India has been named destination of the year for 2027 by Travel + Leisure, an accolade that could give a significant boost to a country that has seen foreign arrivals decline in recent years. The award, announced annually since 2014, places India in the footsteps of Brazil (2026), Thailand (2025), and Costa Rica (2024).
India has long been a magnet for travellers, from the hippie trail of the 1960s to today's visitors drawn by its wildlife, wellness traditions, and iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal. Yet the numbers tell a more sobering story: foreign arrivals fell to 9.15 million in 2025, down 8% from the peak of 10.93 million in 2019. The country has set an ambitious target of 100 million tourists a year by 2047, the centenary of its independence, and this recognition could help turn the tide.
In announcing the award, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford wrote: "Certain destinations tug at the heartstrings more than others. For me, one of those places is India. I first visited when I was three and was spellbound by the colours, the buttery naan, the fine-spun silk of the saris, the chaos of the traffic, the warmth that emanates from every conversation. The country seeps into your skin."
Where to go in India
With an area of 3.29 million square kilometres, split into 28 states and eight union territories, planning a trip to India can be overwhelming. Travel + Leisure suggests starting with Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East." Surrounded by seven lakes, the city offers the City Palace and the Monsoon Palace, and you can even stay in a real palace: the Taj Lake Palace is regularly ranked among the world's best hotels.
Alternatively, New Delhi is a gateway to the Qutb Minar and Humayun's Tomb, and a convenient stop before heading to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. For those seeking something more off the beaten path, the Lakshadweep archipelago opens only a few islands to tourists each year, offering pristine beaches and coral reefs. Madhya Pradesh boasts India's largest tiger population alongside spectacular temples, while the state of Chettinad is known for its distinct architectural style, with ornate mansions and vibrant markets.
For European travellers, this recognition comes at a time when global travel is booming. According to recent data, global arrivals are set to hit a record 1.57 billion in 2026, with Europe leading the growth. Yet India's challenge is to convert this momentum into a sustained recovery, especially as it faces competition from other Asian destinations.
The award also highlights a broader trend: travellers are increasingly looking for authentic experiences beyond the usual hotspots. As off-season travel becomes more popular in Europe, India's diverse offerings—from the Himalayas to the backwaters of Kerala—could appeal to those seeking variety and depth.
However, India's tourism ambitions are not without hurdles. The country has been in discussions with the EU over the carbon border tax, which could affect travel-related industries. Moreover, safety concerns and infrastructure gaps remain, though the government has been investing in new airports and high-speed rail links.
For now, the Travel + Leisure nod is a powerful endorsement. As Gifford put it, India "seeps into your skin"—and with the world's attention turning to the country, 2027 might just be the year to let it.
