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Festive holiday travel in India is evolving from simple getaways to purposeful celebrations
Whether it’s short experiential escapes, sustainable stays, or wellness retreats, the festive spirit is no longer confined to home. Indians are shaping a new narrative—where travel itself becomes a festival of togetherness and discovery
The festival season is around the corner, and Indian families are increasingly leveraging these holidays for gatherings and togetherness. In recent years, the idea of a festive break has taken a dramatic turn due to rising disposable incomes, exposure to global cultures, and the ease of travel. This shift has created opportunities to blend celebration with exploration, turning festivals into memorable vacations.
When it comes to festival travel, Indians are embracing a more experiential approach. From quick weekend escapes to adventurous getaways, their choices reflect broader lifestyle shifts. This evolving mindset marks a new era of honoring traditions through travel. Here are some of the key festive holiday travel trends shaping how Indians celebrate on the move.
“Festive travel in India isn’t what it used to be. The old rush to hill stations or hometowns has given way to something bigger, journeys that are bolder, seamless, and deeply personal,” said Ashish Sidhra, Co-founder, Alike. He highlighted three major shifts this season:
First, visa-free access and relaxed policies are opening doors to destinations Indians once only dreamed of. From Dubai’s desert skylines to Thailand’s islands, travelers are choosing festive getaways that are quick, convenient, and global.
Second, there’s a clear move towards flexible, tech-powered planning. Travellers don’t want fixed packages, they want the freedom to shape trips their own way. “With Eia, our new AI trip planner, we’re seeing huge traction because it gives people exactly that the power to plan, personalise, and book in one place without the chaos of juggling tabs,” he explained.
Third, festive holidays have become identity-led experiences. “It’s not just a break; it’s a statement. From film-inspired trails in Europe to road trips that turn into stories worth sharing, Indians are travelling to create memories that reflect who they are. Festive holidays today aren’t defined by where you go, but by how effortlessly and meaningfully you experience them.”
Naresh Sharma, CEO, IRHPL Group of Companies, whose F&B brand Susegado Microbrewery operates under the Radiance business umbrella, noted a significant shift in festive travel, particularly in Goa. He explained that holiday travel is no longer just about rituals at home; it’s about creating shared experiences in new places. Travelers now seek destinations where they can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, immerse themselves in local culture, and feel a sense of togetherness. This trend in Goa combines modern hospitality with sustainability, allowing visitors to enjoy the state’s natural and cultural beauty.
Short and Experiential Getaways
In today’s fast-paced world, it has become increasingly hard to plan long vacations, especially during festive seasons when work and family commitments overlap. This has led to a significant demand for short, experiential getaways to nearby locations like Manali, Jaipur, or retreats in Goa. These trips allow people to rejuvenate without extensive planning.
Such escapes often focus on experiences rather than just sightseeing be it adventure sports in Rishikesh or cultural walks in Hampi. Long weekends, improved expressway connectivity, and regional flights have further fueled this trend. For urban professionals, mini breaks during festivals are the perfect way to celebrate traditions while also taking a well-deserved pause.
Harshal Dilwali, Director & CEO, Clarissa Resorts, said, “The festive season has always been a peak travel period in India, but this year we’re seeing a sharper surge driven by pent-up demand and a growing preference for meaningful experiences. Travelers are increasingly opting for immersive stays that blend comfort, nature, and wellness rather than conventional getaways. Destinations within easy driving distance of metros are witnessing high demand, as families and groups prefer short, convenient breaks over long-haul travel. Luxury resorts, boutique stays, and experiential retreats in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are booking out much earlier than usual. Another strong trend is the focus on personalization—curated dining, wellness programs, and outdoor activities are now top priorities. This festive rush is not only about higher travel volumes but also about travelers choosing quality-driven, memorable escapes that resonate with their lifestyle.”
Tech-Savvy and Sustainable Choices
Technology is shaping almost every aspect of life, and festive travel is no exception. Indian travelers increasingly rely on mobile apps for everything from flight bookings to itinerary planning. Many apps now use AI to recommend customised festive packages, simplifying the process with digital payments and e-visas.
Alongside tech, there’s growing awareness of eco-friendly travel. Families are choosing sustainable accommodations such as eco-resorts, homestays with local communities, and hotels that promote green practices. Many also shop from local artisans, showing a conscious effort to celebrate festivals without compromising the environment.
Rise of Wellness & Spiritual Tourism
Another interesting festive travel trend is the rise of spiritual tourism, as Indian families merge tradition with wellness. Festivals are a time for reflection, gratitude, and connecting with cultural roots. This sentiment is now extending to travel choices, with pilgrimages to Varanasi, Ayodhya, Kolkata, and Amritsar gaining popularity.
Many are combining wellness with spiritual journeys such as yoga retreats in Rishikesh or meditation camps in Kerala making spiritual tourism a holistic experience.
Sharma also highlighted that Goa provides a perfect blend of traditional celebration and modern wellness. “Goa offers opportunities to experience local culture while also finding peace on its beaches and in nature. This approach appeals to a wide range of people—from older generations seeking spiritual experiences to younger travelers focused on mindfulness and balance, solidifying Goa’s position as a hub for intentional holiday vacations.”
Aaditya Mishra, Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer, Luxorides, added, “The festive season in India has redefined the way people approach holiday travel. It’s no longer just about reaching a destination; it’s about making the journey itself an experience. At Luxorides, we are seeing a marked shift towards premium mobility, where families, couples, and even groups of friends prefer luxury cars that offer comfort, safety, and a sense of occasion. Scenic drives to the hills, city celebrations, and even visits to ancestral homes are being elevated with sedans, SUVs, and convertibles. The message is clear: travelers want their journey to reflect their lifestyle choices. This festive season, demand trends show that people are prioritizing style and exclusivity as much as the destination itself.”
Festive holiday travel in India is evolving from simple getaways to purposeful celebrations. Today’s travelers are combining traditions with exploration, choosing journeys that reflect aspiration. Whether it’s short experiential escapes, sustainable stays, or wellness retreats, the festive spirit is no longer confined to home. Indians are shaping a new narrative where travel itself becomes a festival of togetherness and discovery.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
