What is the story about?
India’s travel story is entering a new year, and it’s being written far from the country’s most obvious tourist magnets. According to the latest New Horizons
ranking by Agoda, Thiruvananthapuram has emerged as India’s fastest-growing destination for international travellers, signalling a subtle but meaningful shift in how visitors are choosing to explore the country. The annual ranking tracks year-on-year accommodation booking growth across Asia, spotlighting destinations that are climbing fastest rather than those already dominating travel wish lists.
Why Thiruvananthapuram Is Suddenly Standing Out
Often overshadowed by Kerala’s better-known beach towns and hill stations, Thiruvananthapuram has quietly moved up 11 places, from 33rd in 2024 to 22nd in 2025, making it the strongest climber among inbound destinations to India.What’s driving the rise? Travel insiders point to the city’s unhurried pace, cultural depth, and natural setting. From heritage temples and museums to easy access to Varkala’s cliffs, Kovalam’s beaches, and Kerala’s backwaters, the capital offers a version of India that feels immersive without being overwhelming. It also taps into growing global interest in wellness travel, slow tourism, and culture-first itineraries, areas where Kerala has long held quiet credibility.
Indore’s Rise Shows A Broader Shift At Home
The changing travel mood isn’t limited to international visitors. Within India, Indore has emerged as the top trending domestic destination, rising seven places in a single year.Once best known for its street food and cleanliness rankings, Indore is now drawing travellers curious about second-tier cities with strong local identity, modern infrastructure, and food-led travel experiences. Its steady climb suggests Indian travellers are increasingly willing to look beyond metros for their next city break.
Indian Travellers Are Looking Further Afield Too
On the outbound front, one destination stood out clearly: Almaty. The Central Asian city climbed 12 places, making it the fastest-rising international destination among Indian travellers. Surrounded by the Tien Shan mountains, Almaty’s mix of winter landscapes, adventure sports, and Eurasian culture is proving especially appealing. Improved air connectivity and a growing appetite for less-explored regions are helping it edge into Indian travellers’ plans.Across Asia, Agoda’s data points to a broader trend: travellers are increasingly drawn to scenic, character-driven destinations. Sapa topped the list for Asian travellers overall, followed by cities like Okayama and Bandung, places that reward curiosity over checklist tourism.
The rise of Thiruvananthapuram suggests that India’s tourism narrative is expanding. Travellers—both international and domestic—are seeking places that feel authentic, calm, and cultural. And sometimes, it’s the quieter capitals and overlooked cities that tell the most compelling stories.
