Top 10 Contributing Cities to MICE Industry in India

During India's G20 Presidency, over 200 meetings were held across 56 cities nationwide, drawing significant attention both domestically and internationally. This highlighted India's robust infrastructure for MICE, while showcasing its rich cultural and natural heritage on a global stage. In line with this, the Ministry of Tourism introduced a model to establish city-level MICE Promotion Bureaus in key destinations, bolstering efforts to position India as a prime conference tourism destination. Additionally, the launch of 'Meet in India,' a dedicated brand, further solidifies India's status in the global MICE arena.

Despite the promising landscape, India's MICE industry remains underrepresented globally. The 2019 MICE study valued India's MICE sector at Rs 37,576 crore, with Meetings, Incentives, and Conferences contributing 60% to the market share, and international MICE activities making up 22% of the market size. However, India holds less than 1% of the global MICE market, despite its natural and cultural allure and rapid economic growth. The country's 28th position in the 2019 ICAA ranking, hosting 158 meetings, underscores the need for strategic growth initiatives. Consequently, India aims to double its share in the global MICE business to 2% within the next five years.

With its diverse landscape ranging from the Himalayas to the deserts of Rajasthan and the beaches of Goa, India offers a unique blend of business and leisure. Here are the top 10 MICE destinations in India, promising unforgettable experiences that seamlessly merge work and pleasure:

Delhi

Delhi, India's capital, is a prime hub for trade and politics. Renowned for its excellent infrastructure, historical landmarks, and proximity to major retail centers, Delhi is a favored MICE destination. It boasts a variety of well-designed meeting venues, including The Lalit New Delhi, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Lemon Tree Premier, Taj Palace, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel and more.?

Mumbai

Mumbai, known as India's financial capital, attracts MICE organizers with its cutting-edge technology, exceptional infrastructure, and seamless connectivity. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) remains at the forefront of innovation to cater to evolving demands, offering international connectivity and world-class infrastructure suitable for MICE activities. Renowned venues like The Taj Mahal Palace, JW Marriott, Grand Hyatt, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, and ITC Grand Central provide exceptional settings for conferences and events.

Bengaluru

Bengaluru, known as the multinational IT hub, has become a top choice for companies seeking event venues. With numerous hotels and conference spaces, the city effortlessly accommodates large gatherings. Prominent MICE venues in Bengaluru include Vivanta by Taj, The Leela Palace, ITC Gardenia, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Centre, and others.?

Jaipur

Jaipur, a top tourism destination in India, seamlessly combines business with adventure. Hosting global conferences and literature festivals annually, it is the best place to mix leisure with business. With facilities like top-notch convention centers, excellent transportation, affordable communication, and ample hotel accommodation options, Jaipur certainly stands out as the perfect destination for both corporate conferences and recreational activities alike. The Lalit, Jaipur Marriott Hotel, and Fairmont are among the premier venues in Jaipur for hosting events and conferences.

Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the City of Pearls, is an ideal location for corporate conferences and conventions. With excellent infrastructure, rich history, and diverse experiences, it offers a seamless blend of business and leisure. Boasting top-notch convention facilities and a variety of hotel options, including the Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre, The Park, Lemon Tree Premier, ITC Kakatiya, and more, Hyderabad is a prime destination for MICE events.

Goa

Goa is swiftly emerging as a favored MICE destination for Indian corporates, offering a perfect mix of work and leisure. The state's appeal spans across sectors like BFSI and automobile, with its value, relaxed ambiance, and culinary delights drawing in businesses. Infrastructural developments and unique activities further enhance Goa's allure for corporate travelers. Leading destinations for meetings and conferences encompass Grand Hyatt Goa, Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Alila Diwa Goa and Resort Rio.

Chennai

Chennai, situated on India's southern coast, boasts a vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning beaches, making it a top MICE destination. The Tamil Nadu government's Chennai Convention Centre (CCC) supports high-quality business tourism, offering an air-conditioned banquet room capable of hosting up to 2000 delegates, ideal for large-scale conferences and meetings. Some of the notable venues for business conferences and meetings in Chennai include the esteemed ITC Grand Chola, Vivanta Chennai, Novotel Chennai, among others.

Varanasi

Uttar Pradesh is rapidly establishing itself as a premier MICE destination, featuring vast convention spaces, upscale five-star accommodations, and a plethora of pilgrimage sites. In Varanasi, the unique Rudraksha International Convention Centre, designed in the shape of a shivling, provides an excellent setting for MICE gatherings with its capacity of 1,200 seats, galleries, and meeting rooms. Other notable meeting and conference venues in the area include Radisson Hotel, Taj Ganges, The Clarks, and Ramada Plaza.

Agra

Agra, celebrated for its splendid Mughal architecture epitomized by the iconic Taj Mahal, presents a distinctive fusion of business and heritage tourism. Featuring a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage monuments, scenic landscaped gardens, delectable cuisine, and lively nightlife, Agra offers a captivating setting for corporate gatherings and conferences. Prominent venues in the city include Courtyard by Marriott, ITC Mughal, Radisson Hotel, and DoubleTree by Hilton.

Kochi

Kochi is experiencing a surge in MICE tourism, evident from the multitude of national conferences held there just a few months back. The city's favorable climate, enhanced transportation facilities, and diverse accommodation options have facilitated the hosting of numerous events. Additionally, the proximity of tourist attractions like Alappuzha and Munnar adds to its appeal for conferences and summits. Notable venues in Kochi include Crowne Plaza, Kochi Marriott, Vivanta Ernakulam, and Le Méridien Kochi.

Conclusion

From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kochi, each city offers a unique blend of business and leisure, making it an ideal choice for hosting corporate events and conferences. As the MICE sector continues to grow, India's top destinations are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of business tourism, offering unparalleled experiences to attendees and contributing to the nation's economic growth.