Agoda Reports 67 Percent Surge in International Travel Interest to India for Diwali 2025

International

South Korea leads growth; strong demand also seen from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the U.S.

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.”