India’s Festive Travel Searches Rise Nearly 40%; Varanasi Draws Gen Z Interest

Domestic festive-season travel searches by Indian users on Airbnb rose nearly 40 per cent year-on-year, with Varanasi emerging among the destinations attracting Gen Z travellers.

Searches by Gen Z users also increased almost 40 per cent, according to the platform’s data. Their preferred destinations spanned spiritual and cultural centres, beaches and cities, with North Goa, South Goa, Kolkata and Bengaluru also drawing interest.

The figures reflect searches on Airbnb rather than confirmed bookings or growth across India’s travel market.

SPIRITUAL STOPS AND BEACH BREAKS

Varanasi’s appeal among younger travellers places spiritual heritage alongside coastal holidays and urban experiences in the festive travel mix.

Kolkata’s celebrations, Goa’s beaches and Bengaluru’s city experiences featured alongside the pilgrimage destination, suggesting varied interests among Gen Z users.

Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Country Head, Airbnb India and Southeast Asia, said travellers were increasingly exploring destinations within India.

“Gen Z is leading the way, showing growing interest in destinations that bring together culture, spirituality, coastlines and vibrant city experiences,” he said.

Bajaj added that travellers were seeking stays that allowed them to explore independently, connect with local communities and spend time together.

FAMILY SEARCHES GROW OVER 40%

Searches by families increased more than 40 per cent year-on-year, with Srinagar, Kangra and Amritsar recording particularly strong growth.

Guwahati, Nashik and East Khasi Hills also attracted interest, reflecting demand for destinations combining nature, culture and local experiences.

INTEREST EXTENDS BEYOND CITIES

Searches for rural and non-urban destinations grew more than 30 per cent year-on-year.

Kurung Kumey in Arunachal Pradesh was among the places drawing growing interest, while established mountain destinations such as Shimla and Manali continued to attract travellers.

The platform’s data points to a diverse festive travel mix, although it does not establish how many searches will translate into trips.

With inputs from ANI