As winter settles across India, the season has clearly solidified its position as the country’s peak period for international travel. Visa applications for the November 2025 to February 2026 window have seen a significant surge, making year-end travel one of the most sought-after periods for Indian holidaymakers, according to data from visa processing platform Atlys.
With Christmas festivities, New Year celebrations, and extended school holidays aligning, families, couples, and groups of friends are embracing the opportunity to reconnect and explore destinations abroad.
“Winter has firmly established itself as India’s favourite travel season, and the reasons are clear: it’s a time for celebration, connection, and exploration,” said Santosh Hegde, Head of Marketing at Atlys. “Our role is to ensure that the visa process is as smooth and stress-free as possible, so travellers can focus entirely on their adventures.”
A notable demographic shift is driving this travel upswing. Millennials account for 54% of all applications, reflecting rising disposable incomes and a strong appetite for experience-led travel—particularly to Schengen countries, which make up 50% of millennial bookings. Gen Z contributes another 25%, showcasing the younger generation’s expanding interest in global travel.
Women now comprise 34% of all applicants, with Sri Lanka emerging as a preferred destination among female travellers. Men, meanwhile, continue to gravitate towards Schengen destinations. While Tier 1 cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru lead demand, Tier 2 hubs including Lucknow, Ludhiana, and Surat are also registering a notable rise in outbound travel interest.
Travellers this season are split between classic winter and tropical escapes. Snow seekers are heading to Switzerland, France, and the UK for festive Christmas markets and skiing holidays. Meanwhile, sun-seeking vacationers are choosing Bali, Dubai, and Sri Lanka for their beaches and adventure experiences. Short-haul favourites such as Vietnam, Thailand, and the UAE remain popular for quick, celebratory getaways.
Additionally, increasing itinerary flexibility is boosting interest in multi-country European trips, especially within the Schengen zone. European destinations are also becoming top choices for honeymoons and post-wedding vacations, as more couples opt for culturally rich and scenic winter escapes.
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