India’s Changing Travel Preferences: Asia Takes the Lead with Top Spots Like Thailand, Japan, Singapore, and Beyond in 2025, All the Details Inside

Published on December 14, 2025

Indian outbound tourism is witnessing a remarkable shift, with Asia emerging as the preferred destination for 63% of travelers in 2025. The WanderSafe Report 2025, an insightful study released by ICICI Lombard, uncovers the evolving travel preferences of Indian nationals, offering a glimpse into the future of travel. This first-of-its-kind report not only highlights the growing trend of independent travel but also reveals how technology and safety are becoming paramount in planning trips. From adventure tourism to the rise of self-driven rentals, the report underscores a new wave of empowered, experience-driven travelers.

With Thailand, Japan, and Singapore topping the list, Indian travelers are venturing farther than ever before, seeking cultural experiences, adventure, and multi-country trips. The report shows a generational shift, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge towards long-haul destinations, while younger travelers prioritize adventure sports and flexible itineraries. The growing adoption of digital tools and AI-powered solutions further enhances the planning process, making it easier for travelers to curate personalized journeys.

Asia: The Leading Destination for Indian Travelers in 2025

In a remarkable trend, Asia is now the preferred travel region for Indian travelers, with 63% choosing it as their top destination for 2025. Countries like Thailand, Japan, and Singapore are seeing a surge in visits, thanks to their rich cultural offerings and well-developed tourism infrastructure. This shift aligns with the increasing popularity of adventure tourism, where travelers, particularly from Gen Z and Millennials, seek out destinations that offer experiences such as trekking, sports, and cultural immersion.

For these travelers, Asia offers a mix of both short and long-haul trips that cater to diverse preferences. Whether it’s the vibrant nightlife of Bangkok, the serene temples of Kyoto, or the bustling streets of Singapore, the region provides an ideal blend of tradition and modernity.

Shifting Trends: The Rise of Independent Travel and Digital Planning

In 2025, nearly 60% of Indian travelers are booking their trips independently or through online travel agencies (OTAs). This is a clear departure from traditional travel agency bookings, indicating that travelers are becoming more self-reliant and empowered in their choices. Gen X travelers, on the other hand, are more inclined to rely on others for their trip planning, a trend that shows the generational divide in how travel is organized.

The WanderSafe Report also reveals that 41% of Indian travelers face challenges when planning their trips. These include issues like visa delays, logistical barriers, and the complexity of travel insurance. Despite these hurdles, the growing digital adoption has helped streamline the process, with more travelers turning to apps and websites for seamless booking and planning.

Generation Shift: The Adventurers and the Independent Planners

The Gen Z and Millennials are not only exploring destinations within Asia but are also increasingly opting for self-driven vehicle rentals. This choice represents a broader trend of travelers seeking flexibility in their itineraries, allowing them to explore at their own pace. In fact, 50% of Gen Z travelers express a preference for renting vehicles during their trips, highlighting their desire for autonomy.

Another noteworthy trend is the growing participation in adventure sports. The WanderSafe Report reveals that 62% of Gen Z travelers are eager to engage in activities like trekking, scuba diving, and mountain biking during their vacations. This highlights the shift towards more active, adrenaline-pumping experiences rather than conventional sightseeing tours.

Tech and Safety: The New Priorities in Travel Protection

With the rise in travel disruptions such as flight cancellations, extreme weather events, and geopolitical uncertainties, 88% of Indian travelers are becoming more aware of the need for travel insurance. In response to these concerns, ICICI Lombard has introduced TripSecure+, an AI-powered travel insurance product that provides continuous protection throughout the journey. The technology integrates flexible, on-demand solutions into the booking process, enabling travelers to access protection as their needs evolve.

This evolution reflects the increasing demand for digital-first solutions in travel insurance, where travelers expect instant payouts and AI-driven assistance during emergencies. With parametric coverage, which provides predefined payouts based on certain triggers, travelers can now enjoy peace of mind during their travels.

Why Travelers Should Embrace These Changes

As Indian travelers continue to explore new destinations, it is essential to stay ahead of the trends and adopt practices that enhance the travel experience. Here are some travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey in 2025:

1. Plan Independently: Embrace the flexibility of booking directly through OTAs and apps. It allows for personalized planning and often better deals.
2. Embrace Technology: Use AI-powered solutions for everything from booking flights to securing travel insurance. This will save time and effort.
3. Engage in Adventure Sports: If you are an adrenaline junkie, look for destinations that offer adventure activities like scuba diving, mountain trekking, and bungee jumping.
4. Prioritize Safety: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies, baggage loss, and trip delays.
5. Rent a Vehicle: Renting a car or bike gives you the freedom to explore destinations at your own pace, especially in countries like Thailand or Japan.

Asia’s Growing Appeal Among Indian Tourists

In summary, Asia continues to be the top choice for Indian travelers, with Thailand, Japan, and Singapore leading the pack. The WanderSafe Report 2025 reveals a shift towards more independent, adventure-focused, and tech-enabled travel experiences. By embracing digital tools and AI-powered insurance solutions, Indian travelers are not only enhancing their trips but also ensuring greater protection and peace of mind.

Whether it’s the ease of self-planned itineraries, the thrill of adventure sports, or the seamless integration of digital-first travel solutions, 2025 is set to be a year where travelers embrace change and embark on journeys that are more flexible, safe, and memorable than ever before.