Abstract

Floral tourism, a niche within ecotourism, revolves around the appreciation of natural and cultivated floral beauty. Globally, it has emerged as a vital sector, contributing to both economic growth and conservation. Countries like the Netherlands, Japan, and the USA have successfully capitalized on their floral resources to attract millions of visitors annually. In India, with its vast floral diversity—home to over 17,000 species of flowering plants—floral tourism is gaining prominence. Iconic destinations like the Valley of Flowers, Srinagar’s Tulip Garden, and Lalbagh Botanical Garden draw significant tourist interest, with notable economic contributions at the regional and national levels. India’s floriculture industry, valued at 15,700 crore ($1.9 billion), is expanding rapidly, supported by flower festivals and increased domestic and international demand. The country’s unique biodiversity hotspots and the deep cultural significance of flowers give it a competitive edge in the global market. However, challenges such as seasonality, poor infrastructure, and environmental concerns must be addressed. By adopting sustainable tourism models and increasing global marketing, India can position itself as a leading destination in floral tourism, balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

Keywords: Floral tourism, Floriculture, Biodiversity, Ecotourism, Cultural tourism, Sustainability, Flower festivals