Summer travel: Soaring heat & affluence push Indians to book pricier, visa-free vacations abroad
As temperatures rise, Indians are increasingly booking summer vacations, both domestically and internationally, despite rising costs. Travel experts anticipate a 10-15% increase in package prices due to high demand and limited availability. Visa-f...
New Delhi: As the mercury inches up a notch each passing day, an increasing number of Indians are booking cool vacations--often beyond home shores--to beat the oppressive heat, undeterred by airline or hotel prices that are soaring nearly as fast as the dreaded thermometer readings through this scorching April.
Travel experts ET spoke with said summer holiday packages could go up by at least 10-15% this year, as more and more Indians, in definitive signs of surging affluence, seek frictionless, visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations.
Bharatt Malik, senior VP for flights and the hotel business at Yatra Online, said the company has seen a significant rise in advance summer bookings. Overall, inquiries have already climbed 15-18% over last year, indicating a 'robust' travel season ahead.
"Package prices have seen an increase of around 10% across both domestic and international sectors. This upward shift is largely due to growing demand, rising input costs, and limited availability in high-demand destinations," Malik said.
While new visa applicants are looking at stretched appointment timelines in what's best described as uncertain times for cross-border travel, Kesari Tours' outbound summer holiday packages to the US-for destinations such as New York, San Francisco, Washington, and Las Vegas-are sold out already. Japan and South East Asian destinations are also seeing high demand, said Himanshu Patil, director, Kesari Tours, and president, Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI).
"Those who got their US visas last year or over the past few months have booked these packages," said Patil.
Easy visa rules
"Because of high air fares, rates will go up marginally for us. While numbers are growing, we are also observing shifts in the pattern of the Indian travellers," said Patil.
"More travellers are moving toward visa free, easy-visa, or visa-on-arrival countries. These destinations such as Azerbaijan, Vietnam and Georgia are gaining more momentum in comparison to the European destinations. Very few Schengen countries are proactively issuing visas, and a lot of them don't have easily available slots," he added.
10 rules to know before travelling to Bali
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Bali isn’t just a destination—it’s a vibe. With its lush rice fields, sacred temples, surf-friendly beaches, and vibrant culture, the Island of the Gods has something for every type of traveller. But beyond the picture-perfect sunsets and smoothie bowls lies a deep, spiritual culture that deserves respect and understanding. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another round of magic, knowing the do’s and don’ts can make a big difference.
Bali isn’t just a destination—it’s a vibe. With its lush rice fields, sacred temples, surf-friendly beaches, and vibrant culture, the Island of the Gods has something for every type of traveller. But..
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The Balinese are warm, gracious people, and politeness is a big part of their culture. Simple gestures like smiling, saying “terima kasih” (thank you), and greeting locals with a nod or a slight bow go a long way. Use your right hand for giving and receiving, and never point with your finger—use your whole hand instead. Also, never touch anyone’s head, even children—it’s considered the most sacred part of the body.
The Balinese are warm, gracious people, and politeness is a big part of their culture. Simple gestures like smiling, saying “terima kasih” (thank you), and greeting locals with a nod or a slight bow ..
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Bali's religious customs are deeply rooted in daily life. You’ll often see ceremonies, offerings (called canang sari), and temple processions. When visiting temples, you should wear a sarong and a sash (often provided at the entrance). Don’t climb on religious structures or take selfies during ceremonies. Always behave respectfully, especially around spiritual sites. Religion is not just part of life in Bali—it is life for many locals.
Bali's religious customs are deeply rooted in daily life. You’ll often see ceremonies, offerings (called canang sari), and temple processions. When visiting temples, you should wear a sarong and a sa..
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Bali is photogenic, no doubt. But while it’s tempting to post everything, be mindful when capturing religious ceremonies, sacred sites, or people in prayer. Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially during cultural events. Remember—some moments are meant to be experienced, not posted. Share the beauty, but keep it respectful.
Bali is photogenic, no doubt. But while it’s tempting to post everything, be mindful when capturing religious ceremonies, sacred sites, or people in prayer. Always ask permission before photographing..
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Bali runs on its own rhythm—often called “Bali time.” Plans change, traffic happens, ceremonies pop up and close roads, and things may not go as expected. The key is to go with the flow and embrace the unexpected. Be curious about local life, try different foods, learn a few Bahasa Indonesia phrases, and let the culture shape your journey. The more open-minded you are, the richer and more memorable your Bali experience will be.
