With the Czech Consulate General in Mumbai operational again, Czechia is repositioning itself for deeper engagement with Indiaโs fast-growing outbound travel market. The reopening is expected to improve visa clarity and confidence, particularly across Western and Southern India, while supporting Czechiaโs broader push to diversify travel beyond Prague. In a conversation with Barbara Andelova, International Marketing Manager โ New Markets at CzechTourism, she outlines how improved access, evolving demand patterns and regional storytelling will shape Czechiaโs India roadmap in 2026 and beyond. Excerpts:
Strategic Boost to Access
The reopening of the Mumbai Consulate marks an important step in strengthening travel and mobility between India and Czechia. According to Andelova, it brings greater ease, confidence and consistency to visa processing for Indian travellers. Strategically, it supports growth across leisure and MICE segments by improving clarity and access, while reinforcing Czechiaโs long-term commitment to the Indian market. It also aligns with efforts to position the country as a year-round destination and encourage exploration beyond Prague
Growth Expected from Western and Southern India
Western and Southern India already represent some of the strongest outbound segments across leisure, corporate and MICE travel. Improved access to consular services is expected to support steady growth from key Tier 1 and emerging Tier 2 cities. While the increase may be gradual, Andelova anticipates a consistent rise in visa applications translating into higher travel volumes, particularly among FIT travellers, corporate movements and evolving MICE demand, including travel beyond the capital
FIT and MICE Drivers
Czechia positions itself in India as a culturally rich, experience-led destination offering depth across leisure, business and MICE travel. Currently, FIT travellers and leisure groups form the core of demand, while MICE and business travel are gaining momentum, supported by infrastructure in Prague and Brno. Looking ahead, FIT travel, premium leisure groups and MICE are expected to be the strongest growth drivers, as Indian travellers increasingly prioritise flexibility and personalised journeys
Beyond Prague: Wellness, Wine and Slower Itineraries
For 2026, CzechTourismโs โFeel Free Toโ concept will anchor its positioning in India, promoting a slower, more immersive travel style. Key regions include Karlovy Vary and West Bohemiaโs spa towns for wellness-led travel, South Moravia for wine and gastronomy experiences, ฤeskรฝ Krumlov and South Bohemia for heritage stays, and Bohemian Switzerland for nature-driven exploration. The focus is on encouraging travellers to spend more time in-region rather than treating Czechia as a brief stopover
Connectivity and a Long-Term India Vision
Direct air connectivity remains an important lever for strengthening Czechiaโs presence in India, although the medium-term focus is on building awareness and leveraging key one-stop hubs and airline partnerships. CzechTourism, alongside the Embassy and Prague Airport, is aligned on improving IndiaโCzechia connectivity over time, while continuing destination storytelling and product-led campaigns to build stronger preference in the market.
