India’s travel landscape is witnessing a notable shift toward offbeat destinations, with Japan emerging as a new favorite alongside Seychelles and Vietnam—driven in part by a 45% rise in travel insurance purchases for lesser-known locations over the past few years. A growing number of Indian travellers, particularly young explorers, are moving beyond traditional tourist hotspots to seek unique, less crowded experiences that prioritize authenticity and tranquility.
Recent data reveals that offbeat destinations now account for approximately 11% of India’s total travel volume, a significant share even as iconic cities like Paris, London, and New York retain their popularity. The appeal of unconventional spots is evident in striking year-on-year growth figures: Seychelles saw a 115% surge in Indian visitors in 2025, drawn to its unspoiled natural beauty and exclusive island escapes, while Vietnam recorded a 50% increase in interest—attributed to its blend of cultural richness and peaceful surroundings.
Travellers aged 25 to 35 are the primary drivers of this trend, making up 44% of those visiting offbeat locations, though the appeal spans a wider age range (23 to 60). A key distinction emerges in trip durations: visitors to lesser-known spots typically stay around 18 days, compared to an average of 51 days for mainstream destinations. This gap suggests that offbeat travellers prioritize immersive yet concise experiences, valuing depth of engagement over extended stays.
Peak travel to these unconventional destinations aligns with India’s winter season, concentrated between October and March. During this period, travellers often seek milder climates and aim to avoid the crowds that flood popular tourist hubs, further fueling the shift to offbeat spots.
Looking forward, Japan is poised for substantial growth as an offbeat choice for Indian travellers. Its unique fusion of ancient traditions (such as temples, tea ceremonies, and rural onsen villages), diverse natural landscapes (from cherry blossom groves to mountainous regions), and cutting-edge modernity positions it as an ideal destination for adventurous Indians seeking authentic, immersive experiences—solidifying its place alongside Seychelles and Vietnam in the offbeat travel ranks.
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