In recent years, Indian travelers have shown a strong inclination towards experience-led holidays, with nearly 75% of respondents expressing a strong interest in such trips. This trend reflects a broader shift in the way travel is perceived, where experiences and events have become the primary drivers of interest, rather than specific seasons or destinations. The reasons behind this shift are multifaceted. Firstly, travelers are increasingly looking for unique and authentic experiences that allow them to connect with local cultures and traditions. Secondly, the rise of social media has created a culture of FOMO (fear of missing out), where travelers feel pressure to participate in popular events and festivals, lest they be left out of the experience. Lastly, the growing awareness of the environmental and social impact of tourism has led to a greater emphasis on responsible and sustainable travel practices. To cater to this growing demand, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have launched a range of festival-led holidays that showcase the diversity and richness of Indian culture and beyond. These holidays offer a unique blend of cultural experiences, entertainment, and adventure, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local way of life.
Destination Highlights
• Spain: La Tomatina Festival (Aug 2025) – A tomato-splattered playground where travelers can explore Valencia’s rich culinary scene. • Germany: Oktoberfest in Munich (Sept 2025) – Bavarian beer gardens, folk parades, and hearty cuisine. • South Korea: Boryeong Mud Festival (July – Aug 2025) – Playful mud sports, beach parties, and music concerts. • Kenya: Mombasa Carnival (Nov 2025) – Vibrant coastal parades, music, and Swahili cuisine. • Brazil: Rio Carnival (Feb 2026) – Samba, parades, and parties. • US: Mardi Gras in New Orleans (Feb 2026) – Jazz, masquerades, and Creole flavors. • Italy: Venice Carnival (Feb/March 2026) – Masked balls and gondola rides. • Japan: Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb 2026) – Giant ice sculptures and snow fun. • Australia: Moomba Festival (March 2026) – River sports, street food, and live shows. • Malaysia: Chinese New Year (Feb–March 2026) – Lion dances, fireworks, and festive treats. • Vietnam: Lantern Festival in Hoi An (March 2026) – Floating lanterns and riverside charm. • Thailand: Songkran in April 2026 – Joyful water fights, temple visits, and Thai street food. • India: Onam Festival in Kerala (Sept 2025) – Grand boat races and traditional feasts (sadhya). • India: Rann Utsav in Gujarat (Oct 2025 – March 2026) – Folk performances, tent stays, camel rides, and local crafts. • India: Pushkar Mela (Nov 2025) – Spiritual rituals, camel trading, and rural games. • India: Hornbill Festival, Nagaland (Dec 2025) – Tribal dances, crafts, and indigenous food. • India: Brahmaputra Beach Festival, Assam (Jan 2026) – Adventure sports and riverside celebrations. • India: Goa Carnival (Feb 2026) – Parades, floats, and seafood shacks. • India: Jaisalmer Desert Festival (Feb 2026) – Camel parades and folk shows.
Expert Insights
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have curating a diverse portfolio of festival-led holidays that cater to the growing demand for experience-led travel. “We are witnessing a growing demand for travel centered around the world’s most iconic celebrations,” said Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. “The new age Indian traveller is seeking more than just sightseeing; they crave authentic, immersive experiences that connect them with local traditions and celebrations,” added Kale. S D Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours – SOTC Travel, echoed this sentiment, saying: “At SOTC Travel, we actively embrace evolving consumer trends to craft unforgettable, high-impact experiences that inspire and excite.”
SOTC Travel is witnessing a growing demand for travel centered around the world’s most iconic celebrations, not just in India’s metros but also in regional Tier 2-3 travellers. “We are excited by the demand that we are witnessing – and this is across segments – from Young India’s Millennials & GenZ, couples, multi-generational families to Corporate MICE,” said Nandakumar. By curating these festival-led journeys, SOTC Travel is offering more than just holidays – they’re opening doors to stories, memories, and once-in-a-lifetime moments that travellers carry with them long after they return.
Key Takeaways
• Experience-led holidays are on the rise in India, driven by a desire for unique and authentic experiences. • Festivals and carnivals have become a major draw for travelers, offering a chance to connect with local cultures and traditions. • Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel are curating a diverse portfolio of festival-led holidays to cater to this growing demand. • These holidays offer a unique blend of cultural experiences, entertainment, and adventure, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local way of life. • The demand for experience-led travel is not limited to India’s metros but also extends to regional Tier 2-3 travellers.
