Published on
September 1, 2025
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) recently concluded its annual Travel Mission in India, an initiative aimed at enhancing tourism relations between the two regions. Held from August 18 to 26, 2025, the event spanned five major Indian cities: Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai. This year’s mission focused on building stronger ties with India’s travel industry and reaffirming Hong Kong’s appeal as a prime travel destination year-round.
A Strong Delegation of Industry Partners
The mission featured a diverse group of 41 tourism partners from Hong Kong, including major attractions, theme parks, hotels, destination management companies (DMCs), airlines, and cruise operators. The delegation engaged with over 750 Indian travel agents and tourism professionals during the events, which included informative sessions and business networking opportunities. The primary objective was to showcase Hong Kong’s dynamic tourism offerings, which cater to leisure, business, and family travelers alike.
Visitor Growth and Market Insights
Between January and July 2025, Hong Kong welcomed 233,000 Indian visitors, reflecting an 8% increase compared to the same period the previous year. This marked a significant recovery, with visitor arrivals reaching 94% of pre-pandemic levels. India now ranks as the 11th largest source market for visitors to Hong Kong, with travelers from India staying an average of four nights, indicating a shift towards longer stays. Nearly 66% of Indian visitors opt for overnight stays, emphasizing the growing demand for more immersive experiences.
Increased Air Connectivity
Hong Kong’s connectivity to India has strengthened considerably. With 53 weekly flights operating between major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, Hong Kong has become one of the most accessible international destinations for Indian travelers. The increased frequency of direct flights underscores the growing popularity of Hong Kong as a preferred destination for leisure and business tourism.
Tourism Trends and Emerging Opportunities
Several key trends were observed during the mission, including a surge in first-time visitors from India, with 43% of Indian travelers to Hong Kong in 2025 being newcomers. Family and group travel also saw a notable rise, with such trips increasing from 29% in the first quarter to 43% in the second quarter of the year. Additionally, India’s high per capita spending on travel ranks the country 5th globally, highlighting a demand for premium services and experiences among Indian tourists.
On the business front, Hong Kong’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector has witnessed a strong rebound, with Indian delegates making up a significant portion of MICE arrivals. In the first half of 2025, over 55,500 Indian delegates participated in business events in Hong Kong, marking a 33% increase in MICE-related travel.
Hong Kong’s Year-Round Appeal
Hong Kong continues to position itself as a year-round destination, offering diverse experiences to cater to various traveler preferences. The city is renowned for its world-class attractions, including iconic theme parks, luxury hotels, and a vibrant culinary scene. With events ranging from the Summer Viva festival to the spectacular New Year Countdown Fireworks, Hong Kong’s event calendar offers something for everyone throughout the year.
In addition to its urban excitement, Hong Kong provides opportunities for nature enthusiasts with its beaches, mountains, hiking trails, and water sports. The city also attracts adventure seekers with activities such as yachting, island hopping, and the famous Derby racing events.
Visa-Free Travel and Expanding Offerings
One of the key advantages Hong Kong offers is its visa-free entry for Indian nationals, making it even more accessible to travelers. Furthermore, with an expanding portfolio of events, cruise options, and cultural festivals, Hong Kong is poised to continue its growth in attracting Indian visitors. As the region recovers from the impacts of the pandemic, Hong Kong’s tourism landscape is becoming more dynamic, providing fresh and diverse experiences that appeal to both leisure and business tourists.
Conclusion: The Future of Hong Kong-India Tourism Relations
With a strong recovery in visitor arrivals and the continuous growth in air connectivity, Hong Kong is set to remain a top destination for Indian travelers. The city’s blend of cosmopolitan experiences, premium services, and nature-based offerings ensures its appeal for a wide range of travelers. Looking forward, Hong Kong’s tourism prospects from India remain promising, with a focus on providing memorable experiences across all segments of the market.
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