In today’s dynamic landscape of global tourism, Indian travellers are emerging as pioneers – redefining travel through purpose, curiosity, and connection. They’re no longer just tourists; they’re storytellers, learners, and cultural ambassadors. In this new era, travel isn’t just about going somewhere, it’s about becoming someone.
The Evolving Indian Traveller: From Aspirations to Action
In the first two months of 2025 alone, over 50 lakh Indians traveled abroad – a 6% increase compared to the same period last year, according to Ministry of Tourism data1. This surge can be attributed to factors such as growing disposable incomes, easier access to international destinations and a new generation of travellers that values experiences over possessions. From strolling along the Seine in Paris to reconnecting with family in Dubai or seeking the Northern Lights in Norway, Indian travellers are chasing not just sights but stories.
Closer to home, domestic travel is also thriving. Airbnb saw a 35% year-on-year growth in domestic bookings in Q4 2024, led largely by Millennials and Gen Z. Nearly 90% of first-time Indian bookers this year came from these groups, with Gen Z alone showing over 60% growth2. Beyond metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, destinations like Goa, Jaipur, Dehradun, Kullu, Puducherry, and Varanasi have emerged as preferred destinations offering immersive, culture rich travel experiences3.
Beyond the Sights: Seeking Meaningful Moments
Today’s Indian traveller is moving beyond packaged itineraries. They’re leaning into “slow travel” – staying longer, going deeper, and engaging with local communities. Whether it’s a family practicing yoga in Bali, a couple learning to cook local cuisine in Sicily, or a solo traveller attending a tribal art festival in Gujarat, these immersive experiences foster understanding and empathy.
Travel has become a global classroom. This May, Airbnb expanded its collection of local hosted Experiences from Korean pottery sessions to tea ceremonies in Kyoto turning destinations into stories that stay with travellers long after they return home.
The Joy of Shared Journeys
Group travel is also on the rise. In 2024, Airbnb saw a 30% increase in group bookings from India, with family trips and duo escapes leading the charge4. Whether it’s a multigenerational holiday in Goa or a friend’s getaway to Italy, for many Indian travellers, the magic lies not just in the place but in sharing the journey together.
Social Media, Cultural Moments, and the Rise of Travel as Expression
Social media has become the new travel journal. Visual storytelling inspires journeys, while creators shape itineraries More and more, travel is tied to cultural moments like attending global concerts, cheering Team India abroad, or attending concerts with diasporic communities. These experiences have become new milestones, not just vacations.
In doing so, Indian travellers are reshaping the global tourism economy, bringing not just economic value, but cultural vibrancy and a spirit of discovery that leaves a lasting impression on communities worldwide.
Looking Ahead: Shaping the World, One Journey at a Time
Today, travel is so much more than a getaway, it’s a force for personal growth and cultural exchange. By choosing to stay at homestays, dining at family-run eateries, and shopping from local artisans they are shaping a more connected, compassionate tourism economy.
As this movement grows, Airbnb remains committed to enabling immersive, personalized, and culture-rich travel. With a redesigned app unifying Homes and Experiences into one seamless platform, Indian travellers now have everything they need-at the click of a button- to keep shaping the world, one meaningful trip at a time.
Amanpreet Singh Bajaj is Country Head, Airbnb India & Southeast Asia