From Ooty to Tokyo: Here are some trending summer destinations among Indian travellers

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As temperatures rise, Indian travellers are embarking on summer vacations to places that are not only domestic but also international destinations that are enjoying similar popularity. From jetting off to cooler places to seeking meaningful experiences, this is the ideal time to explore different travel avenues and Indians aren't holding themselves when planning their travel getaways.

According to data from travel platform Booking.com, Indians are increasingly opting for purposeful travel, looking for diverse experiences ranging from the cool serenity of the hills to the timeless charm of seasonal international hotspots.

Seeking ‘coolcations'

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On the domestic front, while major urban hubs such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi continue to remain popular, the enduring appeal of cooler climates is evident with destinations such as Ooty, Manali, Darjeeling, Rishikesh, Munnar and Srinagar making it to the top 10 most searched destinations from April 15 to June 30, based on search data from the travel platform.

The ‘coolcation' trend remains popular among travellers as they seek tranquil escapes in higher altitudes this summer.

Beyond these, destinations like Madikeri, Gangtok and Varkala are also gaining traction and emerging as popular choices for travellers this summer.

Global getaways

Indian travellers are also venturing beyond borders, seeking a mix of timeless experiences and relaxing escapes in international destinations.

While destinations known for their ease of access and luxury, such as Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok and Bali, remain popular, a noteworthy trend is the surge in interest for Tokyo and Abu Dhabi. Both these destinations are among the top 10 most searched destinations this summer, witnessing a 110 per cent and 180 per cent increase in searches respectively as compared to the same time last year.

European cities like London and Paris continue to draw travellers with their timeless charm.

Summer 2025 travel trends

• For those seeking respite from the heat, Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Darjeeling and Manali are among the popular destinations for summer 2025. These places offer a blend of picturesque views, outdoor activities and pleasant weather.

• Goa and Rishikesh also rank highly, providing opportunities for both relaxation and rejuvenation.

• Abu Dhabi and Tokyo are experiencing a surge in searches, reflecting a growing preference for family-friendly and immersive experiences.

Reflecting on these trends, Santosh Kumar, country manager of the platform for Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia, Booking.com, says, "Purpose-driven adventures, 'coolcations' and enriching experiences are defining Indian summer travel in 2025. While destinations like Ooty, Darjeeling and Manali continue to draw those seeking respite from the heat, we're seeing a surge in interest for experiential travel to places like Rishikesh and Puducherry. On the international front, we are seeing a spike in searches for Tokyo and Abu Dhabi from all traveller types, highlighting the importance of shared experiences and destinations catering to multigenerational needs."