Travelling is not just hopping from one landmark to another for everyone. It’s about the experiences, flavors, people, and little moments that make a trip memorable. It’s about wandering with curiosity, finding joy in unexpected corners, and creating stories you’ll remember forever.
In 2026, travel is taking an exciting, refreshing turn. People aren’t just rushing to tick off “must-see” spots; they’re choosing trips that feel intentional, calming, and culturally rich. From what we eat to how we stay and who we meet, travel is becoming deeply personal. Wellness breaks, mindful escapes, local food adventures, mountain retreats, family trips, and unique stays are all shaping the way we explore the world in 2026.
Here’s a closer look at the top 10 travel trends in 2026, including the latest one shaping the travel industry. So, if you’re curious about defining trends in travel or exploring Tourism trends globally, this guide covers it all.
Glowmads – Travel That Heals You, Not Exhausts You
Some trips don’t leave you refreshed; they leave you more tired. That’s why the Glowmad trend is booming. Glowmads are travellers who simply want to feel better after a trip. They travel to escape burnout, get mental clarity, and reboot.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Kerala – Rooted in ancient traditions and true Ayurvedic practices, you receive personalised doctor consultations, daily healing therapies, restorative rituals, along with a curated Ayurvedic diet and herbal nourishment in Kerala.
- Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Immersive nature stays with personalized Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, detox therapies, organic meals in serene Ganga settings offering deep healing, inner peace & mental clarity.
International
- Bali – Here, wellness centers offer spiritual rituals like Melukat, breathwork, traditional healing therapies, and modern fitness sessions, including yoga, Pilates, and floatation therapy.
- Thailand – Thai wellness centers provide immersive healing with Thai massage, meditation, herbal therapies, detox diets, and yoga in serene tropical settings for deep rejuvenation.
- Maldives – Maldives wellness centers offer personalized therapies, yoga, sound healing, detox, and water-facing spa experiences, creating luxurious relaxation, deep restoration, and holistic rejuvenation.
- Bhutan – Bhutan wellness centers offer hot stone baths, herbal therapies, meditation, mindful hikes, and cultural immersion in serene Himalayan settings, fostering profound relaxation and spiritual renewal.
Discover the magic of the Himalayas, let Bhutan be your next escape.
Shelf Discovery – Eating Local, Real and Raw
Food is now the biggest cultural gateway. In 2026, travellers don’t just “try food”, they chase authentic flavours. Not fancy restaurants, but everyday food locals love.
People are:
- Visiting supermarkets abroad
- Eating street food
- Trying heritage recipes
- Following food maps
Where to get the best experience
India
- Indore – Indore offers Poha-Jalebi, Kachori, Bhutte ki Kees, Garadu, Mawa Bati at iconic Sarafa Bazaar and Chappan Dukan, plus Shikanji and Ghamandi Lassi.
- Kashmir – Kashmiri cuisine blends Indian-Persian flavors, Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Pulao, rich with saffron, fennel, dry fruits, and yogurt, creating aromatic, regal, tradition-rooted meals.
- Kolkata – Visit Indian Coffee House (College Street) for cutlets, kabiraji, tea/coffee. Try iconic kathi rolls at Nizam’s (New Market) and Kusum Rolls (Park Street). End at Flurys (Park Street) for pastries.
- Lucknow – Try kebabs, Biryanis & Malai gilauri in Aminabad, Hazratganj. Do visit Falaknuma, Dastarkhwan, and Royal Cafe for Awadhi specialities.
- Amritsar – Try palak paneer, Amritsari kulcha, and lassi at iconic spots like Kulcha Land, Heritage Street, and Haveli Restaurant.
International
- Penang, Malaysia – Malaysia’s culinary hub offers smoky Char Kway Teow (stir-fried flat noodles), tangy-spicy Laksa (fish noodle soup), and aromatic Nasi Kandar (mixed rice with rich curries).
- Singapore – A food paradise offering Hainanese Chicken Rice, spicy coconut Laksa, smoky Char Kway Teow, and grilled Satay skewers. Don’t miss Chilli Crab at hawker centres like Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell Food Centre, and Old Airport Road.
- Dubai – Street food highlights include grilled Shawarma wraps, crispy Falafel, Manakish breads, and sweet Kunafa. Experience a fusion of Middle Eastern and global flavours at local cafés, markets, and popular spots across Deira, Al Fahidi, and Downtown Dubai.
