India’s travel scene has evolved beyond leisure to immersive cultural experiences. Skyscanner’s Cultural Tourism Report reveals that 82% of Indian travelers now seek destinations rich in heritage, traditions, and local stories led by Millennials (84%) and Gen Z (80%). 

Festivals are no longer side attractions—they’re anchoring trips. 76% of travelers intentionally align their plans with events like Durga Puja, Lathmar Holi, and Onam. Heritage cities like Varanasi (76% boost in searches), Jaipur, Agra, and Hampi are surging in popularity.

The cultural curiosity extends beyond marquee sites to the offbeat and authentic. A remarkable 93% of travelers want to explore hidden gems think tribal festivals in Arunachal, tea fests in Assam, or Kerala’s local heritage.

This shift reflects a deeper yearning: 39% of travelers deem a trip meaningful only when they return having genuinely learned something new about the place and its people. The culture-centric, “story-living” paradigm defines how the culture-curious especially younger generations are redefining travel.