Indian travellers are increasingly embracing the festive season as an opportunity for travel, with a notable rise in searches for both international city breaks and domestic getaways. According to recent accommodation search data from Agoda, the period from October 15 to November 30, 2026, has seen Bangkok, Phuket, and Tokyo emerge as the three most sought-after international cities among Indian travellers. In the domestic arena, Goa, Puri, and Udaipur have topped the list of preferred destinations.

The data reflects accommodation searches conducted between August 1 and September 30, 2026, compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. With major festivals such as Dussehra, Durga Puja, and Diwali falling within this travel window, the findings indicate a shift in holiday planning, with travellers opting for destinations that align with their desired experiences rather than sticking to traditional routes.

This trend suggests that Indian travellers are seeking diverse experiences, ranging from beach holidays to heritage sites and serene hill stations. The changing preferences highlight a growing inclination towards exploring new locations during festive periods.

Thailand and Vietnam Attracting Increasing Attention

Thailand continues to be a popular choice for Indian tourists, with Bangkok and Phuket witnessing significant growth in search volumes, increasing by 65 per cent and 51 per cent, respectively. These two destinations offer contrasting experiences; Bangkok is renowned for its vibrant city life, temples, and culinary delights, while Phuket is celebrated for its picturesque beaches and coastal resorts.

Vietnam is also gaining traction among Indian travellers, with searches for Phu Quoc increasing by 124 per cent and Hanoi experiencing a 94 per cent rise. Phu Quoc is known for its stunning beaches and lively night markets, whereas Hanoi features historic streets and local cuisine, alongside landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake. The appeal of these destinations is further enhanced by their unique cultural offerings.

Japan has seen a remarkable surge in interest, particularly for Tokyo, which recorded a 109 per cent increase in searches. The autumn months of October and November are particularly attractive for visitors, as they coincide with the seasonal foliage, allowing travellers to enjoy the vibrant colours in parks and gardens such as Shinjuku Gyoen.

Domestic Destinations Show Strong Demand

Within India, Goa remains a perennial favourite during the festive season, with accommodation searches increasing by nearly 43 per cent. Udaipur also saw a significant rise of approximately 29 per cent, maintaining its status as a popular choice for those seeking heritage, cuisine, and leisure activities. Notably, Puri, Ooty, and Munnar have experienced sharper increases in search volumes.

Puri recorded an impressive 318 per cent increase in searches, while Ooty and Munnar followed with increases of 166 per cent and 107 per cent, respectively. Varanasi also saw a notable rise of 92 per cent, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the festive travel options available to Indian tourists.

Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, stated that the data reflects a broader trend of travellers selecting destinations based on the experiences they wish to have. This shift indicates that the festive travel landscape is evolving, offering a wider array of choices beyond the traditional family holiday.

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