Published on
August 29, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
India International Travel Mart 2025 is returning to Pune and Hyderabad with a promise to redefine tourism networking and business. IITM Pune will run from 27 to 29 November at the Expo Centre, Deccan College, Yerawada. IITM Hyderabad will follow from 4 to 6 December at Hall No. 2, HITEX Exhibition Centre, Kondapur Post. For more than 26 years, IITM has established itself as India’s biggest travel trade event. This year’s editions are set to be the most dynamic yet, bringing together international tourism boards, hospitality brands, travel operators, and technology leaders under one roof.
Why IITM matters to India tourism
India International Travel Mart is more than an exhibition. It is a vital platform for tourism stakeholders to exchange knowledge, form partnerships, and showcase destinations. With a proven legacy of over 200 editions across major cities, IITM continues to connect businesses with the right buyers. Its B2B focus makes it the perfect launchpad for new destinations, products, and services. Each edition strengthens India’s position as a global player in tourism. By fostering collaboration and providing real-time industry insights, IITM helps shape the direction of the sector. For 2025, its emphasis on innovation and sustainability makes it especially relevant.
A legacy of over two decades
For more than two decades, IITM has evolved with the changing needs of the travel industry. From its early days of small-scale shows to today’s large-scale exhibitions, it has consistently adapted to market trends. Over the years, IITM has connected thousands of exhibitors with buyers, influencers, and partners. Its track record proves its value as a trusted marketplace. As tourism grows more competitive, this legacy becomes even more significant. Exhibitors and visitors see IITM as a reliable platform that delivers tangible results. Its ability to evolve and remain relevant is what sets it apart.
Leaders’ perspectives on IITM’s impact
Mr. Sanjay Hakhu, Director of Sphere Travelmedia & Exhibitions, highlights the role of IITM in India’s tourism calendar. He describes it as a landmark event that drives growth by connecting destinations, travel brands, and buyers. According to him, IITM acts as both a showcase and a catalyst for collaboration. His co-director, Mr. Rohit Hangal, points out that Pune and Hyderabad are among India’s fastest-growing tourism markets. By hosting IITM here, the organisers create opportunities for stronger networks and new partnerships. Both directors agree that IITM strengthens India’s tourism story city by city, edition by edition.
Dedicated pavilions for diverse sectors
IITM 2025 will feature pavilions tailored to the needs of different tourism segments. Domestic destinations will showcase their strengths alongside international tourism boards. Luxury travel, experiential tourism, and sustainable travel solutions will receive dedicated space. The exhibitions will also spotlight travel technology, from AI planning tools to VR experiences. This variety ensures that every visitor finds relevant opportunities. By combining multiple sectors in one event, IITM creates cross-sector collaboration. It is not just about individual destinations but about the future of travel as a connected ecosystem. These pavilions give participants a comprehensive view of the market.
Pune: a rising travel and business hub
Pune is emerging as one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. Known as the “Oxford of the East,” it thrives on education, IT, automobile, and manufacturing industries. The city’s economy is strong, with its Gross District Domestic Product outpacing the national average. Tata Motors, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen anchor its automotive cluster, while Hinjewadi IT Park powers its technology sector. Beyond industry, Pune has rich tourism potential. Surrounded by the Western Ghats, historic forts, and hill stations, it attracts both leisure and MICE travellers. The city’s young workforce and rising affluence make it a growing outbound travel market. With better connectivity, Pune is well positioned for global tourism.
Hyderabad: India’s innovation powerhouse
Hyderabad has transformed into a global technology hub. Dubbed “Cyberabad,” it is home to giants like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. Genome Valley and HITEC City make it a leader in biotech, pharma, and IT innovation. The city’s economy also thrives on education, healthcare, and real estate. Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest in India, boosting connectivity. Its cosmopolitan lifestyle, rising middle class, and strong government support drive demand for travel and hospitality. Rich heritage sites and modern infrastructure make Hyderabad ideal for business and leisure travel. Hosting IITM here highlights its role as a key tourism market.
India’s booming outbound travel market
India’s outbound travel market is expanding at record pace. Over 96 million Indians hold passports, and the number is set to surpass 100 million soon. Outbound spending is expected to rise from USD 23 billion in 2018 to USD 45 billion by 2028. By 2032, the market will exceed USD 44 billion, growing at a CAGR of 11%. Indian tourists are also among the highest spenders per visit abroad. With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 57 countries, their options continue to grow. New airports and better connectivity further fuel this growth. For global destinations, India represents a high-potential source market.
Sustainable tourism at the core
IITM 2025 will place strong focus on sustainable tourism. Exhibitors will present eco-friendly travel options and responsible hospitality practices. From carbon reduction to community-based tourism, these initiatives reflect global priorities. Sustainability is not just a trend but a demand from conscious travellers. By highlighting green solutions, IITM aligns with both consumer expectations and industry responsibility. This focus ensures the event remains forward-looking. For destinations and businesses, it provides a platform to showcase commitment to the planet. It also inspires collaboration on sustainable solutions that benefit communities and the environment.
Technology transforming the travel experience
Technology will be another key highlight of IITM 2025. Exhibitors will display innovations such as AI-powered planning tools and VR-based travel previews. Contactless check-in systems and blockchain security solutions will also feature. These technologies are reshaping how travellers plan, book, and experience journeys. For businesses, adopting such tools means staying competitive. For travellers, it means convenience and safety. By featuring emerging tech, IITM underscores the role of digital transformation in tourism. This positions the event as not only about destinations but also about the future of travel itself. It ensures that participants stay ahead of industry trends.
Networking opportunities at IITM 2025
Business networking remains at the heart of IITM. The exhibitions will host multiple B2B meetings where exhibitors connect directly with buyers and investors. These meetings provide real-time feedback and market insights. They also allow businesses to test new offerings and adapt to evolving buyer needs. For participants, this is a chance to expand reach into new regions and traveller segments. Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities all contribute to the visitor mix. This ensures diverse opportunities for collaboration. IITM’s networking opportunities make it not just an exhibition but a business accelerator.
IITM continues to shape India’s travel future
India International Travel Mart 2025 in Pune and Hyderabad is set to be a defining moment for the country’s tourism industry. With its focus on business networking, sustainability, and technology, it goes beyond a traditional trade show. Pune and Hyderabad offer strong economic and tourism markets that make them ideal hosts. For exhibitors, it provides visibility, partnerships, and real-time feedback. For buyers, it offers access to new destinations and products. Above all, IITM reflects the growth and dynamism of India’s tourism story. As the industry evolves, IITM remains a trusted and essential platform driving that change.
