What is the India Culture Travel Index?
A recently released report, the 'India Culture Travel Index' by global travel app Skyscanner, has put numbers to a trend many have observed: travel is no longer just about seeing places, but about experiencing them. The report, launched in New Delhi,
found that 84% of Indian travellers are choosing to explore their own country for culture-led journeys. It highlights a move away from conventional sightseeing towards immersive trips centred on local traditions, food, festivals, and heritage. Instead of picking a destination and then finding things to do, travellers are starting with the experience they want—like a food trail or a festival—and building the trip around it. This marks a significant evolution in the mindset of the domestic tourist.
Rediscovering Our Heritage
The strongest driver for this new wave of travel is a desire to connect with India's rich history. The index revealed that heritage is the top motivator, with 47% of travellers saying they would plan an entire holiday around historical sites and monuments. This isn't just about ticking off famous landmarks from a list; it's about delving into architectural marvels, ancient communities, and living traditions. Destinations like Rajasthan, Kerala, and Uttarakhand are at the forefront of this trend, attracting visitors keen to explore their forts, palaces, and spiritual centres. The data shows a clear pivot towards a deeper appreciation for the stories and legacies embedded in our own backyard.
A Journey for the Palate
Food has officially become a primary travel motivator. The index shows that 43% of Indian travellers would plan a trip specifically for regional food experiences. This rise in 'gastronomic tourism' reflects a hunger for authentic flavours that connect travellers to a place’s local way of life. It’s about more than just a good meal; it’s about experiencing a destination through its signature dishes, from the street food chaos of Old Delhi and the hearty Punjabi fare of Amritsar to the rich, royal cuisine of Lucknow and the legendary biryani of Hyderabad. This trend is heavily influenced by social media, where food trails and culinary discoveries inspire countless travel plans.
Following the Festivities
India’s vibrant festival calendar is now a major part of its travel map. An overwhelming 72% of travellers said they would consider planning a holiday just to attend a major cultural or religious festival. These ‘once-in-a-year experiences’ offer a unique opportunity to see a place at its most energetic and authentic. Durga Puja in Kolkata emerged as a top draw, with 58% of respondents saying they’d travel for it, followed closely by Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri Garba. Planning a trip around events like Holi in Vrindavan or Diwali in Varanasi allows for a level of cultural immersion that a regular visit might not provide, turning a holiday into a lasting memory.
How to Plan Your Passion-Led Trip
This new index confirms that the best way to plan a trip is to follow your interests. Start by asking what you want to experience. Is it the taste of authentic Hyderabadi Haleem, the sight of thousands of diyas on the Ganga, or the quiet grandeur of a Rajasthani fort? Once you have your core experience, build your itinerary around it. For festival travel, be sure to book flights and hotels months in advance to avoid surge pricing and packed venues. For food tours, look beyond famous restaurants to local-led food walks. And for heritage trips, consider hiring local guides who can bring historical sites to life. This approach not only simplifies planning but also leads to more meaningful and memorable adventures.
