The rise of culinary tourism in India is evident as 45% of Indian travelers prioritize food in their journeys. Globally, 53% travel for culinary experiences, with India's market valued at $23 billion in 2023. Cuisine serves as a gateway to history and culture, driving a deep connection to destinations. India's diverse culinary tapestry, from Lucknow's Tunday Kababi to Kolkata's sweets, beckons food enthusiasts. Culinary hotspots like Delhi and Hyderabad offer unique flavors, while Glenary's in Darjeeling epitomizes culinary excellence, attracting a steady influx of tourists seeking authentic experiences.
A recent India Holiday Survey Report by SOTC Travel uncovered a fascinating trend among Indian travelers - 45% of them view food as a crucial element in their travel plans. This shift in perspective has propelled culinary tourism to the forefront, with food transitioning from a mere accompaniment to a focal point in holiday considerations. According to an Agoda survey, Indian travelers, driven by their gastronomic passions, predominantly set their sights on destinations like Thailand, Turkey, and Laos, while drawing food enthusiasts from Vietnam and Japan to India.
The global scenario mirrors this culinary fervor. The World Food Travel Association highlighted in the Food Travel Monitor that a significant 53% of travelers venture to destinations specifically for their culinary offerings. Jersey Island Holidays reported that a staggering 95% of tourists worldwide identify as 'food travelers.'
Santosh Kumar, the country manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia at Booking.com, emphasized that 86% of tourists actively seek out local cuisines, with 78% displaying a keen interest in the historical and cultural narratives behind iconic dishes. Booking.com's Travel Trends data further reveals that food plays a pivotal role in the trip planning process for 48% of Indian travelers, with 45% considering it a decisive factor in destination selection.
Certain nations have harnessed their culinary heritage for 'gastrodiplomacy,' a strategic move embraced notably by countries like Thailand, South Korea, and the United States. The elevation of kimchi to Unesco's list of "intangible cultural heritage" in 2013 exemplifies how food can transcend boundaries of class and region.
India, too, stands at the forefront of this culinary renaissance. The Future Market Insights Report of 2023 estimated India's culinary tourism market to be valued at over $23 billion, with projections soaring to exceed $182.5 billion by 2033.
Rajeev Kale, president and country head of holidays, MICE, visa at Thomas Cook (India) Limited, highlighted the escalating demand for gastronomic experiences during vacations. He emphasized that food tourism encapsulates the essence of a region's history, culture, and ethos, offering travelers a deeper connection to the places they visit.
India's culinary tapestry is rich and diverse, offering a plethora of savory delights. From the legendary Tunday Kababi in Lucknow to Rajasthan's dal baati churma and Agra's sweet petha, every region beckons with unique flavors. Even the simple act of apple picking in Himachal Pradesh's orchards becomes a cherished memory for tourists.
Cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Kolkata have emerged as culinary hotspots, enticing food enthusiasts from far and wide. SD Nandakumar, president and country head of holidays and corporate tours at SOTC Travel, described Delhi as a savory haven, urging visitors not to miss iconic dishes like chole bhature and daulat ki chaat. Lucknow's Awadhi cuisine, Hyderabad's flavorful biryani, Kerala's seafood delicacies, and Kolkata's sweet treats collectively create a gastronomic paradise.
Glenary's in Darjeeling stands as a testament to culinary excellence, attracting a steady stream of tourists. Avaya Mangarti, manager at the renowned hill cafe-bakery-restaurant, shared how the establishment sees over 2,000 visitors daily during peak seasons, with monthly earnings exceeding Rs 1 crore.
The allure of culinary tourism lies in the authentic experiences it offers. Renowned academic and food critic Pushpesh Pant underscored the appeal of exploring local cuisines, especially in a world where homogeneity prevails. Pant emphasized the joy of discovering diverse ethnic foods, particularly during festive seasons when authenticity shines through.
In essence, culinary tourism in India is a celebration of flavors, traditions, and stories, offering travelers a unique lens through which to explore the country's rich cultural tapestry. Embrace the culinary journey, savor each bite, and immerse yourself in the vibrant gastronomic landscape that India has to offer.
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