India is expected to see an influx of 10 Million international tourists by 2010, up from just 5 Million in 2007

India represents one of the most potential tourism markets in the world. It has expanded rapidly over the past few years and underpinned by the government support, rising income level and various international sports events, the Indian tourism industry will continue to grow at the fastest pace in the coming years.

Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Rajasthan are the leading tourism destinations in India in terms of total tourist arrivals. The growth in India's tourism market is expected to serve as a boon, driving the growth of several associated industries, including hotel industry, medical tourism industry and aviation industry.

Singapore, Dubai most popular destinations for Indian tourists

Increasing numbers of Indians are travelling abroad for business and leisure and Asian countries are their favourite destinations with Singapore and Dubai heading the list, according to a survey released Wednesday.

Most Indian-outbound travellers come from a rapidly expanding urban middle class with larger disposable incomes, the Neilson India Outbound Travel Monitor 2008 said. The survey was conducted in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association.

Asian countries are the most popular destinations for Indian travellers, who spend an average of 1,789 dollars per person per leisure trip.

Singapore is the most popular destination, followed by Dubai, Australia and Malaysia.

Asian countries account for about 72 per cent of recent leisure trips and 63 per cent of business trips by Indians, the survey found.