New Second Most Popular Destination in India Revealed

West Bengal’s tourism board could probably hear the collective shuffle of suitcases across the country this week. As fresh reports crowned it the second most popular destination in India. A title that travelers have been whispering about on flights for months (yes, even those hunting for a cheap flight ticket to Kolkata).

In a year when India tourism 2025 is already gearing up for record highs, this rise feels less like a surprise and more like a well-deserved nod to a state that blends culture, chaos, riverside breezes, and ridiculously good food into one heady mix. For many travelers scanning lists of the top tourist destinations in India, West Bengal has quietly slipped into the limelight.

Why It’s Now the Star?
Hard Numbers Behind the Hype
What’s Driving the Surge in Bengal
What This Means (and What to Watch)
Conclusion
FAQs – Second Most Popular Destination in India
Akbar Travels Services

Why It’s Now the Star?

Reports confirm it: West Bengal is officially the second most popular destination in India. The sort that edges past long-time favorites and becomes the second most popular tourist spot almost overnight. Travelers keep saying it’s that mix of slow tram rides, colonial architecture from the 1770s, and sudden bursts of street-food aromas that cling to shirts in the best way possible. Even first-timers admit the state feels like the second most visited state in India, with crowds but not the overwhelming kind.

Also Read: Want to Eat Like the Freedom Fighters? Find Indian Eateries that Have Seen it All

Hard Numbers Behind the Hype

In 2024, West Bengal welcomed 31 lakh international travelers. That’s up from 27 lakh in 2023 – a jump of about 14.8%.
That makes West Bengal the second most visited state for foreign tourists in India, behind Maharashtra.
According to the most recent tally, foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) to India hit 20.94 million in 2024, up 8.84% from 2023.
Of that, West Bengal’s share stands at 14.92%; substantial for a single state.

For domestic tourism too: among the top 10 most-visited Indian states for domestic travelers (2024-25), West Bengal ranks 8th with 184.5 million domestic visits up from 145.67 million in 2023, that’s +26.6% growth.

So yes, it’s not just hype. The surge is real.

What’s Driving the Surge in Bengal

Why are people; foreign and Indian both suddenly flocking to Bengal? A few pointers:

Despite having no direct flights from major source regions like US, UK or Russia, the state still recorded a sharp uptick. Showing strong appeal based on heritage, festivals, culture, & vibe.
Government-led push: the ministry report credits a mix of festival tourism, heritage tourism, MICE and niche-experience tourism as key reasons for the boost.
Diversity of attractions: from colonial-era streets and city life in Kolkata, to hill-towns like Darjeeling, mangrove and nature spots, the range seems attracting varied traveler types.

Also Read: 6 Best Hotels in Kolkata for Every Kind of Traveler

What This Means (and What to Watch)

For foreign travelers looking for a blend of culture, heritage, & variety; West Bengal has become a safe bet. The stats back the reputation: it’s now second only to Maharashtra in foreign arrivals.
For Indian travelers, the domestic-tourism boom shows Bengal’s appeal isn’t limited to foreign visitors but locals too are rediscovering it.
But this growth also puts pressure: infrastructure, cleanliness, transport, hospitality all need to scale to match rising demand (tourist-heavy seasons, crowded heritage sites, etc.).

Conclusion

West Bengal isn’t just being talked about but it’s delivering. With 31 lakh foreign visitors in 2024, a nearly 15% rise vs 2023. And strong domestic-tourist numbers (~ 184.5 million), it’s truly earned the “second most popular destination in India” tag. For travelers, that means more people, more buzz, more choices. For planners; a real chance to live up to expectations.

FAQs – Second Most Popular Destination in India

1. Why is West Bengal now the second most popular destination in India?
Because recent tourism statistics show strong growth in both domestic and international visitors.

2. What are the top attractions that draw tourists to West Bengal?
Heritage sites, hill stations, wildlife reserves, festivals, and vibrant food culture attract most travelers.

3. Is West Bengal a safe state for tourists?
Yes, it’s generally considered safe, with standard travel precautions advised like any major destination.

4. When is the best time to visit West Bengal?
October to March is ideal due to pleasant weather across most regions.

5. How can travelers reach West Bengal easily?
The state is well connected through major airports, rail networks, and national highways for smooth travel access.

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Guess Which Indian State Is Now the Second Most Popular Destination in India?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why It’s Now the Star?

Also Read: Want to Eat Like the Freedom Fighters? Find Indian Eateries that Have Seen it All

Hard Numbers Behind the Hype

What’s Driving the Surge in Bengal

Also Read: 6 Best Hotels in Kolkata for Every Kind of Traveler

What This Means (and What to Watch)

Conclusion

FAQs – Second Most Popular Destination in India

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Akbar Travels Services

Best Flight Deals

Domestic Flights

International Flights

Best Hotel Deals

Apply Visa Online

International Tour Packages

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