Travel preferences are changing, and Indian travellers are increasingly looking beyond the usual holiday hotspots. New travel-search data shows growing interest in destinations that offer a mix of culture, nature, history, food and experiences away from the most familiar tourist routes.
According to Skyscanner’s 2026 travel trends, several destinations have recorded significant year-on-year increases in flight searches by Indian travellers. From Assam’s tea country to the historic streets of Jaffna and the mountain landscapes of Queenstown, these destinations are attracting attention for very different reasons.
Here are 10 destinations that are emerging on the travel radar in 2026.
1. Jorhat, India
Jorhat has emerged as the fastest-rising destination on the list, with flight searches increasing by 493%.
Located in Assam, Jorhat is known for its sprawling tea gardens, Assamese culture and heritage. It is also an important gateway to Majuli, the famous river island.
For travellers looking for greenery, local traditions and a slower holiday experience, Jorhat offers an interesting alternative to India’s more crowded tourist destinations.
2. Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Flight searches for Jaffna have risen by 325%, putting this northern Sri Lankan destination firmly on the radar.
Jaffna is known for its Tamil heritage, historic temples, lagoons and distinctive cuisine. Its relatively different cultural character makes it an appealing choice for travellers who want to experience another side of Sri Lanka.
3. Muscat, Oman
Muscat recorded a 211% increase in flight searches.
Oman’s capital combines Arabian heritage with modern attractions. Visitors can explore historic forts, traditional souqs, grand mosques and seaside areas while enjoying the dramatic backdrop of mountains and the Arabian Sea.
Its relatively short distance from India also makes Muscat an interesting option for an international break.
4. Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure seekers may want to keep Queenstown on their list.
The New Zealand destination saw a 151% increase in flight searches. Surrounded by mountains and Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is known for outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes and alpine experiences.
It also offers a mix of relaxing experiences, including spas, wineries and scenic walks, making it more than just an adventure destination.
5. Chiang Rai, Thailand
With flight searches up 133%, Chiang Rai is gaining attention as travellers explore beyond Thailand’s most famous destinations.
The northern Thai city is known for its distinctive temples, including the White Temple and Blue Temple. Tea plantations, mountain landscapes, night markets and opportunities to experience local communities add to its appeal.
6. Varanasi, India
India’s spiritual city of Varanasi recorded a 120% rise in flight searches.
Situated along the Ganges, Varanasi offers travellers an experience shaped by ancient traditions, temples, ghats and narrow historic streets.
For visitors interested in India’s culture and spirituality, the city remains one of the country’s most distinctive destinations.
7. Manila, Philippines
The Philippine capital saw flight searches rise by 108%.
Manila brings together colonial history, modern city life, markets, shopping and a growing food scene. Historic areas such as Intramuros provide a glimpse into the city’s past, while its modern neighbourhoods offer a very different atmosphere.
The city can also serve as a starting point for exploring other parts of the Philippines.
8. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi recorded a 105% increase in flight searches.
Georgia’s capital offers a fascinating combination of historic architecture and modern city culture. Visitors can explore old streets, churches, thermal baths, cafés and contemporary cultural spaces.
The city’s mix of European and Caucasian influences gives it a character that feels quite different from conventional European city breaks.
9. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Searches for Ho Chi Minh City increased by 98%.
The energetic Vietnamese city combines modern skyscrapers with French-colonial architecture, bustling markets and museums documenting the country’s history.
It is also an important gateway for travellers wanting to explore southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta.
10. Port Louis, Mauritius
Port Louis completes the list with a 93% increase in flight searches.
Mauritius’ capital offers colourful markets, historic architecture and a waterfront surrounded by green hills. Its multicultural character is reflected in its food, traditions and everyday city life.
For travellers looking for a combination of culture, food and tropical scenery, Port Louis can offer a different experience from a conventional beach holiday.
Why Are These Destinations Becoming Popular?
One noticeable pattern is that travellers are showing greater interest in less-obvious destinations rather than concentrating only on established tourist hotspots.
The destinations on this list cover everything from India’s tea country and spiritual cities to international cultural capitals, mountain escapes and tropical destinations. Skyscanner describes the broader trend among Indian travellers as an interest in culture-rich locations, scenic getaways and emerging global destinations.
A New Direction For Indian Travel
The growing interest in destinations such as Jorhat, Jaffna and Chiang Rai suggests that travellers are increasingly looking for experiences that feel distinctive and personal.
Whether the goal is discovering local culture, escaping into nature, exploring historic neighbourhoods or simply finding somewhere less familiar, these destinations offer plenty of possibilities.
As travel preferences continue to evolve in 2026, some of today’s lesser-known names could become tomorrow’s major holiday