As Holi approaches, festive travel is witnessing a sharp upswing, with digital travel platform Agoda reporting a significant rise in accommodation searches across culturally rich Indian destinations compared to last year’s Holi period.
According to Agoda’s latest search data, Jaipur has emerged as the biggest gainer, recording a remarkable 282% increase in accommodation searches. The Pink City, famed for its palace-led Holi celebrations and the iconic Amer Fort, continues to attract travellers seeking grand, heritage-style festivities.
Udaipur followed closely with a 233% surge in travel interest, driven by lakeside celebrations set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Pichola. Heritage hotels and boutique properties in the city are curating immersive Holi experiences, blending culture with luxury stays. Pushkar registered a 195% increase, with travellers drawn to vibrant street gatherings and community celebrations around Pushkar Lake and its historic bathing ghats.
In North India, Vrindavan saw a 126% rise in searches, as temple courtyards prepare for flower Holi ceremonies, bhajans and traditional rituals. Mathura recorded a 109% increase, attracting visitors keen to experience Holi in the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Meanwhile, Hampi posted a 128% growth, where its UNESCO-listed ruins and temple squares transform into colourful cultural gatherings. Shanti Niketan in West Bengal, known for its distinctive Basanta Utsav celebrations centred around music and art, saw a 43% rise in travel interest.
Collectively, these destinations registered an overall 211% increase in festive travel searches, underlining Holi’s growing influence on domestic travel decisions.
International demand has also strengthened the trend. Udaipur recorded a striking 459% surge in searches from Asian markets, while Jaipur witnessed over 191% growth in international interest. The spike was led by travellers from Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Japan and South Korea.
Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, noted that Holi has evolved into a key travel moment for both domestic and international visitors, with cultural festivities increasingly shaping itinerary planning.
With access to over six million properties, more than 130,000 flight routes and over 300,000 activities globally, Agoda continues to position itself as a one-stop platform for festival-led travel planning, as Holi cements its place as one of India’s most powerful cultural travel drivers.
