Travel and Tourism Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary, Top Recruiters/Companies

Updated on Dec 11, 2024 04:03 IST
Pragati Singh

Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content

Travel and Tourism careers in India offer a diverse range of opportunities, from assisting clients with travel plans to managing large-scale events. Travel and Tourism core roles include Travel Agents, Tour Guides, and Event Planners. Managerial positions like Hotel and Resort Managers, as well as MICE Planners, oversee operations and strategy. Specialized roles are  DMC Executives, Airline Ground Staff, and Cruise Ship Staff. Moreover, Emerging trends in the Tourism sector have led to the rise of Ecotourism, Wellness Tourism, and Adventure Tourism specialists, offering unique and sustainable career paths.

Travel and Tourism jobs for freshers are Travel Agents or Tour Guides that typically offer salaries between INR 3 to 6 LPA. Mid-level roles, such as Event Planner or Front Office Manager, can earn up to INR 5 to 10 LPA.

Senior positions like Hotel Manager or Resort Manager often earn between INR 8 to 15 LPA. Specialized roles, including MICE Planners and Destination Management Company Executives, can command salaries up to INR 20 LPA.

Leading recruiters are renowned travel agencies, luxury hotel chains, major airlines, cruise lines, and event management companies such as MakeMyTrip, IRCTC, Air India, Costa Cruises, etc. To excel in this field, consider pursuing a degree or diploma in hospitality or tourism management and obtaining certifications like IATA or CHA.

Quick Link Related to Travel and Tourism Careers:

Hotel Management vs. Tourism Management: Which Career is Right for You?

Travel and Tourism Quick Facts

Here are some quick facts you can consider reading to know about the scope in Tourism and Travel Industry:

  • Based on the external reports, domestic travel spending is estimated to rise by 7.8% per annum to INR 13,305.5 billion in 2026
  • Hospitality industry in Indian tourism is expected to produce revenue of more than $59 billion by the year 2028. Moreover, the number of foreign tourists is also expected to reach 30.5 million by 2028.
  • According to external reports, India's travel and tourism sector is expected to contribute significantly to the country's GDP, which is almost INR 21.15 TN an increase of 21% from 2019. The industry is projected to create 2.4 million jobs (equivalent to one in 11 jobs in India) and drive economic growth.

Top Travel and Tourism Careers

Due to its diversely rich culture and legacy, the scope of Tourism and Travel courses is huge in a nation like India. Employment opportunities outside of the traditional tourism business have been made possible by the surplus of job openings and the growing tendency to integrate a hospitality culture into huge corporations.

Some of the popular job profiles in Travel and Tourism courses are given below:

Job Profiles

Description

Average Salary (in INR)

Tourism Manager

Travel, hospitality, and lodging-related information and services are provided by tourist managers, who also work to promote tourism.

4.2 LPA

Travel Officer/Coordinator

They create travel schedules and send them to all relevant staff members along with travel arrangements.

4 LPA

Travel Executive

They ascertain their client's needs, provide appropriate travel packages, and plan the entire trip, including lodging, transportation, and tickets.

2.9 LPA

Holiday/Travel Agent

Booking flights, lodging, and excursions for their clients is the travel agent's responsibility.

2.5 LPA

Airlines/Ground Staff

These experts, also referred to as ground staff, look after each passenger until they board the aircraft.

2 LPA

Note: The above salary information is collated from Ambitionbox.com.

Travel and Tourism Emerging Trends

Travel and Tour industry has already made a full recovery in 2024, after losing 75 percent of its value in 2020. As people embarking on international or bucket list trips that were detained by the pandemic. 

Here are some upcoming trends in the Travel and Tour industry that you can consider for deciding your career in same:

Technology Integration: AI, VR/AR, Blockchain, and IoT are revolutionizing the industry.

Sustainable and Ethical Travel: Focus on eco-friendly and responsible tourism.

Experiential Travel: Immersive experiences, personalized travel, and wellness tourism.

New Travel Styles: Solo travel, remote work travel, and leisure travel.