Bali runs on its own rhythm—often called “Bali time.” Plans change, traffic happens, ceremonies pop up and close roads, and things may not go as expected. The key is to go with the flow and embrace t..
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The tropical climate in Bali means you'll need to drink plenty of water—but make sure it’s bottled or filtered. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, and using it to brush your teeth can even upset your stomach. Many places use purified ice, especially in tourist areas, but when in doubt, skip it. You’ll find bottled water easily in shops, and many hotels provide free water refills to help reduce plastic waste.
The tropical climate in Bali means you'll need to drink plenty of water—but make sure it’s bottled or filtered. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, and using it to brush your teeth can even upset your sto..
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Haggling is expected in local markets, but always approach it with good humour. The goal is a fair price for both sides, not to “win” a negotiation. Smile, start low, and meet in the middle. If the seller isn’t budging, it’s okay to walk away politely. And remember—arguing over a few thousand rupiah (a few cents) isn’t worth it. The experience and connection with locals matter more than saving a dollar or two.
Haggling is expected in local markets, but always approach it with good humour. The goal is a fair price for both sides, not to “win” a negotiation. Smile, start low, and meet in the middle. If the s..
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While Bali is relaxed, it’s still important to dress respectfully, especially when you’re away from the beach. Bikinis and boardshorts are fine on the sand, but when entering towns, temples, or restaurants, cover up with modest clothing. Always bring a sarong when exploring temples or rural villages. Dressing appropriately not only shows respect—it also helps you avoid unwanted attention or being denied entry to sacred places.
While Bali is relaxed, it’s still important to dress respectfully, especially when you’re away from the beach. Bikinis and boardshorts are fine on the sand, but when entering towns, temples, or resta..
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In Balinese culture, feet are considered impure. Avoid putting your feet on chairs, tables, or any elevated surface, and don’t use them to point at things or people. When sitting, try to keep your feet tucked under you or pointed down. If you accidentally touch someone with your feet, apologize—it's a small gesture that shows cultural awareness and respect.
In Balinese culture, feet are considered impure. Avoid putting your feet on chairs, tables, or any elevated surface, and don’t use them to point at things or people. When sitting, try to keep your fe..
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Bali’s beauty is one of its greatest assets—from rice terraces and waterfalls to coral reefs and lush jungles. Treat the environment with care. Don’t litter, avoid single-use plastics, and be gentle when swimming or snorkeling—never touch coral or marine life. Respect signs that protect sacred areas or endangered species. Being a conscious traveler helps preserve Bali’s natural magic for everyone.
Bali’s beauty is one of its greatest assets—from rice terraces and waterfalls to coral reefs and lush jungles. Treat the environment with care. Don’t litter, avoid single-use plastics, and be gentle ..
Karan Agarwal, director, Cox & Kings, said demand has picked up even before formal campaign rollouts of its short-haul product pilot packages, and the company is seeing strong demand for group bookings and family travel.
"There's a noticeable shift toward low-friction getaways where travellers only need to pick their dates and leave the rest to us," Agarwal said.
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While the company's summer portfolio includes curated European group departures across usual destinations such as France, Switzerland and Italy, Cox & Kings is also seeing a significant surge in demand for short-haul escapes, especially to Central Asia and Southeast Asia, driven by easier visa access, newer air routes, and growing interest in culturally rich, value-for-money destinations.
"Packages to Baku, Almaty, Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali have gained popularity among younger professionals, couples, and small groups," Agarwal added.
Santosh Kumar, country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com, said while Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Darjeeling and Manali are among the top five most searched domestic destinations for family getaways, the company is also seeing destinations such as Madikeri, Gangtok and Varkala gaining traction this summer.
"On the international front, while perennial favourites such as Dubai, Singapore, Bali and Bangkok remain popular, Tokyo and Abu Dhabi are experiencing a notable surge in interest, with year-over-year growth of 110% and 180%, respectively," he added.
Sunil Kumar R, president, Travel Agents Association of India, said prices are likely to go up during the peak season.
"I think the government will need to step in. At times, a Mumbai-Hyderabad flight can cost ₹15,000-20,000. There must be a maximum price regulated to support the consumers. Surely, the airlines will have to protect their base costs. That they can enhance at the lower-level pricing rather than taxing the consumers, limitless," he added.
The demand-supply gap in the hospitality sector is also making vacation packages costlier.
Manjari Singhal, chief growth and business officer, Cleartrip, said traditional hotspots like Thailand, Singapore, and Goa remain favourites, but the company is also seeing traction for destinations such as Georgia and Azerbaijan.
