India, the summer season of 2025 is witnessing a marked increase in leisure travel, with Kolkata emerging as the top destination for holidaymakers, followed closely by Ahmedabad.
According to the latest travel data, these cities have seen an astonishing rise in interest, underscoring a growing desire for recreational getaways in non-metro locations. The surge in online searches for travel-related activities is a clear reflection of shifting preferences among travellers. According to Justdial’s recent report, nationwide search interest in leisure travel has grown by 21 per cent from February 1 to April 16, 2025, compared to the same period last year. This spike signifies that more people are seeking experiences beyond typical urban centres, and these trends are becoming increasingly evident across various cities.
Among metro cities, Kolkata stands out with an impressive 75 per cent surge in search queries, making it the most sought-after summer destination. The city’s unique blend of cultural heritage, riverside retreats, and nearby scenic locales has captured the attention of those looking for a peaceful yet enriching escape. Ahmedabad follows closely with an 85 per cent increase in search interest, reflecting a newfound appreciation for its blend of modernity and tradition. This has positioned both cities as key players in the leisure travel segment, with residents and tourists alike keen to explore what these destinations have to offer. Other metros such as Chennai and Mumbai have also seen notable increases in travel interest, with respective search jumps of 26 per cent and 22 per cent. However, it is the smaller cities and towns that are truly capturing the imagination of travellers in 2025. Non-metro areas have reported a 22 per cent increase in searches, outperforming metro regions slightly, indicating that the demand for leisure escapes is increasingly decentralised.
Cities like Chandigarh have experienced remarkable growth, with a 205 per cent surge in searches, while Lucknow follows closely with a 131 per cent increase. This suggests that many are opting for destinations outside traditional tourist hubs, perhaps driven by the desire to explore less crowded, more tranquil spots. Other non-metro cities like Vadodara, Coimbatore, and Indore have also recorded substantial rises in search volumes, reinforcing the notion that India’s tourism landscape is evolving to embrace a wider variety of locations. As people look for new types of vacation experiences, specific trends are emerging in accommodation and recreational preferences. Resorts tailored for corporate outings have seen a massive 143 per cent jump in searches, a reflection of the rise in team-building activities and corporate retreats post-pandemic. Bengaluru has seen a notable 395 per cent increase in this category, showcasing the city’s growing appeal as a business and leisure hub. Water park resorts are also trending, with a 74 per cent rise in searches, driven largely by demand for all-in-one leisure experiences that combine fun and relaxation.
The rise in interest for beach and village resorts is also noteworthy. Coastal destinations, particularly those in Mangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai, have seen a surge in searches, with Mangalore leading the way with a 89 per cent increase. Meanwhile, village resorts have gained popularity, with Pune seeing a dramatic 156 per cent increase in searches for rustic, off-the-grid escapes. Day trips and outdoor activities are also on the rise, with picnic spots experiencing a 34 per cent increase in search interest. Cities like Surat, Bangalore, and Delhi are leading this trend, reflecting a preference for quick, accessible nature escapes. The increasing number of pet-friendly resorts is another interesting development, with a 20 per cent rise in searches as more travellers seek to include their pets in vacation plans.
In terms of entertainment venues, theme parks and water parks have garnered increased interest, with Mumbai, Chennai, and Delhi showing significant search spikes. These trends highlight a broader movement towards integrated experiences, where entertainment, relaxation, and recreation converge to meet the demands of today’s diverse traveller. The substantial rise in search interest for both metro and non-metro destinations is an encouraging sign for the tourism industry, which is poised to see robust growth in 2025. With travellers increasingly seeking diverse experiences that combine leisure, culture, and outdoor exploration, cities like Kolkata and Ahmedabad are proving to be rising stars in India’s evolving travel landscape. As the summer season continues, the data reflects a growing enthusiasm for exploring both the well-known and lesser-explored corners of the country.
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