Travel and Tourism Scope in India: Jobs, Salary, and Further Education

Various sectors like transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, travel agencies, and attractions are the options where Travel and Tourism graduates can find work.

The below table consists of the sectors and jobs in detail:

Industry/Sector

Description

Job Roles

Travel Agencies

Agencies that book and plan travel itineraries

Travel Agent, Tour Consultant, Destination Specialist

Hotels and Resorts

Accommodations for travelers

Hotel Manager, Front Office Manager, Food & Beverage Manager

Airlines

Air transportation services

Airline Ground Staff, Cabin Crew, Airport Operations

Cruise Lines

Cruise ship operations

Cruise Director, Cruise Ship Staff, Shore Excursion Coordinator

Event Management Companies

Companies that plan and execute events

Event Planner, Conference Organizer, MICE Planner

Tourism Boards

Government or private organizations promoting tourism

Tourism Officer, Marketing Executive, Destination Manager

Car Rental Companies

Companies that rent cars and other vehicles

Car Rental Agent, Fleet Manager

Adventure Tourism Companies

Companies that organize adventure activities

Adventure Tour Guide, Trip Leader, Risk Assessment Officer

Wellness Tourism Companies

Companies that offer wellness and spa services

Spa Manager, Wellness Consultant, Yoga Instructor

Technology Companies

Tech companies that provide solutions to the travel industry

Software Developer, Data Analyst, Digital Marketing Specialist

Travel and Tourism Scope Related Information:

5 famous chefs in the world & their success stories

Travel and Tourism Courses

The table consists of the various degrees, courses, and even certificates that graduates studying travel and tourism can consider to pursue their careers. 

Course

Description

Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Tourism and Hospitality Management

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of business management principles, with a focus on the tourism and hospitality industry.

Master of Science (MSc) in Tourism Management

This course focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of tourism management, including destination marketing, tourism planning, and sustainable tourism.

Master of Arts (MA) in Tourism Studies

This course provides a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and social aspects of tourism.

Diploma in Travel and Tourism Management

This diploma program offers a practical approach to travel and tourism, covering topics such as ticketing, reservations, and tour operations.

Certificate Courses in Specific Areas

These short-term courses can specialize in areas like hotel management, event management, or adventure tourism.

Professional Certifications

Certifications like IATA (International Air Transport Association) and CHA (Certified Hospitality Administrator) can enhance your career prospects.

Top Travel and Tourism Recruiters

Candidates who meet the requirements can anticipate good compensation packages and a variety of job perks, including free travel and other services. Some of the top recruiters that employ Travel and Tourism courses graduates are as follows:

Top Recruiters in Travel & Tourism

Cox & Kings Ltd

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd

MakeMyTrip (and GoIbibo)

Balmer Lawrie Travel & Vacations

Yatra

ClearTrip

Jet Airways

India Healthcare Tourism (IHCT)

Flying Fox

SOTC India

Kuoni Travel

East India Travel Co

Kesai Tours

Club Mahindra Holidays

Expedia

TravelGuru

Air Asia

American Express Global Business Travels

Travel and Tourism Career FAQs

Q. What jobs fall under Travel and Tourism?

A. There are plenty of jobs under Tourism and Travel sector in India, such as:

  • Travel agency management.
  • Tour guide positions.
  • Event planning and coordination.
  • Transportation and logistics in the tourism industry.
  • Adventure and eco-tourism careers.
  • Destination marketing.
  • Cruise ship management.
  • Tourism research and analysis.

Q. What is the best career in Tourism?

A. Although, it depends on your choice and interests but some of the popular careers in Travel and Tourism are:

  • Travel Consultant:
  • Tour Operator
  • Event Planner
  • Hotel Manager

Q. What is the highest paying job in Travel and Tourism?

A. Some of the highest-paying jobs in travel and tourism are as follows:

Executive Roles:

  • CEO of a Hotel Chain: Leading a major hotel chain or hospitality group offers one of the highest-paying positions in the industry.  
  • Tourism Director of a Luxury Travel Company: Overseeing the operations of a luxury travel company can be highly lucrative.  

