• With 602,000 generated overnight stays in 2023, India is Switzerland’s Number 7 in Foreign Markets, and is all set to grow to 907,587 overnights in the next five years as more Indian guests explore the country across seasons
• Switzerland’s topmost popular destinations among Indian travellers are Zurich, Interlaken, Lucerne and Engelberg

Mumbai: Tuesday, September 24th, 2024: India’s love affair with Switzerland just got more intense as more Indian tourists begin to explore the beautiful Alpine country not just during the summer months, but through seasons like autumn and winter too. With a rapidly changing profile, Indian tourists are now exploring off beat destinations, off peak seasons, more adventure, more luxury as well as local culture which is exactly in line with Switzerland Tourism’s long term strategy for long haul destinations.

At a recently held press meet organised by Switzerland Tourism, at Martin Maier, Consulate General’s Residence in Mumbai, CEO, Switzerland Tourism, Martin Nydegger; Christian Schoch, Director India, Switzerland Tourism, and Ritu Sharma, Deputy Director and Marketing Head – India, Switzerland Tourism threw light on the diversity of the country across seasons.

Traditionally, Indian tourists have preferred summer as their go-to season, especially amongst families, due to school holidays. Most Indian travellers usually travel to Switzerland in the May-June period to also escape the heat in India. However, over the past few years, there has been a change in preferences as well as the profile of the typical tourist, who is now travelling to Switzerland throughout the year. Moreover, a second peak is being seen in the autumn and early winter seasons. The profile of the Indian tourist has evolved with couples, friends and solo travellers also growing along with the more typical family traveller. These travellers are now open to travelling to Switzerland in Autumn to see the changing colours of Fall, and also during their winter holidays, to especially enjoy local Christmas markets and other winter experiences (not necessarily skiing but sledging, snow-shoeing, etc.)

Switzerland Tourism has also introduced the ‘Travel Better’ campaign which emphasizes on quality travel over quantity and encourages sustainable practices while travelling. These include extended stays that allow tourists to discover local culture and experience the country’s unique offerings, using the efficient Swiss Travel System.

As of 2023, 602,000 hotel overnights were generated from India. This number is expected to grow to 907,587 overnights over the next five years as there has been a robust growth in the overnight’s figures from India and the demand just seems to be growing exponentially. With the focus on new seasons, there will a better chance of overall growth in numbers.

“The right people, in the right place, at the right time. ‘Travel Better’ – this is our strategy for the future for long haul markets. India has always been a very important market for us. We aim to keep the market growing by steering the traction towards longer stays, extension of seasons, promoting the swiss travel system as well as encouraging individual travellers and small groups to visit the country,”

Martin Nydegger, CEO Switzerland Tourism.

“Switzerland is a popular summer getaway for Indian tourists, but we believe it’s also the perfect autumn and winter destination. We see the potential of Indians loving these seasons especially since large parts of India do not experience a typical Fall season. We are also showcasing the wonders on winter travel to India which, until now, has been seen typically only as a season for skiing. Since most Indians don’t ski, this season was overlooked, but now we want to show Indian tourists that there is much to do in Switzerland even for the non-skiers!’’

Christian Schoch, Director India, Switzerland Tourism

Attendees at the event were briefed on the various seasonal offerings and attractions of the most popular destinations by representatives.

Among the highlights are:

Zurich

Zurich is the financial capital and the largest city in Switzerland but also offers diverse experiences in gastronomy, outdoor sports and opportunities for extended stays across seasons. Autumn is a great season for enjoying the changing colors and cool temperatures between October and December and a great time of the year to discover a different side of the city.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a city that comes alive in winter, with the twinkling lights of the tradition-rich Christmas Markets, music festivals, and the famous LiLu Light Festival. A new ice rink in the city adds to the festive spirit, with live concerts, fondue, and mulled wine to set the mood. Since it is nestled amidst Swiss mountains, it offers many winter excursions and winter sports on the close by peaks.

Interlaken

The adventure capital of Europe, Interlaken is a year-round destination. From paragliding and kayak tours to canyoning, and parachuting, the city offers an adrenaline rush through all seasons. Jungfraujoch – the Top of Europe, or Grindelwald-First – the Top of Adventure truly completes an Interlaken itinerary.

Switzerland Tourism recently unveiled a campaign with global ambassador and tennis legend Roger Federer and Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen to showcase the beauty of autumn in the country and the different facets of the season.

Switzerland Tourism India has also launched a winter campaign with their India brand ambassador – Neeraj Chopra. More information on Switzerland.com

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