Surat Hosts Tourism Conclave 2025 to Boost South Gujarat

Surat, Gujarat – In a powerful push to position South Gujarat as a prominent tourism hub, the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and the Tourism Department of the Government of Gujarat jointly organized the ‘Tourism Conclave 2025’ in the diamond city of Surat. The conclave brought together national tourism leaders, travel experts, and stakeholders under one roof to strategize the region’s growth in business, eco, and experiential tourism.

The event saw the presence of R. Sunil Kumar, National President of the Travel Agents Association of India, Vishal Somaiya, Managing Director of OneAbove, and Dheeraj Saundh, CMD of Uttarakhand DMC Chutney Hotels, along with many other dignitaries.

SGCCI President Vijay Mewawala highlighted the growing significance of tourism in India’s economy, stating, “In 2024, India welcomed more than 96 lakh foreign tourists, generating ₹2.3 lakh crore in foreign revenue. Interestingly, 40% of Gujarat’s total tourist footfall – both domestic and international – was in South Gujarat. The government is making focused efforts to develop this region, and we urge tour operators to help amplify these destinations globally.”

Mewawala stressed the untapped potential of South Gujarat, citing destinations from Saputara to the Statue of Unity as crucial anchors for eco-tourism and experiential travel.

Sunil Kumar pointed to India’s improving global image as a tourist destination. “According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Tourism Ranking 2024, India has climbed from rank 54 in 2021 to 39 in 2024. The international demand is rising from regions such as South Asia, North America, and Western Europe,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of reviving tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, urging stakeholders not to be discouraged by isolated incidents like the Pahalgam attack.

Dheeraj Saundh spotlighted the spiritual and natural beauty of Uttarakhand, encouraging a realistic and respectful approach. “Tourist agents must not overpromise sightings on forest safaris. For sacred wedding sites like Trunganarayan, simplicity should be maintained,” he advised, also naming Nainital, Rishikesh, and Mussoorie among popular wedding tourism destinations.

Vishal Somaiya gave a global flavor to the event, promoting Georgia as an emerging tourist hotspot. “From the Diamond Bridge to adventure and religious sites, Georgia is a vegetarian-friendly destination that offers rich cultural experiences,” he noted.

Nirav Mandlewala, Honorary Secretary of SGCCI, outlined a roadmap for Surat’s development in business tourism, eco-tourism, and food tourism. He emphasized the need for regional branding and infrastructure development.

Vinesh Shah, President of the Travel Agents Association of Pan India, and Sanat Relia, Vice President of Southern Gujarat Hotel and Restaurant Association, echoed the sentiment, stressing the role of private and public collaboration in tourism growth.

Students from BRCM College of Business Administration also contributed, presenting innovative ideas on developing regional tourism through youth engagement and local storytelling.