Specialized Roles:

  • Airline Pilot: Commercial airline pilots, especially those flying long-haul routes, can earn substantial salaries.  
  • Cruise Ship Captain: Captains of luxury cruise ships often command high salaries and benefits.  
  • Luxury Travel Advisor: High-end travel advisors who cater to affluent clients can earn significant commissions.

Q. Who are the top recruiters for Travel and Tourism students?

A. Some of the top recruiters that hire Travel and Tourism courses graduates are as follows:

Top Recruiters in Travel & Tourism

Cox & Kings Ltd

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd

MakeMyTrip (and GoIbibo)

Balmer Lawrie Travel & Vacations

Yatra

ClearTrip

Jet Airways

India Healthcare Tourism (IHCT)

Flying Fox

SOTC India

Kuoni Travel

East India Travel Co

Kesai Tours

Club Mahindra Holidays

Expedia

TravelGuru

Air Asia

American Express Global Business Travels

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Travel and Tourism Courses. Students interested in pursuing a career on Travel and Tourism Courses, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

TENTATIVE

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Result

TENTATIVE

21 Feb ' 25

SAT Registration Deadline for March Test

25 Feb ' 25

SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a...

16 Dec ' 24 - 15 Feb ' 25

NCHMCT JEE 2025 registration

17 Feb ' 25 - 20 Feb ' 25

NCHMCT JEE 2025 Application Correction Window

Jul '24

MAKAUT CET Choice Filling/ Counselling

TENTATIVE

12 Jul ' 24

Declaration of MAKAUT CET Results

Popular Travel and Tourism Courses Specializations

Following are the most popular Travel and Tourism Courses Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

Popular Travel and Tourism Courses Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Travel and Tourism Courses Colleges in India. Learn more about these Travel and Tourism Courses colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
90 K
5.0
3 L - 6.8 L
3.8

#5 Outlook

50 K

#4 Outlook

4 Courses
24.02 K - 1.21 L
7.5 - 9.25 LPA
75 K - 2.1 L
4.0
1.75 L - 4 L
4.0

#6 Outlook

Popular Private Travel and Tourism Courses Colleges in India

2 Courses
8 L
6 LPA
3 Courses
42 K - 3 L
2.4 L - 8 L
4 LPA

#9 Outlook

Travel & Tourism Applications open. Apply Now

10.61 L
4.5 LPA

Travel & Tourism Applications open till Jan 21, 2025. Apply Now

4 Courses
69 K - 1.89 L
3 - 4.2 LPA
1.72 L

#14 Outlook

Travel & Tourism Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Travel and Tourism Courses UG Courses

Following are the most popular Travel and Tourism Courses UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Travel and Tourism Courses PG Courses

Following are the most popular Travel and Tourism Courses PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 days ago

There are about 250+ best colleges for MBA in Travel and Tourism in India. Some of them are mentioned below along with their tuition fees:

College NamesTuition Fee
Galgotias University MBAINR 1 lakh
Jagran Lakecity University MBAINR 2 lakh
MBA44 Global, Delhi MBAINR 2 Lacs - INR 3 lakh
UEI Global, Jaipur MBAINR 1 lakh
Chandigarh University (CU) MBAINR 4 Lacs - INR 5 lakh

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Following are some common subjects in Travel and Torism courses:

  • Geography
  • Cultural Studies
  • Hospitality Management
  • Marketing and Promotion
  • Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
  • Transportation and Logistics
  • Economics of Tourism
  • Destination Management
  • Event Management
  • Travel Law and Regulations

Other Relevant S

...more

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 6 days ago

Some popular entrance exams to be qualified by the candidates for admission to the BBA Tourism Management course are given below:

Exam NameExam Schedule
CMAT 2025Christ Schedule
CAT 2025MAT Schedule
MAT 2025MAT Schedule
XAT 2025Christ Schedule
NCHMCT JEE 2025NCHMCT JEE Schedule
CUET 2025NCHMCT0 Schedule
UGAT 2025UGAT Schedule
MAH HM CET 2025Christ HM CET Schedule
Christ University Entrance Test 2025Christ University Entrance Test Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.

