Mumbai: Every year summer uncovers intriguing travel patterns about Indian travellers. This year, summer promises to be a season of exploration and rejuvenation for travellers who are seizing this opportunity to travel either at home or venturing overseas. According to Booking.com Travel Predictions 2024, 57 per cent of Indians are looking at a long domestic trip and 43 per cent want to take a long international trip (5+ nights) this year.
With summer fast approaching, Booking.com shares insights on where Indian travellers are headed to create unforgettable memories this summer.
Domestic Delights: Seeking respite in the mountains and by the Sea
The mountains remain irresistible for Indians looking at escaping the summer heat with 50 per cent of Indian travellers stating that they would like to take a nature trip this year followed by a beach trip (48 per cent) and a city trip (37 per cent).
According to Booking.com search data, metro cities Bengaluru and Mumbai lead the chart as the most searched destinations this summer. Besides metropolitan cities, hill stations continue to be the top choice for travellers seeking scenic landscapes, adventure activities and a chance to unwind amidst nature. Ooty takes the lead in the most searched leisure destination followed by Srinagar and Manali. Goa’s iconic beaches remain a favourite for beach lovers looking to soak in some summer sun.
Top 10 most searched leisure destinations for Indian travellers travelling domestically from April 15 to July 15, 2024. Ranking as compared to the same time last year.
Ooty (-1)
Srinagar (+2)
Manali (-4)
Darjeeling (-1)
Goa (0)
Kodaikanal (+4)
Puri (-2)
Rishikesh (-2)
Munnar (-1)
Mussoorie (+2)
International Escapes: Seeking unique experiences beyond the border
While domestic travel continues to shine, Indians are also exploring short and long-haul destinations within Asia and beyond. Competitive packages, easier booking processes and improved visa access have made foreign travel more accessible to Indian tourists. This summer, 40 per cent are travelling within the Asia Pacific region, 20 per cent to the Middle East and 40 per cent to London, New York and European countries.
Dubai with its luxurious offerings and futuristic appeal tops the list of most searched international destinations this year. Asia’s vibrant culture continues to hold immense charm with cities like Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo and Bali high on Indians' summer travel wish list.
Top 10 most searched destinations by Indians travelling internationally from April 15 to July 15, 2024. Ranking as compared to the same time last year.
Dubai (0)
Singapore (0)
London (0)
Paris (0)
Bangkok (0)
New York (+5)
Tokyo (+5)
Bali (-1)
Makkah (-3)
Amsterdam (0)
Domestic Delights: Seeking respite in the mountains and by the sea
The mountains remain irresistible for Indians looking at escaping the summer heat with 50 per cent of Indian travellers stating that they would like to take a nature trip this year followed by a beach trip (48 per cent) and a city trip (37 per cent).
According to Booking.com search data, metro cities Bengaluru and Mumbai lead the chart as the most searched destinations this summer. Besides metropolitan cities, hill stations continue to be the top choice for travellers seeking scenic landscapes, adventure activities and a chance to unwind amidst nature. Ooty takes the lead in the most searched leisure destination followed by Srinagar and Manali. Goa’s iconic beaches remain a favourite for beach lovers looking to soak in some summer sun.
Top 10 most searched leisure destinations for Indian travellers travelling domestically from April 15 to July 15, 2024. Ranking as compared to the same time last year.
Ooty (-1)
Srinagar (+2)
Manali (-4)
Darjeeling (-1)
Goa (0)
Kodaikanal (+4)
Puri (-2)
Rishikesh (-2)
Munnar (-1)
Mussoorie (+2)
Demographics decoded
From bustling cities that attract solo travellers, to leisure destinations that attract family and group travellers to vibrant metropolises and charming hill stations that are a preference for couples, Booking.com shares insights into what different travellers are looking for in their summer holidays.
1. Solo Travellers: City Breaks
Top 5 most searched domestic destinations: Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi, Gurgaon and Chennai
Top 5 most searched international destinations: Dubai, London, Paris, Berlin and Toronto
2. Families: Nature Escapes
Top 5 most searched domestic destinations: Ooty, Srinagar, Manali, Darjeeling and Mumbai
Top 5 most searched international destinations: Singapore, Dubai, London, Paris and Tokyo
3. Groups: Scenic Getaways
Top 5 most searched domestic destinations: Manali, Ooty, Goa, Darjeeling and Srinagar
Top 5 most searched international destinations: Dubai, Singapore, London, Makkah and Paris
4. Couples: Bustling metros to serene retreats
Top 5 most searched domestic destinations: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Ooty, Srinagar and New Delhi
Top 5 most searched international destinations: Dubai, London, Singapore, Paris and Bangkok
Booking.com country manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia Santosh Kumar said, “Summer has always been a peak travel season, but in recent years witnessing a significant shift in how Indians approach it. While Indians are exploring both domestic and overseas destinations, we are seeing travellers gravitating towards culturally significant or leisure-oriented destinations with a growing desire for immersive experiences. This optimism indicates one thing for sure: the Indian spirit of travel remains undeterred. Booking.com remains committed to making it easier for travellers to plan their summer holidays by providing flights, rental cars, attractions and of course unique places to stay.”
Methodology
1. This release looks at search sessions between 29-02-2024 to 10-03-2024, with check-in dates between 15-04-2024 and 15-07-2024.
2. Couples: 2 adults, Family: 2 adults and 1 or more child, Solo: 1 adult, Group: more than 2 adults
