India’s indoor amusement market hits ₹15,000 crore as experiential spending jumps 40%: ANAROCK–IAAPI Report

India’s indoor amusement industry is rapidly emerging as a key pillar of the country’s experience economy, with consumer spending rising sharply in the post-pandemic years. According to a joint report by ANAROCK and the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI), the sector—comprising indoor amusement centres (IACs)—is currently valued at around ₹15,000 crore, reflecting strong demand for experiential entertainment across urban India.

The report, titled Ready, Set, Play: India’s Indoor Amusement Industry at a Turning Point, notes that consumer spending at indoor amusement centres has risen by 30–40% compared to pre-pandemic levels. Tier I cities are witnessing 10–15% higher spending per customer than Tier II markets, driven by longer dwell times, immersive formats, and higher participation. Industry suppliers also point to a 15–20% increase in consumer outlays in recent years as experiential recreation becomes a preferred leisure option for urban families.

“India’s indoor amusement industry is entering a decisive phase of transformation, evolving from predominantly children-centric recreation into a key component of the country’s experience-driven economy,” said Anuj Kejriwal, CEO – Retail, Leasing & Industrial Logistics, ANAROCK Group. “Consumer spending intensity across IAC formats has strengthened materially. As the industry scales, safety and regulatory clarity must remain foundational priorities. IACs manage complex equipment and high footfall, primarily for families and children, making standardized norms essential. A harmonized framework would enable responsible expansion.”

Frequent visits and higher per-customer spend drive growth

The sector’s growth is underpinned by strong consumer engagement. ANAROCK’s market pulse survey shows that over 52% of respondents visit indoor amusement centres at least once a month, while nearly 23% visit once every two to three months. Only about 9% of respondents reported visiting such centres rarely.

Spending patterns are also shifting upward. More than half of visitors now spend over ₹1,000 per visit beyond ticket purchases, with gaming, food and beverage, and add-on experiences forming a significant share of revenues. Pricing across the industry remains largely mid-market, with nearly three-fourths of operators charging between ₹500 and ₹1,499 per visit.

Globally, the indoor amusement centre industry was valued at $51.29 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $84.03 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9%. India, however, accounts for just about 2% of this market, indicating significant headroom for expansion. Domestically, the IAC market generated around ₹8,400 crore in 2024 and is expected to reach ₹15,600 crore by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 11.3%—faster than the global average.

“For 27 years, IAAPI has been at the heart of India’s amusement growth. This first-of-its-kind report on IACs integrates operator, developer, consumer, and government views,” said Ankur Maheshwari, Chairman, IAAPI and Founder, Masti Zone. “IACs have grown from mall add-ons to amusement economy anchors. With policy support and manufacturing incentives, our maturing industry can leap forward.”

Regulatory clarity seen as key to next phase of expansion

Despite strong growth momentum, industry stakeholders highlight structural challenges that could affect expansion. The 18% GST on rides and tickets continues to weigh on pricing in a cost-sensitive market. Operators also point to varying licensing norms across states and the absence of a unified national regulatory framework.

The report recommends establishing standardized safety and compliance guidelines, streamlining fire and municipal approvals, and providing incentives for domestic manufacturing of amusement equipment. With clearer policies and formalization, the indoor amusement industry could scale rapidly while creating employment and strengthening India’s urban leisure infrastructure.