Decoding the Indian Summer: Key Travel Insights Uncovered

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% of Indians are looking at a long domestic trip and 43% are wanting to take a long international trip (5+ nights) this year.

With summer fast approaching, the travel portal 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% of Indian travellers stating that they would like to take a nature trip this year followed by a beach trip (48%) and a city trip (37%).

According to the travel portal’s 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 at soaking 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.

1. Ooty (-1)

2. Srinagar (+2)

3. Manali (-4)

4. Darjeeling (-1)

5. Goa (0)

6. Kodaikanal (+4)

7. Puri (-2)

8. Rishikesh (-2)

9. Munnar (-1)

10. 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% are travelling within the Asia Pacific region, 20% to the Middle East and 40% 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.

1. Dubai (0)

2. Singapore (0)

3. London (0)

4. Paris (0)

5. Bangkok (0)

6. New York (+5)

7. Tokyo (+5)

8. Bali (-1)

9. Makkah (-3)

10. Amsterdam (0)

Demographics decoded

From bustling cities that attract solo travellers, 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 BreaksTop 5 most searched domestic destinations: Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi, Gurgaon and ChennaiTop 5 most searched international destinations: Dubai, London, Paris, Berlin and Toronto
2. Families: Nature EscapesTop 5 most searched domestic destinations: Ooty, Srinagar, Manali, Darjeeling and MumbaiTop 5 most searched international destinations: Singapore, Dubai, London, Paris and Tokyo
3. Groups: Scenic GetawaysTop 5 most searched domestic destinations: Manali, Ooty, Goa, Darjeeling and SrinagarTop 5 most searched international destinations: Dubai, Singapore, London, Makkah and Paris
4. Couples: Bustling metros to serene retreatsTop 5 most searched domestic destinations: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Ooty, Srinagar and New DelhiTop 5 most searched international destinations: Dubai, London, Singapore, Paris and Bangkok

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com 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.”