The travel and tourism business in India is one of the largest and most important job creators. As per UN’s World Tourism Organization, the travel and tourism business directly offers 6-7% of the world’s total jobs and many more indirectly through multifactor. The travel and tourist sector in India ranks 12th out of 184 countries in terms of GDP contribution. Besides this, the tourism industry in India is increased at a 7.8% annual rate between 2013 and 2023. If you are not satisfied with your current job and thinking of start travel agency in India but you are confused. Well, you are in the right place. Here we will cover step-by-step instructions.
But before moving to the steps to start travel agency in India firstly you should know how many types of travel agencies exist. So, without further ado, let us begin.
Types of Travel Agency
There are various types of travel agencies, and you can choose any of these according to your choice to start travel agency in India. Here we discuss a few of them.
- Online Travel Agency
These are websites that allow users to search for, compare, and book travel-related services such as flights, hotels, and vehicle rentals. Some examples include Expedia, Booking.com, and Kayak.
- Corporate Travel Agency
These organizations make travel arrangements for businesses and organizations for conferences, events, and business travels.
- Leisure Travel Agency
Leisure travel agency dedicated to planning and organizing personal trips, holidays, and vacations for both people and families.
- Adventure Travel Agency
These agencies focus on arranging adventure and outdoor activities like trekking, safaris, hiking, skiing, rafting, motor biking, etc.
- Specialized Travel Agency
These travel companies specialize in specific areas, such as wellness retreats, luxury travel, honeymoons, food tours and many more.
- Educational Travel Agency
Focus on organizing educational travels, study tours, and field trips for students and academic institutions.
- Cruise Travel Agencies
Provide cruise packages, itineraries, and services specialized to cruise lines, with a focus on cruise vacations.
- Independent Travel Consultants
Individuals who give personalized travel planning and assistance to clients, generally as freelancers or in partnership with travel agencies.
- Group Travel Agencies
Make travel plans for large groups, such as student organizations, faith-based organizations, or social clubs.
Well, these are some important types of agencies.
Read More :- Travel Bags
Steps to Start Travel Agency in India
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Choose a Niche
The travel industry is so large, it’s necessary to pick a niche in which you’re interested and have some knowledge. By focusing on a specific niche, you will be able to better target your marketing and deliver the best possible service to your clients.
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Register with IATA
Nowadays there is no point in start a travel agency in India that only books tour packages and tickets via trains. You should cover all modes of transportation such as rail, water, land, and air. While road, rail, and water travel do not require mandatory registration because most of it is done domestically, international air travel requires the IATA seal. Registration with the IATA will require the travel agency to meet certain basic standards.
| What is IATA?
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a global organization that represents nearly 290 airlines and 83% of international air travel. |
If you have no idea how to apply for the IATA then follow the steps given below:
- First of all, visit the official website.
- Next, click on the Create New User option.
- Here, complete your profile with your company details.
- Once done, click on Services, and under IATA accreditation & changes click on the Go to Services option.
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Register with the Government of India
The next step in how to start travel agency in India is complete by becoming a Government of India-approved travel agency or agent. Even though it is not necessary but it is a great idea for a travel agency to register with the government. The reason being is approval indicates that the travel company follows rigid criteria and will not scam clients.
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Get a GST Registration Number
No discussion of how to start travel agency in India will not be finished until GST registration is mentioned. The reason for this is without this registration you will not be able to collect Goods and Services Tax (GST).
You can apply for the GST number online on the government GST portal.
The Takeaway
In India, where tourism growth is expected to be rapid in the future years, so start travel agency in India can be a great idea.
