Sat Jan 25 15:07:45 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Celebrates National Tourism Day, Boasts Strong Tourist Numbers
**Salem, Tamil Nadu –** Tamil Nadu’s Tourism Minister R. Rajendran announced on Saturday that the state welcomed a staggering 284 million tourists in the past year, solidifying its position as the second most visited state in India. This figure includes over 963,000 foreign tourists, placing Tamil Nadu sixth nationally in international tourism.
The Minister made the announcement during National Tourism Day celebrations, where he distributed saplings and cloth bags to tourists at Yercaud Foothills, promoting environmental consciousness. He highlighted the success of the recently launched Tamil Nadu Tourism Policy and the state’s ongoing infrastructure improvements at 300 tourist sites. Popular destinations such as Kanyakumari, Rameswaram, Mamallapuram, and Tiruchirappalli continue to draw large numbers of visitors.
Mr. Rajendran also revealed plans for a new floating restaurant on Yercaud Lake and a feasibility study for a ropeway in the same area. He emphasized the crucial role of tourism in driving economic growth and fostering cultural exchange. The celebrations included a tree-planting ceremony at the Government Women’s Arts College in Gorimedu, attended by local officials.
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