Indians are chasing luxury travel like never before. What's driving this shift?

Luxury, business class, and extravagant retreats are becoming increasingly popular among Indian travellers. Experts also agree Louis D’Souza, director at Tamarind Global, says, “Luxury travel among Indian travellers has seen an extraordinary rise and this trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2025.” D’Souza explains that today’s Indian traveller craves unique, bespoke experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing. Rajesh Magow, the co-founder and group CEO of MMT, says, “The trend toward premiumisation is becoming increasingly pronounced, as travellers are willing to spend more for a memorable holiday.” : Experts like D'Souza suggest that the younger generation has prioritised travel as an essential part of their lives being the key contributors. Rajesh Magow, the co-founder and group CEO of MMT, says, “The trend toward premiumisation is becoming increasingly pronounced, as travellers are willing to spend more for a memorable holiday.” Exposure to global lifestyles: Thanks to the rise of social media and digital platforms, Indian travellers have a front-row seat to the luxury experiences enjoyed by people around the world. As Kamat says, “The growing appetite for such experiences is a clear indication that luxury travel will only continue to flourish in the coming years, with Indians playing a key role in shaping its future.” Gone are the days when Indians were stereotyped as "budget travellers".