MP’s Tourism Booms, Attracts 134 Million Visitors in 2024

Madhya Pradesh, renowned for its diversity and rich heritage, has solidified its position as a premier Indian tourism destination. Known for its cultural legacy, historic monuments, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant wildlife, the state welcomed an unprecedented 134.1 million tourists in 2024, marking a remarkable 19.6 per cent rise from 2023, around 50.6 per cent from 2019, and an astonishing 526 per cent compared to 2020.

Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Sheo Shekhar Shukla, stated, “Madhya Pradesh is a culturally and ecologically diverse state that offers a complete travel experience to visitors. The arrival of 134.1 million tourists in 2024 is proof that Madhya Pradesh is not only making its mark nationally but is also emerging strongly on the global tourism map. This achievement is the result of visionary policies, development of robust infrastructure, and active participation of local communities.”

Foreign Visitors on the Rise

The state also saw an increase in international tourist arrivals, with 167,000 foreign visitors in 2024. Notable foreign entries included 33,131 at Khajuraho, 10,823 in Gwalior, and 13,960 in Orchha. Cities such as Indore and Bhopal also welcomed international visitors, with numbers of 9,964 and 1,522 respectively. Wildlife parks drew tourists from across the world, including Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Panna, and Pench, highlighting Madhya Pradesh’s growing international appeal.

Top Attractions

Religious Tourism: A New Spiritual Hub in India
Religious sites drew a staggering 107 million visitors, up 21.9 per cent from the previous year. Ujjain led the way with 73.2 million pilgrims, increasing by 39 per cent, while Chitrakoot surpassed 10 million visitors, up 33 per cent. Other major destinations included Maihar, Amarkantak, Salkanpur, and Omkareshwar. New projects like Mahakal Lok and Shri Ram Van Gaman Path continue to bolster spiritual tourism.

Heritage Tourism: Living History
Madhya Pradesh’s historical sites welcomed over eight million visitors, a 25 per cent increase from 2023. Gwalior experienced a threefold rise, with over 900,000 tourists. Other significant sites included Khajuraho, Bhojpur, and Maheshwar. The state boasts 18 UNESCO heritage sites, including the iconic Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, and Sanchi Stupa.

Wildlife Tourism: In Harmony with Nature
Known as India’s “Tiger State,” Madhya Pradesh is home to 12 national parks, 25 wildlife sanctuaries, and nine tiger reserves. Key parks such as Kanha, Pench, Bandhavgarh, Panna, and Madhai recorded high visitor numbers, with Kuno Palpur gaining international attention for its cheetah reintroduction project.

Nature Tourism: Scenic Adventures
Beautiful destinations like Pachmarhi, Amarkantak, Bhedaghat, and Sailani Island drew hundreds of thousands of visitors, offering opportunities for trekking, adventure sports, and camping amid breathtaking landscapes.

Rural Tourism: Authentic Culture and Warm Hospitality
The development of 63 tourism villages and over 470 homestays has provided immersive cultural experiences for visitors. Notably, India’s first handloom village in Pranpur, near Chanderi, has gained international recognition, while traditional arts like Gond, Bhil, and Mandana continue to enchant tourists.

Film Tourism: Cinematic Charm
Madhya Pradesh has become a sought-after filming location, with spots like Chanderi and Maheshwar attracting numerous filmmakers. The popularity of films such as “Stree 2” and “Homebound” has enhanced its cinematic reputation, with many sites now also serving as tourism attractions.

Urban Tourism: Modern Charm Meets Cultural Heritage
Cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur attract millions of visitors each year. Indore, India's cleanest city, remained a favourite destination, solidifying its status as a vibrant, modern city with rich cultural roots.

Overall, Madhya Pradesh’s tourism landscape in 2024 has seen unparalleled growth across all segments — spiritual, heritage, wildlife, nature, rural, film, and urban. The state’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, along with strong government support and vibrant local communities, promises an exciting future for travellers exploring the heart of India.