Published on
September 26, 2025
Agoda reports record Diwali travel interest in India, led by soaring searches from South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, UAE, and USA.
India is experiencing a remarkable rise in travel interest during the upcoming Diwali season, with Agoda’s latest insights showing a surge in both domestic and international searches. The global spotlight on India’s festive charm is brighter than ever, as travelers from South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States lead a sharp increase in demand for Diwali travel.
According to Agoda, overall searches for India during the Diwali week have grown by 24% compared to last year, driven by both domestic enthusiasm and international curiosity. Domestic searches rose 18%, underscoring the importance of internal tourism, while inbound international searches jumped by an impressive 67%, proving India’s growing global appeal as a cultural travel hotspot.
Among international markets, South Korea delivered the most extraordinary growth, with searches surging more than 45 times compared to the previous year. Agoda also highlighted strong demand from Southeast Asia, with Thailand nearly doubling its search volumes and Malaysia recording a 25% rise. Beyond Asia, interest from the UAE climbed by 87%, while the USA posted a 28% increase, reaffirming India’s ability to attract both regional neighbors and long-haul travelers.
Diwali continues to stand out as one of the world’s most captivating festivals, drawing visitors with its glowing lamps, spectacular fireworks, and deep cultural traditions. For many travelers, the celebration offers more than just visual splendor. It is an invitation to experience India’s cultural richness, enjoy festive cuisines, and immerse in family-centered traditions that emphasize warmth, togetherness, and renewal. Agoda’s data confirms that this unique blend of spectacle and cultural immersion is at the heart of India’s rising popularity during the festive season.
In terms of destinations, Agoda revealed that Goa remains the most searched location during Diwali, favored for its vibrant atmosphere and coastal celebrations. Udaipur and Jaipur also recorded sharp increases, with search volumes up by 49% and 46% respectively, reflecting their strong appeal as cultural capitals. Major metropolitan centers saw similar spikes in interest, with New Delhi searches doubling and Mumbai rising by 18%, demonstrating the enduring popularity of India’s largest cities as hubs of Diwali festivities.
This growing trend reflects an important shift in global travel behavior. Travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations that combine cultural authenticity with festive energy. By capturing this balance, India has positioned itself as a leader in cultural tourism. Agoda’s insights suggest that newer source markets like South Korea are emerging alongside established regions such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia, making India’s travel audience more diverse than ever.
To meet this demand, Agoda continues to provide travelers with a wide selection of accommodations, flights, and bundled travel packages. With flexible booking options and exclusive Diwali deals, the platform makes it easier for both domestic and international visitors to plan seamless trips and enjoy authentic festival experiences across India. Whether exploring heritage-rich cities like Jaipur, coastal hotspots like Goa, or bustling hubs like Delhi and Mumbai, Agoda ensures that every traveler finds the right option for their festive journey.
As Diwali approaches, India’s enduring traditions of light, community, and celebration are drawing the world’s attention. With Agoda highlighting record-breaking travel interest from South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, UAE, and USA, the country stands poised to welcome a wave of visitors eager to experience the magic of its most celebrated festival.
