THE EVOLVING BUSINESS OF GOLF TOURISM WITH ITS TRENDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Golf tourism in India is steadily evolving into a high-value segment of the country’s travel and hospitality industry, reflecting a growing appetite for experiential and luxury-based recreation. Once seen as an elite or expatriate pursuit, golf is now gaining broader visibility, supported by rising disposable incomes, lifestyle diversification, and the government’s efforts to brand India as a distinctive golfing destination. According to Grand View Research, India’s golf tourism market was valued at about USD 383.6 million in 2024 and is projected to reach over USD 721 million by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 11.1 percent. This upward trend underscores a promising opportunity for both domestic and international investors to tap into a market that aligns with India’s premium tourism strategy.

The Ministry of Tourism has been instrumental in promoting golf under the “Incredible India” campaign, setting up the India Golf Tourism Committee (IGTC) to streamline support for events, infrastructure, and marketing initiatives. States like Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Kerala have identified golf as a niche sector capable of attracting high-spending tourists while diversifying their destination portfolios. Rajasthan, in particular, is developing international-standard courses in Udaipur and Jodhpur to strengthen its luxury tourism identity. These efforts highlight how golf is being integrated into India’s broader tourism development agenda.

At the same time, new trends are shaping the business landscape. Sustainability has become a defining focus, with resorts adopting water-efficient irrigation systems, renewable energy sources, and biodiversity-friendly landscaping. The rise of wellness tourism has also complemented golf travel, as resorts increasingly combine golfing experiences with spa therapies, yoga sessions, and fine-dining packages. Technology further enhances this transformation: digital booking platforms, AI-based itinerary customization, and performance analytics tools are helping operators deliver personalized experiences to affluent travelers.

However, several challenges persist. India has about 240 golf courses, yet only 30 to 40 are open to international visitors and meet global standards. Many remain within military or private clubs, limiting access for inbound tourists. Maintenance and standardization gaps also reduce India’s competitiveness against destinations such as Thailand or Vietnam, which offer seamless golfing circuits with luxury hospitality. Moreover, marketing remains fragmented, and international awareness of India’s golfing potential is relatively low.

Despite these constraints, the future outlook remains highly optimistic. India’s natural diversity, cultural richness, and expanding luxury infrastructure present immense potential to develop world-class golfing destinations. Strategic investments in accessible courses, bundled travel packages that mix golf with heritage and wellness experiences, and hosting of global tournaments could redefine India’s position in the international golf tourism map. With sustained policy support, technological adoption, and destination branding, golf tourism in India stands poised to evolve from a niche activity into a sophisticated and sustainable business opportunity that enhances the country’s global tourism appeal.