Madhya Pradesh spotlights tourism push at WTM London 2026

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is using WTM London 2026 to promote the state’s heritage, wildlife, spiritual sites and sustainable travel offerings to global buyers in London from Nov. 3-5. The delegation aims to build European partnerships and position the state as a year-round destination.

Why it matters: - Madhya Pradesh is trying to grow international arrivals by marketing itself as a multi-specialty destination with heritage, wildlife, spirituality and sustainable travel options. - The state is targeting European and other overseas markets through business meetings at one of the travel industry’s biggest trade fairs. - The push matters because destination visibility at WTM can translate into tour operator partnerships and future visitor flows.

What happened: - World Travel Market London 2026 opened on Nov. 3 at ExCeL London and runs through Nov. 5. - Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is exhibiting at Stand N11-209 with a pavilion focused on the state’s tourism portfolio. - The pavilion was inaugurated by Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Rajya Sabha member and Infosys Foundation founder Sudha Murty. - Dr. Abhay Arvind Bedekar, Additional Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, attended the inauguration along with other dignitaries and tourism stakeholders. - The Madhya Pradesh delegation is led by Dr. Bedekar and includes senior MPTB officials and 10 tourism stakeholders.

The details: - The pavilion highlights Madhya Pradesh’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Khajuraho, Sanchi and Bhimbetka. - The state is also showcasing major wildlife destinations including Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Panna and Satpura. - Spiritual tourism is part of the pitch, with Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar and Chitrakoot featured prominently. - Madhya Pradesh is promoting slow tourism, sustainability, rural tourism and immersive cultural experiences. - Orchha, Mandu, Maheshwar and Chanderi are being positioned for heritage walks, traditional crafts, local cuisine and community-based travel. - The delegation includes representatives from hotels, tour operators, destination management companies and wildlife tourism businesses. - B2B meetings and business interactions are already underway, with more scheduled over the next two days.

Between the lines: - Madhya Pradesh is broadening its pitch beyond famous monuments and safari circuits to reach travelers looking for longer-stay, experience-driven trips. - The emphasis on sustainability and community-based tourism suggests the state is trying to align with changing demand in international leisure travel. - A diversified tourism message can help Madhya Pradesh reduce reliance on any single destination type or visitor segment.

What's next: - The Madhya Pradesh team will continue B2B meetings through the end of WTM London 2026 on Nov. 5. - The state expects the event to support future trade partnerships and strengthen its position in key international markets. - Further business discussions may help convert the pavilion’s visibility into tour packages, operator tie-ups and destination marketing opportunities.