- Bangkok & Chiang Mai – Papaya salad, grilled fish, mango sticky rice—simple, soulful food.
Altitude Shift – When Mountains Become Therapy
Mountains are no longer just cold holidays. In 2026, 92% of travellers plan high-altitude escapes, mostly to disconnect. Mountains now mean no notifications, fresh air, nature silence, warm food, mental reset, early nights, and meaningful mornings.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Himachal Pradesh – Explore Kasol, Manali, Jibhi, Kheerganga, Solang Valley, and Spiti for adventure, peace, and serenity.
- Uttarakhand – Visit Auli, Binsar, Munsiyari, and Kausani for a complete digital detox.
- Kashmir – Discover Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Betab Valley for breathtaking landscapes and calm surroundings.
- Sikkim & Darjeeling – Enjoy the tranquility of these quiet hill stations, ride the toy train, and soak in stunning views.
International
- Bhutan – Hike to Tiger Nest & enjoy the panoramic views of the Greater Himalayan range.
- Sri Lanka Highlands – Sri Lanka’s top mountain ranges include the Knuckles Range (UNESCO trekking), Ella (Little Adam’s Peak, tea estates), Horton Plains (World’s End), and Adam’s Peak for sunrise, offering lush landscapes, biodiversity, and breathtaking vistas.
- Switzerland – Switzerland boasts iconic Alps like Matterhorn, Eiger, and Jungfrau, with towering peaks, vast glaciers, and extensive, well-marked hiking trails.
Plan your next mountain retreat. Book a curated backpacking trip to Uttarakhand.
Bookbound Travel – When Fiction Turns Real
Books are becoming holiday planners. People now plan trips simply because a story was set somewhere. They want to read where authors wrote, visit cafés mentioned in novels, roam the streets described in characters’ lives, and take photos inside historic libraries.
Where to get the best experience
India
- College Street, Kolkata – India’s Book Town
- Mussoorie – Ruskin Bond Country
- Delhi – Old Literary Corners like Mirza Ghalib Haveli & Urdu heritage
- Pondicherry – French-Inspired Chapters
- Perumkulam, Kerala – India’s Book Village
- Jaipur Literature Festival
International
- Paris – Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Dan Brown’s World
- Edinburgh – Harry Potter Trails
- Dublin – Joyce Country
- Prague – Kafka Everywhere
Family Miles – Everyone Travels Together Now
Travel is becoming multi-generational. Families realised experiences matter more than purchases. Travel now means shared meals, shared milestones, shared memories, not just photos.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Jaipur & Udaipur – Palaces & culture
History told beautifully. - Manali, Shimla, Ooty – Light adventure & nature
Walkable, scenic, accessible. - Rishikesh – Spiritual & Outdoor mix
River fun & rituals. - Kerala Backwaters – Peaceful Cruises
Everyone slows down together. - Jim Corbett – Wildlife Thrill
Exciting but not overwhelming.
International
- Japan – Japan offers family fun with Tokyo Disneyland, Universal Studios, Nara Park, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari, Senso-ji, Ghibli Museum, and Pokémon attractions.
- Dubai – Dubai thrills families with Aquaventure Waterpark, Dubai Aquarium, Museum of the Future, Miracle Garden, Burj Khalifa, desert safaris, Ski Dubai, and indoor fun.
- Singapore – Gardens by the Bay, Night Safari, Little India, Skyline Luge Sentosa
- Sri Lanka: Pinnewala elephant orphanage, Galle Dutch Fort, Sea Turtle Hatchery, Manawari Temple, sacred temple of the tooth relic.
Catching Flights & Feelings – Social Travel Rises
Dating app fatigue is real. People now meet naturally while travelling. 87% travellers say they are open to making new connections abroad. Solo but social is the formula.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Trek Triund, explore Macleodganj, Dalhousie, Kedarkantha, Auli, Chopta, and Rishikesh for adventure and lasting connections with fellow travelers.
- Visit Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer to meet new people and experience cultural richness beyond sightseeing.
- Immerse yourself in the “abode of clouds” and sync your vibe with your travel gang for memorable journeys.
International
- Bali – Meet travelers naturally while exploring beaches, temples, and farms. Join tours, co-living stays, and group activities effortlessly.
- Sri Lanka – Connect organically while discovering tea plantations, beaches, and cultural sites. Shared tours, meetups, and adventures spark meaningful friendships.
