Good news! West Bengal has now ranked as the second most popular spot for foreign tourists. The state has emerged as one of India’s most preferred destinations for foreign tourists, and honestly, its rich and vibrant culture plays a huge part in that. But aren’t you curious to know how other states ranked in terms of tourist footfall? Keep reading to know.
West Bengal Is Now The 2nd Most Popular Spot For Foreigners In India
Proud to share that West Bengal has emerged as one of the most favoured international tourist destinations in the country, and has achieved another great milestone!!
In the recently released India Tourism Data Compendium 2025 by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India , West…
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 26, 2025
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee recently took to X to share the good news. The state now proudly ranks second for attracting the highest foreign tourist footfall in the country. According to the Union Tourism Ministry’s India Tourism Data Compendium 2025, West Bengal had a 14.92% share in foreign tourist visits in 2024. Here’s how other states and UTs ranked:
- Maharashtra: 17.69%
- West Bengal: 14.92%
- Gujarat: 10.86%
- Uttar Pradesh: 10.83%
- Rajasthan: 9.90%
- Delhi: 9.55%
- Tamil Nadu: 5.55%
- Kerala: 3.53%
- Bihar: 3.52%
- Punjab: 2.59%
According to a report by The Hindu, foreign tourist visits in India touched 20.94 million in 2024, marking an 8.84% increase from 19.24 million in 2023. Maharashtra and West Bengal were the largest contributors. And it is no surprise. Maharashtra is one of the most loved destinations for many travellers. Mumbai especially attracts a large number of people for its blend of history and vibrant lifestyle. Not to mention the forts in Maharashtra and, of course, its lip-smacking food. West Bengal’s rise to the second spot also makes complete sense. CM Mamata Banerjee attributed the growth of tourism in the state to factors like festival tourism, religious tourism, and MICE, among others.
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Bengal Sees A Rise In Visitors From Europe & US
CM Mamata Banerjee also mentioned that initiatives taken by the state helped West Bengal achieve this milestone. She added, “I welcome all tourists, both domestic and foreign, to visit West Bengal, the sweetest part of India, and experience its beauty, culture and heritage.” She also thanked all tourism stakeholders who worked hard to make this happen.
According to a report by The Indian Express, the rise in tourist arrivals in the state is driven by visitors from Europe and the US. Harsh Goenka, Chairperson of the RPG Group, was also surprised to know that West Bengal surpassed even Gujarat and Rajasthan in attracting foreign tourists. He wrote, “ Clearly the world has fallen for mishti doi, Durga Puja and Tagore more than we imagine.” And honestly, we couldn’t agree more.
When it comes to domestic tourism, Uttar Pradesh topped the list with a percentage share of 21.94%. Tamil Nadu came second with a share of 10.41%. Here is the complete list of the percentage share of major states and UTs in domestic tourist visits in 2024:
- Uttar Pradesh: 21.94%
- Tamil Nadu: 10.41%
- Karnataka: 10.33%
- Andhra Pradesh: 9.85%
- Rajasthan: 7.80%
- Maharashtra: 6.42%
- West Bengal: 6.26%
- Gujarat: 6.24%
- Madhya Pradesh: 4.52%
- Telangana: 2.99%
Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan Keeps Promise, Builds Bathroom For KBC Contestant In West Bengal
What do you think of this list? Were you expecting West Bengal to rank higher than other tourist states in India? Let us know.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Kulish Rawal
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