A Nation of Pet Parents
The foundation of this travel trend is a fundamental shift in how Indians view their pets. Fuelled by a surge in pet ownership during and after the pandemic, the relationship has evolved from owner and animal to parent and furry child. India's pet population
has grown significantly, from 26 million in 2019 to an estimated 42 million in 2024. This 'pets-as-family' mindset means leaving them behind is no longer the default option. As a result, travellers are not just looking for places that tolerate pets; they are demanding destinations that actively welcome them, influencing everything from accommodation choices to weekend itineraries. This cultural shift is the engine driving the boom in the pet-inclusive travel market.
Hotels and Homestays Roll Out the Welcome Mat
The hospitality industry has been quick to respond. Across India, there are now thousands of properties that welcome pets, a significant increase that signals a permanent market shift. Major hotel groups like Marriott and IHCL SeleQtions now have specific pet-friendly policies and properties, offering amenities like dedicated play areas and special meals. However, the real growth is in the private accommodation sector. According to travel platform MakeMyTrip, bookings for pet-friendly properties saw a double-digit rise in early 2026. Travellers now seek out villas with gardens and homestays with open spaces where their pets can roam freely. Data from Booking.com shows pet-friendly stays are one of the most used search filters, with millions of searches annually.
Getting There: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
While the destination may be welcoming, the journey itself is a crucial part of the equation. Road trips have become the preferred mode of transport for the vast majority of Indian pet owners—a staggering 93% prefer the flexibility of travelling by car. This allows for spontaneous stops and ensures the pet's comfort. For those who need to fly, airlines are slowly adapting. Air India has revamped its policy, allowing small pets in the cabin on many domestic flights, a move celebrated by anxious owners who previously had to use the cargo hold. Akasa Air also offers in-cabin options. However, rules around carrier size, breed restrictions, and the sheer volume of paperwork (including vaccination records and fit-to-fly certificates) mean air travel still requires meticulous planning.
A Booming Support System
Beyond hotels and transport, a whole ecosystem of pet-focused services has emerged to support this trend. Startups and established companies are now offering everything from pet-friendly taxi services to curated holiday planning. Companies like CollarFolk help pet owners find everything from pet-friendly resorts to boarding services and even outdoor experiences like camping and kayaking for their companions. The rise in demand has also led to more pet-friendly cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating, allowing families to dine without leaving anyone behind. This growing infrastructure is making it easier than ever for travellers to integrate their pets into every aspect of their vacation.
The Road Ahead: Challenges Remain
Despite the progress, travelling with a pet in India is not without its hurdles. The landscape is still more 'pet-tolerant' than universally 'pet-friendly'. Policies can be inconsistent; a 'pet-friendly' label at a hotel might come with restrictions on breed or size, and navigating different rules for trains, flights, and interstate car travel can be a bureaucratic headache. Finding service stations with safe areas for a pet to walk on long drives remains a common problem for road-trippers. The responsibility ultimately falls on the pet parent to do thorough research, manage documentation, and ensure their animal is well-behaved and not a nuisance to others. Preparation is key to navigating these remaining challenges and ensuring a smooth journey for everyone.
