World Tourism Day Celebration Brings More Than 800 Travel Professionals Together in New Delhi

New Delhi, September 27, 2026: The sixth edition of the World Tourism Day Celebration concluded on September 26 at Udman Hotels & Resorts, New Delhi, bringing together more than 800 travel delegates and industry leaders. Organised by the Purvanchal Paryatan Association (PPA) and the Great Indian Travel Fest (GITF), the event took place in the venue’s 45,000 sq ft UTSAV hall.

Built around the idea of an event “by the travel fraternity, for the travel fraternity,” the celebration gave tourism professionals a platform to meet, explore partnerships and recognise contributions to the industry. Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Dr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary attended and spoke about tourism’s role in supporting economic opportunities and cultural connections across India.

The inaugural ceremony was jointly led by Subhash Goyal, Chairman of STIC Travel Group, and Aleksander Sitnikov, Economics Counsellor of the Russian Federation. Their presence reflected the event’s aim to bring domestic and international stakeholders into the same conversation.

On the exhibition floor, more than 20 B2B exhibitors showcased destinations and services. Delegates used the gathering to reconnect with industry peers, meet potential partners and discuss business opportunities. The programme also included a felicitation ceremony recognising members of the travel fraternity.

Alongside the business sessions, Bollywood playback singer Vishal Shrivastavaa performed for the delegates. A networking lunch gave participants more time to continue conversations and build connections in a relaxed setting.

The event was led by a core organising team comprising founder Shridhar Jha and organisers Pranav Bansal, Rajesh Dhanker, Ms. Goldy and Dilip Rajput. Bansal also serves as General Secretary of the Global Association of Events and Hospitality Professionals (GAEHP).

Following the strong registration response, the organisers are evaluating a larger venue and expanded capacity for the seventh edition, planned for September 25, 2027. The proposed expansion would allow more travel professionals, exhibitors and partners from India and overseas to participate.

The sixth edition brought business meetings, industry recognition and celebration together under one roof, reinforcing World Tourism Day as an occasion for the travel fraternity to connect and collaborate.