A Diwali travel boom has swept across India, igniting a significant surge in international flight searches and bookings, according to Wego’s November 2024 report. The data paints a vibrant picture of post-festival travel, revealing a remarkable 17.10% increase in outbound international flight searches compared to the same period last year. This substantial growth underlines the powerful influence of festive occasions on travel patterns within India.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations emerged as the undisputed frontrunners, attracting a significant portion of Indian travelers. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait particularly enjoyed a surge in popularity. However, the appeal extended far beyond the GCC. Thailand, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Bahrain, the United States, and Indonesia all experienced a notable increase in search interest from Indian travelers. This diverse range of destinations highlights the broad appeal of international travel amongst Indian citizens during this period.
Bernard Corraya, Wego’s General Manager for India, attributed much of this surge to the impact of Diwali. He emphasized the pivotal role Diwali plays in shaping travel trends, with many Indian expatriates planning their annual visits around this major festival. The extended holiday period in November, encompassing not only Diwali but also Guru Nanak Jayanti and Chhath Puja, provided ample opportunities for both short breaks and extended vacations, further fueling the travel boom. These combined festive celebrations created an unprecedented wave of travel demand across both domestic and international sectors.
While the overall demand showed a significant increase, the report also revealed intriguing trends in airfare prices. Wego’s data indicated a month-over-month growth of up to 34.43% in average airfares from India to its top ten destinations. This increase, however, needs to be considered within the context of year-over-year comparisons. Surprisingly, many destinations showcased significantly lower airfares compared to the previous year. This resulted in more budget-friendly options for travelers. Notably, flights to Qatar and Kuwait experienced particularly significant drops, with average prices plummeting by 38.05% and 15.36%, respectively. This unexpected decrease in airfares coupled with the increased demand paints a complex picture of the current travel market – one characterized by significant demand but also by surprising affordability for some popular destinations. The confluence of festivals and available discounts has undeniably made international travel significantly more accessible for many Indian citizens.
This data offers valuable insights into the powerful influence of cultural events on travel patterns and the dynamic nature of airfare pricing. It suggests that festivals not only stimulate travel demand but also create opportunities for more budget-conscious travel choices, making international getaways more attainable for a wider range of Indian travelers. This trend is likely to continue influencing travel behavior in the coming years, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the travel industry.
