India’s rising cultural tourism is redefining trends in 2025

New Delhi: In 2025, Indian travellers are going beyond escape getaways; rather, they are seeking more immersive cultural experiences. This travel trend in 2025 is mostly redefined by the young generations, with 84 per cent of millennials and 80 per cent of Gen Z wanderlusts. This wave of cultural tourism heralds a larger shift in the Indian tourism sector. This fact has been proved by Skyscanner’s Cultural Tourism Report 2025. It states that 82 per cent of Indian travellers planned their journeys particularly around culture this year.

Travellers no longer want the passive experience of sightseeing and relaxing. They prefer to get involved in local customs and rituals, festivals and fests, and heritage, along with comfort, luxury, and leisure. The global travel app also noted that 76 per cent of Indians have adjusted their travel plans around significant festivals in the country. Moreover, 93 per cent of travellers are exploring lesser-known cultural hubs to experience authentic traditions.

Besides festival-driven travel, 53 per cent are attracted to historic cities, and 39 per cent of travellers now prioritise UNESCO World Heritage sites. The report focuses on a 76 per cent rise in searches for Varanasi this year compared to last year. Delve deeper for more details about the popular destinations.

1. Kolkata

Kolkata is known for celebrating Durga Puja most grandly. The roads and streets are dotted with big and beautiful pandals, with unique themes. The buzz of music, dance, and food stalls is the biggest attraction.

2. Barsana

Holi in Barsana is unique as women playfully hit men with sticks while everyone celebrates with music, laughter and clouds of vibrant colours. Here, visitors carry with them the most unforgettable cultural experiences.

3. Kerala

Kerala’s harvest festival, Onam, is the biggest crowd drawer with its myriads of cultural activities like tiger dance, snake boat race, pookalam or flower carpets, and grand feasts. It is a festival that wonderfully blends tradition, food and community spirit.

4. Jaipur

In Jaipur, one always experiences the royal charm as this pink city of Rajasthan has several palaces, historical forts and old markets to explore. Beyond the history, the city is vibrant with colourful streets, traditional crafts and a warmth that makes it worth visiting.

5. Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is a living piece of history. Life here revolves around the Ganges, from sunrise prayers to evening aartis at the ghats. Slender lanes, old temples and timeless rituals give the city an ambience unlike anywhere else.

6. Agra

Taj Mahal’s ethereal beauty and architecture put Agra on the world tourism map. But the city beyond that. It has Mughal-era forts, tombs and bustling bazaars to attract the crowd.

7. Hampi

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dotted with ancient temples, crumbling ruins and massive boulders that create a unique landscape. Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, today it is a blend of history, art and relaxed traveller vibes.

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While travellers love exploring new places, they don’t forget about some important aspects while planning a trip. The report stated that their major concerns are safety (45 per cent), authenticity (33 per cent) and seasonality (31 per cent). While 40 per cent of globetrotters showed interest in exploring heritage villages or eco-cultural communities, 38 per cent showed enthusiasm for historic cuisines. Social media plays a pivotal role in influencing 45 per cent of travel enthusiasts, with 39 per cent influenced by friends and family, and 27 per cent depending on travel apps for inspiration and bookings.

So, which state will you prefer for your next cultural experience?