V

Vipra Pandey

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 6 days ago

Students have a plethora of job opportunities after pursuing BBA such as Hotel Manager, Event Manager, Experience Associate, Marketing Manager, Activity Manager, Activity Associate, Tourist Information Officer, Research Associate, Travel Executive, Travel Agent, Tour Operator, etc.

M

Mani Shukla

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 6 days ago

One of the most popular paths taken by students after completing a BBA degree is going for an MBA. Another option is to kickstart the career by taking up a manager or executive-level job and gathering work experience. The students can also explore a plethora of other professional or short-term cours

...more

K

Kartik Yadav

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 6 days ago

Students who wish to pursue BBA in Travel and Tourism course must have passed Class 12 with at least 50% aggregate or equivalent CGPA from a recognised board. Also, students who have a background in business, economics, or related subjects can get preference in studying BBA in Travel and Tourism. Ap

...more

P

Pragati Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

As the name suggests, BBA in Travel and Tourism course deals with subjects related to travel, tourism, and hospitality. The course is similar to a regular BBA programme with a specialisation in travel and tourism. BBA in Travel and Tourism has a wide career scope, especially in a country like India.

...more

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a week ago

Tour Management courses are courses that gives an individual knowledge about planing, organizing, and conducting successful tours for individuals or groups. Moreover, the course focuses on including the study of different regions and their attractions, understanding travel documentation and procedur

...more

J

Jiya Singh

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a week ago

Most colleges prefer giving admission to aspirants who are graduates in the field of Travel and Tourism Management. Candidates who wish to complete certification or Diploma in Travel and Tourism after 12th must complete their 10+2 with at least a 50% mark with a recognised board.

V

Vipra Pandey

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 2 weeks ago

Some popular entrance exams to be qualified by the candidates for admission to the Tourism Management course are given below:

Exam NameExam Schedule
CMAT 2025MAH Schedule
CAT 2024CAT Schedule
MAT 2024MAT Schedule
XAT 2025XAT Schedule
NCHMCT JEE 2025NCHMCT JEE Schedule
CUET 2025NCHMCT0 Schedule
UGAT 2025UGAT Schedule
MAH HM CET 2025MAH HM CET Schedule
Christ University Entrance Test 2025Christ University Entrance Test Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.

N

Nishtha Kumari

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 2 weeks ago

What are the job profiles and average salary in Travel and Tourism industry?

A. After completing the course, students can work at the below-mentioned job positions and also earn an average salary ranging between INR 2 to 6 LPA.

Job ProfilesAverage Salary (in INR)
Tourism Manager4.2 LPA
Travel Officer/Coordinator4 LPA
Travel Executive2.9 LPA
Holiday/Travel Agent2.5 LPA
Airlines/Ground Staff2 LPA

P

Pragati Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

Following are some common subjects in Travel and Torism courses:

  • Geography
  • Cultural Studies
  • Hospitality Management
  • Marketing and Promotion
  • Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
  • Transportation and Logistics
  • Economics of Tourism
  • Destination Management
  • Event Management
  • Travel Law and Regulations

N

Nishtha Patra

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 2 weeks ago

The tourism sector is expanding worldwide and India is no exception. There are immense travel destinations with the growing popularity with huge and diverse landscape, rich cultural legacy and historical sites. Resulting for the requirement of skilled professionals in tourism industry. 

The skills an

...more

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 2 weeks ago

Some of the best courses in Travel and Tourism includes, BA in Travel and Tourism Management, BTA (Bachelor of Tourism Administration), BBA in Tourism and Travel Management, and Diploma in Tourism Management.

V

Vipra Pandey

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 2 weeks ago

If you're passionate about travel and service and a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills, a degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management can open doors of exciting career opportunities in tourism management. 

