India has seen a notable rise in interest for spiritual tourism in the final quarter of the year, according to recent accommodation search data from digital travel platform Agoda. Searches for spiritual destinations have increased by 4% from international travelers and 10% from domestic travelers compared to the same period in 2023.
Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director, India Subcontinent and MEA at Agoda, highlighted the trend, stating, “The festive season provides an opportunity for travelers to connect with India’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions. The rising interest in these destinations reflects the evolving preferences for enriching and immersive experiences.”
Domestic travelers are favoring cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, renowned for their unique blend of spiritual tranquility and cultural heritage. International travelers are showing increased interest in Kochi and Varanasi, drawn by their historical and religious significance. Visitors from the USA, Singapore, Japan, and Australia are contributing significantly to this influx.
Agoda’s platform enables travelers to book a wide range of holiday properties, flights, and activities, catering to the growing demand for spiritual tourism in India’s vibrant cultural landscape.