India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - New Destinations Beckon as Travelers Look Inward
As international borders remain closed or restricted, Indian travelers have begun exploring the breadth of their own country. Destinations once overlooked are now eagerly sought as people venture to corners of India they've never visited before.
Kerala has become an increasingly popular destination, especially among nature lovers. Its lush forests, serene backwaters, and unspoiled beaches make it an ideal retreat from crowded cities. Houseboats have seen a surge in bookings as people float peacefully along Kerala's palm-lined canals. The state's local cuisine, which features coconut, spices and seafood, is also a major draw.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are another emerging hotspot. Their tropical charm, secluded beaches and world-class diving make them feel far removed from the Indian mainland. Upscale resorts have opened to cater to discerning travelers seeking a dreamy island getaway without leaving the country.
Leh and Ladakh have become magnets for adventure seekers looking to trade beaches for mountain vistas. Trekking, mountain biking, and even skiing are on offer against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Travelers journey to remote Buddhist monasteries and stay in charming homestays for an immersive cultural experience.
Less expected destinations like Gujarat and Rajasthan have also gained popularity as people explore beyond India's usual tourist circuit. Ancient stepwells, textile traditions, and mouthwatering Gujarati fare entice visitors to western India. Meanwhile, Rajasthan's legendary palaces and vibrant local festivals draw crowds from across the country.
As Anjali, a Mumbai resident, remarked, "I've traveled all over Europe and Southeast Asia, but hadn't seen many places in India apart from the typical Golden Triangle route. The pandemic made me realize how much amazing culture and natural beauty exists right here in my own country."
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - Pandemic Prompts Shift from International to Local Exploration
The COVID-19 pandemic put a hard stop on international travel, grounding flights and closing borders around the world. For Indian globe-trotters used to journeying abroad, it was an adjustment to remain within the country’s borders. Yet necessity bred discovery as people unearthed just how much India itself has to offer.
With overseas vacations off the table, travelers began taking a closer look at domestic destinations. Places they may have previously overlooked or dismissed were suddenly back on the radar. Beaches, jungles, mountains, deserts – India abounds with natural beauty waiting to be explored. For urbanites weary of the hustle and bustle of daily life, a change of scenery rejuvenated the spirit.
I spoke with Priya, a resident of Delhi who pre-pandemic visited Europe annually. “I was devastated when my trip to France was cancelled,” she said. “But I ended up having an incredible time in Meghalaya. The rolling hills and waterfalls were like something out of a movie.” Places prized for their remoteness and lack of crowds held special appeal.
Others found themselves returning to childhood vacation spots, experiencing them through adult eyes. Rediscovering the magic of these destinations was profoundly rewarding. “Mysore Palace was just as majestic as I remembered from my school field trip 20 years ago,” remarked Ravi, who spent a weekend revisiting the grand interior and strolling the lavish grounds.
The urge to travel closer to home unearthed hidden gems. Secluded beaches dotted with swaying palms, mist-veiled mountains echoing with Buddhist chants, star-filled night skies over the desert – rounds of applause for India’s supporting actors that had spent too long waiting in the wings.
Yash, a nature photographer based in Bangalore, gushed about his trip to the Gandikota Canyon in Andhra Pradesh. “It's so vast and looks as rugged as the Grand Canyon, but hardly anyone knows about it,” he raved. “I captured the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets.”
Travel companies responded with special tours focused on domestic destinations. "We saw a major uptick in demand for trips within India,” said Raj of Leisure India Travel. “We created a variety of new state-specific itineraries, like heritage tours of Assam and jungle safaris in Madhya Pradesh."
Pandemic anxiety has also pushed people to avoid crowds and seek socially-distanced vacations. Remote mountain hamlets, secluded resorts by the lakeside, camping under starry skies satiated this craving for solitude. Slow travel was in.
"I'd always viewed India as a place to leave, not explore,” admitted Sonia, a frequent International flyer. “But road-tripping through Ladakh last summer changed my perspective. The endless landscapes and quiet villages washed my wanderlust fatigue away.”
