As India continues to emerge as one of Virginia’s most important international tourism markets, the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) and its tourism partners are undertaking a five-day tourism marketing mission across Mumbai and New Delhi from June 1 to 5, 2026.
The delegation, led by Sartha Global Marketing LLP, includes Heidi Johannesen, Managing Director – Global Markets, Virginia Tourism Corporation, along with representatives from Visit Fairfax, Luray Caverns, Visit Williamsburg and Virginia Tourism Corporation. Through a series of business meetings, networking events and media interactions, the delegation is expected to engage with more than 100 travel trade and media professionals during the visit.
The initiative comes at a time when Virginia is looking to build on the growing interest from Indian travellers. While the broader U.S. market witnessed a moderation in Indian visitor arrivals in 2025, India remains one of Virginia’s strongest overseas source markets.
The state welcomed more than 69,000 visitors from India in 2024, generating approximately USD 124 million in visitor spending. Preliminary estimates for 2025 indicate 65,295 Indian visitors and around USD 112 million in tourism expenditure. Despite the decline, India’s long-term growth trajectory remains significant. In 2019, India ranked fifth among Virginia’s overseas source markets, while by 2025 it had become the state’s largest overseas market, behind only Canada overall.
Known for its iconic “Virginia is for Lovers” campaign, the state offers a diverse mix of experiences ranging from the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park to Atlantic Coast beaches, culinary experiences, luxury stays and sites central to American history.
Highlighting Virginia’s appeal for Indian travellers, Heidi Johannesen said, “Virginia truly is for lovers – lovers of life, and memorable times with friends and family. Our scenic beauty and diverse landscape make for the ideal backdrop for outdoor adventure and superior luxury stays, while our tantalizing culinary offerings and immersive cultural and historical experiences ensure there is always something new and exciting to discover. We are thrilled to be here and show more Indians the exciting potential of a Virginia holiday, especially on the eve of America’s 250th anniversary.”
Alongside trade meetings, the delegation is also engaging with Indian travel media to further showcase Virginia’s tourism offerings and strengthen destination awareness in the market.
Johannesen noted that in-person engagement remains central to building stronger tourism partnerships. “Trade and media missions boost the profile of Virginia and enhance its position in the global tourism market. Through face-to-face meetings we can really showcase our extraordinary tourism experiences and help build strong, lasting relationships with tour operators, travel agents and media representatives from around the world,” she said.
 and its tourism partners are undertaking a five-day tourism marketing mission across Mumbai and New Delhi from June 1 to 5, 2026.){kind=link}