Social media is becoming a powerful travel inspiration engine, with 60% of Indian travellers saying platforms like Instagram, along with OTT content and movies, directly influence where they want to go. This shift is part of a larger trend uncovered by the India Holiday Report 2025, released by Thomas Cook (India) Limited and SOTC Travel. Based on insights from over 2,500 respondents across digital channels, the report paints a picture of a new kind of Indian traveller—curious, experience-driven, and willing to spend more.
Travel is no longer seen as a luxury, but rather as an essential part of life. With rising disposable incomes and a desire for more meaningful experiences, 85% of travellers now plan to increase their annual holidays from just two to as many as 4–6 trips. Many are turning weekends and public holidays into quick escapes, while over half are extending vacations into longer 8–15 day adventures to immerse themselves in a destination truly.
Budgets are rising too. Around 84% plan to boost their travel spending by 20–50%, and 18% are willing to go beyond that with increases of over 50%. From fine dining and luxury shopping to immersive cultural experiences, Indian travellers are increasingly investing in the quality of their holidays.
A strong 90% prefer to travel with company—65% with extended families, 60% with partners, and a growing 28% with ‘frolleagues’ (friends who are also colleagues). While solo travel still represents a modest 10%, it’s becoming more popular among women and older travellers, including empty nesters.
Experience-led travel is now the preferred style for 75% of respondents. Indian tourists are seeking bucket list moments like the Northern Lights in Norway, cherry blossoms in Japan, or the midnight sun in Iceland. Safaris, self-drive tours, and adventure activities are appealing to 32%, while gastronomy is becoming a big draw for 26%, with countries like France, Spain, Japan, and South Korea leading the culinary map. Large-scale events, concerts, and sports festivals are catching the eye of 22%, reflecting a growing appetite for entertainment-based travel. Wellness breaks are also rising in popularity, with 19% seeking relaxation in spa destinations such as Thailand, Bali, and Kerala.
Luxury travel is no longer reserved for the few. Around 36% of Indian travellers now opt for upscale options like private island dining, luxury cruises in Scandinavia or the Mediterranean, supercar rentals, and stays in French châteaux or heritage properties in India.
Europe remains the top international destination, with 50% of respondents choosing countries like Switzerland, France, and Austria. Southeast Asia follows closely at 46%, including favourites like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The Middle East, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, attracts 37%, while Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand continue to rise in popularity. Nearby getaways like Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan are also becoming appealing for their affordability and ease of access.
Domestically, places like Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand dominate preferences (55%), followed by Bhutan (32%), the Northeast (25%), Rajasthan and Kerala (21%), and beach escapes like Goa and the Andaman Islands. Cruises (45%), self-drive holidays (35%), and scenic train journeys (20%) are gaining traction as unique travel formats. These reflect a broader shift toward slower, more meaningful travel, away from rushed sightseeing tours.
While online platforms are widely used for research and booking, a significant portion of travellers still value expert advice. 58% prefer a mix of online and offline (phygital) interactions, while 59% turn to call centres or visit agencies in person. Despite the rise of digital tools, the human touch remains essential for many. In terms of travel style, preferences are almost equally divided—35% favour partially guided tours for a balance of structure and freedom, 33% choose fully guided experiences, and 32% plan their own journeys entirely.
Sustainability is also becoming a priority, with 37% of respondents now considering eco-conscious options when making travel decisions. And with 35% using AI-driven platforms for trip planning and bookings, technology is clearly playing a central role in shaping the next chapter of Indian travel.