Domestic tourists prefers visiting Asian countries; spiritual destinations

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

Amid rising tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, the number of city residents planning foreign holidays this summer is expected to decline by 5,000 to 6,000. Uncertainty, safety concerns and rising airfares are prompting travellers to favour domestic destinations over international travel.

According to tourism industry experts, demand for tour packages to the Middle East and Europe has dropped significantly this year. Many travellers have cancelled or postponed their bookings, opting instead for safer and more cost-effective alternatives.

Spiritual tourism gains momentum

There has been a noticeable increase in tourist interest in religious destinations such as Char Dham, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Tirupati, Shirdi, Kashi and Ujjain. Families are prioritising peaceful, secure and spiritually enriching travel experiences.

‘Golden Period’ for domestic tourism

Bookings to destinations like Goa, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are on the rise. This period is likely to prove a ‘golden phase’ for the domestic tourism sector.

Where are travellers going abroad this year?

While international travel has not come to a complete halt, tourists are increasingly choosing relatively safer and closer Asian destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam, Bali and Singapore. Shorter travel time, comparatively affordable packages and lower perceived risk are making these options more attractive.

Shift towards Asian countries

According to President of Marathwada Tourism Development Association, Jayant Gore, “Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, travellers are leaning towards Asian countries for overseas trips. Airfares have increased, leading to a rise in tour package costs. Factors such as fuel prices, gold and silver rates, stock market conditions and higher aviation costs are also impacting tourism.”

Fear among tourists

According to the President of the Travel Agents Association of Aurangabad (TAAA) Mangesh Kapote, “ Every summer, around 10,000 to 12,000 residents from the city travel abroad. This year, a significant decline is expected. There is growing concern among travellers about the possibility of disruptions similar to lockdown conditions. Domestic tourism is set to rise, with a stronger inclination towards religious travel.”