Some popular career include, Travel agent, Hotel manager, Tour operat

...more

M

Manisha Chauhan

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 3 weeks ago

BA in Hospitality and Travel or BA in Travel and Tourism Management covers the skills and knowledge required by the Travel and Tourism and Hospitality sectors, including hotels and airlines, to ensure efficient operations and high service levels. To provide comprehensive learning, the BA in Hospital

...more

P

Pragati Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Students have endless career opportunities in this fast-growing industry after pursuing Travel and Tourism Management. Candidates looking to pursue their career in the industry can choose to work for travel agencies, government tourism departments, tour operations, immigration and customs services,

...more

N

Nishtha Patra

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 4 weeks ago

Yes, there are several one-year courses in Travel and Tourism that can help you find job opportunities. Some popular options include:

 

Diploma in Travel and Tourism: A short course that covers the basics of the tourism industry, customer service, and travel management.

Certificate in Tour Management:

...more

C

Chandra Roy

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 4 weeks ago

For the admission process to a Diploma in Cruise Ship program, the following documents are typically required:

  1. Completed Application Form
  2. Educational Certificates (10th and 12th grade marksheets)
  3. Proof of Age (birth certificate or passport)
  4. Passport-sized Photographs
  5. Medical Certificate (fitness certific

...more

S

Shiv Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

As a B.Com graduate, you can join a cruise ship in roles related to finance, guest services, human resources, inventory management, or administrative support.

Eligibility:

  • Age: Typically between 18-30 years.
  • Qualifications: A B.Com degree is sufficient, but some roles may require certifications like ST

...more

S

Shiv Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

You can get admission in Professional Travel, Nature and Fine Art Photography and Documentry Filmaking at Light and Life Academy by applying for these particular course on the application form and directly through the Academy. 

7388054
Yash Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Only 40 students can do MBA in Travel and Tourism at Institute of Management in Kerala, University of Kerala as there are only 40 seats available for admission in that course every year.

7388054
Yash Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Yes, there are age criteria for some colleges offering the Diploma in Cruise Ship Management. For example:

  • At WMS: The minimum age is 17 years and the maximum age is 33 years. 
  • At Inspire Academy: The minimum age is 18 years and the maximum age is 24 years. 

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

There are a few colleges in India offering Diploma in Cruise Line course. The course fee of each college varies depending on its course curriculum, course duration, college rating, etc. However, the average course fee ranges between INR 8,000 to INR 2 Lakh.

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Students who complete the Diploma in Cruise Ship Management program can:

  • Utilize your technical and interpersonal abilities to suggest and assess theoretical and practical solutions to challenging issues in the fundamental areas of cruise ship hotel operations management.
  • Recognize and react suitably

...more

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

There are a number of strong reasons why people should enroll in the Diploma in Cruise Ship Hotel Operations Management:

  • Expanding Sector: The cruise and shipping sector is expanding rapidly and presents exciting job prospects.
  • Practical Training: The course blends classroom instruction with hands-on

...more

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

The selection process for the Diploma in Cruise Ship Management typically involves the following steps: application submission, entrance exam (if applicable), merit-based selection based on academic performance, interview/group discussion, document verification, seat allotment, and admission confirm

...more

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Although there are many benefits to working for a cruise company or on a luxury cruise ship, the following are the most popular reasons for doing so:

  • As the cruise line covers all of your expenditures (meal, lodging, medical care, and airline tickets to the port of embarkation and back), you can not

...more

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Diploma in Cruise and Shipping Management offers a wide range of job and placement opportunities in various sectors related to the cruise and shipping industry.

They can find employment in cruise lines, shipping companies, port authorities, travel agencies, tourism organizations, and hospitality esta

...more

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Other than cruise ships, Diploma in Cruise Lines students can explore various career opportunities in the following areas:

  • Shipping Companies
  • Port Authorities
  • Travel Agencies
  • Tourism Organizations
  • Hospitality Establishments
  • Logistics Companies
  • Event Management Companies
  • Maritime Consultancies
  • Cruise Terminal

...more

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

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