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India International Travel Mart Ignites Travel Fever in Gujarat

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India International Travel Mart Boosts Tourism Business in Gujarat

Ahmedabad saw a lively start to the India International Travel Mart (IITM), with the event opening at the YMCA International Convention Centre on March 20, 2026. The two-day exhibition has drawn strong interest from travel professionals, both from India and abroad, and reflects how fast the travel industry is growing again after the pandemic years.

Dates: 20 and 21 March 2026

Venue: YMCA Club, Sarkhej, Ahmedabad

Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Travel is not just a display of destinations. It is a business platform where travel agents, tour operators, hotels, and tourism boards meet face-to-face. Such B2B events are important because many travel deals still happen through personal connections and trust. Even in a digital world, the travel trade relies heavily on direct interaction. This is why events like IITM continue to stay relevant and attract serious industry players.

Ahmedabad and Gujarat as a whole have become an important travel market in recent years. People here are known to travel often, both within India and overseas. There is also a rise in family holidays, group tours, and destination weddings. Industry reports suggest that Gujarat contributes a growing share to India’s outbound travel numbers, especially to places in South-East Asia and the Middle East. This makes Ahmedabad a smart choice for hosting such a large travel exhibition.

The participation of more than 100 exhibitors from over 10 countries and 15 Indian states shows the wide interest in this market. Many Indian states are now promoting lesser-known destinations to reduce pressure on crowded tourist spots. For example, states are focusing on eco-tourism, rural tourism, and cultural trails. This helps local communities earn income while also giving travellers new experiences.

Tourism Malaysia, being the Partner Country, is a key highlight. Malaysia has been a favourite among Indian travellers for years due to its easy visa process, good connectivity, and mix of city life and nature. In recent times, Malaysia has also focused on attracting Indian tourists through special campaigns, improved flight routes, and tailored travel packages. The country is promoting not just Kuala Lumpur, but also islands, rainforests, and heritage sites.

The exhibition also reflects some clear travel trends. One major trend is experiential travel. People now want more than just sightseeing. They want to try local food, learn about culture, and take part in unique activities. This is why many exhibitors are offering curated travel experiences instead of standard tour packages.

Another growing segment is MICE travel. Companies are spending more on meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. Cities like Ahmedabad are slowly becoming hubs for such activities because of better infrastructure and connectivity. Hotels and convention centres are also upgrading to meet this demand.

Wellness tourism is also gaining attention. After the pandemic, many travellers are looking for trips that help them relax and improve their health. This includes yoga retreats, spa holidays, and nature stays. India itself is a strong player in this segment, with places like Kerala and Rishikesh leading the way.

Adventure tourism is another fast-growing area. Younger travellers are showing interest in trekking, scuba diving, wildlife safaris, and other outdoor activities. Many states in India are now promoting adventure circuits to attract this group.

From a business point of view, the event gives travel companies a chance to build partnerships. A travel agent from Ahmedabad can meet a hotel owner from another country and create a package together. These connections help in creating better deals and more options for travellers.

The strong turnout expected at the event also shows the recovery of the travel industry. According to recent industry data, travel demand in India has not only recovered but, in many cases, has gone beyond pre-pandemic levels. People are now more willing to spend on travel, seeing it as an important part of life rather than a luxury.

The organisers, Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, have been running such events across India for years. Their focus has been on connecting regional markets with global tourism players. This approach is working well, as smaller cities are now becoming important contributors to the travel economy.

Overall, the Ahmedabad edition of IITM shows how the travel industry is changing and growing. It brings together global opportunities and local demand in one place. For travel professionals, it opens doors to new business. For the industry as a whole, it signals strong and steady growth in the years ahead.