NEW DELHI – Indian travelers in 2025 are trading in the fast pace of traditional tourism for mindful escapes rooted in nature, wellness, and sustainability, according to Wego, the leading travel app and online marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa.
This year, destinations like Rishikesh, Kerala, and the Araku Valley are seeing a surge in interest, as more travelers opt for retreats that prioritize health, reflection, and connection. “More travelers in India are turning to travel as a way to reset,” said Bernard Corraya, General Manager of Wego India. “At Wego, we’re seeing a clear shift toward intentional journeys — slower, quieter, and deeply connected to nature and sustainability.”
Wellness Takes Center Stage
Yoga retreats, meditation camps, and wellness getaways are on the rise across scenic Indian landscapes. In Yercaud, Kausani, and Araku Valley, visitors are immersing themselves in peaceful environments ideal for mental rejuvenation. September brings a unique experience to Jaisalmer with the Blood Moon Festival, where stargazing in the desert blends with cultural exploration of forts, colorful bazaars, and coffee plantations.
Eco-Conscious Travel is Thriving
Sustainable accommodations are becoming a priority, with boutique eco-resorts, regenerative farm stays, and traditional homestays gaining popularity in regions like Wayanad, Sikkim, and Tirthan Valley. These locations offer not only comfort and beauty but also environmental stewardship. One standout experience is the Dudhwa Cultural Festival in November at Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, featuring a mix of local music, artisan crafts, and wildlife conservation.
The Rise of Slow Travel and Cultural Immersion
Remote destinations like Spiti, Ziro, and Meghalaya are attracting solo travelers and those seeking reflective journeys. December’s Hornbill Festival in Nagaland offers a vibrant showcase of tribal dances, local cuisine, and crafts. Meanwhile, the Konark Dance and Sand Art Festival in Odisha provides artistic inspiration with classical dance performances and intricate sand sculptures near the iconic Sun Temple.
December also brings two of India’s most vibrant coastal celebrations: the Goa Arts and Literature Festival (GALF), where music, literature, and art meet against the backdrop of Goa’s shores, and Kerala’s Cochin Carnival, which closes the year with parades, music, and joy-filled streets.
A Purpose-Driven Travel Movement
Wego is playing a central role in this evolving travel landscape. “Our platform is built to help travelers discover these experiences with ease, using filters and guides that reflect what matters most to them,” Corraya explained. With curated content and personalized search tools, Wego connects users to everything from forest retreats and off-grid homestays to holistic wellness escapes.
This growing movement signals a new era for India’s travel industry — one defined not by checklists and speed, but by purpose, presence, and personal growth. As Corraya put it, “Intentional journeys are here to stay.”
