New Delhi, Dec 12:Winter has emerged as India’s favourite travel season, with more than half of the country’s travellers taking at least one winter trip annually, according to Airbnb’s 2025 Winter Travel Trends Survey.
The report highlights a significant shift in domestic travel habits, driven by flexible work setups, hybrid lifestyles and a growing desire for enriching, experience-led journeys.
The survey reveals that 55% of Indian travellers plan winter vacations each year, underscoring how the cooler months have become a prime period for exploration and relaxation. This rising preference is attributed to pleasant winter weather, scenic seasonal landscapes and the value travellers find during this time of year.
Indians are choosing winter not only for traditional holiday breaks but also for rest and rejuvenation. Many respondents said they travel to celebrate seasonal festivities, while an almost equal share prefers winter trips simply to unwind. A notable portion of travellers also seek out cultural and seasonal experiences that are unique to the winter months.
The trend is being driven in large part by Gen Z and Millennials, who make up nearly half of all winter travellers. This cohort is drawn to the comfort of cooler temperatures, picturesque settings and the overall ease of winter journeys. At the same time, travel remains a deeply social experience for Indians.
Nearly half of the respondents said they prefer travelling with a partner or spouse, one-third enjoy trips with friends and a significant number plan multi-generational family vacations. This strong preference for shared travel is boosting demand for larger stays such as villas, homestays and unique accommodations—spaces that allow groups to gather and create shared memories, a pattern that continues to contribute to Airbnb’s growth in India.
The survey also highlights destination preferences for the season. Goa and Kerala remain top favourites, with locations such as Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram, South Goa and Kochi attracting visitors for their beaches, laid-back cafés and tranquil coastal charm. In the hills, Manali leads as a popular winter retreat, with Mussoorie and Rishikesh continuing to draw travellers seeking crisp mountain air, sweeping views and outdoor adventure.
Culturally vibrant cities like Udaipur and Jaipur maintain their appeal for those seeking heritage-rich experiences. Meanwhile, growing interest in destinations such as Varanasi and Vrindavan points to a rising trend among younger travellers who are embracing spiritual-leisure journeys—trips that combine reflection, culture and exploration.
