The Allure of the 'Shoulder Season'
For years, Indian travel revolved around peak seasons like summer holidays and the year-end festive rush. But a significant shift is underway. A growing number of Indian travellers are now planning trips during the 'shoulder season'—the period between
peak and off-peak times, like autumn. Reports from 2026 show a clear preference for this, with many travellers deliberately choosing these months to avoid crowds and enjoy better value. The appeal is simple: milder weather, lower prices on flights and hotels, and a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere. Instead of battling tourist hordes at popular landmarks, you get to experience destinations at a more local pace. This trend is driven by a desire for more meaningful travel, moving beyond a simple checklist of sights to a deeper immersion in a destination's culture.
Europe's Autumnal Fairytale
As the summer heat fades, Europe transforms into a picturesque canvas of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. For Indian travellers, this offers a magical escape. Germany's Bavaria region, for instance, looks like something out of a storybook, with its famous castles surrounded by vibrant forests. The autumn period is also synonymous with harvest festivals. In countries like Greece and Spain, local food and wine festivals offer a taste of the season's bounty without the intense summer crowds. Imagine strolling through Athens' historic Plaka district in pleasant weather, or securing quick entry to Barcelona's architectural wonders. The continent feels calmer and more accessible, making it an ideal time for cultural exploration. Destinations like Italy and Germany have seen notable growth in interest from the Indian market.
Asia's Vibrant Cultural Spectacles
Closer to home, Asia puts on a spectacular show in autumn. Japan is a major draw with its 'koyo' or 'momiji' season, when the country's landscapes are blanketed in stunning autumn leaves. This is also a time for incredible cultural festivals. The Takayama Autumn Festival, considered one of Japan's most beautiful, features ornate floats and traditional performances. In Southeast Asia, Thailand's Loy Krathong, or the 'Festival of Lights', marks the end of the rainy season in November with thousands of candle-lit floats drifting down rivers—a truly breathtaking sight. Many countries also celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time for family gatherings, lanterns, and delicious mooncakes in places like China and Vietnam. These events offer travellers a unique window into local traditions and communal celebrations.
Experience Over Everything
This trend highlights a fundamental change in what Indian travellers seek from a holiday. According to recent travel reports, 'experience-led' travel is gaining significant momentum. People are planning entire trips around specific activities like concerts, cultural festivals, or culinary tours. It's no longer just about where to go, but what you can do and feel there. This shift is particularly evident in the growing outbound market from India, which is projected to expand significantly in the coming years. Travellers are more informed, often using digital tools to discover unique experiences and plan personalised itineraries. Destinations that offer these rich, seasonal activities are successfully capturing the attention of this new generation of explorers who are hungry for authenticity and connection.
