Israel anticipates more Indian tourists as regional tensions ease

Israel is anticipating a significant increase in Indian tourists, particularly pilgrims from Kerala, as regional tensions potentially ease.

In 2024, 9,600 Indian tourists visited Israel, with 50% traveling for pilgrimage, primarily from Kerala.

Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing at the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) India, stated that they expect around 70,000 Indian tourists this year, with 48% being pilgrims. She emphasized that all tourist attractions are safe, and ensuring visitor safety remains the ministry's top priority.

"We are expecting around 70,000 tourists travelling to Israel from India this year, and of this, 48 per cent are pilgrims," Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing, IMOT-India told PTI.

All the tourist attractions are completely safe, and the safety of tourists is the ministry's top priority, she added.

"None of the tourists were harmed even in the difficult situations," Bangera said.

Israel also introduced an e-visa system for Indian travelers on Jan 1 this year to make traveling to the country easy, particularly for families and independent travelers.

Air India resumed flights between Delhi and Tel Aviv in March, and several international carriers, including FlyDubai, Ethiopian Airlines, and Etihad, are operational, enhancing connectivity for Indian tourists.

Indian travelers are drawn to Israel's rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks such as Jerusalem's Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dead Sea, and cities like Jaffa and Haifa. Pilgrims often visit Nazareth and Bethlehem.

India ranks among the top ten countries for tourist arrivals to Israel. In 2018, 70,800 Indian tourists visited, though numbers declined during the COVID-19 pandemic. Current trends suggest a return to pre-pandemic levels.

The IMOT recently held a seminar in Kochi, aligning with the Jubilee Year 2025 theme 'Pilgrims of Hope,' highlighting Israel's significance for Christian pilgrims seeking spiritual enrichment.

Multiple Indian travel agents have organized group tours to Israel, with itineraries ranging from 4 to 8 nights, allowing travelers to explore major attractions and experience the country's diverse offerings.

The CEO of a tour organizing company advised tourists to travel Israel for 4 to 5 nights, which will allow them to explore major attractions and experience the country's diverse offerings.

“However, a 7-to-8-night itinerary provides a more immersive experience, George Devassy, CEO of Magi Group of Companies, was quoted as saying.

"Planning the right itinerary and having a knowledgeable guide can make your pilgrimage truly memorable," he added.