Beaches have always held a special charm for Indian travellers, but in 2025 the definition of a perfect beach holiday is evolving. No longer limited to just lounging on golden sands or chasing sunsets, Indians are seeking experiences that combine nature, culture, and storytelling. Search trends reveal a surge in interest for both domestic and international coastal getaways, with destinations offering history, heritage, and hidden gems rising to the top.
Goa Remains The Favourite
Goa continues to hold its crown as India’s most loved beach destination, recording a nearly 50 percent increase in searches this year. While Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna remain evergreen, travellers are increasingly exploring lesser known villages, heritage walks, and artisanal experiences. The recently launched "Goa Unseen" digital guidebook in collaboration with the Goa Tourism Department has played a role in drawing attention to offbeat spots, slow travel trails, and the state’s deeper cultural fabric.
Puri And Puducherry Rise In Popularity
Beyond Goa, destinations like Puri in Odisha and Puducherry on the east coast are emerging as star attractions. Puri, with its mix of spirituality, vibrant coastal culture, and lively beach vibe, has seen more than 40 percent growth in traveller interest. Puducherry, on the other hand, blends French colonial heritage with serene seaside charm, showing a 35 percent rise in popularity. Both destinations highlight the trend of combining cultural depth with seaside relaxation, making them irresistible for travellers seeking layered experiences.
Capri, Langkawi And Global Shores
On the international front, Italian beauty Capri leads the list for Indians. Known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and glamorous lifestyle, Capri has become a dream holiday pick. Other Italian coastal cities like Palermo, Naples, and Venice are also gaining traction among Indian travellers eager for a mix of history and seaside leisure.
Closer to home, Southeast Asian favourites Langkawi and Colombo remain top choices thanks to their accessibility and tropical allure. Adding a surprise twist, Batumi in Georgia has emerged as a trending hotspot, drawing Indians with its Black Sea beaches, vibrant nightlife, and striking architecture.
The Move Towards Experiential Travel
This shift is not just about changing destinations, but about redefining the very idea of a beach holiday. As Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Country Head of Airbnb India and Southeast Asia, highlights, travellers now want holidays that tell a story. It is no longer only about the waves and the sun but about connecting with communities, uncovering heritage, and creating memories rooted in local culture.
A Conscious Way To Travel
The year 2025 signals a turning point in how Indians approach travel. Whether it is soaking in Goa’s hidden heritage, strolling through Puducherry’s colonial boulevards, or sailing into Capri’s timeless beauty, the choices reflect a more conscious, thoughtful, and enriching approach. Indian travellers are not just chasing beaches anymore; they are chasing meaning, authenticity, and experiences that feel personal.
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