This Indian City Has Quietly Become the Country’s Most Sought-After Travel Destination for 2026
This Indian City Has Quietly Become the Country’s Most Sought-After Travel Destination for 2026
Gone are the days when travel plans revolved around just ticking off global hotspots. In 2026, Indian travelers are rewriting the rulebook — and their latest favorite isn’t a European capital or a Southeast Asian beach paradise. It’s Jorhat, a soulful gem nestled in the heart of Assam, that’s now topping the wishlists.
Skyscanner’s newly released Travel Trends 2026 Report reveals a remarkable shift in traveler preferences — and Jorhat has emerged as the frontrunner with a whopping 493% spike in travel searches. What makes this even more surprising is that this small, culture-rich city has surged ahead of global icons like Phuket, Berlin, and Langkawi. Clearly, India’s explorers are craving more than just sightseeing – they’re after something deeper.
Why Jorhat? Here’s What’s Fueling the Buzz
Known for its lush tea gardens, deep-rooted heritage, and proximity to Majuli, the world’s largest river island, Jorhat offers a captivating mix of history, nature, and tradition. Unlike the overtouristed cities packed with selfie spots, Jorhat invites you into its rhythm – slow, serene, and soulful.
This rise isn’t random. Indian travelers today are seeking more meaningful, personal journeys. Culture, wellness, and a break from the city rush top their lists. According to the report, 1 in 3 Indians now avoid crowded tourist hubs, preferring authentic, off-the-map destinations where they can truly connect – with the place and themselves.
Travel is No Longer Just About ‘Where’ – But ‘Why’
According to Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert at Skyscanner, there’s been a clear pivot toward “meaning-led travel”. More people want their trips to reflect their personality and passions – whether that’s spiritual exploration, eco-tourism, or cultural immersion.
Interestingly, it’s not just about budget or going local. Despite rising travel enthusiasm, people remain cost-conscious, carefully planning their trips to balance experience with expenditure. 59% of Indian travelers plan to travel more in 2026, with many saying they’re ready to spend the same or even more on flights and accommodation – as long as it offers real value.
Food, visa ease, and stay options remain critical deciding factors – but the drive for authenticity and wellness is clearly shaping choices in powerful ways.
Other Rising Stars on the Travel Radar
While Jorhat stole the spotlight, it’s not alone in this trend shift. Destinations like Jaffna (Sri Lanka) and Muscat (Oman) are also drawing major attention, offering rich cultural experiences and offbeat exploration.
Meanwhile, Tirupati in India and Langkawi in Malaysia are gaining popularity as value-for-money destinations, showing that affordability and spiritual or scenic beauty can go hand-in-hand. Mini Sood Banerjee, Marketing Director at Laneige India, points out how beauty and wellness tourism continues to guide travel decisions, with more travelers looking for journeys that nourish body, mind, and soul.
