Proactive governance under Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari propels Rajasthan to new heights on the national and global tourism map

At a time when tourism is emerging as a major pillar of India’s economic growth, Rajasthan is rapidly consolidating its position on the strength of its rich historical legacy, vibrant culture and diverse natural landscapes. Under the decisive leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, a combination of good governance, simplified procedures and time-bound execution has transformed tourism into a central driver of the state’s economy.

As a result, Rajasthan today stands firmly among India’s top five states in both domestic and foreign tourist arrivals. Tourism’s contribution to the state’s Gross Domestic Product has risen to nearly 12 per cent—almost two-and-a-half times the national average. In 2025, up to the end of October, the state recorded 196.1 million domestic tourist visits and 1.494 million foreign tourist visits. Compared to the corresponding period in 2024, total tourist visits registered a growth of 9.60 per cent, reflecting sustained momentum across all segments.

According to Dalip Singh Rathore, Joint Director, Rajasthan Tourism Department, the state has for centuries been synonymous with heritage, folk traditions and natural splendour. However, the acceleration witnessed over the past year has positioned tourism not only as a defining feature of Rajasthan’s identity, but also as a decisive force within India’s broader economic framework. Transparent administration, streamlined policies and enhanced institutional efficiency have catalysed fresh investment, strengthened heritage conservation and accelerated the development of modern tourism infrastructure.

Record Numbers Reinforce Rajasthan’s Claim

The year 2024 marked a watershed moment for Rajasthan’s tourism sector. The state recorded 230.1 million domestic tourist visits, while foreign tourist arrivals stood at 2.072 million. In terms of national share, Rajasthan accounted for 7.80 per cent of domestic tourist visits and 9.90 per cent of foreign tourist arrivals.

Growth rates further underscore the state’s outperformance. While India as a whole witnessed a 17.51 per cent increase in domestic tourist visits in 2024 compared to 2023, Rajasthan recorded a significantly higher growth of 28.50 per cent. In foreign tourism, where the national growth rate stood at 8.84 per cent, Rajasthan registered an impressive surge of 21.92 per cent. This sustained performance has firmly established the state as an emerging year-round tourism destination.

Rajasthan’s Rising Prominence on the National Canvas

At the national level, tourism contributed approximately ₹14.8 lakh crore during 2024–25, accounting for nearly 5 per cent of India’s GDP. In comparison, Rajasthan alone contributed around ₹1.57 lakh crore, translating into a 12 per cent share of the state’s GDP—well above the national average.

In 2024, India recorded over 2.9 billion domestic tourist visits and more than 20 million foreign tourist arrivals. Within this landscape, Rajasthan’s robust presence places it among the top five states for domestic tourism alongside Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. In foreign tourist arrivals, it ranks among the leading five states with Maharashtra, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.

Non-Resident Rajasthani as Global Tourism Ambassadors

Rajasthani living across the Gulf countries, Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Europe and South-East Asia have emerged as natural ambassadors of the state’s tourism brand. According to Joint Director Dalip Singh Rathore, the role of the Rajasthani diaspora has been particularly significant in driving international travel to the state, strengthening cultural connections and enhancing Rajasthan’s global visibility.

Why Rajasthan Is Emerging as One of India’s Most Attractive Destinations

Rajasthan’s greatest strength lies in the diversity of its tourism portfolio—ranging from majestic forts and palaces to deserts, wildlife reserves, tribal culture, pilgrimage centres, lakes and world-class luxury hospitality. Expansion of airports at Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, the addition of new flight routes, upgraded highways and improved road connectivity have made the state more accessible than ever before.

Heritage hotels, folk arts, handicrafts and the globally recognised tradition of miniature painting continue to distinguish Rajasthan on the international stage, offering visitors an immersive experience rooted in authenticity and excellence.

The Road Ahead

With political stability, strong social commitment and a clearly articulated tourism vision, Rajasthan is no longer just a destination—it is increasingly being seen as a model for the future of tourism in India. The double-engine leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari has sent a clear message: heritage conservation, development and employment generation can advance together, reinforcing each other in a sustainable and inclusive growth framework.

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