WanderOn report highlights a rise in community-led trips and festive holiday spending, with domestic destinations continuing to attract the majority of travellers
Indian travellers are increasingly opting for group holidays during the Diwali season, with Vietnam and Thailand continuing to lead international destination preferences, according to WanderOn’s Great Indian Diwali Festive Travel Report 2026.
The report points to a growing interest in shared travel experiences, higher holiday budgets and a mix of domestic and international destinations during the festive period.
Community-led group travel accounted for 65 per cent of WanderOn’s trips in October 2026, compared with 57 per cent during October-November 2025 and 48 per cent in the corresponding period in 2024. These trips bring together travellers who may not know one another, offering solo holidaymakers an opportunity to explore destinations as part of an organised group.
Spending on festive holidays has also increased. The average trip value rose to Rs 56,000 in October 2026 from Rs 49,000 in 2025 and Rs 35,000 in 2024. This represents a 60 per cent increase over two years, indicating that travellers are allocating larger budgets to their holiday experiences.
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Domestic destinations continued to account for the larger share of bookings, representing 60 per cent of WanderOn’s festive travel portfolio
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Meghalaya and Spiti emerged as popular choices among those seeking nature-based holidays, mountain landscapes and offbeat experiences
International travel accounted for the remaining 40 per cent of bookings in October 2026, maintaining its share from 2025 while increasing from 30 per cent in 2024.
Vietnam and Thailand remained among the most preferred overseas destinations. Vietnam attracted interest through itineraries covering Hanoi, Sapa, Da Nang, Ha Long Bay and Phu Quoc, offering a combination of cultural experiences, mountain excursions, cruises and island holidays.
Thailand continued to draw travellers with its island-hopping experiences and festive attractions, including the November lantern festival.
Georgia and Sri Lanka are also emerging as alternatives for Indian holidaymakers exploring destinations beyond established favourites.
The report reflects changing preferences among WanderOn customers, with experience-oriented travel, organised group holidays and higher spending gaining momentum during the Diwali season.
