Brits boost international arrivals to Maharashtra

According to figures released by the Union Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Maharashtra is now the second most popular destination in India for international visitors after Delhi. In 2007, the state of Maharashtra in Western India attracted 14.5 per cent of the approximately 850,000 international tourists to India, while Delhi welcomed 17.30 per cent.

The greatest number of international arrivals to Maharashtra were from the United Kingdom, followed by the United States of America with January seeing the largest number of arrivals.

Beyond the capital city of Mumbai recently voted one of the world’s Top Three cities by Wallpaper* Magazine and home to the world’s biggest film industry, Bollywood, Maharashtra offers unparallel diversity.

Attractions include the unspoilt 720km long coastline along the Arabian Sea, tiger reserves, mountain ranges and four UNESCO World Heritage sites including the historic caves at Ajanta & Ellora, Elephanta Caves and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. In addition the luxury 8-day Deccan Odyssey train journey across the State has enjoyed a 15 percent growth in passenger numbers in the past year.

For further information on Maharashtra, visit Maharashtratourism.gov.in.