Victoria, Australia Targets Indian Tourists With New Offers

Victoria, the capital of Australia, has long been a popular destination for Indian travellers, with Melbourne being the central hub of attraction. The city offers a wide range of experiences, including art, culture, gastronomy, historic markets, festivals, concerts, and global sporting events.

During a recent visit to Mumbai, Brendan McClements, CEO of Visit Victoria, highlighted the new opportunities for Indian travellers in Victoria. He stated that India is one of the top three source markets for Victoria, with around 200,000 people visiting the state each year, contributing approximately $700 million to the Victorian economy.

McClements noted that a significant category of students and a cohort of Indian consumers seeking exclusive, bespoke experiences are driving leisure travel in Victoria. These sophisticated travellers have a significant amount of money invested in travel and often work with tailored agents who cater to high-net-worth individuals.

Melbourne remains the gateway for travellers, with direct flights from Mumbai and Delhi making it easily accessible. Visit Victoria is working with Indian travel agents and holiday curators to offer exclusive experiences for marquee events, such as global music tours and sporting events like the Australian Open.

The city's events, including cricket, tennis, and Formula One, are also gaining popularity among Indian travellers. McClements explained that these events often pivot to other high-end experiences in the city, such as fine dining at top restaurants.

Currently, the National Gallery of Victoria is hosting the 'Cartier' exhibition, featuring nearly 300 never-before-seen works. The exhibition will run until October 4, 2026.

Indian travellers typically spend around 10-14 days for leisure travel in Victoria, exploring options beyond Melbourne. Places like The Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley, and Phillip Island offer a unique mix of experiences.

Wellness and spa offerings are also a big draw, including the Great Victorian Bathing Trail, a 900km trail of hot springs, mineral springs, and sea baths. The trail was initiated by Charles Davidson in 2005 and has become a tourism highlight.

The discovery and utilisation of these thermal mineral springs have led to the development of geothermal resorts, such as Peninsula Hot Springs, which offers public pools modelled after Japanese onsens.

Overall, Victoria, Australia is an attractive destination for Indian travellers, offering a wide range of experiences that cater to their interests and preferences.

With its unique blend of culture, wellness, and adventure, Victoria is poised to become an even more popular destination for Indian tourists in the future.