Agoda Reports Growing Travel Interest in India During Diwali Week
Agoda’s latest travel data shows a notable increase in interest in India as a travel destination during the upcoming Diwali week. Overall searches combining both domestic and international travelers have risen by 24 percent.
Domestic travel continues to be a major focus during this festive period, with searches within India up by 18 percent. At the same time, international interest is rising even faster, with inquiries from overseas travelers increasing by 67 percent compared to the previous year.
Strong Demand from International Markets
Among the top international markets, South Korea stands out with searches growing more than forty-five times from last year. Southeast Asian countries are also showing strong demand, with interest from Thailand nearly doubling and searches from Malaysia up by 25 percent. Outside the Asia-Pacific region, the United Arab Emirates recorded an 87 percent rise in interest, while searches from the United States increased by 28 percent, highlighting India’s appeal across both regional and long-haul markets.
Diwali as a Cultural Highlight
Diwali continues to attract travelers not just for its dazzling lights and fireworks, but for the opportunity to experience India’s rich cultural heritage, festive cuisine, and family-centered celebrations. The combination of visual spectacle, cultural immersion, and communal festivities makes Diwali a compelling reason for travelers from both India and abroad to visit each year.
Top Destinations for Diwali Travel
Travelers during Diwali tend to choose destinations that offer a mix of cultural richness and festive energy. Goa emerged as the most searched destination for this period. Udaipur and Jaipur recorded significant increases in searches, rising by 49 percent and 46 percent respectively, reflecting their appeal as centers of cultural heritage. Searches for New Delhi doubled, while Mumbai saw an 18 percent increase, maintaining their status as key cities for visitors seeking to enjoy Diwali celebrations.
Agoda Insights
Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, commented on the trends, saying it is encouraging to see international travelers eager to engage with India’s cultural festivals. Diwali, with its emphasis on light, togetherness, and celebration, offers a unique experience for visitors. The rise in interest from emerging markets such as South Korea, alongside consistent demand from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, demonstrates how cultural travel appeals globally and reinforces India’s position as a vibrant and welcoming destination.