Rajasthan Tourism To Highlight Heritage And Sustainability At ITB Berlin 2026

Sustainable And Heritage-Driven Destination

The recent conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has propelled India–Germany ties into a new era of strategic collaboration.

Key discussions revolved around technology, climate action, and economic investment, while tourism and cultural exchanges are increasingly shaping the bilateral relationship.

In line with this momentum, Rajasthan Tourism is set to make a significant impact at ITB Berlin from March 3 5, 2026, highlighting the state as a destination that blends rich heritage with sustainable tourism practices.

Under the theme “From the Desert to the Rhine,” Rajasthan will present its living heritage, responsible tourism initiatives, and legacy of royal hospitality to one of the world’s most influential travel trade platforms.

According to Tourism Commissioner Rukmani Riar, Rajasthan recorded 1,945,068 foreign tourist visits in 2025. Of these, 575,968 visitors came from 25 major European countries, accounting for approximately 29.6 per cent of total foreign arrivals.

Germany ranked third among European source markets with 82,703 tourist visits, following the United Kingdom and France. This underscores Germany’s growing importance as a high-capacity and quality-focused outbound travel market for Rajasthan.

A Landscape of Diversity and Cultural Depth

Rajasthan offers a striking geographical contrast from the deserts of the Thar to greener and riverine systems in southern districts, along with the Aravalli hill range.

Additionally, the peak travel season between October and March offers temperate weather and a vibrant calendar of cultural festivals, fairs, and performing arts traditions—an appealing combination for visitors.

World Heritage and Living Traditions

Rajasthan’s identity is rooted in “living heritage”, a landscape where forts and palaces remain embedded in daily life.

Moreover, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)-listed sites, including Amber, Chittorgarh, and Ranthambore forts, add a mesmerising experience to the journey, and the Walled City of Jaipur, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, remains a key attraction for visitors.

Sustainability and Green Transition

Riar noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Rajasthan Tourism is expanding its global outreach while strengthening its sustainability commitments.

The state’s renewable energy leadership reinforces its green credentials. Eco-camps, community-based homestays, plastic-free hospitality practices, and electric mobility tours are being integrated into tourism circuits to align with European sustainability standards.

Culinary and Cultural Connections

The culinary traditions, featuring millet-based breads, lentil preparations, and elaborate community dining customs reflect centuries of adaptation to desert ecology.

Germany’s emphasis on organic produce, regional sourcing, and sustainable consumption provides a natural area of cultural convergence. Culinary exchanges, food festivals, and market immersion experiences are being explored as part of experiential tourism initiatives.