32% Increase in Indians Taking Two or More International Trips Yearly, Most from Delhi and Maharashtra: MakeMyTrip

A notable trend has emerged among Indians, particularly those from Delhi and Maharashtra, who are increasingly traveling abroad. Over the past year, there has been a remarkable 32% rise in the number of Indians undertaking two or more international trips. This shift reflects a growing desire to fully embrace life, encapsulated in the popular sentiment that we only live once.

According to a recent report by MakeMyTrip, titled ‘How India Travels Abroad,’ there has been a remarkable increase in international travel among Indians from June 2023 to May 2024. Popular destinations include Thailand and the USA while emerging locations like Kazakhstan are gaining traction among travelers.

The findings indicate that many are recognizing the value of incorporating enjoyment into their lives. 

Additionally, the report highlights a significant surge in interest in international travel from regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. It also notes a growing trend towards luxury travel, with an increasing preference for homestays and villas, indicating that travelers are willing to invest in comfort and quality experiences.

Let us explore some of the noteworthy elements highlighted in the report.

There has been a significant rise in the number of Indians venturing to international destinations, with a fascinating trend emerging: accommodations in these areas are frequently booked at least two weeks before travel.

Cities such as Almaty, Baku, and Hong Kong are increasingly attracting the attention of Indian travelers, showing the most substantial growth in search activity.

Moreover, destinations like Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, Kathmandu, and Bali are also becoming quite popular among Indian tourists.

The highest volume of last-minute flight bookings was recorded for Oman, Nepal, and the UAE, while Greece, Canada, and Indonesia led the way for bookings made well in advance.

People from Kerala often exhibit a tendency to arrange their travel plans on short notice, with a considerable number of bookings made merely 0 to 6 days before departure. Similarly, travelers from Punjab can also be described as spontaneous in their travel choices.

On the other hand, there is a distinct inclination among South Indians towards international beach destinations. Tourists hailing from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana show a particular interest in overseas beach locales.

“As disposable incomes rise, exposure to diverse global cultures increases, and travel becomes more accessible, a growing number of Indians are venturing into both domestic and international destinations for leisure and business purposes. While domestic tourism continues to thrive, our recent findings underscore significant shifts in international travel behavior, influenced by macroeconomic factors that are driving the increase in travel among Indians,” stated Rajesh Magow, co-founder and group CEO of MakeMyTrip.