By Mewati Sitaram
Indian interest in travelling to China is steadily reviving as direct air connectivity resumes and visa processes show signs of stabilisation, reopening a long-dormant travel corridor between the two countries. Travel companies on both sides report a noticeable rise in enquiries across leisure, corporate and MICE segments, indicating renewed confidence among travellers and the trade.
Industry executives say the return of direct flights has been the key driver behind the recovery. With airlines gradually restoring services on India–China routes, reduced travel time and improved cost efficiency are making China a more attractive option once again.
Arvind Kumar, Vice President, Trail Blazer Tours India, said sentiment in the outbound market has turned positive. He noted that the resumption of direct flights is expected to result in a 25 to 30 per cent increase in business over the coming months, as accessibility improves and travellers regain confidence.
Indian travel to China has traditionally been dominated by business, corporate and incentive travel, but leisure demand is now beginning to gain traction. Kumar explained that while corporate and MICE travel still accounts for nearly three-fourths of demand, the leisure segment is steadily expanding, driven by value-for-money offerings and growing curiosity among Indian travellers.
Liang Yaofeng, MD Nimbus Travel Beijing & Frank Fang, GM GZL Int. Travel
Destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, Guangzhou and Shenzhen remain popular with Indian visitors, while emerging cities including Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuxi and Harbin are seeing rising interest. China’s appeal, operators say, lies in its blend of ancient civilisation, iconic historical sites, scenic landscapes, cultural performances, shopping and modern urban experiences.
Inbound tour operators in China are also preparing for a renewed wave of Indian arrivals. Jenny Miao, Director – Inbound Department, Emax Travel, said enquiries from India have risen by around 60 per cent compared to last year. She added that her company has strengthened hotel contracts, curated India-friendly itineraries and fixed competitive package rates to meet growing demand efficiently.
Beijing-based Nimbus Travel is similarly optimistic. Managing Director Liang Yaofeng said the company is enhancing on-ground operations, expanding support teams and refreshing itineraries to match evolving Indian preferences. He added that Indian travellers are showing greater interest in both heritage destinations and modern cities that showcase China’s contemporary identity.
In southern China, operators expect restored flights from Indian cities to significantly stimulate demand. Frank Fang, General Manager – Inbound Tours, GZL International Travel Service, said the company is planning deeper engagement with the Indian market through travel trade events and a stronger sales presence.
MICE travel is emerging as a strong growth engine, supported by China’s modern infrastructure, large convention facilities and competitive pricing. Operators are placing emphasis on Indian food options, English-speaking guides, culturally sensitive itineraries and quality hotels to ensure traveller comfort.
Looking ahead, industry stakeholders remain upbeat. Inbound operators estimate Indian arrivals could grow by 30 to 40 per cent annually over the next two years, supported by improving connectivity, rising outbound demand from India and closer collaboration between travel partners in both countries.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