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - Domestic Air Travel Recovers While International Lags
While international flights remain sparse, India’s domestic air travel has staged an impressive recovery. Daily passenger numbers now exceed pre-pandemic levels as people flock to the skies for inter-state travel. Domestic capacity stood at 96% of its pre-COVID levels in December 2022, according to aviation consultancy CAPA.
This resurgence was no easy feat considering the devastation the travel industry initially faced. When the virus first erupted, domestic travel plummeted, with many Indian airlines left flying almost empty “ghost planes” to avoid losing valuable airport slots. But after India’s initial lockdown eased, flights gradually resumed.
Pent-up wanderlust, coupled with limited overseas options, put Indian destinations back on the travel map. Air travel felt safer than lengthy train journeys. And after being cooped up for months, people yearned for the freedom of flight.
I spoke with Sanjay, a real estate executive in Hyderabad, who booked a suite at a Goa beach resort as soon as flights reopened. “I was so stressed being trapped in my apartment all day with video calls. I needed someplace peaceful to rejuvenate my mind.”
The allure of tropical idylls like Goa remains strong, with direct flights regularly selling out months in advance. But India’s regional hubs are also thriving as business travel restarts. Flights connect major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore as professionals resume in-person client meetings.
Meanwhile, leisure demand fuels expansion to smaller airports. SpiceJet now flies from Surat to Jabalpur and Gwalior, opening new tourism markets. IndiGo launched Agartala to Pune service, linking Northeast India with western metropolises. This improved connectivity makes domestic travel easier than ever.
Anirban, a finance executive in Kolkata, leveraged the expanded network to indulge his passion for birdwatching. “I used to think accessing remote wildlife areas was too difficult,” he explained. “But now I can fly direct to Guwahati and visit Kaziranga National Park to spot rhinos and rare species.”
Luxury travelers thirsty for five-star pampering are also taking to the skies. High-end brands like Taj and Oberoi boast resorts across India promising indulgent spa treatments and gourmet dining with a side of stunning vistas.
Rhea, a jewelry designer in Delhi, recently cashed in points for an upgrade to business class on Vistara. “I felt like royalty lounging in my pod on the flight to Udaipur and being driven to my lake-view suite at Oberoi Udaivilas,” she enthused.
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - Train Travel Surges as Indians Rediscover the Country's Diversity
As international borders remain closed or restricted, Indian travelers have begun exploring the breadth of their own country. Destinations once overlooked are now eagerly sought as people venture to corners of India they've never visited before.
Kerala has become an increasingly popular destination, especially among nature lovers. Its lush forests, serene backwaters, and unspoiled beaches make it an ideal retreat from crowded cities. Houseboats have seen a surge in bookings as people float peacefully along Kerala's palm-lined canals. The state's local cuisine, which features coconut, spices and seafood, is also a major draw.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are another emerging hotspot. Their tropical charm, secluded beaches and world-class diving make them feel far removed from the Indian mainland. Upscale resorts have opened to cater to discerning travelers seeking a dreamy island getaway without leaving the country.
Leh and Ladakh have become magnets for adventure seekers looking to trade beaches for mountain vistas. Trekking, mountain biking, and even skiing are on offer against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Travelers journey to remote Buddhist monasteries and stay in charming homestays for an immersive cultural experience.
Less expected destinations like Gujarat and Rajasthan have also gained popularity as people explore beyond India's usual tourist circuit. Ancient stepwells, textile traditions, and mouthwatering Gujarati fare entice visitors to western India. Meanwhile, Rajasthan's legendary palaces and vibrant local festivals draw crowds from across the country.
As Anjali, a Mumbai resident, remarked, "I've traveled all over Europe and Southeast Asia, but hadn't seen many places in India apart from the typical Golden Triangle route. The pandemic made me realize how much amazing culture and natural beauty exists right here in my own country."
With overseas vacations off the table, travelers began taking a closer look at domestic destinations. Places they may have previously overlooked or dismissed were suddenly back on the radar. Beaches, jungles, mountains, deserts – India abounds with natural beauty waiting to be explored. For urbanites weary of the hustle and bustle of daily life, a change of scenery rejuvenated the spirit.
I spoke with Priya, a resident of Delhi who pre-pandemic visited Europe annually. “I was devastated when my trip to France was cancelled,” she said. “But I ended up having an incredible time in Meghalaya. The rolling hills and waterfalls were like something out of a movie.” Places prized for their remoteness and lack of crowds held special appeal.
