West Bengal Strengthens Its Tourism Identity with India’s No. 2 Rank in Foreign Arrivals and a Growing Reputation as a Popular International Travel Destination

Published on November 27, 2025

West Bengal, one of India’s most culturally layered and geographically diverse regions, is stepping into 2025 as a destination of major international significance. The state has secured the second-highest foreign tourist arrivals in India, marking a landmark moment in its tourism growth trajectory. This achievement underscores West Bengal’s rising global appeal, its expanding infrastructure, and its strategic positioning as an international gateway to culture, heritage, nature, and modern Indian travel experiences.

In a year where domestic tourism across India witnessed substantial recovery and expansion, West Bengal distinguished itself on the national tourism map by gaining a top position in foreign tourist visits. With 3.12 million international tourist arrivals, the state is now recognized as one of the nation’s leading destinations for global visitors. The rise in foreign arrivals reflects significant enhancements in tourism offerings, improved accessibility, and a strong emphasis on developing diversified travel segments.

In 2024, India welcomed 20.94 million foreign tourists, an 8.84% growth from the previous year. Within this expanding national landscape, West Bengal emerged as a star performer, surpassing several traditionally popular destinations. As global travel patterns shift toward heritage-rich, experience-driven, culture-oriented, and sustainable travel, West Bengal offers a distinct edge:
bold cultural identity, bold natural diversity, bold heritage attractions, and bold tourism potential.

The state’s tourism development strategy—centered on cultural circuits, religious tourism, festival tourism, MICE tourism, and diversified visitor experiences—has positioned West Bengal as a global-ready destination. From the towering Himalayan foothills of North Bengal to the coastal plains, historic towns, and intricate riverine landscapes of the east, the state delivers one of the most varied travel palettes in the country.

As India looks ahead to a transformative tourism decade, West Bengal’s momentum signals its steady rise as one of the nation’s most influential international travel destinations. The following report examines the state’s expanding tourism footprint, its key strengths, and the factors contributing to its growing appeal among global travelers.

West Bengal’s National Tourism Achievement

Ranked No. 2 in Foreign Tourist Arrivals

According to the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025, West Bengal recorded:

• 3.12 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2024
• Securing the second-highest position in India, after Maharashtra
• Outperforming several major tourism states
• Maintaining consistent upward movement in international footfall

This performance highlights the state’s enhanced tourism positioning and its growing visibility among global travelers.

National Tourism Overview for Context

India recorded:

• 2,948.19 million domestic tourists in 2024
• 20.94 million foreign tourist visits
• 17.51% growth in domestic tourism
• 8.84% growth in foreign arrivals

In this national backdrop, West Bengal’s strong results illustrate its rapid evolution into a major tourism hub.

Why West Bengal Is Rising as an International Tourism Destination

1. Expanding Tourism Diversity

West Bengal appeals to domestic and global visitors through a wide spectrum of experiences.

Cultural Tourism

• Rich artistic and literary heritage
• Traditional festivals with global visibility
• Historic cultural neighborhoods
• Crafts and performing arts with deep regional roots

Heritage Tourism

• Colonial-era architecture
• Historic trading towns
• Ancient temples and preserved cultural sites
• Museums and archaeological heritage

Nature and Eco-Tourism

• Mountainous regions of North Bengal
• Riverine landscapes
• Forest reserves and wildlife sanctuaries
• Coastal belts and wetland systems

Urban Tourism

• Cultural districts within metropolitan centers
• Culinary hubs and shopping corridors
• Waterfronts and lifestyle districts

This diversity positions West Bengal as a versatile international tourism destination.

2. Growth in New Tourism Segments

The state’s tourism development strategy emphasizes several high-impact verticals.

Festival Tourism

• Major cultural festivals attracting international visitors
• Strong creative identity in festival presentations

Religious Tourism

• Pilgrimage routes
• Historic spiritual centers

MICE Tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions)

• Expanding convention facilities
• Strengthening business tourism environment

Eco and Nature Tourism

• Conservation-conscious travel circuits
• Nature engagement routes

These segments shape West Bengal’s image as an adaptive, experience-rich travel region.

3. Strong Performance Driven by Post-Pandemic Tourism Growth

India’s tourism landscape has significantly expanded after the pandemic. West Bengal’s growth is supported by:

• Renewed domestic travel demand
• Increased international arrivals post-reopening
• Strong tourism visibility
• Digital expansion of the state’s tourism information network

This growth reflects not only recovery but long-term expansion potential.

West Bengal’s Competitiveness Among Indian Tourism States

4. Comparison with Leading States

Tourism rankings position West Bengal strongly among India’s top destinations.

Domestic Tourism Leaders (2024)

• Uttar Pradesh: 646.81 million
• Tamil Nadu: 306.84 million

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (2024)

• Maharashtra: 3.71 million
• West Bengal: 3.12 million

West Bengal’s No. 2 ranking highlights:

• Rising tourism identity
• Expanding infrastructure
• Strong international appeal
• Competitive presence within India’s tourism ecosystem

What Makes West Bengal Attractive to International Visitors

5. Cultural and Heritage Strength

Cultural Appeal

• Deep-rooted cultural expressions
• Rich literature, arts, and creative traditions
• Evolving craft and cultural districts
• Continued global recognition of cultural practices

Heritage Appeal

• Architectural landmarks
• Historic marketplaces and waterfront zones
• Preserved sites reflecting centuries of cultural exchange

6. Natural Landscapes and Biodiversity

West Bengal features distinct ecological zones, making it attractive to eco-travelers.

• Himalayan foothills and tea belt regions
• Forest-heavy biodiversity zones
• River deltas and wetland ecosystems
• Coastal plains and mangrove territories

These landscapes create varied tourism opportunities throughout the year.

7. Statewide Tourism Infrastructure and Accessibility

Infrastructure Growth

• Expanded road and transport connectivity
• Improved airport and rail networks
• Better tourism amenities in major hubs

Organized Tourism Support

• Guided circuits
• Signage and visitor support systems
• Well-structured tourism communication channels

West Bengal’s improved accessibility enhances its suitability for foreign tourists.

Tourism Data and Performance Metrics

8. India’s 2024 Tourism Performance

India recorded:

• 2,948.19 million domestic tourist visits
• 20.94 million foreign tourist visits
• Growth across all tourism categories

West Bengal’s strong performance within this national landscape reflects its rising prominence.

West Bengal’s Strategic Direction for Global Tourism

9. Positioning for International Travelers

West Bengal’s tourism vision aligns with global travel demand, making it a major destination for:

• Cultural tourism
• Heritage experiences
• Eco-tourism
• Festival circuits
• Business and MICE travel
• Coastal and riverine tourism
• Urban and lifestyle tourism

The state combines historic depth with modern travel readiness, shaping its identity as a globally competitive destination.

Conclusion — West Bengal’s Expanding Global Tourism Presence

West Bengal enters 2025 as one of India’s most significant international tourism regions, backed by data placing it at the very top of the country’s foreign tourist arrival rankings. With diverse landscapes, cultural richness, heritage depth, expanding tourism categories, and improved infrastructure, the state presents a compelling case for global travelers seeking immersive and multifaceted experiences. As India’s tourism sector continues to grow, West Bengal stands out as a destination shaping its own global narrative—with the momentum and capacity to remain a leading international travel hub in the years ahead.