- Bhutan – Forge bonds trekking valleys, visiting monasteries & trying local food. Group hikes, activities, and community stays create connections.
Destination Check-in – When Hotels Become The Holiday
Earlier, travellers chose a place first and then looked for accommodation. Now, it’s reversed. Stays themselves are attractions. Trends include heritage palaces, jungle pods, floating villas, wellness retreats, and art-curated hotels.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Rishikesh – Riverside ashrams, yoga retreats, wellness escapes, forested boutique stays.
- Rajasthan – Heritage palaces, royal haveli stays, desert camps, luxurious forts.
- Goa – Beachfront villas, art-curated hotels, tropical pods, lively coastal retreats.
- Kerala Houseboats – Floating stays, backwater serenity, lush landscapes, traditional Heritage experience
International
- Maldives – Overwater villas, private islands, turquoise serenity, luxury wellness escapes.
- Dubai – Desert resorts, futuristic hotels, lavish suites, rooftop infinity experiences.
- Thailand – Jungle pods, floating bungalows, wellness retreats, tropical heritage villas.
- Bali – Art-focused resorts, jungle lodges, beachfront retreats, cultural boutique hotels.
Passion-Cations: When Travel Meets Personal Interests
People aren’t just travelling for sights anymore; they’re travelling to learn, grow, and master new skills. Known as “passion-cations,” these trips let travelers take time off to focus on a hobby, interest, or personal passion.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Rajasthan: The Best place for a person passionate about historical exploration.
- Rishikesh: Head to learn yoga, meditation, and the principles of Ayurveda from authentic schools.
- Arunachal Pradesh: Experience indigenous culture and tribal lifestyles surrounded by untouched nature.
- Uttarakhand: Go for trekking to discover scenic Himalayan trails and adventure-filled routes.
International
- Chiang Mai, Thailand– Learn Thai cooking & explore spice markets.
- South Africa– Experience thrilling safaris & wildlife immersion.
- Tokyo, Japan– Master sushi, ramen & traditional tea ceremonies.
- Florence, Italy– Hands-on Renaissance art & sculpting workshops.
Bringing Special Souvenirs Home
In 2026, the desire for self-expression extends even to souvenirs. Travelers are no longer just buying keepsakes; they’re seeking design-led, artisanal, or edible items that bring a destination’s culture into their homes. From handcrafted textiles to local treats, souvenirs are turning kitchens, living spaces, and wardrobes into cultural showcases.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Kashmir: Famous for Pashmina shawls, hand-knotted carpets, carved walnut wood items, and dry fruits like almonds and walnuts. Don’t miss Kahwa tea and traditional pherans.
- Rajasthan: Vibrant textiles, blue pottery, gemstone jewelry, and Mojaris/Juttis. For edible souvenirs, try Ghewar and Bikaneri Bhujia.
- Meghalaya: Unique Ryndiah silk, bamboo and cane crafts, organic spices, orange blossom honey, and tribal ornaments that reflect local heritage.
- Himachal Pradesh: Known for Kullu shawls, Himachali caps, intricate silver jewelry, Chamba Rumal, honey, jams, wooden handicrafts, apples, and dried fruits.
- Uttarakhand: Artisan treasures include Aipan artwork, ringal basketry, handcrafted jewelry, handloom sarees, Himalayan fig jam, herbal teas, and rhododendron juice & jam.
International
- Thailand: Popular items include Thai silk, elephant-themed souvenirs, dried fruits, Benjarong porcelain, soap carvings, Thai tea, and spices or curry pastes.
- Sri Lanka: Bring home Ceylon tea, batik wear, kithul jaggery, traditional masks, wood carvings, palmyrah products, moonstone carvings, manioc chips, and coconut toffees.
- Bhutan: Unique finds include cane and bamboo products, colorful masks, Bhutan red rice, Buddhist paintings, ornaments & jewelry, handmade paper, Himalayan beads, and Bhutan postal stamps.
- South Korea: Trendy and fun items like K-beauty products, phone accessories, Korean snacks, customizable Nike gear, Squid Game merchandise, and Korean honeycomb candy.
- Georgia: Regional specialties include Georgian wine and tea, spices, herbs, bottled lemonade, blue tablecloths, woollen slippers, and socks.
