Skift Take
The idea of a ski destination actively pursuing its target audience in India might have appeared unconventional in the past. India, known for its diverse climates and predominantly warm regions, is not typically associated with skiing. However, the tourism sector has now undergone a remarkable shift, turning Indians into a coveted audience for a variety of experiences.
The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.
As India's outbound travel market gears up to reach $45 billion by 2032, there is a growing focus on high-spending travelers coming from the country.
Recently, representatives from the Courchevel tourism board visited India to promote the destination. Courchevel, a French ski destination nestled in the heart of the Alps, is renowned for its extended ski season and excellent snow cover throughout the Alps.
Skift spoke to the Courchevel team to gain insight into the destination's interest in India.
Markets: While Courchevel continues to attract visitors from traditional ski markets, including the French and British markets, the Middle East and India are also promising, according to Alexia Laine, general manager of Courchevel Tourisme.
Indians and Ski? Following the Covid-19 crisis and the reopening of borders, there’s been an almost 50% increase in Indian tourists visiting Courchevel, Laine said to Skift. “India is our largest market in Asia with the maximum number of Indian travelers visiting Courchevel in March," she said.
Not Really An Expensive Destination: Laine is particularly cautious about categorizing Courchevel solely as an