India's new-age travellers going abroad are not from Delhi or Mumbai but...
There is a rise in visa applications in India (Photo: Unsplash)
Increase in visa applications
New-age travellers aspire to indulge in experiential travel - concerts, sports tourism, chasing the northern lights, etc. In 2025, #wanderlust is driving minimoons in Bali, a bachelorette in Phuket, a solo trip to Vietnam, a blingy getaway to Dubai, and so much more.As per data from Atlys, a digital visa processing firm, there's been a notable 32 per cent spike in international visa applications from first-time travellers within the past year. Interestingly, over 56 per cent of this increase is credited to people from smaller cities (as mentioned above), marking a shift in travel dynamics outside India's larger metro hubs.
Dubai skyline (Pexels)
"Travel is no longer seen as a luxury, it's become an essential part of life," says Mohak Nahta, founder & CEO of Atlys. "We're witnessing annual growth in first-time international travellers. This trend is propelled by cost-effective international flights, straightforward digital visa procedures, and rising income levels. Nations that streamline entry and approval processes stand to gain the most in this forthcoming wave of Indian outbound tourism."Who are these new-age travellers? Young adults below 35, newlyweds, and families are at the helm of this travel surge, as per the data.And where exactly are they heading?The UAE and Southeast Asia are leading the pack. Dubai remains a popular choice, but there is a growing trend of Southeast nations,Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, becoming the new backyards for Indian travellers, thanks to their engaging experiences, affordability, and simplified visa procedures.
Boat ride in Thailand (Photo: Pexels)
Facilitating this travel boom is a more accessible passport system, with over 10.09 crores passports issued from 2014 to 2023, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs. The number of Passport Seva Kendras has expanded from 153 in 2014 to 523 in 2023, thus enhancing accessibility for those eager to journey abroad.However, despite such expansion, only 8.71 per cent of India's population currently possesses an active passport, hinting at a substantial potential market for future first-time travellers.This newfound travel ease signifies more than just a trend; it's a fundamental social shift, as residents from smaller Indian cities embrace international travel as a tangible step in their personal and cultural journeys. Furthermore, the role of social media is pivotal, significantly influencing these new travellers. From Instagrammable cafes to hidden gems, the internet is practically helping them curate itineraries.The cities where international dreams were a myth, are now stepping up with the world. Slowly and steadily and on their own terms.- EndsTune InTrending Reel
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