particular, demonstrated Maharashtra’s appeal on a global scale.

Government Support and Schemes

Recognizing the importance of tourism for Maharashtra’s economic and cultural growth, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has extended significant financial support to the state under various central government schemes. These initiatives aim to boost tourism infrastructure development and promote sustainable, community-oriented tourism. Some of the key central schemes benefiting Maharashtra include:

1. Swadesh Darshan (SD) & Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0): These schemes focus on the development of tourist circuits in various regions of the state, aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and promoting lesser-known destinations.
2. Challenge-Based Destination Development (CBDD): Aimed at improving and developing specific destinations through innovative projects and community involvement.
3. Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD): This scheme focuses on the development of spiritual and pilgrimage tourism sites, enhancing infrastructure and facilities.
4. Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development (ACATID): Provides funding for enhancing tourism infrastructure at key tourist spots.
5. Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI): This initiative supports states in improving infrastructure for tourism to encourage economic growth and development.

The financial assistance under these schemes is part of the broader vision to develop tourism that benefits both tourists and local communities. Maharashtra has been able to leverage these funds effectively, promoting sustainable tourism, improving visitor amenities, and creating opportunities for local communities to benefit from tourism activities.

Focus on Sustainable Tourism

A key focus of the Ministry of Tourism is to promote sustainable tourism that ensures balanced development, supports local economies, and provides a positive experience for visitors. In Maharashtra, the government has emphasized responsible tourism, which involves integrating sustainable practices into all stages of tourism development. This includes promoting eco-friendly initiatives, enhancing local engagement, and ensuring that tourism growth doesn’t negatively impact the environment or communities.

Tourism in Maharashtra is also designed to boost community-based tourism, where local people actively participate in the development of tourism infrastructure, offer local experiences, and contribute to the overall visitor experience. This approach ensures that tourism growth is inclusive, with communities benefiting directly from the economic activity generated by tourism.

Projects Under Central Schemes

Under the Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes, Maharashtra has received total sanctioned funds of ₹64.53 crore. This funding has been used to support key tourism projects, particularly in areas with high potential for cultural, spiritual, and coastal tourism. Some of the major initiatives funded under these schemes include:

• Sindhudurg Coastal Circuit: This project focuses on enhancing the coastal tourism infrastructure in Sindhudurg, which is known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. With improved amenities and facilities, this circuit aims to draw more tourists to this scenic region.
• Waki–Adasa–Dhapewada–Paradsingha–Telankhandi–Girad Spiritual Circuit: This spiritual tourism circuit connects several important temples and pilgrimage sites in the region, offering tourists a deeper cultural and spiritual experience.

These projects are part of Maharashtra’s broader goal to diversify its tourism offerings, balancing heritage, spiritual, adventure, and coastal tourism while fostering an environment for sustainable economic growth.

Exclusion of Kolhapur from Key Projects

While several key projects have been sanctioned under the PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan schemes, it is worth noting that Kolhapur has not been selected as part of the heritage and spiritual tourism circuits under these initiatives. Attractions such as Mahalaxmi Temple, Rankala Lake, and Panhala Fort—important historical and spiritual sites—have not received specific funding under the central schemes. This has raised concerns, as Kolhapur is a significant cultural hub with immense potential for heritage and spiritual tourism.

Although no projects have been sanctioned for Kolhapur under the current initiatives, the development of tourism infrastructure is an ongoing process. Proposals from state governments and Union Territories are continuously reviewed according to the guidelines of the schemes, and projects are approved based on their feasibility and availability of funds.

The development of tourism infrastructure in Maharashtra remains a continuous process, with regular proposals being submitted for review and approval. These projects are evaluated on their alignment with the goals of sustainable tourism development, responsible community engagement, and economic growth. With a clear focus on long-term growth, Maharashtra is committed to expanding its tourism infrastructure and enhancing the overall experience for both domestic and international travelers.

Maharashtra’s tourism industry is thriving with record-breaking tourist arrivals, driven by its rich cultural heritage, diverse attractions, and enhanced infrastructure, making it a top destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Looking forward, Maharashtra’s tourism industry is poised for further growth, backed by strong government support, an emphasis on sustainable practices, and ongoing efforts to diversify and enrich its tourism offerings. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and growing infrastructure, Maharashtra is set to remain a prominent destination for travelers from around the world.