Millennials and Gen-Z are now choosing to visit religious sites; Click here to know

82 percent of Indian travelers are looking for destinations rich in local heritage and authentic experiences. This is why 2025 is being called the year of cultural tourism.

New Delhi: The new era of travel is constantly changing. It's no longer just about sightseeing, but has become a confluence of comfort, wellness, luxury, and immersive experiences. The top priority for travelers is now understanding the true spirit of a place, whether it's its culture, traditions, or local lifestyle.

This shift is evident in India as well: travelers are no longer simply aiming for sightseeing or entertainment, but rather connecting with culture and tradition. According to a new Skyscanner report, 82 percent of Indian travelers are looking for destinations rich in local heritage and authentic experiences. This is why 2025 is being called the year of cultural tourism.

Travelers immersed in festivals
Travel is no longer limited to sightseeing, but has also become a means of connecting with festivals. Today's travelers are planning their trips based on cultural events. According to the report, 76 percent of Indian travelers have changed their travel plans to attend a cultural event. Among these, Durga Puja in Kolkata, Lathmar Holi in Barsana, and Onam in Kerala are the most popular. Significantly, the new generation doesn't just attend these events, but actively participates in them, dancing, feasting, and being a part of the celebrations.

The survey also revealed that approximately 55 percent of Indian travelers have participated in some cultural event. Kashi, or Varanasi, in particular, is seeing a 76 percent increase in searches by 2025. Historical cities like Jaipur, Agra, and Hampi are also rapidly becoming travelers' favorites.

The Craze for Offbeat Destinations
The younger generation is now turning to lesser-known destinations. This is why 93 percent of travelers are looking for offbeat destinations. Whether it's the Tea Festival in Assam, the tribal festivals in Arunachal Pradesh, or the local heritage sites in Kerala, these are also becoming popular. Because there are fewer crowds and more experiences.

The New Face of Travel
This trend is most popular among millennials, at 84 percent, and Gen Z, at 80 percent. Interestingly, people are now increasingly choosing to travel with their families rather than traveling alone. According to the survey, 71 percent of travelers prefer to travel with family, 62 percent with friends, and 56 percent with their partners. Furthermore, 39 percent believe that a trip is meaningful only if they return having learned something new from the place or its people.