Shillong Emerges as The Top Travel Destination for Indians in 2025

Shillong, the scenic capital of Meghalaya, has emerged as the top bucket-list destination for Indian travellers in 2025, according to the latest travel trend reports. 

Nestled in the Northeast region of India, this "Scotland of the East" has outperformed even well-known international spots like Baku and Azerbaijan. Affordability and unique experiences play a major role.

As per Skyscanner's latest 'Travel Trends Report,' Shillong stands out as the only Indian city to secure a spot on this prestigious list of popular travel destinations. The city has captured the hearts of Indian travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. 

Affordability is also becoming a key priority for Indian tourists. Skyscanner’s travel and destinations expert notes that cost is a crucial factor, with nearly two-thirds of travelers evaluating expenses for flights, accommodation, and food when planning their trips. To support budget-conscious travelers, the report includes a ‘Best Value Destinations’ category, highlighting places where airfares have significantly dropped over the past year.

The report highlights that Indian travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation are increasingly drawn to destinations like Baku, Langkawi, and offbeat international locations such as Tromsø in Norway, Tashkent in Uzbekistan, and Al-Ula in Saudi Arabia. This shift indicates a growing preference for unique, less-explored places.

Topping the list is Almaty, Kazakhstan, where flight prices from India have dropped by 44%. Other budget-friendly destinations include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta, which have also seen significant airfare reductions, making them attractive options for cost-conscious travelers.

The report also highlights a growing interest among Indian travelers in experiential tourism, with a rising demand for unique and immersive experiences. According to the survey, there has been a notable increase in interest in events like live sports and interactive art exhibitions.

 For instance, the upcoming Formula 1 race in Abu Dhabi on December 2 has driven a 188% surge in flight ticket prices to the city, reflecting the high demand. Additionally, nearly half of younger travelers are drawn to art experiences that offer hands-on participation. Those aged 25 to 34, in particular, are showing strong enthusiasm for live events and cultural activities.

'Gami-Vacation' and 'Astro-adventures' are becoming increasingly popular, with gaming-themed travel destinations and stargazing experiences attracting significant interest.

In response to these evolving travel trends, Indian tourists are redefining their travel goals and exploring new destinations both within the country and internationally. Leading the way is Shillong, setting the tone for 2025, where the focus of Indian tourism will shift toward meaningful, immersive, and value-driven experiences.