What is the story about?
According to Booking.com, ‘Noctourism’ has emerged as India’s Travel Word of the Year for 2025! And the reason behind it is quite clear. Noctourism is a portmanteau
of the words night and tourism, and refers to night-time travel experiences, from stargazing in dark-sky reserves, jungle night safaris to exploring cities, moonlit beaches and destinations after sunset. And it’s not a fringe idea. Booking.com’s research shows that 78% of Indian travellers expressed interest in noctourism experiences in 2025, signalling a move away from rushed sightseeing towards slower, more atmospheric travel.
Why Noctourism Suddenly Makes Sense
Noctourism taps into a growing desire for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and more immersive moments. Nights offer what busy travel days often don’t—space, quiet and a sense of discovery. Whether it’s lying under the stars, spotting wildlife after dark or walking through a city once the crowds thin out, night travel feels intentional rather than performative.In many ways, noctourism reflects how Indian travellers are rethinking holidays—not as packed schedules, but as emotion-led experiences.
Travel Trends Of 2025
Booking.com’s Travel Word of the Year 2025 study analysed over 10 million data points from more than 3 lakh verified sources, including media coverage and online conversations, to decode the language Indians used while planning and talking about travel. What emerged was a vocabulary that was focussed on finding balance and flexibility in travel.Here are the top trending travel keywords of 2025:
Noctourism
Travel built around night-time experiences like stargazing, low-light stays, night safaris and illuminated landscapes.
Calmcation
Mindful, restorative holidays designed for rest and reset. Interest in wellness and longevity retreats surged, with 83% of Indian travellers expressing interest in deep rejuvenation breaks.Frolleagues
Trips where colleagues are also friends, combining the best of work, travel and social bonding without rigid boundaries.
Eco-scapes
Sustainability-first travel choices focused on reducing environmental impact. 87% of Indian travellers said they were willing to travel more sustainably in 2025.
Bucket-list breaks
Once-in-a-lifetime journeys—finally ticking off destinations or experiences long put on hold.
Other Travel Keywords Indians Are Searching For
Beyond the headline trends, several other phrases shaped India’s travel landscape in 2025:
Microcations: Short, high-impact getaways that don’t require long leaves
Impulse escapes: Spontaneous, last-minute trips driven by mood rather than planning
Solo group travel: Travelling alone, but within shared experiences
Gastro-trails: Food-led travel centred around regional cuisines and local flavours
