The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has announced that its 56th Annual Convention will take place from 21–23 August 2026 at Taj Ganges, Varanasi, and is expected to draw more than 2,000 delegates, dignitaries and industry representatives. The gathering is set to be among the largest in the association’s history, bringing together senior government officials, policymakers, hospitality leaders, tourism stakeholders, investors, entrepreneurs and academicians from across India and overseas.
The three-day convention will focus on advancing India’s tourism growth by strengthening the domestic travel economy while enhancing the country’s attractiveness for international visitors. Discussions will centre on building future-ready hospitality systems, improving destination quality and encouraging collaborative development across the tourism value chain.
The programme will feature keynote addresses, leadership dialogues, panel discussions and networking platforms examining evolving traveller expectations, hospitality innovation, investment opportunities and sustainable destination development. Hosting the event in Varanasi adds symbolic significance, offering participants a setting rooted in India’s living heritage, culture and immersive visitor experiences.
Previous editions of the FHRAI Annual Convention have been attended by prominent leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in Goa, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Bengaluru, and Union Minister of Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at editions held in Goa and Bengaluru, along with senior officials and industry representatives. Continuing this legacy, the 2026 convention is also expected to see participation from high-level government representatives and key stakeholders from multiple ministries and the wider tourism and hospitality ecosystem.
Announcing the event, FHRAI President Surendra Kumar Jaiswal said the convention reflects the ongoing evolution and resilience of India’s hospitality and tourism sector. He noted that as the industry moves forward with renewed momentum, the platform will allow stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen collaboration and explore opportunities that enhance India’s standing as a diverse global travel destination. He added that hosting the convention in Varanasi highlights the country’s cultural richness while encouraging meaningful discussions on sustainable and future-oriented tourism growth.
Over the years, the FHRAI Annual Convention has consistently attracted senior leadership from both central and state governments, reinforcing its role as an important forum for public-private dialogue. The 56th edition is expected to further support India’s positioning as a vibrant destination while encouraging industry stakeholders to shape a forward-looking hospitality ecosystem.
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