Indian Gen Z travelers prefer longer party breaks and cultural stays, reveals Airbnb, EttravelWorld

Image credit – iStock-598919748

India’s Gen Zollers are reshaping holiday season travel patterns with a growing preference for culture-rich trips both in and out of the country. More than 30 percent of searches by Indian Gen Zolers reflect a significant move toward purposeful and immersive travel, according to new data from Airbnb.

At four days, the average international travel length for Indian Gene Z is a preference for “slow travel,” emphasizing experiences that take place over discovery, connection, and authenticity. Rather than short, fast-paced itineraries, young travelers prefer remnants that allow for deeper engagement with destinations and local cultures.

This change is seen during major festive periods such as Dussehra, Diwali, Christmas and New Year, when travel increasingly replaces traditional home celebrations. Popular choices this season include coastal destinations like Goa, Varkala, Koh Samui and Langkawi and hill retreats like Mussoorie, Ooty and Darjeeling. Cultural hubs like Jaipur, Rishikesh, Varanasi and Kolkata are also noted for their blend of heritage, spirituality and authenticity.

“The way India celebrates festivals is evolving and Gen Zarma is driving this transformation,” he said. “We see Indians choosing to travel during the festive seasons, but also exploring places close to international destinations. We are proud to enable these journeys with every trip and experience on Airbnb that is unique.”

Airbnb’s insights further expand its international membership with Indian Gen Z travelers, Thailand, Japan and major European cities such as Paris, Rome and Amsterdam top search engines. Locally, destinations including Goa, Coorg, Jaipur and Rishikesh continue to rank high, especially for design-led and nature-rich homes that offer distinct holiday experiences.

The Emerging Trend highlights a generational shift in how young Indians approach travel – not just as a leisure pursuit, but as a meaningful and self-discovery of cultural celebration.

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