Festive Travel Trends 2025: bookings soar 24%, Asia-Pacific tops

India's festive travel in 2025 has shifted to curated experiences and “smart luxury,” with demand rising 18% year-on-year, per Thrillophilia’s study. Travelers favor short-haul Asia-Pacific destinations like Dubai and Singapore, while domestic hotspots remain popular. Tier-II and Tier-III cities are driving growth, and offbeat destinations like Gandikota and Pachmarhi are gaining traction. Luxury safaris in Africa attract affluent travelers, as plans now balance spontaneity with thoughtful budgeting and unique experiences.

As India’s festive season unfolds, travel habits are undergoing a remarkable transformation. Festival travel is no longer just about quick getaways; it has evolved into a pursuit of curated experiences, premium accommodations, and offbeat adventures. Thrillophilia’s Festive Travel Pulse 2025 Study sheds light on these shifting preferences, revealing an 18% year-on-year surge in travel demand, with international bookings alone climbing by 24%. The study is based on an analysis of 4.2 million searches and bookings made during the festive period spanning Navratri to Diwali.

Asia-Pacific Reigns Supreme for Short-Haul Travel

This year, Indian travelers are increasingly choosing nearby Asia-Pacific destinations over far-flung intercontinental holidays. Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam have emerged as the most sought-after international hotspots. Domestically, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, and Kerala continue to dominate the travel scene.

Interestingly, smaller cities such as Surat, Indore, and Coimbatore are driving a new wave of demand, contributing an additional 6–8% growth to festive season travel traffic. This shift highlights the growing appetite for travel among residents of Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

The Rise of “Smart Luxury”

A standout trend in 2025 is the move toward what Thrillophilia terms “smart luxury.” Travelers are prioritizing boutique hotels, branded accommodations, and thoughtfully curated experiences, all while staying mindful of their budgets. Activities like desert safaris in Dubai, evening bay cruises in Singapore, and heritage trails in Hampi are increasingly popular among experience-seekers.

• Domestic trips: Average spending ranges between ₹25,000 and ₹45,000 per person.

• Short-haul international trips: Budgets typically fall between ₹60,000 and ₹95,000 per person.

  
  

Another noteworthy observation is the booking window. Travelers are now planning their trips 9–12 days in advance, striking a balance between spontaneity and careful preparation.

Offbeat Destinations and High-End Safaris

While popular destinations remain in demand, there is a growing interest in exploring lesser-known locales within India. Places such as Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh, Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh, and the Meghalaya-Ziro belt in the Northeast are emerging as preferred choices for those seeking tranquil, culturally rich experiences.

At the upper end of the market, affluent travelers are venturing into Africa’s exotic safari circuits. Tanzania and Botswana, with their stunning wildlife and luxurious accommodations, are drawing Indian globetrotters. These premium packages, lasting a week, cost between ₹1.6 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh per person.

A New Era of Festive Travel

The findings from Thrillophilia’s study underscore how Indian travelers are redefining festive travel. Whether it’s a short-haul getaway or a luxury safari, the focus is on creating meaningful and memorable experiences. As the demand for curated trips and “smart luxury” grows, the travel landscape is set to become even more vibrant and diverse in the years ahead.

With the festive season in full swing, this evolving trend signals not just a love for travel but also an appreciation for unique experiences that make each journey truly special.