Temperatures are rising, and the summer is at its peak. With vacations, getaways, and annual leaves scheduled, a recent report from Pickyoutrail, an international holiday brand, revealed that Indian travellers are beating the heat in the coastal regions. As they seek temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, while metros report record highs at over 40°C.
Hari Ganapathy, Co-Founder, Pickyourtrail, pointed towards the shift from calendar to climate as a deciding factor for travel. Spots across South East Asia, from Thailand to Japan and even Australia, remain some of the most popular spots. Speaking to financialexpress.com, Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel also presented an analysis of India’s peaking interest in Vietnam.
Vietnam’s ‘Little Paris’ attracting 20% Indians
According to the Pickyourtrail report, Da Lat in Vietnam stands out as one of the cool-climate destinations which attracts over 20% of Indian travellers from their survey. Pine forests and French colonial architecture attract the adventure seekers, while waterfalls, flower gardens, and serene lakes call out to the nature wanderers.
Ganapathy shared, observing the change, “What we’re seeing today is a clear shift from calendar-led travel to climate-led decision making. For Indian families, summer holidays are no longer about where to go, but how to travel better within the constraints of rising temperatures.”
He added, “Cooler destinations are becoming a strategic choice, and this is reflected in how early people are planning. Booking cycles have moved up significantly, with families locking in trips 60 to 90 days in advance to secure the right combination of weather, experiences, and inventory.”
What and why of the Vietnam factor
An attractive destination, which is not only easy on the pocket but also offers convenient visa options for Indian travellers. Rajeev Kale – President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited, told financialexpress.com, “Indian travellers are increasingly seeking depth and discovery across Vietnam and Indonesia, moving beyond popular locales to more immersive offbeat experiences”
The travel and tours company also reported a surged search for offbeat destinations like Ha Giang, Phong Nha and Con Dao attract travellers with their dramatic landscapes and low-density experiences. Apart from Vietnam. Kale shared that Flores, Sumba and Komodo attract explorers, too.
From Phu Quoc‘s island exploration, leisure time in Cam Ranh, and cave expeditions of Phong Nha, the pivotal shift towards these spaces combines thrill for nature, culture, and adventure.
Beyond Vietnam – ‘Cool’ destinations being explored by Indian travellers
Apart from Vietnam, the Pickyourtrail further revealed key destinations in Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand as some of the ‘cool’ spots.
Chiang Mai in Thailand offers a refreshing contrast to the country’s tropical beaches. Located in the hills, this Thailand spot is mild on the mercury and boasts a history of temples, national parks, and even elephant sanctuaries.
For Thailand, SOTC Travel’s President & Country Head, SD Nandakumar, weighed in, and said, “Indian travellers are exploring a more offbeat side of Thailand and the Philippines, seeking unique experiences beyond the traditional beach circuit. In Thailand, destinations like Koh Yao Noi, Khao Sok and Koh Lanta are seeing rising travel interest for their eco-resorts, rainforest landscapes and laid-back island experiences.”
Cameron Highlands of Malaysia also attract several Indian travellers, which is owed to the region’s charm and stays. One of the most popular spots, Bali’s Ubud, records 80% of bookings, a popular destination for families and couples alike.