A recent report from online travel agency Booking.com reveals that Indian travelers exhibit remarkable resilience, with 96% willing to adapt their travel plans rather than cancel them in the face of disruptions. This finding comes from the inaugural “Travel Happiness Index,” a comprehensive survey of over 10,000 travelers across 10 Asia-Pacific markets.
The study highlights that travel remains a significant source of happiness and well-being for Indians. Among those willing to adapt their plans, 28% would choose an alternative destination, while 19% would postpone their trip. Another 19% indicated they would modify the timing or duration of their travel.
The report further indicates that an overwhelming 99% of Indian travelers associate travel with positive emotions. A substantial 90% affirmed that having a trip to anticipate significantly boosts their mood. For 82%, travel is considered essential to their overall happiness and well-being, with happiness (55%), relaxation (46%), and excitement (43%) being the top emotions linked to travel experiences.
Indian travelers are increasingly prioritizing meaningful experiences over overly structured itineraries. Approximately 78% prefer local food and authentic experiences, and 68% consider family trips the most enjoyable.
Despite various concerns, including extreme weather and health and hygiene risks (each cited by 33%), crime (29%), inflation (28%), and political instability (24%), travel continues to be a high priority. Encouragingly, 70% of respondents expressed greater confidence in their ability to afford travel compared to previous periods.
Santosh Kumar, regional head for South Asia at Booking.com, commented on the findings, stating, “Travel is increasingly becoming more than just a break from routine; it is an investment in wellbeing, relationships, and personal enrichment. What’s particularly encouraging is their resilience; rather than putting their plans on hold during uncertainty, most are choosing to adapt and make the most of their trips.”
The research, commissioned by Booking.com, was independently conducted among 10,136 respondents aged 21 and above across 10 Asia-Pacific countries. The online survey took place in May 2026, with 1,015 participants from India.