Road over runways
In 2026, road trips are back in style. Travelers are hitting the open road for two main reasons: some for luxury experiences and curated adventures, and others to save money. The trend varies globally, reflecting different attitudes toward cars and leisure driving. Freedom on the road is key.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: Mystical Himalayan town at 10,000 ft. Winding roads, Tibetan monasteries, serene landscapes, high-altitude biking, spiritual calm, breathtaking mountain adventures.
- Ladakh: Epic high-altitude roads, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, Umling La Pass. Adventure, rugged landscapes, motorbike trails, unforgettable Himalayan views.
- Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh: Remote desert mountains, ancient monasteries, Key, Dhankar, Hikkim, Komic, Langza, Chandratal. Adventure, cultural exploration, stark landscapes, historic heritage, and an offbeat road trip.
- Uttarakhand: Himalayan hills, Rishikesh, Nainital, Jim Corbett, Chopta. National parks, spiritual sites, Char Dham, scenic drives, adventure, relaxation, diverse landscapes, smooth roads.
- Kerala: Backwaters, Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey. Misty hills, tea plantations, beaches, spice gardens, wildlife, local cuisine, serene drives, vibrant culture, adventure, relaxation.
International
- South Africa – Garden Route: Scenic coastal highway, beaches, forests, wildlife, charming towns, adventure activities, panoramic views, road trip freedom, cultural stops, unforgettable South African journey.
- Iceland – Ring Road: Volcanic landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, Northern Lights, fjords, black sand beaches, rugged terrain, remote villages, adventure, breathtaking views, photography heaven, Icelandic road trip.
- Vietnam – Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: Lush mountains, rice paddies, Mekong Delta, vibrant towns, historic sites, street food, rivers, coastal stretches, cultural richness, scenic long-distance road journey.
- South Korea – Seoul to Busan: Modern cities, traditional villages, Buddhist temples, monasteries, coastal roads, mountains, cultural heritage, local cuisine, scenic routes, off-the-beaten-path adventure, easy driving.
Slow & Sustainable: exploring at a relaxed, eco-friendly pace
In 2026, the Slow & Sustainable travel trend is reshaping tourism. Travelers are embracing longer stays, exploring lesser-known destinations, and choosing eco-friendly accommodations and transport. These trips prioritize supporting local communities, preserving nature, and enjoying authentic experiences, wellness, and mindful connections with culture—all while reducing environmental impact.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Kerala Backwaters: Stay in eco-friendly houseboats, explore villages, and savor local cuisine.
- Himachal Pradesh: Homestays, trekking, and monastery visits for deep cultural immersion.
- Uttarakhand: Hill stations like Chopta, Munsiyari, Kausani, or Rishikesh with nature walks, cultural workshops, and mindful experiences.
- Sundarbans, West Bengal: Guided eco-tours, wildlife spotting, and community-led conservation activities.
Read how JustWravel’s ‘Keep the Trails Alive’ empowers travelers to explore responsibly while preserving trails, nature, and local communities.
International
- Bhutan: Experience Bhutan’s eco-conscious tourism, pay Sustainable Development Fee, explore pristine forests, cultural sites, and carbon-negative practices for authentic well-being and nature harmony.
- Singapore: Discover Singapore’s green skyscrapers, Gardens by the Bay, eco-certified wellness stays, and “Travel Well” initiatives promoting sustainable, mindful urban travel experiences.
- Bali, Indonesia: Visit eco-resorts, community projects, and regenerative tourism programs in Bali, supporting local crafts, education, and environmental restoration.
- Switzerland: Explore Zermatt’s car-free village, eco-lodges, renewable energy systems, and alpine adventures while enjoying Switzerland’s sustainable, low-impact tourism initiatives.
The offbeat escape: far from the usual crowd
Offbeat and less-crowded destinations are a major 2026 travel trend as people seek peace, privacy, and a break from busy tourist hotspots. Instead of popular cities, travelers are choosing remote mountains, hidden beaches, small villages, and nature escapes with minimal noise, traffic, or screens.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Uttarakhand: Explore Munsiyari’s dramatic peaks, Kanatal’s calm hills, Abbott Mount’s colonial charm, Kausani’s sunsets, Chakrata’s forests, and Lohaghat’s historic Abbey Bungalow.
- Himachal Pradesh: Experience Tirthan’s rivers, Sainj’s serenity, Shoja’s forests, Sarahan’s heritage, and Shangarh’s untouched meadows, perfect for peaceful, offbeat cultural escapes.
