Shillong – The most popular travel destination for 2025 says report
Shillong, the “Scotland of the East,” is going to be the top destination for Indian travellers in 2025, overtaking Baku. According to Skyscanner’s new Travel Trends Report, explore the rise of Shillong and other exciting destinations, alongside valuable travel insights for budget-savvy adventurers.
In a surprise twist that no one saw coming, Shillong, the picturesque capital of Meghalaya, has pipped Azerbaijan’s historic city of Baku as the top destination for Indian travellers in 2025. According to the freshly released Travel Trends Report by global travel app Skyscanner, this gem of the Northeast has leapfrogged past international heavyweights, proving that the Scots may have got it right all along when they dubbed it the “Scotland of the East.”
Forget the flaming towers and rich history of Baku; it’s the lush, mist-laden hills of Shillong that have captured the hearts of Indian wanderers. And why wouldn’t they? It’s as if the Highlands themselves have been transplanted to this little corner of India, minus the whisky but with an extra dash of local charm. Who needs a double malt when you’ve got Cherrapunjee waterfalls, pine forests, and vibrant Khasi culture?
The report, released on Wednesday, paints a rosy picture for the travel industry, with 66% of Indians planning to travel more in the coming year. That’s right, folks – we’re not just dusting off our passports, we’re practically charging at the airport with bags packed and sunglasses at the ready!
Skyscanner’s travel expert, Mohit Joshi, was quick to point out, “Cost remains a crucial factor in decision-making as travellers choose their next adventure.” No kidding! We all know it’s not just about picking the most Insta-worthy location, is it? Indians are increasingly looking for value, and the report suggests they’ve got a keen eye for a bargain.
On that note, the “Best Value Destinations” list is a handy guide for those of us who’ve been refreshing flight apps hoping for a dip in airfare prices. And guess what? Almaty in Kazakhstan has had its ticket prices slashed by a whopping 44%. Jakarta in Indonesia and Singapore have also seen decent reductions, making them prime candidates for budget-savvy holidaymakers. But alas, it’s Shillong that’s ruling the roost, even if it hasn’t made it to the cheapest list. Sometimes, you just have to splurge for that extra slice of heaven.
But back to the main event. Shillong isn’t just a hit among Indian travellers because of its budget-friendly allure; it’s the diversity of experiences that has people buzzing. Whether you fancy a quiet retreat by the serene Umiam Lake or a lively jaunt through its music-filled streets, Shillong has something for everyone. From relaxation to adrenaline-pumping adventure, this Northeastern beauty offers a mix that’s clearly hit the right chord with wanderlust-stricken Indians.
And it’s not just Shillong. The report highlights other trending hotspots, with Langkawi in Malaysia coming in a respectable third after Baku. Norway’s Tromso, Uzbekistan’s Tashkent, and Saudi Arabia’s al-Ula are also popping up on search radars, proving that the Indian travel bug has bitten hard and is dragging adventurers to some rather unexpected corners of the globe.
It’s also worth noting that shared experiences and immersive adventures are very much the flavour of the season. Whether it’s catching live sports events or diving headfirst into an art installation, Indian travellers are all about the “do-it-together” vibe. Skyscanner reports a huge spike in bookings to destinations like Abu Dhabi and Singapore, perfectly timed with major sporting events like Formula 1. The rush of bookings ahead of races – a staggering 188% increase for Abu Dhabi’s December Grand Prix – suggests Indians are keen to soak up every bit of the action.
So, as we look ahead to 2025, it seems Shillong, with its unique charm and blend of natural beauty, has well and truly won the hearts of Indian travellers. Move over Baku, the Scotland of the East has spoken, and it’s calling us to its misty hills and vibrant streets. Fancy a cuppa and a stroll through the clouds, anyone?
Photo Credits Victor Gupta
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