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Agoda Reports 67 Percent Surge in International Travel Interest to India for Diwali 2025
Digital travel platform Agoda has reported a sharp
increase in global travel interest to India ahead of Diwali 2025, with searches
from international travelers rising 67% year-on-year. Overall, combined
domestic and international searches for India grew by 24%, underlining the
festival’s growing appeal as both a cultural and travel event.
Rising demand from Asia and beyond
Domestic searches for travel within India climbed 18%,
while inbound interest from overseas visitors surged at nearly four times that
rate. Among the ten leading international markets, South Korea showed the most
remarkable growth, with searches rising more than 45-fold compared to last
year.
Southeast Asia also showed robust demand, with
searches from Thailand nearly doubling and those from Malaysia up 25%. Beyond
Asia-Pacific, travel interest from the United Arab Emirates rose 87%, and from
the United States by 28%, reflecting India’s widening appeal across both
regional and long-haul markets.
Cultural travel meets festive inspiration
For many travelers, Diwali’s attraction goes far
beyond its iconic lamps and fireworks. The festival offers an immersive
encounter with India’s heritage, cuisine, and community traditions, making it a
unique opportunity for cultural connection and celebration.
During the holiday week, travelers are favoring
destinations that combine festive vibrancy with local character. Goa emerged as
the most searched destination, while Udaipur and Jaipur saw searches rise by 49%
and 46%, respectively. New Delhi searches doubled, and Mumbai rose by 18%,
underscoring both cities’ roles as key gateways for Diwali experiences.
A global spotlight on Indian culture
“It’s wonderful to see so many international visitors
eager to experience the unique cultural festivals that India has to offer,”
said Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian
Ocean Islands at Agoda. “Diwali, with its traditions of light, community, and
celebration, offers an unmatched opportunity to engage with India’s cultural
fabric. The emergence of newer source markets such as South Korea, alongside
steady demand from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, shows how cultural travel
resonates across borders.”
Image Credit: © Agoda
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