Agoda has identified a significant shift in Indian travel behaviour in 2026, with travellers increasingly prioritising accommodation quality, comfort and booking flexibility while planning trips across Asia.
The findings are based on Agoda accommodation searches conducted between 1 January and 15 April 2026 across 10 Asian markets — India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.
According to the study, accommodation type accounted for 26% of all search filter activity among Indian travellers, making India one of the most accommodation-focused markets in the region, well above the Asia-wide average of 19%.
The data also highlights a strong preference for quality-driven stays, with properties carrying review scores of 7 and above contributing 13% of all filter activity among Indian users in 2026.
Convenience and comfort continue to shape booking decisions. Breakfast-inclusive stays emerged as India’s second most-used search filter at 14%, while amenities such as swimming pools and bathtubs also featured among the country’s top accommodation preferences, reflecting rising demand for experience-led and relaxation-focused travel.
The study further revealed growing demand for flexible travel planning. Free cancellation and pay-at-hotel options ranked among India’s most-used search filters, signalling that travellers are increasingly favouring low-risk and adaptable booking choices.
Other frequently used filters included high location scores and parking facilities, suggesting that Indian travellers are becoming more intentional and personalised in their accommodation selection, balancing convenience, accessibility and overall stay experience.
Commenting on the findings, Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said Indian travellers are no longer searching merely for availability, but for accommodation that best matches their individual preferences and travel style.
The report underlines a broader shift in Indian outbound and domestic travel trends, where travellers are placing greater emphasis on value, comfort, trusted reviews and flexibility while making booking decisions.
