Travel and Tourism Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary 2024, 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

31 Dec ' 24 - 10 Feb ' 25

MAH HM CET 2025 registrations for BHMCT course

4 Jan ' 25 - 10 Feb ' 25

MAH MHMCT CET registrations

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

Travel & Tourism Applications open. Apply Now

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

Travel & Tourism Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Private Travel and Tourism Courses Colleges in India

4 Courses
69 K - 1.89 L
3 - 4.2 LPA
11 L - 12.5 L
7 LPA

Travel & Tourism Applications open. Apply Now

40 K - 6.9 L
4.0
3 Courses
5.55 L - 7.4 L
3.5

Travel & Tourism Applications open. Apply Now

2.6 L - 4.16 L
6.2 - 7.2 LPA

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 a week ago

For Fare and Ticketing courses, technical skills like proficiency in Global Distribution System (GDS) such as, Sabre, Amadeus, or Galileo, understanding of fare construction rules, knowledge of airlines codes, city codes, ticketing system navigation, geographical areas, data entry accuracy, and skil

...Read more

R

Raj B

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Galileo is Global Distribution Systems Fares & Ticketing (Galileo) wherein one learns to manage the data of passengers, and also learn the following:

  • Travel Agency Operations
  • IATA Areas
  • World Geography and City Codes
  • Itinerary Planning
  • World Time Zones & Elapsed Travel Time
  • Airlines Languages and Travel T

...Read more

M

Mani Shukla

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

As per the eligibility criteria, one has to complete their Class 10 and should have a Diploma/ Certificate in Fares and Ticketing to get a start in career. However, to be able to grow in the industry, one must complete their graduation after Class 12, as it can help them bag better packages. The asp

...Read more

N

Nishtha Rastogi

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

In the last five years, the hospitality and tourism industry has grown widely, and with online fares and ticketing through website, the career scope has also improved. There are various recruiters from around the world hiring remote candidates for the profile. In India, the top recruiters for Fares

...Read more

K

Kartik Yadav

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Since the profession requires one to interact with worldwide clients for ticketing purposes, the following skills are essential: 

  • Responsibility handling
  • Dedication
  • Good communication skills
  • Good writing skills
  • Discipline
  • Team spirit
  • Confidence
  • Customer oriented approach
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Outgoing and liv

...Read more

N

Nishtha Kumari

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

 Yes, it is related to the Tourism industry and, therefore, an essential part of Fares and Ticketing. Hotel booking is generally not regarded as being directly tied to fares and ticketing, although it is connected to the larger industry of travel and tourism.

The main goals of fares and ticketing are

...Read more

N

Nishtha Patra

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

 Generally, to study Fares and Ticketing, only short-term courses are available as under:

  • Diploma in International Travel Reservations
  • Advanced Diploma in Air Travel Management & CRS
  • Diploma in Tourism and Ticketing
  • Certification in Airport Services
  • Certificate in Air Ticketing and Travel Management,
  • Dip

...Read more

J

Jiya Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Fares and Ticketing is an educational programme that focuses on teaching students about the principles of the hospitality and travel industry.
The Ticketing staff is responsible for making people understand the complex fare structures and pricing models used in the travel industry.
The Hospitality and

...Read more

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Fares and Ticketing is a niche specialisation of the Hospitality and Travel field. Most colleges offer short-term Fares and Ticketing Courses. Candidates can pursue Diploma and certificate courses in Fares and Ticketing. The duration of popular Fares and Ticketing courses usually ranges between 4 mo

...Read more

V

Vipra Pandey

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

The Itinerary in tourism is about creating itineraries for different kinds of travel and travellers, such as business, group, and leisure travel. It is about researching trip destinations, choosing favorable modes of transportation and lodging, handling finances, planning activities, and designing p

...Read more

J

Jiya Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

Here are the steps in itinerary planning you can go through to understand this course better:

  • Gather information of the destinations and their attractions, transportation and accomodations.
  • Understand the traveler's interests, budget and travel style.
  • Create a day-to-day schedule entailing transportati

...Read more

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

The Itinerary Planning course is about creating itineraries for different kinds of travel, such as business, group, and leisure travel. Students can learn about researching trip destinations, choosing favorable modes of transportation and lodging, handling finances, planning activities, and designin

...Read more

V

Vipra Pandey

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

There are various ways from where tour operators can make money such as:

Markup on Services: Where they earn from markup to the cost of services like flights and accomodation.