Others found themselves returning to childhood vacation spots, experiencing them through adult eyes. Rediscovering the magic of these destinations was profoundly rewarding. “Mysore Palace was just as majestic as I remembered from my school field trip 20 years ago,” remarked Ravi, who spent a weekend revisiting the grand interior and strolling the lavish grounds.
The urge to travel closer to home unearthed hidden gems. Secluded beaches dotted with swaying palms, mist-veiled mountains echoing with Buddhist chants, star-filled night skies over the desert – rounds of applause for India’s supporting actors that had spent too long waiting in the wings.
Yash, a nature photographer based in Bangalore, gushed about his trip to the Gandikota Canyon in Andhra Pradesh. “It's so vast and looks as rugged as the Grand Canyon, but hardly anyone knows about it,” he raved. “I captured the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets.”
Travel companies responded with special tours focused on domestic destinations. "We saw a major uptick in demand for trips within India,” said Raj of Leisure India Travel. “We created a variety of new state-specific itineraries, like heritage tours of Assam and jungle safaris in Madhya Pradesh."
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - Luxury Hotels Court Local Travelers with New Amenities and Deals
India's luxury hotels have turned their focus inward during the pandemic, catering more to domestic travelers with enticing amenities and travel deals. While international tourism remains restricted, high-end hotel chains realize the enormous potential in engaging local clientele. Indians with disposable income are eager to vacation in style without leaving the country.
Brands like Taj, ITC and Oberoi have upped the ante, enhancing their properties with new features to wow well-heeled domestic guests. Swanky pool villas allow for intimate escapes, while private butler service and luxury car transfers make travelers feel like royalty. Providing bespoke experiences is key, like Champagne breakfasts on secluded terraces or romantic beach dinners for two.
ITC Hotels now offers signature rituals at its spas based on ancient Indian wellness traditions, like Abhyanga massage and chakra balancing. Health-conscious guests enjoy yoga and meditation with views of mountains or the ocean. Oberoi's new "Wellness Floor" provides healthy menu choices and sleep-inducing bedding. Little luxuries, from nightly chocolate turndowns to scented oil lamps, are appreciated by travelers accustomed to international-standard indulgence.
In locales like Goa and Kerala, five-star resorts have added sparkling new pools and beach clubs serving gourmet coastal cuisine. Private cabanas come with full butler service and infinity pools. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Goa highlights its tropical flower garden suites and treatments using locally-sourced coconut, spices and cane sugar at Jiva Spa.
These premium brands also run attractive deals and packages to court local travelers, like discounted all-inclusive packages with spa credits or room upgrades. Complimentary nights, resort credits, and meals for kids make luxury more accessible for Indian families. Special monsoon promotions promise rain-soaked romance, while "workation" packages target mobile professionals.
Targeted value-adds draw new guests, as Ishaan a Bangalore techie discovered: "I booked Oberoi Udaivilas' long weekend offer including yoga sessions, lake cruises and a 30% discount at the spa. I felt like a king sipping cocktails in my private pool."
Lavina, a Mumbai housewife and frequent foreign traveler commented: "I was pleasantly surprised by ITC Grand Goa's 'Suite Life' promotion including champagne breakfast and a couples' massage. The beach butler service felt straight out of the Maldives."
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - Eco-Tourism Offers Sustainable Options for Conscious Travelers
Seeking meaningful connections with nature, more Indian travelers are turning to eco-tourism, favoring sustainable travel choices that nurture the planet. With coral reefs bleaching and glaciers melting, environmentally-conscious sightseers realize their impact and dollar votes matter. India offers plentiful options to experience rich biodiversity while supporting local communities - no flights required.
I recently joined a cycling tour along Puducherry's backroads with Tread Lightly India. We rode past rice paddies and stopped to photograph water lilies floating serenely on ponds. At night, guides lit lanterns and told stories about the area's history. The sustainably-run guesthouse served delicious vegetarian meals made from locally sourced ingredients. All transportation was emission-free. I met incredible people while keeping my carbon footprint low.
