Top domestic and international destinations this Diwali: Booking.com

With Diwali just around the corner (November 1st), Indians are eager to make the most of extended weekends and seek enriching experiences. Whether it’s a quick escape to recharge, a deep dive into India’s vibrant culture, or a journey back home to reconnect with friends and family, travel is on their minds. With 77% of Indian travellers intending to utilize long weekends to optimize their vacation days, Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel companies, unveils insights into how Indians are planning their Diwali getaways.

Escape the hustle: ‘Unplug and explore’

This Diwali, Indian travellers are seeking a festive escape that offers a blend of relaxation and exploration. From the serene hills of Ooty to the majestic palaces of Udaipur, Indians are looking to embrace the diverse travel landscapes and experiences India has to offer. According to Booking.com accommodation search data, Udaipur is the top trending domestic destination for Indian travellers traveling domestically witnessing a 220% increase in searches followed by Puducherry (200%)  and Mumbai (35%).

Top 10 most searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers travelling between October 31 and November 3, 2024

1. Udaipur
2. Puducherry
3. Mumbai
4. Goa
5. Jaipur
6. Bengaluru
7. Ooty
8. Kodaikanal
9. Lonavala
10. Hyderabad

Long Weekends: A Growing Trend Across All Ages

While the desire to make the most of the long weekends is common, distinct trends emerge across different traveller segments:

• Couples Seeking Serenity: Besides visiting metros like Mumbai and Bengaluru, couples are looking for charming escapes rich in culture and romantic settings. Udaipur, Puducherry and Jaipur are top choices.
• Family Travel Where Heritage Meets Fun: Families seek a blend of fun and exploration of India’s heritage. Udaipur, Goa, Jaipur, Hyderabad and Ooty are popular choices, allowing both historical exploration and exciting experiences.
• Social Connections and Thrills: Adventure and social connections are top priorities for groups. The stunning palaces of Udaipur and Jaipur, along with the pristine beaches of Goa, Puducherry and Varkala, attract groups seeking relaxation, reconnection and exploration together.
• Solo Travellers Seeking A Mix of Experiences: Solo travellers desire a balance between connecting with family and friends while exploring cities offering diverse experiences. Bustling nightlife, historical landmarks, and local cuisines draw solo travellers to Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad and Chennai.

International getaways gain traction

With increased connectivity and relaxed visa processes, short-haul international destinations are gaining traction during the festive period. From the glitz and glamour of Dubai, to the vibrant city of Singapore and the bustling streets of Bangkok, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, making them favourites among Indian travellers this Diwali. Searches for these destinations have surged by 65%, 74%, and 95%, respectively.

Top searched international destinations by Indian travellers travelling between October 31 and November 3, 2024

1. Dubai
2. Singapore
3. Bangkok
4. London
5. Makkah
6. Kuala Lumpur
7. Tokyo
8. Phuket
9. Paris
10. Abu Dhabi

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com said, “As Indians embrace the spirit of Diwali and seek enriching experiences, we’re thrilled to witness the surge in searches across both domestic and international destinations. Booking.com is dedicated to making these festive getaways seamless and memorable. With our comprehensive platform, travellers can easily find the perfect accommodations, book convenient flights and plan exciting activities all on one platform, making this Diwali a truly unforgettable journey for everyone.”