Turkiye sees Indian arrival numbers increasing; strengthens trade connect ahead of travel season

The country has recorded steady growth in Indian arrivals through 2026, welcoming approximately 136,000 Indian visitors between January and August, this year.

The Turkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), in partnership with the Cappadocia Area Presidency and Turkish Airlines, successfully concluded a familiarisation (FAM) trip for 30 members of the Indian travel trade. Held from October 6 to 11, 2026, the trip took tour operators and travel agents from all over India through İstanbul and Cappadocia, giving them first-hand experience of two destinations ahead of the peak travel season.

The initiative brought together representatives from across India's outbound travel ecosystem, including B2B travel agents, tour operators, DMCs and OTAs. TGA says that the FAM trip further forms part of TGA's broader efforts to deepen engagement with the Indian travel trade and support sustained growth in the India–Türkiye tourism corridor. 

The journey began in İstanbul with a boat tour along the Bosphorus, followed by a visit to the Sultanahmet Historical Peninsula, home to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, and an afternoon at the Grand Bazaar. The delegation then flew with Turkish Airlines to Kayseri and onward to Cappadocia, where they experienced a hot air balloon ride over the region's iconic landscape, visited the Göreme Open-Air Museum, and took part in a pottery workshop in Avanos. The programme also included the panoramic viewpoint at Uçhisar, Kaymaklı Underground City and a walk through the Soğanlı Valley as well as culinary heritage woven through the programme. 

Alongside the sightseeing programme, the group conducted inspection visits to numerous hotels and restaurants in both İstanbul and Cappadocia, equipping agents with first-hand product knowledge to build future itineraries for Indian travellers.

Besides, a dedicated B2B day in Cappadocia on October 9 was also organised. Following a presentation by TGA, Indian delegates held B2B meetings with local agencies and hotels, enabling direct conversations on partnerships, product development and packages tailored to Indian travellers. The meeting was attended by Nevşehir Governor Hüseyin Kök, TGA Board Member Murat Yavuz, Cappadocia Area President Cem Aslanbay, and local mayors.

Speaking at the meeting, Governor Hüseyin Kök highlighted that Cappadocia offers unforgettable experiences to Indian visitors through its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. “We are organising this event to contribute to the strengthening of relations between Türkiye and India and to foster greater cultural exchange between our two countries,” he said. 

Emphasising that Cappadocia offers a fairytale-like journey with its iconic hot air balloons, spectacular valleys, and distinctive local cuisine, Governor Kök also noted that the region has served as a backdrop for Bollywood films, Indian music videos, and Indian destination weddings. “You will have the opportunity to enjoy truly unique experiences in a place where you will feel more like a host than a guest,” he added.

Speaking on the conclusion of the FAM Trip, TGA authorities said, “India continues to be one of our most valued source markets, and the enthusiasm we saw from the Indian travel trade throughout this trip has been truly encouraging. Experiencing İstanbul and Cappadocia first-hand, and meeting our local partners face to face, gives agents the confidence and insight to present Türkiye to their clients in a more authentic way. We look forward to building on these connections and welcoming many more Indian travellers to Türkiye.” 

Sharing her experience, Gunjan Anand, Assistant General Manager, Marketing & Alliances, Easy Trip Planners Ltd (EaseMyTrip), said, “The B2B meeting in Nevşehir was a standout, connecting us with government officials, DMCs and hoteliers. These conversations open exciting possibilities for the Indian market, and at EaseMyTrip we look forward to showcasing Türkiye’s blend of culture, history and gastronomy.”

Nagesh Pampati, Founder and CEO, Aeroworld, Hyderabad, added, “The FAM tour was a memorable and professionally rewarding experience. Our guides brought every destination to life with their knowledge and enthusiasm, and we return far more confident about promoting Türkiye’s history, culture and hospitality to our clients.”

Türkiye has recorded steady growth in Indian arrivals through 2026, welcoming approximately 136,000 Indian visitors between January and August, this year. With direct connectivity via Turkish Airlines, a diverse cultural and natural offering, and growing recognition as a destination for MICE, weddings and leisure travel, Türkiye continues to strengthen its position among Indian travellers.