TravTalk India Online Magazine
The inbound travel market to India is poised for a powerful upswing, says Himanshu Patil, Director, Kesari Tours. In an exclusive interview with TRAVTALK, he reveals a consistent rise in foreign tourist arrivals, driven not only by established markets like the US and UK but also by growing interest from emerging regions like Eastern Europe and South America.
Hazel Jain
How is the inbound market for Kesari?
The inbound market for Kesari is showing encouraging growth. While domestic travellers still make up a large share of our tours, we have seen a consistent rise in foreign tourist arrivals this year. Our key inbound markets are the US, the UK, Canada and Europe. We are also getting more interest from new and emerging markets like Eastern Europe and South America.
How strong is India’s inbound potential?
India’s inbound potential is tremendous. The diversity of experiences we can offer — from culture and heritage to wellness and adventure — is unmatched. What is also exciting is how infrastructure is expanding across the country. With several new airports coming up and better connectivity between key destinations, travelling within India is becoming much more convenient. The e-visa process has simplified entry for many markets, and with these continued developments, we see great momentum ahead. Seeing the government’s strong focus on tourism and domestic travel, we are confident this will translate into steady growth for inbound travel.
How would you like to collaborate with international partners?
At Kesari, we already work with several trusted B2B partners who help us promote and operate inbound travel efficiently. We are open to collaborating with more established and reliable B2B agencies that share our focus on quality, service, and customer satisfaction. Our aim is to build long-term partnerships that create value for both sides — combining our on-ground expertise in India with our partners’ market reach and understanding of their travellers. Together, we can offer seamless, well-curated experiences that showcase India’s best in a way that feels effortless and authentic.
India has seen a spate of new connections to many countries this year. How do you think Indian operators can benefit from getting tourists from these countries into India?
Every new route opens up new opportunities. Direct connectivity builds accessibility and confidence, which naturally increases traveller interest. Indian operators can benefit by promoting tailor-made itineraries for these new markets and working closely with airlines, tourism boards, and local agents. For example, travellers from Europe seek heritage and cultural depth, while those from Southeast Asia are drawn to spirituality and wellness.