Commission from Suppliers: They also earn commissions from hotels, airlines, and other service providers where they add up to

...Read more

R

Raj B

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

Few of the most common example of a tour operator are arranging sustainable tourism, adventure travel, and small group tours. They also emphasis on responsible travel practices. 

Intrepid Travel is one of the good examples for Tour Operator as they do not just book a package but curate unique and spe

...Read more

M

Manisha Chauhan

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

There are 5 main types of tour operators: 

  • Outbound Tour Operators
  • Inbound Tour Operators
  • Domestic Tour Operators
  • Receptive Tour Operators
  • Ground Tour Operators

M

Mani Shukla

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

Below are the skills required to become a Tour Operator:

  • To Be Flexible And Open To Change
  • An Interest And Knowledge of History
  • Customer Service Skills
  • Excellent Verbal Communication Skills
  • Knowledge of English Language
  • Patience And The Ability To Remain Calm In Stressful Situations
  • Sensitivity And Underst

...Read more

N

Nishtha Rastogi

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

To become a Tour Operator in India you need to have a Degree/Diploma in Travel/Tourism from recognised university/IITTM/Institution approved by AICTE. The candidate should also have a 3 years working experience in the Travel and Tourism Industry. 

N

Nishtha Rastogi

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 4 weeks ago

Travel and tourism management works upon the planning, organisation, and execution of travel services, and it serves to both leisure and business travellers. It involves organising various elements such as transportation, accommodation, food services, sightseeing, and recreational activities.

M

Mani Shukla

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 4 weeks ago

Students must clear in a variety of entrance tests in order to be admitted into institutions offering a Travel & Tourism Management in a India. The following table lists the top entrance tests for various universities that provide the following Travel and Tourism Management in the India indicated:

Exam DetailsColleges
CBSE 12th268 Colleges
ISC54 Colleges
Kerala 12th42 Colleges
CAT34 Colleges
Maharashtra HSC33 Colleges
MAT27 Colleges
PSEB 12th26 Colleges
CUET-PG25 Colleges
CMAT23 Colleges
WBCHSE21 Colleges
XAT17 Colleges

K

Kartik Yadav

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 4 weeks ago

There are universities in India that provide Travel & Tourism Management. Among the many institutions that offer the Travel & Tourism Management, there is a split of colleges by ownership:

Private: 318

Public / Government: 112

Public Private: 17

N

Nishtha Kumari

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 4 weeks ago

Due to its global perspective and practical emphasis, studying tourism can prepare students for various exciting careers in tourism and hospitality. The graduates can also earn an average starting salary ranging between INR 2.5 LPA to INR 8 LPA.

P

Pragati Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

The grooming standards for BTTM students whether male or female typically involves professional and polished appearance. Have a quick look at the table below:

Grooming Standards for BTTM StudentsMaleFemale
HairNeat, trimmed, and styled professionally. Avoid extreme hairstyles.
Neat, trimmed, and styled professionally. Avoid excessive styling or unnatural colors. Long hair should be tied back.
NailsClean, trimmed, and free of any polish.
Clean, trimmed, and free of chipped nail polish.
JewelryMinimal jewelry. Avoid excessive or flashy jewelry.
Minimal jewelry. Avoid excessive or flashy jewelry.
AttireNeat, clean, and ironed clothes. Avoid casual wear like jeans and t-shirts.
Neat, clean, and ironed clothes. Avoid revealing or casual clothing.
FootwearClean and polished shoes. Avoid sneakers or sandals.
Clean and polished shoes. Avoid sneakers or sandals.
HygieneMaintain good personal hygiene. Use deodorant and avoid strong perfumes.
Maintain good personal hygiene. Use deodorant and avoid strong perfumes.
PostureMaintain good posture.
Maintain good posture.

N

Nishtha Kumari

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 4 weeks ago

The full form of BTTM is Bachelor of Tourism and Travel Management, which is an UG course. Objectives of BTTM courses are developing managerial skills to meet the demands of companies and providing international exposure to students through internships and student exchange programs. 

P

Pragati Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 weeks ago

Bachelor of Travel and Tourism Management (BTTM courses) or Bachelor of Hotel Management, Travel and Tourism (BHMTT) is a 3-4 year undergraduate degree course that students can pursue in the field of Hospitality Management. The duration of a BHMTT varies from college to college. In most colleges can

...Read more

N

Nishtha Patra

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month 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

...Read more

J

Jiya Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month 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 5

Answered a month 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 5

Answered a month 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 a month 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 5

Answered a month 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

...Read more

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 5

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