Explore alternative destinations that align better with national sentiment.

In 2024, an estimated 2.75 lakh Indian tourists travelled to Turkey, while 2.5 lakh chose Baku, Azerbaijan as their international getaway. But beyond the numbers lies a bigger story—India’s growing influence on global tourism economies.

5 Eye-Opening Insights into the Indian Impact on Turkey and Azerbaijan’s Tourism Sectors:

Massive Growth in Indian Tourist Arrivals
Between 2022 and 2024, Indian tourist footfall in Azerbaijan surged by 68%. The average stay duration was 4–6 days in Azerbaijan and 7–10 days in Turkey, showing Indians’ deeper engagement in these destinations.
Major Economic Contribution
Indian travelers inject approximately ₹1,000–1,250 crore annually into Azerbaijan’s economy. Meanwhile, Turkey receives a whopping ₹2,900–3,350 crore from Indian tourism, with hotspots like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya seeing maximum traction.
High Spending Travelers
On average, Indian tourists spend ₹1–1.25 lakh per international trip, making them one of the top value-generating tourist segments globally.
Middle-Class Boom Driving Travel Trends
With India’s middle class growing to over 40 crore, increased disposable income, coupled with the influence of social media and Bollywood, is fuelling travel to trending destinations like Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Visa and Flight Access Improvements
Both countries have eased visa processes for Indian citizens, and several Indian airlines now operate direct flights to Istanbul and Baku, making travel more accessible than ever.

Jobs, Investments & More

Thanks to Indian travelers, over 20,000 direct tourism jobs have been created across both countries. Additionally, 45,000–60,000 indirect jobs now exist in related sectors. Notably, Indian investments in Turkey’s hospitality industry have surged by 35% over the past four years, indicating long-term confidence in the region.

From destination weddings and luxury shopping to medical tourism and family vacations, the diversity of Indian travel preferences is reshaping how these countries market themselves globally.

But Here’s the Other Side of the Story

Despite the deep economic benefits, both Turkey and Azerbaijan have recently expressed support for Pakistan following Operation Sindoor, including backing a call for a “neutral investigation” into the Pahalgam terror attack—a move that has not sat well with many Indians.

What Should Indian Travelers Consider?

With countless beautiful destinations in India and around the world, you might want to reconsider your travel choices. If you’re thinking of taking a break or planning your next international trip, explore alternative destinations that align better with national sentiment.