Here are 10 key points about Shillong: Top Destination for Indian Travelers in 2025:
- Shillong as Top Destination: Shillong is the most popular travel destination for Indian tourists in 2025, surpassing international spots like Baku and Azerbaijan.
- Featured in Skyscanner’s Report: It is the only Indian city included in Skyscanner’s ‘Travel Trends Report,’ highlighting its growing appeal.
- Natural Beauty and Cultural Diversity: Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong attracts visitors with its scenic landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
- Shift Toward Domestic Travel: Indian tourists are increasingly choosing domestic destinations, reflecting a shift in preferences from international travel.
- Affordability Matters: Cost remains a key factor, with nearly two-thirds of travelers considering budget aspects like flights, hotels, and food when planning trips.
- Best Value Destinations: The report lists Almaty, Kazakhstan as the top value destination due to a 44% drop in airfare from India, followed by other cities in Southeast Asia.
- Rise of Experiential Travel: There is a growing trend for immersive experiences, with travelers seeking art events, live sports, and interactive activities.
- Young Tourists Lead Trends: Tourists aged 25 to 34 are particularly interested in art and live events, showing a preference for engaging and participatory experiences.
- Unique Travel Themes: Concepts like ‘Gami-Vacation’ and ‘Astro-adventures’ are gaining popularity, catering to niche interests like gaming and stargazing.
- Broader Shift in Travel Goals: Indian travelers are now focusing on meaningful, value-driven trips, discovering new destinations both within India and abroad.
According to recent reports, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, has emerged as the top travel destination for Indian tourists in 2025. The city has outshone several well-known international locations like Baku and Azerbaijan, highlighting a shift in Indian travelers’ preferences towards affordable and unique experiences.
Shillong: The Only Indian City on Skyscanner’s Esteemed List
Skyscanner’s latest ‘Travel Trends Report’ lists Shillong as the only Indian city among the most popular travel destinations for 2025. Often referred to as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong’s lush hills and vibrant culture have made it a favorite among tourists looking for a mix of natural beauty and cultural diversity closer to home.
The report notes that many Indian travelers, who might have once opted for international destinations, are now choosing Shillong for its picturesque landscapes and diverse local experiences. This trend reflects a broader shift toward exploring lesser-known and relatively untouched locations, both domestically and abroad.
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Shifts in Travel Trends: Affordability and Experiential Travel
Affordability is playing a crucial role in these evolving travel preferences. According to Skyscanner’s travel expert, nearly two-thirds of Indian travelers now consider the cost of hotels, flights, and food when planning their trips. To help budget-conscious tourists, the report includes a ‘Best Value Destinations’ category, showcasing locations where airfare has significantly dropped.
Leading this list is Almaty, Kazakhstan, where flight prices from India have decreased by 44%. Other budget-friendly destinations with notable airfare reductions include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta, making them popular choices for economical travel.
Indian Tourists Seek Unique, Immersive Experiences
The desire for unique and engaging travel experiences is driving a shift toward more immersive travel. According to the report, younger tourists, especially those between the ages of 25 and 34, are particularly drawn to art events and live sports, with a significant increase in demand for such experiences.
For example, many travelers have already booked their tickets for the Formula 1 event on December 2, leading to a 188% rise in flight prices to Abu Dhabi. This surge in interest reflects a broader trend of seeking experiences that offer direct participation and engagement. The popularity of ‘Gami-Vacation’ and ‘Astro-adventures’ is also on the rise, with gaming-themed destinations and stargazing experiences capturing the attention of tourists.
Rethinking Travel Goals: Domestic and International Exploration
As Indian tourists explore new places both within the country and overseas, there is a noticeable shift toward meaningful, value-driven travel. While international spots like Baku, Langkawi, and Tromsø in Norway remain popular, there is a growing interest in lesser-known locations such as Tashkent in Uzbekistan and Al-Ula in Saudi Arabia. This change in tastes underscores a broader trend of choosing destinations that offer a blend of adventure, culture, and leisure.
With Shillong leading the way, Indian tourism in 2025 is set to focus on experiences that are immersive, unique, and provide great value.
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