Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, has emerged as the fastest-growing Indian destination for international travelers, reflecting a significant shift in how global tourists are discovering India beyond traditional hotspots. According to a new travel industry report, the coastal city climbed 11 places in national rankings, moving from 33rd in 2024 to 22nd in 2025, marking the sharpest rise among all Indian cities for inbound tourism.
The data, released by digital travel platform Agoda, points to Thiruvananthapuram’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and wellness tourism as key factors behind its growing appeal. Industry observers say the city’s rise underscores a broader trend of travelers seeking destinations that offer immersive, authentic experiences rather than crowded urban centers alone.
“Thiruvananthapuram offers something increasingly rare in global tourism — a calm, culturally rich environment that balances heritage, nature, and wellness,” a senior travel industry analyst said. “International travelers are clearly responding to that combination.”
Why Thiruvananthapuram Is Drawing Global Attention
Situated along Kerala’s southern coastline, Thiruvananthapuram has long been known for its palm-fringed beaches, historic temples, and laid-back atmosphere. What is changing now is its visibility on the global travel map.
The report attributes the city’s rising popularity to its scenic beaches, world-renowned Ayurvedic wellness retreats, and heritage landmarks, including centuries-old temples that continue to attract pilgrims and culture enthusiasts alike. Its strategic location also offers convenient access to Kerala’s iconic backwaters and nearby hill stations, making it an ideal base for longer, multi-destination itineraries.
“Travelers today are looking for destinations that nourish both body and mind,” said a tourism consultant familiar with inbound travel trends. “Thiruvananthapuram’s wellness offerings, combined with its slower pace and cultural richness, make it especially attractive to international visitors.”
Domestic Tourism Sees Indore on the Rise
While Thiruvananthapuram dominated growth among foreign tourists, the report also highlighted notable shifts in domestic travel patterns. Indore, in Madhya Pradesh, emerged as the fastest-rising city for Indian travelers, climbing seven spots from 35th in 2024 to 28th in 2025.
Indore’s popularity has been driven by its reputation as one of India’s cleanest cities, along with its celebrated street-food culture and bustling traditional markets. “Indore has successfully positioned itself as a city where modern urban life and traditional flavors coexist,” a hospitality executive said. “That balance resonates strongly with domestic travelers.”
Indian Travelers Explore New International Destinations
The report also revealed changing preferences among Indian travelers heading overseas. Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, recorded a significant surge in interest, jumping 12 places to rank 35th among international destinations for Indian tourists.
Nestled at the foothills of the Tien Shan mountains, Almaty has gained traction for its dramatic landscapes, adventure tourism opportunities, and distinct cultural character. “Indian travelers are increasingly adventurous,” noted a travel researcher. “They are willing to explore emerging destinations that offer nature, culture, and value for money.”
Across Asia, other destinations gaining popularity include Sapa in Vietnam, Japanese cities such as Okayama, Takamatsu, and Matsuyama, and Bandung in Indonesia, signaling a broader diversification in travel choices.
Tourism’s Growing Role in India’s Economy
India’s tourism sector continues to strengthen as a critical economic driver. According to official data, foreign exchange earnings from tourism reached Rs 2.3 lakh crore in 2023, while India climbed to eighth place globally in tourism rankings.
Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has expressed confidence in the sector’s trajectory, stating that India is on course to rank among the world’s top four tourism economies within the next decade. “Tourism has the potential to become one of India’s most powerful engines of growth,” the minister has said, pointing to sustained investments and policy support.
Government Push Boosts Emerging Destinations
Officials say the rise of cities like Thiruvananthapuram reflects the impact of targeted government initiatives aimed at diversifying India’s tourism footprint. Programs such as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASHAD have focused on developing themed tourism circuits and modernizing infrastructure at spiritual and cultural sites.
In addition, authorities have approved 40 new projects worth Rs 3,295 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme to promote lesser-known destinations. Efforts have also been made to improve connectivity, upgrade major tourist hubs in partnership with state governments, support homestays through Mudra loans, invest in guide training, and reduce GST on hotel tariffs to make travel more affordable.
“These initiatives are not just about numbers,” a senior tourism official said. “They are about spreading tourism benefits more evenly across regions and creating sustainable, community-driven growth.”
A City on the Global Tourism Map
Thiruvananthapuram’s rapid rise signals a changing narrative in Indian tourism — one where smaller, culturally rich cities can compete on the global stage. As international travelers increasingly seek wellness, authenticity, and meaningful experiences, the Kerala capital appears well positioned to sustain its momentum.
For India’s tourism sector, the message is clear: growth is no longer confined to traditional metros. And for Thiruvananthapuram, the world is finally taking notice.
