Thailand has emerged as the most booked international destination for Indian travelers during the year-end and New Year holiday period, overtaking the United Arab Emirates after years of dominance.
New booking data covering travel between December 20, 2025, and January 5, 2026, shows a clear shift in outbound travel preferences, with short-haul Asian destinations gaining stronger momentum. According to industry insights, this change reflects not only evolving traveler tastes but also practical considerations such as flight duration, visa accessibility, and overall trip value.
The data highlights sustained outbound demand from India despite broader global economic uncertainties. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations that allow them to maximize holiday time without long-haul travel fatigue.
Thailand’s consistent popularity, combined with competitive pricing and familiarity, has positioned it as the leading choice for festive travel. While the UAE remains firmly in second place, the narrowing gap suggests that Indian travelers are diversifying their international travel habits beyond traditional favorites.
Short-Haul Travel and Visa Ease Drive Booking Decisions
One of the strongest factors behind Thailand’s rise is its short-haul appeal. Located just a few hours from major Indian cities, Thailand offers convenient flight schedules that fit neatly into limited holiday windows. This proximity allows travelers to enjoy longer stays without using excessive leave days, a priority for year-end travel. In contrast, longer routes to Europe or North America often require more time and higher overall costs.
Visa accessibility has also played a crucial role. Destinations with simplified visa processes or visa-free access continue to outperform others in booking volumes. Thailand’s straightforward visa options, including electronic and visa-on-arrival facilities, reduce planning friction and make last-minute travel more feasible. This advantage has proven particularly important during peak holiday periods, when travelers are less inclined to deal with complex documentation.
Beyond Thailand and the UAE, Sri Lanka secured the third position, reinforcing the appeal of nearby destinations with cultural depth and competitive pricing. Vietnam recorded the biggest year-on-year gain, climbing from seventh place last year to fourth, signaling growing curiosity among Indian travelers for emerging Southeast Asian markets. Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore followed closely, while the United Kingdom, the United States, and Hong Kong rounded out the top ten.
Upgraded Stays and Evolving Travel Preferences
Another notable trend is higher spending on accommodation. Indian travelers are increasingly opting for upgraded hotels, resorts, and experiential stays rather than focusing solely on airfare deals. This shift reflects a growing preference for comfort, wellness, and curated experiences, even on short international trips. Many travelers are also combining leisure travel with brief international getaways, using extended weekends and festive breaks more strategically.
Thailand’s diverse tourism offerings align well with these preferences. From vibrant urban experiences and cultural landmarks to beach resorts and nature escapes, the destination caters to a wide spectrum of travelers, including families, couples, and solo tourists. This versatility has helped Thailand maintain strong repeat visitation while also attracting first-time international travelers from India.
The broader booking pattern suggests that familiarity remains important, but it is now paired with a willingness to explore newer destinations within the same region. As outbound travel from India continues to mature, ease of access, value for money, and flexible travel planning are shaping destination choices more than ever. Thailand’s rise to the top underscores how these factors, when combined effectively, can redefine travel rankings during the most competitive travel season of the year.
