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Visit Britain’s India strategy remains focused on working closely with travel agents and tour operators, especially in emerging Indian cities
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The aim is to promote meaningful, memorable experiences across the UK, beyond traditional sightseeing
Indian travel to the United Kingdom is entering a strong growth phase, with visitor numbers expected to rise from about 6.5 lakh in 2025 to nearly one million by 2030. This trend highlights India’s growing importance as one of the UK’s most valuable long-haul tourism markets.
Speaking at a media interaction in New Delhi, British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron described India as a “priority, high-value market” for the UK. She said Indian travellers are showing a rising interest in visiting Britain, with visitor spending likely to cross £1 billion as early as this year. By 2030, spending from Indian tourists is projected to reach £1.6 billion.
- Importantly, Indian visitors are no longer limiting their trips to London
- Many are now exploring destinations across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Regional cities such as Manchester and Birmingham are gaining popularity, helped by strong air links and easier access from Indian cities beyond the metros
Air connectivity is playing a key role in this growth. India and the UK are now connected by more than 170 weekly flights. Indian airlines, including IndiGo, are also bringing travellers from tier-2 and tier-3 cities into international hubs, encouraging first-time travel and regional exploration in the UK.
The UK’s visa system is another factor supporting demand. Flexible processing options, longer validity visas and the absence of caps have made travel easier for Indian visitors, who already form one of the largest visa applicant groups.
Visit Britain officials noted that Indian travellers are staying longer and spending more, especially on premium and experience-based travel. While visiting friends and relatives remains important, growth is also seen in luxury holidays, business travel and destination weddings. Many business travellers are now extending work trips into leisure stays.
