Where are some of the most popular places to travel in 2025?
These happening hangouts have had the biggest increases in searches over the past 12 months. *
Shillong, India–Increase+828%
Baku, Azerbaijan–Increase+744%
Langkawi, Malaysia–Increase+433%
Tromsø, Norway–Increase+251%
Tashkent, Uzbekistan–Increase+158%
Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia–Increase+133%
Colombo, Sri Lanka–Increase+120%
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia–Increase+116%
Krabi, Thailand–Increase+106%
Tokyo, Japan–Increase+87%
*Source: Destinations seeing increase in flight searches between 1 January 2024 and 30 June 2024 for travel throughout 2024 compared to the same period in 2023
The rise of unique and culturally rich destinations
We analysed tens of thousands of data points to understand what’s trending and why. It’s clear that smaller, alternative destinations are growing in popularity with Indian travellers, who are looking to explore beyond the mainstream in Europe and further afield.
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As travel trends evolve, more travellers are venturing beyond typical tourist spots, seeking unique and less-explored destinations that offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and accessibility.
01 Shillong
Known as the “Scotland of the East”, Shillong, India enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes, including lush hills, waterfalls, and pristine lakes. This hill station has become a social media sensation, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers. The government’s push for sustainable and eco-tourism adds to its appeal, making Shillong a top choice for conscious travellers.
02 Baku
Baku, Azerbaijan is emerging as a dynamic travel destination, offering an affordable European experience with a unique cultural flavour.
03 Langkawi
Langkawi‘s unmatched natural landscapes and pearl-white sand beaches make it a paradise for beach enthusiasts. Visa-free entry for Indian travellers and a strategic geographical location enhance its appeal. Whether you want to relax on its pristine beaches or explore its lush rainforests, Langkawi offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
04 Tromsø
Tromsø, Norway is among the world’s best locations to witness the aurora borealis, attracting travellers from across the globe. Tromsø’s magical winter wonderland offers excursions from fjord explorations to Northern Lights chases.
05 Tashkent
Tashkent, Uzbekistan is quickly gaining favour among budget-conscious travellers, offering a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank. The strong Indian Rupee against the Uzbekistani Som also makes Tashkent a hidden gem in Central Asia.
06 Al-Ula
From stargazing and adventure activities to art exhibitions and music festivals, al-Ula caters to a wide range of interests. It also boasts a rich tapestry of Islamic architecture and archaeological treasures.
07 Colombo
Colombo is experiencing a surge in popularity among Indian tourists due to visa-free access and new direct flights from major Indian cities, making it a quick and affordable Asian getaway for Indians due to its proximity.
08 Riyadh
Riyadh is rapidly transforming into a global destination, thanks to improved air connectivity, coupled with a thriving cultural scene. For Indian travellers, its ease of access, short flight duration, and the appeal of a visa-on-arrival policy are further points of convenience. And the city’s world-class shopping and luxury resorts offer a perfect blend of tradition and luxury sought by Indian tourists.
09 Krabi
Visa-free entry, a short-haul flight coupled with a vibrant mix of adventure, pristine beaches, and a dynamic nightlife, make Krabi a favourite among those seeking a tropical escape.
10 Tokyo
The new e-visa system and Tokyo’s growing appeal as a hub for anime, gaming, and cherry blossom experiences are driving Indian tourism. Alongside, direct flights from India and increasing interest in Japanese culture and Tokyo’s unique blend of tradition and modernity are fueling interest among Indians.
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These destinations are trending for a reason—they offer unforgettable experiences that cater to diverse traveller interests.
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Don’t know where to go? Search ‘Everywhere’.
Skyscanner’s Everywhere search inspires travellers to discover somewhere new by ranking worldwide destinations from their chosen airport by price.
In fact, for adventurous Indian travellers, ‘Everywhere’ is one of the top search destinations on Skyscanner this year.
