Tamil Nadu Showcases Heritage and Eco-Tourism Strengths at World Travel Market London 2025

Tamil Nadu positions itself as India’s cultural and eco-tourism leader at WTM London

Tamil Nadu, India’s southernmost state, celebrated for its ancient temples, architectural legacy, and diverse landscapes, showcased its cultural and eco-tourism strengths at the World Travel Market (WTM) held in London from November 4 to 6, 2025.

The state delegation was led by K Manivasan, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government for Tourism, Culture and Religious Endowments, and T Christuraj, Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism and Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). They were joined by key tour operators, destination management companies, and hoteliers from the state to foster B2B partnerships and promote inbound tourism.

This year, the Tamil Nadu Wilderness Corporation also participated as a co-exhibitor, highlighting the Forest Department’s eco-tourism and adventure offerings under the ‘Trek Tamil Nadu’ initiative. Tamil Nadu Tourism’s dedicated pavilion at WTM served as a hub for cultural promotion and business networking, reinforcing its substantial presence in the international travel market.

Manivasan said, “Visitors can explore opportunities in heritage tourism, eco-tourism, adventure travel, and cultural experiences, all of which highlight Tamil Nadu’s unique appeal to global travellers.”

Christuraj added that the Tourism Department has scheduled an exclusive roadshow in Paris on November 7, 2025, to strengthen ties further and attract French tourists. This follows Tamil Nadu’s participation in IFTM Top Resa in September, where the state showcased its tourism assets through an exclusive pavilion.

Tamil Nadu’s heritage is deeply rooted in Sangam literature (200 BCE – 300 CE), which identified five ecological landscapes — Kurinji (hilly), Mullai (forest), Marutham (agricultural), Neithal (coastal) and Palai (arid). Each of these offers distinctive biodiversity and cultural experiences, from trekking in Kurinji’s highlands to relaxing by Neithal’s coastal stretches.

The state’s 2025 tourism proposal emphasises its seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites and signature festivals such as the Indian Dance Festival, the Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival, and the Tamil Nadu International Kite Festival. The new 16-acre Jallikattu arena in Madurai also showcases the government’s commitment to preserving traditional heritage alongside modern tourism infrastructure.

Tamil Nadu continues to diversify its tourism portfolio with emerging segments such as rural tourism, medical and wellness travel, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism. Water sports are being developed along its 1,076-kilometre coastline, while lesser-known hill destinations such as Kolli Hills, Jawadhu Hills, and Yercaud are being promoted as nature-based getaways.

The state’s natural wealth includes Nilgiris, Agasthiyarmalai, and Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserves, along with national parks and mangroves, offering visitors opportunities for trekking, safaris, and outdoor recreation. Coastal experiences are equally captivating, from serene beaches to the Thiruvalluvar Statue and India’s only sea-level glass bridge in Kanniyakumari, which offers panoramic sunrise and sunset views accompanied by a laser and sound show.

Tamil Nadu’s artistry is reflected in its 69 Geographical Indication (GI) products, from handwoven sarees to bronze sculptures and regional crafts. Travellers can immerse themselves in authentic local experiences through community-led homestays, visits to tea and spice plantations, and culinary trails celebrating the state’s distinctive flavours.

From sacred temple towns to tranquil hill stations and vibrant festivals, Tamil Nadu remains a destination where every journey tells a story, a seamless blend of heritage, nature, and human connection.