Where Indians Are Traveling This Festive Season – Trending Destinations & Smart Travel Tips for 2025
Festive travel in India is booming in 2025, with more families and solo travelers heading to top destinations like Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Goa. Whether you’re planning a short getaway from Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru, this guide reveals the most popular festive travel spots, booking trends, and smart tips to make your trip memorable and budget-friendly.
Why Festive Travel Is Surging in 2025
Indian travelers are embracing the festive season like never before. According to Thrillophilia, festive travel demand has jumped by 18% compared to last year. With Dussehra, Diwali, and Christmas around the corner, families, couples, and solo explorers are booking short, high-value trips to nearby destinations.
What’s driving this trend?
- Rising disposable income
- Flexible work-from-anywhere policies
- Attractive travel deals from platforms like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, and Cleartrip
- A desire to escape routine and celebrate in scenic locations
Top International Destinations for Indian Travelers
🌆 Dubai – The Festive Favorite
Dubai continues to be the top international pick for Indian travelers. With its visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders (with US/UK visa), luxury shopping, desert safaris, and Diwali-themed events, it’s a perfect blend of glam and tradition.
Why Indians love it:
- Direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kochi
- Family-friendly attractions like Global Village, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall
- Indian restaurants and cultural familiarity
Singapore – Clean, Compact & Cultural
Singapore is ideal for 4–6 day trips. It’s safe, clean, and packed with attractions like Sentosa Island, Gardens by the Bay, and Universal Studios.
Why it’s trending:
- Visa processing is smooth for Indian citizens
- Great for families and honeymooners
- Diwali celebrations at Little India
Thailand – Affordable & Exotic
Thailand offers a mix of beach relaxation and cultural exploration. Places like Phuket, Krabi, and Bangkok are buzzing with Indian tourists during the festive season.
Why it’s popular:
- Low-cost flights and accommodation
- Visa-on-arrival for Indians
- Great nightlife and shopping
Top Domestic Destinations for Festive Getaways
🏰 Rajasthan – Royal & Vibrant
Rajasthan is a top pick for heritage lovers. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur offer palaces, forts, and festive fairs.
Why it’s trending:
- Rich culture and architecture
- Diwali lights and local festivals
- Luxury stays in heritage hotels
🏔️ Himachal Pradesh – Chill in the Hills
For those seeking cooler weather and mountain views, Himachal is the go-to. Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala are perfect for a peaceful festive escape.
Why it’s loved:
- Scenic drives and cozy stays
- Snowfall in late December
- Adventure activities like paragliding and trekking
🌊 Goa – Beach Vibes & Festive Fun
Goa blends party vibes with spiritual calm. Whether you want to dance at beach clubs or attend Diwali pujas, Goa has it all.
Why it’s hot:
- Affordable flights and homestays
- Vibrant nightlife and beach shacks
- Festive events at churches and temples
Travel Trends & Booking Insights
- Short-haul trips dominate: Most Indians are opting for 4–6 day holidays instead of long international vacations.
- Asia-Pacific leads: Over 70% of international bookings are for nearby destinations like Dubai, Singapore, and Thailand.
- Domestic travel is strong: Rajasthan, Himachal, and Goa remain top choices for those staying within India.
- Online platforms rule: Thrillophilia, MakeMyTrip, and Cleartrip are seeing record bookings for festive travel.
Smart Tips for Festive Travelers
✅ Book Early
Festive season flights and hotels fill up fast. Booking 30–45 days in advance can save you up to 25%.
✅ Use Bank Offers
Credit cards from HDFC, ICICI, and SBI often offer cashback and discounts on travel platforms.
✅ Pack Light & Smart
For short trips, carry essentials only. Use packing cubes and keep festive wear wrinkle-free.
✅ Check Visa Rules
Always verify visa requirements before booking. Some destinations offer visa-on-arrival, while others need pre-approval.
✅ Travel Insurance
Festive travel can be unpredictable. A small investment in insurance can save you from big losses.
Celebrate With a Journey
Festive travel in 2025 is more than just a vacation—it’s a celebration of culture, connection, and discovery. Whether you’re flying to Dubai or driving to Rajasthan, the joy of exploring new places during Diwali, Christmas, or New Year is unmatched.
So pack your bags, grab those deals, and make this festive season unforgettable. From Hyderabad to Himachal, from Mumbai to Maldives—your perfect getaway is just a click away.
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