- Arunachal Pradesh: Discover Mechuka’s remote beauty, Sangti’s valleys, Ziro’s culture, Golden Pagoda’s spirituality, and Malinithan’s ruins—ideal for slow, immersive exploration.
- Kerala: Enjoy Munnar’s tea gardens, Thekkady’s wildlife, Alleppey’s backwaters, and Kovalam’s peaceful beaches for slow, nature-led cultural travel.
International
- Bhutan: Experience Phobjikha’s glacial valley, Punakha Dzong’s heritage, Thimphu’s culture, Haa Valley’s serenity, and Bumthang’s spiritual traditions in a mindful setting.
- Seychelles: Explore Mahe’s beaches, Praslin’s nature, La Digue’s charm, glass-bottom kayaking at Anse Source d’Argent, and Curieuse Island’s unique wildlife.
- Vietnam: Discover Da Nang’s coastline, Ninh Binh’s landscapes, Hoa Lu’s history, and Saigon’s vibrant culture, blending old-world charm with modern energy.
- South Africa: Visit Robben Island’s history, V&A Waterfront’s culture, Boulders Beach penguins, Stony Point colony, and Augrabies Falls’ dramatic desert canyon landscapes.
Culture-Forward Exploration
In 2026, more travelers are choosing trips inspired by culture, not just beaches or famous spots. People want to visit places they’ve seen in books, movies, or shows, explore local history, enjoy storytelling, and connect with heritage. Instead of party-focused or checklist travel, they prefer meaningful experiences that teach them something and help them feel connected to the place.
Where to get the best experience
India
- Rajasthan: Explore Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pushkar, Bikaner, Chittorgarh, Shekhawati, Ajmer, and Mount Abu for forts, palaces, festivals, havelis, and timeless desert culture.
- Arunachal Pradesh: Experience Tawang, Ziro, Itanagar, Pasighat, Bomdila, Dirang, Mechuka, and Sangti for tribal traditions, Buddhist monasteries, ancient festivals, river culture, and untouched mountain heritage.
- Karnataka: Discover Hampi, Mysuru, Belur, Halebidu, Badami, Srirangapatna, and Gokarna for grand temples, palaces, cave architecture, spiritual heritage, and iconic South Indian cultural history.
International
- Indonesia: Explore Yogyakarta’s temples, Ubud’s arts, Toraja rituals, Lake Toba traditions, and diverse island cultures for a deep dive into Indonesia’s heritage.
- Bhutan: Discover Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and Bumthang for monasteries, dzongs, festivals, spiritual traditions, mountain culture, and Bhutan’s deeply preserved Buddhist heritage.
- Spain: Experience Seville, Granada, Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo, and Cordoba for flamenco, Moorish architecture, Gaudí, world-class art, medieval heritage, and iconic regional traditions.
Travel in 2026 is all about meaningful experiences, from wellness escapes and mountain retreats to local food adventures and social connections. Embrace these travel trends in 2026 and plan trips that truly recharge and inspire.
BOOK NOW & Start your next journey, explore, indulge, and make memories that last a lifetime!
Frequently asked questions
Travel in 2026 revolves around meaningful escapes, wellness retreats, mountain therapy trips, family vacations, food-focused itineraries, unique stays, and social group travel. People want relaxation, authentic culture, genuine connections, restorative experiences, and accommodations that become the highlight of the trip.
Stress, burnout, and fast urban lifestyles have made people seek healing-based travel. Wellness trips offer detox therapies, spa rituals, slow routines, mindful dining, meditation, nature immersion, and zero-screen time, helping travellers return refreshed, energised, and mentally lighter rather than exhausted.
Shelf Discovery celebrates real local food, street flavours, heritage recipes, and supermarket discoveries. Travellers want authentic everyday meals locals love, instead of fancy dining. Food has become the first cultural lens, followed by sightseeing, architecture, and shopping.
Mountains represent complete disconnect, fresh air, silence, slow mornings, warm meals, digital detox, and nature-based grounding. Trips to alpine regions offer deep rest, introspection, mindfulness, active exploration, and relief from overcrowded cities, making mountain retreats feel healing instead of touristic.
Travellers now choose accommodations before choosing destinations. Floating homes, heritage palaces, jungle pods, wellness retreats, and boutique curated stays offer immersive experiences, private chefs, nature decks, curated therapies, activities, and design-led spaces, so staying itself becomes the holiday, not just a necessity.
