There's no doubt that Indians love to travel, and this passion has only grown since the Covid-19 pandemic. The craze isn't confined to domestic destinations; it's global. The numbers tell the same story. RBI data reveals that Indians are spending Rs 12,500 crore a month on foreign travel this financial year.
If you're curious about where Indians are dreaming of travelling this year, the list might surprise you.
MakeMyTrip, an online travel company, recently released its ‘How India Travels Abroad’ report for the period of June 2023 to May 2024, highlighting the top 10 countries that Indians are eyeing.
These 'emerging countries that Indians are falling in love with' do not include the usual suspects like the US or the UK. Instead, the list is topped by Kazakhstan, followed by Azerbaijan and Bhutan.
Amongst the top 10, the surge in searches is particularly striking, with Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan showing an astonishing 491 per cent and 404 per cent increase, respectively, in interest from Indian travellers.
Kazakhstan: A Visa-Free Gateway
Dastan Ryspekov, Chairman of the Kazakh Tourism Committee, mentioned in an interview with a local channel that the flow of Indian tourists has ‘rocketed’ since the country introduced a 14-day visa-free regime for Indian citizens in 2022.
In 2023 alone, 28,300 Indian citizens visited Kazakhstan.
According to MakeMyTrip’s report, Kazakhstan's popularity has surged by 491 per cent, thanks largely to visa-free services and improved connectivity.
Today, Indians can take a direct 3-hour Indigo or Air Astana flight from New Delhi to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan.
Social media has also fuelled interest in Kazakhstan, making it a hot spot for travel influencers who are inspiring more Indians to visit.
Azerbaijan: Affordable European Charm
Social media has also played a significant role in popularising Azerbaijan as an affordable, easy-to-visit ‘Eurasian country’.
According to the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, from January of this year to July, Azerbaijan had 1,40,000 travellers from India this year. This is a 2.7 times increase compared to last year.
The MakeMyTrip report also confirms the trend, showing a 404 per cent increase in searches by Indians.
Azerbaijan's allure is bolstered by direct four-hour Indigo flights from Delhi to Baku, making it easily accessible and an attractive option for Indians who are seeking a 'European charm'. For many Indians, travelling to Europe is a bucket-list experience, and Azerbaijan offers a taste of that.
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The easy e-visa process also adds to its appeal, especially compared to the more complex Schengen visa required for other European countries.
A Diverse List of Preferred Nations
The study brings out the top 10 countries that Indians are eyeing for their next trip. After Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, the next on the list are Bhutan, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and Japan.
Similar to Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, many of these countries have made it to the list due to the ease of obtaining visas or their visa-free access for Indians (such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan), as well as their popularity on social media among travel influencers.
The Top 10 Countries Indians Are Travelling To
Here is a comprehensive list of the top 10 countries Indians are considering for their next international trip, according to the MakeMyTrip report:
- Kazakhstan
- Azerbaijan
- Bhutan
- Hong Kong
- Sri Lanka
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Nepal
- Russia
- Saudi Arabia
Now, if you're also planning to visit these two countries, here are some places that you should definitely add to your itinerary.
Kazakhstan: Unveiling its Treasures
Let's start with Kazakhstan.
Almaty
The largest city in Kazakhstan, Almaty, is a vibrant metropolis nestled at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountains. Explore the city's bustling bazaars, discover the architectural marvel of the Ascension Cathedral, and experience the thrill of skiing at the world-class Chimbulak ski resort.
Charyn Canyon
Step into a geological wonderland at Charyn Canyon, where towering sandstone cliffs form a dramatic landscape. Hike through the canyon's narrow passageways, marvel at the intricate rock formations, and witness the beauty of nature's artistry.
Astana
Astana, Kazakhstan's capital city, is a modern marvel with towering skyscrapers and futuristic architecture. Visit the iconic Bayterek Tower, an architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the city's aspirations for the future, and delve into the cultural heritage at the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
Turkestan
Embark on a journey into the past at Turkestan, an ancient city rich in history and culture. Explore the magnificent Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the city's architectural brilliance, and delve into the fascinating stories of the Silk Road.
Lake Kaindy
Escape to the serene beauty of Lake Kaindy, a sunken forest located in the Tian Shan mountains. Take a boat ride across the lake, surrounded by the ghostly remains of submerged trees, and experience the tranquility of this unique natural wonder.
Azerbaijan: A Tapestry of Cultures
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Now, let's talk about Azerbaijan. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Azerbaijan offers a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences.
Baku: Where History Meets Modernity
Let's have a look at some of its touristy spots, starting with the capital city, Baku. Explore the historic Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, and the iconic Maiden Tower. Ascend the Flame Towers for breathtaking views of the city skyline, and experience the vibrancy of Baku's modern architecture.
Gobustan National Park
Journey back in time at Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years. Witness the artistry of prehistoric people and delve into the captivating stories they tell through their carvings.
Sheki
Escape to the charming city of Sheki, nestled in the Caucasus Mountains. Explore the Sheki Khan's Palace, a stunning example of Azerbaijani architecture, and wander through the city's historic streets, lined with traditional houses and workshops.
Quba
Quba, a town nestled in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, offers a picturesque escape. Visit the picturesque villages of the region, marvel at the ancient Juma Mosque, and explore the surrounding forests, perfect for hiking and exploring nature's beauty.
Gabala
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Gabala, a resort town known for its breathtaking landscapes. Explore the Gabala National Park, surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, and experience the tranquility of the region.
Plan Your Trip Wisely
Remember, the best time to visit Azerbaijan is between April and June or September and October and, for Kazakhstan, the best time is April to May and September to October.
The data shows that Indians are increasingly embracing global travel experiences, venturing beyond traditional destinations and exploring new horizons. As they continue to seek out unique and authentic travel experiences, the travel industry will need to adapt to cater to their evolving preferences and needs.