Wildlife enthusiasts are choosing eco-sensitive parks like Satpura Tiger Reserve over more popular reserves plagued by crowds. Small jeeps minimize disturbance to delicate habitats unlike lumbering buses packed with noisy tourists. Trained naturalist guides provide rare sightings of leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas and hundreds of exotic birds. Visitors also learn about conservation initiatives supporting endangered species.
In the Western Ghats, an eco-tour of Kinnaur's apple orchards reveals remote Himalayan villages untouched by time. Gracious hosts serve home-cooked Himachali fare and tea brewed from handpicked herbs. The area abounds with sacred groves and ancient trees wrapped in prayer flags. Locals rely on ethically-aware tourists to sustain their livelihoods while preserving traditions.
Conscious companies like EcoYatra enable immersive learning adventures focused on India's astonishing biodiversity. Expert-guided wildlife hikes, birdwatching walks, and educational jungle camps engage young people's innate curiosity. Families bond while developing empathy for the natural world. Avoiding polluting motor coaches, groups travel together in electric vehicles charged by solar and hydropower.
Luxury glamping operator Ren Gypsy takes eco-chic stays off-grid beside timeless lakes and soaring sand dunes. Spacious, solar-powered tents made from recycled materials minimize environmental impact. After days spent hiking or camel-riding, guests enjoy eco-friendly amenities like chemical-free toiletries under the endless Outback sky.
More urbanites now choose eco-homestays over conventional hotels. In tucked-away corners like Coorg and Varkala, renovated heritage houses feature light-filled courtyards and verdant gardens bursting with medicinal plants. Meals highlight regional produce and owners provide insider tips on conscious businesses supporting organic coffee growers or litter cleanup drives. Unscripted encounters with local people reveal our shared commitment to protecting Mother Earth.
India's Wanderlust: How Domestic Tourism is Booming While Outbound Travel Stalls - Cuisine Becomes a Draw as Foodies Sample Regional Specialties
India's incredible regional cuisines are stepping into the spotlight, enticing food-focused travelers to journey across the subcontinent sampling distinctive flavors. Craving fiery Chettinad pepper chicken or subtle Kashmiri dum aloo? You needn't book a flight overseas – just hop a domestic flight or train to savor authentic dishes in their native element.
"I thought I knew Indian food from all the restaurants back home in Mumbai," admits Neil, a relocated tech engineer. "Then I took a gastronomic tour of Rajasthan. Eating laal maas, the fieriest lamb curry, in an old haveli in Jodhpur with local musicians performing, it was a revelation."
Beyond biryani and butter chicken, India's lesser-known cuisines dazzle with complex spices, cooking techniques, and ingredient combinations. Foodies plan travel itineraries around sampling regional specialty dishes. Attending a traditional sadya feast at a Kerala homestay or mastering hand-pulled noodles in the Himalayas brings you closer to local culture.
"I joined a cooking class with a Zamindar family in Lucknow," describes Sonam, a corporate lawyer. "Learning to cook intricate Awadhi cuisine like kebabs and korma in their ancestral mansion brought history alive through food."
For the ultimate immersive experience, the new breed of culinary travel companies like Culinary Culture Connect customize tours guided by expert chefs. Journey across Karnataka tasting iconic bites like benne dosa and bisi bele bath paired with visits to heritage sites and local farms.
Food and hotel writer Nikita Dosani remarks, "I recently joined Citrus Holidays' gastro-tour of Meghalaya, where we foraged for wild mushrooms, sipped tea in lush plantations, and feasted on indigenous Khasi cuisine. An eye-opening look at India's remarkable food heritage."
Wellness retreats now highlight nutritious Indian superfoods like millets and ancient grains on their organic menus. The Manipur maple tree's antibacterial leaves flavor tangy chutneys. Nutty red adzuki beans star in Himachal salads. Food is medicine.
"After my escape to Ananda in the Himalayas, I lost 5 kilos in a week thanks to their focus on yoga, ayurveda and satvik meals made from wholesome local ingredients," remarks Neha, a hypertensive educator. "No more heavy cream!"
Regional Indian wines made from indigenous table grapes are improving vastly, complementing complex curries. Brands like Fratelli and KRSMA offer fine food pairings. Craft breweries like Simba quench thirsts with inventive ales.
