Last Updated:July 08, 2025, 11:04 IST
Indian travellers are trading Europe for easier, closer getaways like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Bhutan this July
As the summer season peaks, Indian tourists are no longer limiting themselves to traditional European getaways. Instead, they’re looking east and south for trips that are immersive, affordable, and easier to put together in a short time frame.
Europe has long been a dream destination for Indian travellers, offering timeless charm, rich history, and iconic landscapes. But this July, there’s a clear shift in air ticket trends, and it’s not headed west. From the tropical beaches of Sri Lanka to the bustling street markets of Vietnam and the serene temples of Bhutan, Indian tourists are increasingly choosing short-haul, high-value alternatives over Europe and it’s not just about cost.
Why This Shift?
“The visa process for Europe has become more demanding and requires early planning,” explains Alok K Singh, Chairman and CEO, Travomint. “With that, many travellers are now opting for nearby countries such as Sri Lanka, Vietnam, UAE, and Thailand for last-minute travel. These destinations offer comfort, accessibility, and enriching experiences — all without the logistical challenges of Schengen visas.”
This pivot is not necessarily a replacement of Europe, Singh adds, but rather an evolution of how Indian travellers are looking to diversify their experiences. “It reflects the growing passion to embrace new traditions and cultures and to make every journey count — even if it’s shorter and closer to home.”
The Rise of ‘Thoughtful Treats’ and Multi-Country Journeys
The short-haul trend isn’t just driven by convenience; it’s also about value-packed experiences. According to Mithun Jha, Director, Reservations Deal, Indian travellers are curating what he calls “thoughtful treats.”
“Countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Indonesia are becoming trendsetters. They offer the perfect mix of luxury and authenticity, and surprisingly, they allow travellers to cover more than one destination for the same budget as a single European holiday, especially during peak season.”
Social media has accelerated this shift. “We’ve seen a sharp increase in multi-country itineraries shared on Instagram and YouTube, everything from street food in Colombo to desert safaris in Dubai. These travel stories are influencing others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect.”
Micro-Vacations and Visa Realities
The challenges of unpredictable visa timelines and last-minute Schengen rejections have played a significant role in this shift, especially for spontaneous travellers. “Today’s tourist wants comfort and reassurance,” says Rahul Dhawan, Sales Director, Dial for Holidays LLP. “That’s why we’re seeing a rise in micro-vacations to destinations offering visa-free, visa-on-arrival, or quick e-visa access.”
Countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Seychelles, and Indonesia are gaining ground not just for their scenic charm but for the ease of travel planning they offer. “It’s not about excluding Europe,” Dhawan clarifies, “it’s about embracing a new model of travel one that’s simpler, faster to plan, and more practical for the modern Indian traveller.”
What This Means for July Travel
As the summer season peaks, Indian tourists are no longer limiting themselves to traditional European getaways. Instead, they’re looking east and south for trips that are immersive, affordable, and easier to put together in a short time frame.
With direct flights, better visa access, and a renewed focus on mindful travel, nearby international destinations are no longer seen as backups they’re becoming the first choice for thousands of Indian travellers this July.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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