Experience First, Destination Second: Booking.com Reveals the New Face of Monsoon Travel for Indian travellers

Booking.com, one of the world’s leading online travel platforms, has unveiled its latest accommodation search data for the upcoming monsoon season, highlighting how Indian travellers are embracing the “Era of You” by shaping trips around personal interests, lifestyles, and aspirations.

Domestic Travel: Experience-Led Escapes
While Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi remain among the most searched destinations, travellers are increasingly seeking unique experiences beyond traditional monsoon getaways.
- Rishikesh surged from #18 to #3, with searches up over 200% year-on-year, reflecting growing interest in spirituality and outdoor experiences.
- Mussoorie climbed from #22 to #6, recording a 160% increase in searches.
- Destinations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Darjeeling continue to attract travellers for their cooler climates and natural surroundings.
- Jaipur and Udaipur remain strong favourites for cultural and heritage exploration.

Top 10 Domestic Destinations (July–August 2026):
1. Mumbai
2. Bengaluru
3. Rishikesh
4. New Delhi
5. Jaipur
6. Mussoorie
7. Chennai
8. Kolkata
9. Udaipur
10. Hyderabad

International Travel: Familiar Favourites Meet New Explorations
Indian travellers continue to balance global favourites with experience-led destinations across Asia.
- Tokyo rose from #12 to #6, driven by interest in culture, food, and shopping.
- Bali remains a top choice, with Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu all climbing in popularity, reflecting diverse preferences from cultural immersion to beachside leisure.

Top 10 International Destinations (July–August 2026):
1. London
2. Singapore
3. Paris
4. Bali
5. New York
6. Kuala Lumpur
7. Bangkok
8. Tokyo
9. Amsterdam
10. Berlin

Leadership Insight
Santosh Kumar, Regional Head, South Asia at Booking.com, said:
> “This monsoon season, Indian travellers are looking beyond traditional escapes and increasingly choosing destinations that reflect their individual interests and aspirations. The growing popularity of places like Rishikesh and Bali reflects a broader shift toward experience-led travel—whether it’s wellness, cultural immersion, adventure, or simply slowing down to reconnect.”

About Booking.com
Booking.com connects millions of travellers with unforgettable stays and experiences worldwide. With a commitment to making travel easier, the platform empowers people to explore destinations that reflect their unique lifestyles and aspirations.