Varanasi: The Spiritual Choice for Gen Z
One of the most interesting trends this festive season is the rising popularity of Varanasi, especially among younger travellers. According to recent data from Airbnb, domestic travel searches for the festive period have jumped nearly 40% year-on-year,
with Gen Z users showing significant interest in the ancient city. This suggests a shift where spiritual and cultural experiences are becoming as sought-after as beach holidays. For many, Varanasi's appeal lies in its vibrant river ghats, ancient rituals like the evening aarti, and the sense of history that permeates its narrow lanes, offering a travel experience that is more than just a simple vacation.
Goa: The Uncontested Coastal King
No list of Indian holiday spots is complete without Goa, and this year is no exception. Data from multiple travel platforms confirms that Goa remains one of the most-searched destinations for the festive period. Both North and South Goa feature prominently in searches, especially among Gen Z travellers looking for a mix of vibrant beach life and relaxed coastal vibes. Accommodation searches for Goa have seen a significant year-on-year increase, cementing its status as the go-to destination for those wanting to trade city chaos for sun, sand, and sea.
Puri: The Surprise Coastal Contender
While Goa's popularity is a given, another coastal town has seen a massive spike in interest. According to accommodation search data from Agoda, Puri in Odisha recorded a staggering 318% year-on-year increase in searches for the festive season, placing it among the top domestic destinations. This surge suggests travellers are looking for diverse beach experiences beyond the usual hubs. Puri offers a unique combination of a sacred pilgrimage site, with the famous Jagannath Temple, and a relaxing beach destination, making it an attractive option for families and spiritual seekers alike.
Hill Stations: The Great Family Escape
Families, in particular, appear to be seeking the tranquillity of the mountains. Travel search data indicates a strong preference for hill stations, with destinations like Srinagar and Kangra seeing a notable rise in interest from family travellers. Overall searches by families for festive trips grew by more than 40% on platforms like Airbnb. Other hill destinations like Ooty and Munnar also registered strong double-digit growth in accommodation searches, highlighting a broader trend of escaping to cooler climates for the holidays. The appeal lies in the serene landscapes, pleasant weather, and the opportunity for a quiet, restorative break.
Cultural and Heritage Hubs
Beyond beaches and mountains, there is a clear appetite for cultural immersion. Udaipur, with its majestic palaces and lakes, continues to be a top-searched destination alongside Goa and Puri. Meanwhile, cities known for their unique festive celebrations, like Kolkata, are also popular, particularly with younger travellers. Even Amritsar has seen strong growth in searches among families. This pattern shows that many are planning trips that combine leisure with a deep dive into India's rich history and vibrant festive traditions.
The International Picture: Asia Beckons
For those looking to travel abroad, Asia remains the top choice. According to Agoda, Bangkok, Phuket, and Tokyo are the most searched international destinations for Indians this season. There has been a remarkable surge in interest for Sri Lanka, with searches up by nearly 262%. Vietnam is also gaining traction, with significant search growth for destinations like Phu Quoc and Hanoi. This indicates that short-haul international trips offering a blend of culture, city life, and beach relaxation are high on the festive travel agenda.
