Airbnb has unveiled new data showcasing the nation’s evolving travel landscape, driven by a growing enthusiasm for domestic exploration as well as international adventures
The surge in domestic travel has been remarkable, with overall domestic bookings growing by more than 30% year-over-year. This growth stems from more people looking for long weekend getaways, planning road trips and experiential travel, and more recently curating trips around religious/cultural and entertainment events, like the Maha Kumbh Mela or a concert.
Leading the charge are vibrant destinations that capture India’s diverse appeal. Goa maintains its position as the most-booked destination, renowned for its year-round leisure and cultural experiences. Following Goa, urban centers including Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Pune and Hyderabad have shown impressive growth, driven by work travel, events & conferences and most importantly given the proximity of several tourist destinations.
On the international front, Indian travelers are increasingly exploring vibrant global destinations. Popular choices include Dubai, London, Kuala Lumpur, Milan, Bangkok, and Paris — each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and entertainment. Whether it’s the shopping and modern attractions of Dubai, the rich history of London, or the romantic charm of Paris, these cities continue to capture the imagination of Indian explorers, further reflecting the growing global travel aspirations of Indian travelers.
The platform witnessed growth throughout 2024, with group travel (2+ travellers) in India emerging as a key trend – bookings for larger groups increased by more than 30% as friends, colleagues, and interest-based communities prioritized shared experiences. Gen Z travelers from India doubled their bookings in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to 2023, while millennial bookings surged by almost 30%. Traveler preferences evolved significantly, with increased demand for Airbnb categories like stays near national parks and in iconic cities, tropical stays, and homes with amazing pools.
“Our platform continues to serve as a bridge between cultures, connecting travelers with authentic local travel experiences. By empowering hosts across India to share their homes and traditions, we’re fostering meaningful cultural exchanges while supporting local economies. We look forward to hosting more travelers and continuing to connect people through unique, local experiences on Airbnb.” said Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb‘s Country Head for India & Southeast Asia.
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