Even for those who move to Bengaluru for work or studies, the city often reveals itself best after hours. As the day winds down, its tree-lined streets, cafés, cultural spaces and quieter neighbourhoods
offer a greener, more soulful side that invites exploration. It is this blend of opportunity and everyday charm that is now placing Bengaluru firmly on India’s tourism map.
According to a report by Cleartrip, Bengaluru has emerged as India’s leading city for both business and leisure travel. The findings were revealed in the travel platform’s year-end report, Unpacked 2025, which highlights changing travel patterns across the country. Once seen largely as a professional hub, the city is now drawing travellers for far more than work alone.
Why Prefer Longer Stays In Bengaluru?
One of the most striking insights from the report is Bengaluru’s dominance in long hotel stays. In 2025, the city recorded the longest hotel stay bookings in India, topping the list for 30 consecutive days in October. Bengaluru also ranked fifth overall for the longest stays recorded on the platform.
With over 2,500 start-ups and a thriving professional ecosystem, the city has traditionally attracted work-related travel. However, the report notes a decline in short work-focused stays and a significant rise in longer bookings, marking a 54.74 per cent increase. This shift points to Bengaluru’s growing appeal as a place where travellers choose to slow down and stay longer.
A Favourite Among Solo Travellers
Bengaluru’s appeal now extends strongly to solo travellers. The city ranks as the second most popular solo travel destination in India, driven by its welcoming atmosphere, cultural diversity and excellent connectivity. It also stands as the third most searched tourist destination in the country.
Travel data from Cleartrip shows high flight traffic between Bengaluru and nearby hill stations such as Kodagu, Ooty and Kodaikanal, reinforcing the city’s role as a key gateway to southern India’s most popular getaways.
The report also revealed some interesting travel trends. One passenger travelling from Ghaziabad to Bengaluru paid an additional Rs 65,000 in baggage fees, making it one of the most expensive extra baggage charges recorded on the platform. In another instance, a tourist booked a hotel in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, 361 days in advance, indicating growing demand for premium stays in popular hill destinations.
Overall, with Bengaluru serving as a base for travel to Kodagu, Ooty and Kodaikanal, the city continues to strengthen its position as a destination that blends career opportunities with leisure. As tourism patterns evolve, India’s Silicon City is fast becoming a favourite for travellers seeking both work-life balance and meaningful exploration.
