A new Cultural Tourism Report by global travel app Skyscanner reveals a strong shift among Indian travellers towards culturally rich and meaningful experiences that blend heritage with comfort and leisure. The study shows that 82 per cent of Indians are planning their 2025 trips around cultural offerings, with Millennials (84 per cent) and Gen Z (80 per cent) emerging as the key drivers of this trend.
Festivals remain the biggest draw, with 76 per cent of Indians adjusting their travel schedules to coincide with major celebrations across the country. The report also notes that 93 per cent of travellers are venturing into lesser-known cultural hubs to experience authentic traditions and local practices, reflecting a growing appetite for immersive experiences beyond the usual tourist trails.
Historic cities and iconic landmarks continue to hold sway as well. Over half of the respondents showed interest in destinations like Jaipur and Varanasi, while 39 per cent prioritised UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Taj Mahal and Hampi. Searches for Varanasi alone surged by 76 per cent this year, underlining India’s rising fascination with cultural tourism.
