World Tourism Day is celebrated every year on 27 September. The purpose of celebrating it is to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) started this day in 1980, so that tourism can be encouraged around the world and mutual understanding and cooperation can be promoted among different cultures.
There are hundreds of world heritage sites, historical buildings and palaces, places full of natural scenery in the country and the world. India is a country which is famous all over the world for its cultural diversity, historical heritage and natural beauty. Many places here remain the center of attraction for foreign tourists. There are many tourist places in India from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, which are very popular not only among Indian tourists but also foreign travelers. On the occasion of Tourism Day, know about the favorite Indian destinations of foreigners, where every year a crowd of foreign tourists is seen.
Delhi
The country's capital Delhi receives the highest number of foreign guests. Delhi has many historical buildings like Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate, which are world famous. Apart from this, the magnificent Chandni Chowk market and Connaught Place attract tourists. According to a report, in 2021, more than one lakh foreign tourists were welcomed in Delhi. At the same time, after the Kovid period, more than 18 lakh foreign tourists came to Delhi in 2023.
Agra
The seventh wonder of the world is located in India. Here is the Taj Mahal, one of the biggest attractions not only in India but in the world, which is present in Agra district. The Taj Mahal is included in the list of World Heritage Sites. A large number of tourists from different cities of India as well as from abroad reach Agra to see the Taj. Apart from the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Agra Fort is also an important tourist destination, where foreign tourists are seen roaming. In 2019, about 80 lakh foreign tourists came to visit Agra. At the same time, in 2023, more than 11 lakh tourists visited Agra.
Jaipur
The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is famous for its historical forts like Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Ajmer Fort, and City Palace. Its colorful market and local art also attract tourists. Foreign tourists come here from all over the world to see the royal hospitality and grandeur of Jaipur.
Varanasi
The city of Banaras, located on the banks of the Ganges river in Uttar Pradesh, is considered the center of Indian culture. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is also located here. There are eighty ghats from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat, whose Ganga Aarti is attended by thousands of foreign tourists almost every day.
Goa
Famous for its beautiful beaches, nightlife and diversity, Goa is a major destination for Indian and foreign tourists. The city of Goa in India is full of exotic views. There are historical sites, churches as well as beaches like foreign countries. Apart from this, foreign tourists are also seen here. More than 22 thousand foreign tourists visited Goa in the year 2021, whereas in the year 2023 the number increased to more than four and a half lakh.
(PC: Freepik)