- Sri Lanka saw a fivefold rise in Indian traveller interest this winter season
- Easy visa access and short flights make Sri Lanka a convenient getaway choice
- Affordable costs and diverse beach options attract Indian tourists to Sri Lanka
With Christmas and New Year around the corner, many Indians are planning winter getaways this season, with several international destinations recording notable growth compared to the same period last year. According to an analysis of internal winter-travel data by Atlys, a visa processing platform, Indian travel preferences are increasingly shaped by ease of access, affordability and experience-driven itineraries. While established favourites continue to attract steady interest, emerging destinations are seeing sharper growth, led by Sri Lanka, which has recorded the most significant rise on the platform this winter.
Atlys' data shows that Sri Lanka has seen a fivefold increase in interest compared to last winter, underlining its growing popularity as a short-haul international holiday destination for Indian travellers. Proximity, competitive pricing and a diverse mix of experiences are key factors fuelling this trend.
Here Are 5 Reasons Why Indians Are Travelling To Sri Lanka This Season:
1. Easy Access And Proximity
With ETA approvals typically taking one to two days, Sri Lanka offers quick and easy entry for Indian travellers. Short flight durations from multiple Indian cities make it an easy international journey with minimal travel fatigue, ideal for both long weekends and last-minute winter plans.
2. Affordable International Travel
Accommodation, local transport, dining, and sightseeing across categories offer strong value for money. This affordability positions Sri Lanka as one of the more cost-effective international destinations for Indian travellers this winter.
3. Beaches That Suit Every Travel Style
Sri Lanka's coastline ranges from laid-back southern beach towns and surf destinations to quieter eastern shores. The variety allows travellers to choose between relaxed holidays and more active, experience-led beach breaks.
4. Culture, History And Heritage
Ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites and colonial-era towns add cultural depth to the journey, allowing travellers to balance leisure with meaningful exploration beyond the beaches.
5. A Familiar Yet Distinct Food Scene
Sri Lankan cuisine, defined by coconut-based curries, fresh seafood and bold spices, feels comfortably familiar to Indian palates while still offering a unique culinary identity.
Other Popular Destinations Among Indian Travellers This Winter:
1. South Africa (2.9x Growth)
Indian travellers are increasingly drawn to South Africa for its wildlife safaris, dramatic landscapes, scenic road trips and outdoor adventures. Experience-rich itineraries continue to appeal to travellers seeking nature-led holidays.
2. Oman (2.6x Growth)
Strong connectivity, warm winter weather, desert landscapes, coastal experiences and luxury hospitality are driving growing interest in Oman as a short-haul winter escape.
3. Georgia (2.1x Growth)
Historic towns, mountain scenery, unique cultural traditions and a distinctive food scene continue to position Georgia as an offbeat European-style destination for curious Indian travellers.
4. Hong Kong (1.88x Growth)
High-energy city life, world-class shopping, a vibrant culinary scene and entertainment-led experiences make Hong Kong an attractive option for short international breaks.
5. Uzbekistan (1.97x Growth)
Silk Road history, striking Islamic architecture, lesser-explored cities and immersive cultural experiences are drawing Indian travellers looking for discovery-led journeys.
6. Morocco (1.87x Growth)
Historic medinas, colourful souks, desert landscapes and architectural richness are fuelling interest in Morocco as a culturally immersive winter destination.
7. Japan (1.79x Growth)
Seasonal festivals, winter landscapes, traditional culture and modern city experiences continue to make Japan a compelling winter choice.
These destinations represent those that have seen the highest growth this winter compared to last year on Atlys' platform. At the same time, established favourites such as the UAE, the UK, the Schengen region and the US continue to maintain strong interest among Indian travellers.
Commenting on the trend, Santosh Hegde, Head of Marketing at Atlys, said, "We're seeing a fascinating shift in winter travel behaviour this year. Travellers are discovering destinations that offer depth, diversity and convenience. The growth we're observing isn't about replacing classic favourites; it's about widening the map. Indians are more open than ever to exploring places that weren't traditionally on their radar."
