Inside Tamil Nadu’s Tourism Push at ITB Asia 2025: The Next Big Story in Asian Travel

TDM interviews T. Christuraj, I.A.S., Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism and Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism and MD of Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) on the growth story of Tamil Nadu, developing as a popular destination for Inbound Asian Travellers aided by direct connections with Chennai, its sate capital and a proactive government policy.

 Travel Daily Media (TDM): With the ever-increasing uncertainty of geopolitics, impetus is on regional travel to grow for economic stability. How well is Tamil Nadu connected with the rest of Asia to facilitate easy inbound travel?

T Christuraj (TC): Tamil Nadu is strategically positioned with robust connectivity to the ASEAN and broader East Asia regions. Air remains the overwhelmingly dominant mode of entry for foreign tourists from these regions with Chennai being India’s third largest port of entry of international arrivals with a share of 8.19% in 2024.

The state capital, Chennai, is a major international gateway with direct flights to and from key Asian hubs including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Colombo. Additionally, airports in Coimbatore, Madurai, and Trichy further support international connectivity. Tamil Nadu’s long-standing cultural and historical ties with countries like Singapore and Malaysia have naturally evolved into strong tourism and trade links, encouraging seamless regional travel.

TDM: How many international tourists have arrived in the state since the beginning of 2025?

TC: Since the beginning of 2025, Tamil Nadu has witnessed a significant revival in international travel, with a steady rise in inbound tourists, especially from ASEAN countries. It is noteworthy that the share of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India through state capital Chennai was also third at over 9.81% with absolute numbers recorded at 814,594. This share increases when it comes to South East Asia. For example, Chennai’s share of overall Foreign Tourist Arrival into India from countries like Malaysia and Singapore were recorded at 25.50% and 22.62% respectively. Our share also increases for South Asia and North East Asia.

TDM: What is the main focus of the Tourism Policy for Tamil Nadu?

TC: The core focus of Tamil Nadu’s tourism strategy is to promote sustainable and inclusive tourism development by leveraging its cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and emerging segments like eco-tourism, wellness tourism, rural tourism, and adventure tourism. The policy aims to position Tamil Nadu as a leading destination in the APAC region while fostering partnerships and investments.

TDM: Which particular destinations, cultural aspects or attractions in Tamil Nadu can be promoted for the rest of the Asian travellers?

TC: Tamil Nadu offers a wide array of experiences that resonate with Asian travellers:

• Cultural & Heritage Attractions: UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Great Living Chola Temples, Mamallapuram, and Gingee Fort.
• Spiritual Journeys: Pilgrimage destinations such as Madurai, Rameswaram, and Chidambaram.
• Nature & Adventure: With hill stations like Nilgiris, Yercaud, and Kolli Hills, and wildlife havens like Mudumalai National Park and Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu’s nature and wildlife packs a tremendous punch. Furthermore, there is scope for activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, and water sports.
• Festivals & Celebrations: Cultural events like Pongal, Indian Dance Festival, and Jallikattu, offering immersive cultural experiences.
• Modern Marvels: The 133-feet Thiruvalluvar Statue and India’s only sea-based Glass Bridge in Kanniyakumari.
• Homestays & Rural Tourism: Authentic local experiences hosted by communities in tea plantations and rural villages.

These offerings appeal to culturally curious travellers, wellness seekers, and adventure enthusiasts across Asia.

Koothu-Kottaai-Grand-Folk-Arts-Show

TDM: Tell us about the state pavilion of Tamil Nadu at ITB Asia 2025. What kind of partnerships are you looking for?

TC: Tamil Nadu’s dedicated state pavilion at ITB Asia 2025 serves as a vibrant showcase of the state’s diverse tourism assets - ranging from heritage and culture to eco-tourism and adventure travel. Led by officials from the Tourism Department, and supported by reputed tour operators, DMCs, and hoteliers, the pavilion’s objective is to facilitate high-level B2B discussions with key global industry players, particularly from South East Asia and North East Asia. The focus is on building strategic partnerships, attracting tourism investments, and creating synergies with travel agents, operators in order to to enhance visibility and travel interest in Tamil Nadu. Our participation in ITB Asia has been a great success.

TDM: What was your expectation from ITB Asia 2025 as an exhibitor? Have they been met? How many business meetings were you able to conduct? Which is the next travel trade show that you will be attending?

TC: Our expectation from ITB Asia 2025 was to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s visibility as a premier tourism destination in Asia, engage in meaningful B2B interactions, and forge partnerships to boost inbound travel. These expectations have been fully met, with a significant number of productive business meetings conducted with tour operators, travel agencies, and potential investors.

Looking ahead, Tamil Nadu Tourism will be participating in the World Travel Market (WTM) London and SATTE India to further expand its global outreach and continue engaging with new and existing partners.

Mamallapuram temple

TDM: Do share the top ten destinations worth visiting in Tamil Nadu and why?

TC: Tamil Nadu’s destination attraction cannot be summed up in small number. However, here is a list of some of the top must-visit destinations that every tourist should include in their itinerary:

1. Chennai – The capital city, known for its rich colonial history, cultural vibrancy, Marina Beach, and classical art performances.
2. Mamallapuram – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures along the coast.
3. Thanjavur – Home to the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple, part of the Great Living Chola Temples.
4. Madurai – Famous for the Meenakshi Amman Temple and its deep-rooted spiritual and architectural legacy.
5. Rameswaram – A sacred pilgrimage island known for its Ramanathaswamy Temple and connection to the Ramayana.
6. Kanchipuram – Renowned for silk sarees and ancient temples showcasing Dravidian architecture.
7. Nilgiris (Ooty, Coonoor) – Serene hill stations ideal for nature lovers, with tea plantations and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
8. Kodaikanal – A scenic retreat in the Western Ghats offering lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
9. Kanniyakumari – The southernmost tip of India where three seas meet, with the iconic Thiruvalluvar Statue and stunning sunsets.
10. Chettinad – Known for its palatial homes, unique cuisine, and rich heritage of Tamil merchant culture.

Each destination offers a unique mix of spiritual, cultural, natural, and historical appeal, making Tamil Nadu a year-round destination for diverse traveller interests.