Published on
December 22, 2025
US has joined Thailand, Sri Lanka, UAE, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and other popular destinations as one of the most sought-after international spots for Indian tourists in 2025. This rise in bookings for the US reflects its broad appeal, with its iconic cities, cultural diversity, and attractions drawing travellers from India. Meanwhile, Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam continue to dominate, thanks to their proximity, ease of visa access, and affordability. Malaysia and Singapore also remain favourites due to their well-established tourism infrastructure and vibrant cityscapes. The UAE holds strong as a luxurious getaway for Indians, while Hong Kong offers a unique mix of modernity and tradition. Together, these destinations reflect the diverse range of experiences Indian travellers are seeking, balancing both long-haul trips to distant shores and short-haul escapes within Southeast Asia.
Thailand has claimed the top spot as the most popular international destination for Indian travellers during the year-end and New Year holiday period in 2025, surpassing the UAE, according to a recent report by MakeMyTrip. This report, which analyzes travel bookings between December 20, 2025, and January 5, 2026, reveals significant shifts in travel preferences when compared to the same period in 2024.
The UAE, which was previously the leading destination for Indian tourists, has dropped to second place, while Sri Lanka remains in third position. One of the standout trends in this year’s findings is the rise of Vietnam, which has seen a surge in bookings, jumping from seventh place in 2024 to fourth place in 2025. This shift signifies the increasing allure of emerging destinations in Southeast Asia, as Indian travellers become more adventurous in exploring new locations.
Malaysia continues to be a strong favourite, holding steady in fifth position. The region’s appeal, especially for short-haul travel, has been a consistent theme for Indian travellers. Southeast Asia’s proximity, affordability, and ease of access have made it the go-to region for quick international holidays. Furthermore, the simplicity of obtaining visas and the region’s well-established tourism infrastructure only add to its attractiveness.
Completing the top 10 list are Indonesia, Singapore, the UK, the US, and Hong Kong. Southeast Asia remains a dominant force in Indian travel trends, with Indonesia and Singapore ranking among the top spots. Both countries offer a mix of rich culture, natural beauty, and vibrant tourism sectors that appeal to Indian tourists seeking diverse experiences. Long-haul destinations such as the UK and the US, while geographically distant, maintain their strong position on the list. These countries are popular for their blend of historical landmarks, modern amenities, and cultural diversity.
The report also highlights an emerging trend among Indian travellers: an increasing preference for more luxurious accommodations and combining leisure trips with shorter international holidays. This reflects a broader shift towards prioritizing quality over quantity. Indian travellers are increasingly opting for premium stays that enhance their holiday experience, seeking not just value but a higher level of comfort and exclusivity during their trips.
The trend of shorter international holidays is growing in popularity as well. Indian travellers are increasingly choosing quick getaways rather than long, drawn-out vacations. The convenience of short-haul destinations, coupled with their relatively affordable costs, is making them an attractive option for those who want to travel abroad without committing to lengthy trips. Southeast Asia, with its proximity to India and diverse offerings, continues to be the dominant region for these short but memorable escapes.
The rise in popularity of destinations like Vietnam is also a result of the increasing number of direct flights from India to these emerging destinations. Airlines are expanding their routes, offering competitive pricing and making travel to previously less-visited countries more accessible. This change in air connectivity has played a significant role in the growing interest in destinations outside the usual tourist hotspots, such as Vietnam, which now occupies a top spot on the list.
Despite the ongoing popularity of Southeast Asia, the report underscores a growing trend of Indian travellers seeking new and unexplored destinations. Vietnam, for instance, has gained significant traction, moving up the ranks due to its unique cultural experiences, picturesque landscapes, and affordability. It’s clear that Indian travellers are becoming more open to less conventional holiday spots, moving away from the traditional destinations that have long been associated with Indian tourism.
In addition, the rise of digital platforms like MakeMyTrip has made it easier for travellers to book international trips, compare options, and customize their travel experiences. This shift towards more personalized travel planning has contributed to a growing demand for tailored, unique holiday experiences, which is reflected in the evolving destination preferences.
US has joined Thailand, Sri Lanka, UAE, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and other popular destinations as top choices for Indian tourists in 2025, driven by diverse attractions, ease of access, and a growing demand for both long-haul and short-haul international travel. These destinations offer a mix of cultural experiences, affordability, and convenience, catering to the evolving preferences of Indian travellers.
Top 10 International Destinations Booked by Indian Travellers for 2025 (according to MakeMyTrip)
- Thailand
- UAE
- Sri Lanka
- Vietnam
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Singapore
- UK
- USA
- Hong Kong
