This city has become India’s hottest travel destination for 2026, surpassing Phuket, Berlin

For Indian travelers, 2026 promises a fresh wave of destinations standing at par with our imagination and fulfilling all travel desires. People seek experiences that go beyond typical tourist spots, preferring places that are a true source of authentic connections with culture, nature, and personal passion.

This year, a lesser-known city has surged ahead, getting the spotlight from well-known international hotspots. As travel becomes more about self-expression and meaningful discovery, choices are becoming more personal and vibrant. These changing choices influence where people want to go, how they plan their trips, and what they value most, whether it’s culture, wellness, or simply a break from busy life. An Indian city has recently emerged at the forefront, winning the hearts of Indian travelers and signaling a major shift in vacation trends.Popular for its scenic tea gardens and rich heritage, Jorhat, Assam, has risen dramatically to become India’s most trending destination for 2026. It has outpaced popular global locations, showing a strong preference for travel that embraces history, nature, and culture.

Jorhat becomes India’s top trending destination for 2026

Global travel marketplace Skyscanner has revealed its Travel Trends 2026 Report, and in the list, Jorhat has leaped, surpassing famous international cities to become the most searched travel spot among Indians for next year.

The surge in interest, with a staggering 493% increase in travel searches, highlights how people are getting attracted to unique, offbeat destinations.

Outshining popular cities like Berlin and Phuket

This beautiful city has outshone famous places like Berlin, Langkawi, and Phuket, showing that people are choosing to explore smaller, culture-rich spots instead. Jorhat, with its vast tea gardens and near the world’s largest river island, Majuli, offers a mix of nature, history, and local culture.

Skyscanner’s latest report says Indians now prefer trips that match their personal interests and want to avoid busy tourist areas for quieter, more genuine experiences.

Indian travelers are planning to travel more and be budget-friendly in 2026

The report reveals 59% of Indian travelers plan to increase their trips next year, willing to spend the same or more on flights and accommodation, showing a rising travel enthusiasm.

Despite willingness to spend, Indian travelers remain mindful of costs related to food, airfare, accommodation, and visa requirements, balancing desire with budget.

Neel Ghose, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, said during the launch of Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2026 Report, “We’re witnessing a shift towards meaning-led travel where individuals choose experiences that align with their personalities.

One in three Indian travelers are avoiding tourist-heavy destinations in favour of quieter, authentic alternatives.”

Other emerging trending destinations

Alongside Jorhat, places like Jaffna in Sri Lanka and Muscat in Oman also showed significant rises in interest, while value destinations include Tirupati in India and Langkawi in Malaysia.

Beauty and wellness tourism continues to influence travel decisions, with travelers seeking journeys that nurture both body and soul, as noted by Mini Sood Banerjee, Marketing Director at Laneige India.