India Named Destination of the Year for 2027 by Travel + Leisure

India has been named Destination of the Year for 2027 by international travel magazine Travel + Leisure. The recognition is expected to give a boost to the country's tourism sector and attract more international visitors.

The magazine has been announcing its Destination of the Year every year since 2014. India now joins the list of countries that have received the title in previous years, including Brazil, Thailand and Costa Rica. Brazil was named the destination for 2026, Thailand for 2025 and Costa Rica for 2024.

India has been a popular tourist destination for many decades. It was once an important part of the famous hippie trail, a popular travel route for people exploring different countries. Today, tourists from around the world visit India to experience its wildlife, wellness practices, rich culture and historic attractions.

The iconic Taj Mahal is among the country's most famous tourist attractions. India's colourful traditions, food, festivals, natural beauty and cultural diversity also make it an attractive destination for travellers.

However, the country has seen a fall in foreign tourist arrivals in recent years. India received 9.15 million foreign tourists in 2025, which was 8 per cent lower than the record of 10.93 million visitors in 2019.

The Indian government is now looking to increase the number of international tourists. It has set a target of welcoming 100 million tourists every year by 2047, when India will celebrate 100 years of independence.

Being named Destination of the Year for 2027 by Travel + Leisure could help India reach this goal by bringing more international attention to the country.

Speaking about India, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford shared her personal connection with the country. She said India was one of the places that held a special place in her heart.

Gifford also recalled her first visit to India when she was just three years old. She said she was amazed by the country's colours, food, beautiful silk saris, busy traffic and the warmth of its people.

She described India as a country that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits it.

The recognition is an important moment for Indian tourism and gives the country another opportunity to showcase its culture, heritage and experiences to travellers from across the world.