Agoda 2023 picks: Ahmedabad tops India emerging travel destinations

Thursday, January 4, 2024

Agoda reveals top emerging India destinations for 2023, led by Ahmedabad, with scenic locales like Kodaikanal and Ooty gaining popularity.

As we welcome the new year, Agoda, a prominent online travel agency, unveils its “New Horizons List,” showcasing the top five up-and-coming Indian destinations based on their latest search trends. The data reveals a notable surge in interest among travelers for these locations. Leading the pack is Ahmedabad, with a remarkable 44% boost in searches compared to the previous year. This city, the bustling economic hub of Gujarat, is renowned for its rich cultural and culinary landscape, and its status as the site of the Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world. Ahmedabad’s appeal was further heightened by hosting the prestigious 2023 Cricket World Cup.

The list predominantly features scenic natural retreats, with Kodaikanal observing a 35% surge in interest, and the hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Ooty witnessing increases of 22% and 21%, respectively. Kodaikanal is celebrated for its pristine natural allure and tranquil environment, while Mahabaleshwar and Ooty draw attention with their unique charms, from Mahabaleshwar’s panoramic hill views to Ooty’s enchanting colonial charm and tea estates.

Kochi, a dynamic port city in Kerala, ranks fifth on the list, experiencing a 19% rise in searches. Renowned for its blend of historical and contemporary elements, Kochi is a magnet for travelers due to its rich Dutch and Portuguese architectural heritage, vibrant spice markets, and authentic cultural offerings.

Krishna Rathi, the Country Director for India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives at Agoda, commented, “The year 2023 has been a landmark for Indian travel, according to Agoda’s year-on-year search data. The New Horizons list, featuring a mix of hill stations and lively urban centers, showcases the diversity in food, culture, and activities. With the onset of the new year, we’re eager to see the evolving travel preferences in India.”

Agoda’s platform, which boasts over 3.9 million accommodation options, as well as flight and activity bookings, offers travelers the ease of organizing and booking a complete journey. These rising destinations represent a thrilling chance for explorers to experience new aspects of India’s rich tapestry.

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