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Diwali transforms streets into a spectacle of festive lights, homes adorned with rangolis, and families gearing up for grand celebrations. This vibrant festival triggers a significant travel trend across India, as millions rush to their hometowns. The celebration of Diwali has a profound impact on the tourism industry, serving as a major driver for both domestic and international travel. There is a marked increase in travel as people flock to various cities to participate in the festivities, with cities renowned for their elaborate celebrations, such as Varanasi and Jaipur, becoming prime tourist attractions during this period.

Travel Trends During Diwali

According to a digital travel company, 77% of Indian travelers plan to take advantage of long weekends to optimize their vacation days around the Diwali festival on November 1. Accommodation search data revealed that Udaipur is the top trending domestic destination for Indian travelers, experiencing a 220% increase in searches, followed by Puducherry (200%) and Mumbai (35%). Booking.com reported that couples are seeking locations rich in culture and romantic settings, with Udaipur, Puducherry, and Jaipur being their top choices. For families, Udaipur, Goa, Jaipur, Hyderabad, and Ooty are popular destinations, offering both historical exploration and exciting experiences. Adventure and social connections are priorities for groups, with “the stunning palaces of Udaipur and Jaipur, along with the pristine beaches of Goa, Puducherry, and Varkala, attracting those looking for relaxation and exploration together,” according to Booking.com. The report also noted that solo travelers are drawn to the bustling nightlife, historical landmarks, and local cuisines of Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

A recent report by digital travel platform Agoda highlights that the United States is the primary source of international visitors coming to India for Diwali in 2024. Among the cities, New Delhi has garnered the most attention from overseas guests, followed by the coastal state of Goa and the vibrant city of Mumbai. This surge in interest is not limited to international tourists; domestic travelers are also actively seeking destinations for the festival, with Goa topping the list of preferred locations. The top international markets showing keen interest in India’s Diwali celebrations include the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan. The appeal of New Delhi, Goa, Mumbai, Chennai, and Jaipur as prime destinations underscores the global fascination with India’s rich cultural tapestry, especially during Diwali, as these cities are known for their dynamic celebrations that allow visitors to experience the essence of Indian heritage.

Insights into Festive Travel Trends

To gain insights into travel trends during festivals, we spoke with Manojit Roy, owner of the Hooghly-based Parjatak Tour & Travels agency. According to Roy, “I have been in this business for 32 years, successfully running operations across four branches, both in India and abroad. We manage hotel, vehicle, and food arrangements for our customers, offering package tours or individual services to families, groups, or solo travelers throughout the year. Over time, I have identified three types of tourists: those who enjoy trekking and mountains, families and groups booking during school vacations—particularly during Durga Puja, Diwali, and other festivals—and those who prefer beach destinations. Among these, I find that customers are primarily interested in traveling during festive and summer vacations when their children are on holiday. This year alone, I have arranged 26 programs for my clients, ranging from Himachal Pradesh to Darjeeling, covering Durga Puja through Jagadhatri Puja, including Diwali. Popular destinations include Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Darjeeling, Pondicherry, Goa, and Uttarakhand, especially during May, June, and festival seasons.”

The growing trend of travel during Diwali enriches cultural exchange and significantly contributes to India’s tourism sector. As destinations prepare to welcome visitors with open arms, the festival of Diwali continues to illuminate global interest in India’s rich traditions and festivities.