As travel trends take an unexpected turn in 2026, the next big destinations aren’t the usual global icons — they are the soulful, surprising ones. According to Skyscanner’s latest Travel Trends Report, Indian travellers are embracing lesser-known, culture-rich escapes that offer both serenity and story.
An analysis of tens of thousands of flight searches reveals a fascinating shift: smaller cities, heritage hubs, and emerging global gems are capturing imagination faster than traditional hotspots. Whether it’s Assam’s tea capital Jorhat or the colonial streets of Manila, these are the names quietly climbing the charts — and now stepping into the global spotlight.
Here are the seven destinations leading the way in 2026.
1. Jorhat, India | Search increase: +493%
Tucked away in the lush heart of Assam, Jorhat is fast becoming India’s most surprising new favourite. Famous for its sprawling tea estates and deep-rooted Assamese culture, the city offers a calm yet culturally rich alternative to the typical hill getaway. It’s also the gateway to Majuli, the world’s largest river island, known for its monasteries, traditional masks, and eco-friendly homestays.
Whether you’re walking through aromatic tea gardens, exploring the Tocklai Tea Research Institute, or simply soaking in the serenity of the Brahmaputra, Jorhat’s charm lies in its authenticity — and it’s finally being discovered.
2. Jaffna, Sri Lanka | Search increase: +325%
Once off-limits to most tourists, Jaffna is making a quiet comeback. This northern Sri Lankan gem, fringed with palmyra palms and dotted with serene lagoons, offers an unhurried blend of spirituality, history, and food.
Known for its striking Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, colonial ruins, and distinct Tamil identity, Jaffna feels worlds away from Colombo’s bustle. With new direct flights from southern India, travellers can now explore its coastal villages, taste authentic crab curry, and experience the warmth of Sri Lanka’s north — all without crowds.
3. Muscat, Oman | Search increase: +211%
Muscat, Oman’s elegant seaside capital, is where heritage meets modern luxury. Flanked by rugged mountains and the Arabian Sea, it charms visitors with its whitewashed architecture, ornate mosques, and glittering souqs.
Beyond its picture-perfect skyline, travellers are drawn to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Mutrah Corniche, and desert excursions that end under starry skies. As Indians seek more short-haul luxury escapes, Muscat’s blend of adventure and Arabian hospitality makes it a rising star for 2026.
4. Queenstown, New Zealand | Search increase: +151%
Adventure, indulgence, and alpine drama — Queenstown delivers all three in spades. Nestled by Lake Wakatipu and framed by The Remarkables mountain range, this South Island hotspot is a dream for thrill-seekers and romantics alike.
From bungee jumping and jet boating to scenic gondola rides, spa days, and winery tours, Queenstown balances adrenaline with sophistication. As New Zealand reclaims its allure for Indian travellers, Queenstown stands tall as the ultimate bucket-list destination for 2026.
5. Chiang Rai, Thailand | Search increase: +133%
While most travellers still flock to Chiang Mai or Bangkok, Chiang Rai is quietly emerging as Thailand’s new cultural darling. Home to the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), it’s a living gallery of Thai artistry and spirituality.
The city’s cool mountain air, tea plantations, and hill tribe villages make it perfect for slow, mindful travel. Add to that its colourful night bazaars and riverside charm — and Chiang Rai is easily one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding hidden gems.
6. Varanasi, India | Search increase: +120%
One of the world’s oldest living cities, Varanasi continues to fascinate a new generation of travellers. Its magnetic pull lies in the spiritual rhythm of daily life along the Ganges — where sunrise rituals, temple bells, and evening aartis blend into something timeless.
From the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to labyrinthine alleys lined with silk shops and street food stalls, Varanasi’s mystique is both ancient and ever-evolving. It’s a destination where India’s soul reveals itself — raw, radiant, and unforgettable. 7. Manila, Philippines | Search increase: +108%
Manila is no longer just a transit point to the Philippines’ beaches — it’s now a destination in its own right. The capital city buzzes with a fascinating mix of colonial-era charm and cosmopolitan energy.
Explore Intramuros, the historic walled city; dive into street markets and vibrant nightlife; and discover a thriving culinary scene that fuses Filipino, Spanish, and Asian flavours. With its growing connectivity and youthful vibe, Manila is becoming one of Asia’s most dynamic city breaks for Indian travellers in 2026.
The Bigger Picture: Soul Over Status
Skyscanner’s data shows a clear trend — travellers are choosing places that tell stories over those that simply boast luxury. Short-haul destinations like Jaffna and Muscat are rising as accessible escapes, while far-flung gems like Tbilisi, Queenstown, and Manila reflect a desire for authenticity and adventure.
As global travel continues to evolve, 2026 may well be the year when the lesser-known becomes the most loved. Other Rising Stars (Just Missed the Top 7)
- Tbilisi, Georgia (+105%) – Europe’s most photogenic cultural blend of past and present.
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (+98%) – A fusion of French architecture, street food, and urban chaos.
- Port Louis, Mauritius (+93%) – Colourful markets and coastal calm in one irresistible island capital.
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