DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Visitor arrivals from India to Bali are showing steady growth in early 2026, positioning the country as one of the island’s most promising tourism markets.
Data from the first two months of 2026 shows that 74,483 Indian tourists visited Bali, marking a 1.41 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The figure places India as the third-largest source of international visitors, after Australia and China.
According to Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali member Eddie Tarsisius, the growth is evident not only in arrival numbers at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport but also in the expanding range of cities in India contributing to the flow.
“The Indian market is growing across segments, including individual travelers, families, and incentive groups from cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata,” he said on Thursday (April 16, 2026).
Industry players note that Indian tourists have distinct travel preferences. They tend to be price-sensitive and value-oriented, often seeking packages that offer additional benefits.
“They are highly focused on value for money and are used to negotiating. Discounts and added services are strong attractions,” Eddie explained.
Culinary preferences also play a key role in destination choice. Many Indian travelers prioritize accommodation or destinations that provide access to Indian cuisine.
“If Indian food options are not available, they may reconsider their travel plans,” he added.
On average, Indian tourists stay in Bali for around five days and four nights, with spending levels varying depending on the type of accommodation selected.
However, industry observers note emerging challenges. Another ASITA Bali representative, Ni Luh Werdiani, said that while demand remains stable in April, some large group travelers are beginning to shift to alternative destinations such as Bangkok due to rising airfare costs to Bali.
“Ticket prices have increased, which is influencing group travel decisions,” she said.
Higher airfare costs are linked to rising airline operational expenses, particularly fuel prices, which have affected routes from India.
Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data shows that India has become one of the key contributors to Bali’s international tourism recovery. After a significant decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian arrivals rebounded strongly from 2024 onward.
Industry stakeholders view the Indian market as both an opportunity and a challenge, offering high visitor volume but requiring competitive pricing strategies and tailored services.
With the upward trend continuing, tourism players hope that airfare stability and improved global conditions will help sustain growth from the Indian market throughout 2026.