In a vibrant celebration of India’s travel diversity, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh stole the spotlight at the India International Travel Mart (IITM) 2025 in Bengaluru, one of the country’s most influential travel-trade exhibitions. While Arunachal Pradesh was crowned the ‘Best Adventure Tourism Destination,’ Uttar Pradesh walked away with the title of ‘Pilgrimage Destination of the Year.’

These accolades not only highlight the vast spectrum of experiences India offers—from adrenaline-pumping treks to soulful spiritual journeys—but also underscore a growing shift towards sustainable, culture-rich tourism.

Arunachal: The Untamed Jewel of Adventure

Home to some of India’s most pristine landscapes, Arunachal Pradesh has emerged as a premier destination for adventure seekers. From the turbulent rapids of the Siang River and treks through Tawang’s alpine meadows to immersive cultural stays with tribal communities, Arunachal offers more than just thrill; it offers authenticity.

At IITM 2025, the award was accepted in the presence of tourism stakeholders and state representatives, who highlighted the community-driven efforts behind Arunachal’s rise. With an emphasis on eco-conscious tourism and preservation of indigenous heritage, the state is blazing a trail as India’s frontier for sustainable adventure travel.

Uttar Pradesh: Walking the Sacred Path

In contrast, yet equally compelling, Uttar Pradesh was honored for its spiritual legacy. Receiving the ‘Pilgrimage Destination of the Year’ award, the state’s vibrant religious landscape—from the timeless chants of Varanasi to the rising global attention on Ayodhya—was celebrated at the event.

The recognition is a nod to the state’s investment in heritage conservation, infrastructure development, and cultural programming, making pilgrimage experiences more inclusive, safe, and enriching. The three-day event at IITM was marked by spiritual storytelling, cultural performances, and engaging conversations about preserving the soul of India’s ancient traditions.

About IITM Bengaluru: A Travel Trade Powerhouse

Held annually across India's key cities, India International Travel Mart (IITM) is a pioneering platform that connects travel professionals, state tourism boards, and destination marketers. The Bengaluru edition of IITM 2025 brought together industry leaders, innovators, and explorers, fostering collaborations through B2B and B2C interactions.

This year’s event was a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and possibilities, showcasing not just travel products but also the deeper narratives behind destinations. Arunachal and Uttar Pradesh’s wins reflected the spirit of IITM—where business meets culture, and tourism becomes a force for transformation.

India's Tourism Story: As Vast as the Nation Itself

From the peaks of the Northeast to the spiritual heartland of the Ganges, the IITM awards reminded us that India’s travel landscape is as varied as it is vibrant. Whether you seek the rush of the mountains or the peace of the temples, India has a path for every traveler.