From Pondicherry to Udaipur, calm destinations dominate Valentine’s Day travel plans: Report

Calm coastal towns and heritage cities like Pondicherry, Varkala and Udaipur top Valentine’s Day travel plans for Indian couples, shows Agoda data.

• Pondicherry tops Valentine’s Day getaway searches with 48% surge
• Varkala and Chennai also see sharp rise in couple travel interest
• Indian couples favor scenic, relaxed getaways over lavish weddings.

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As Valentine’s Day arrives tomorrow, Indian couples are increasingly swapping predictable dinners and gifts for short romantic getaways. New data from digital travel platform Agoda suggests that slow-paced, scenic destinations are leading travel searches this Valentine’s Day weekend, with Pondicherry emerging as the most searched destination among couples.

According to the accommodation search data, Pondicherry recorded a 48% surge in searches compared to last year, making it the fastest-growing Valentine’s Day getaway in India. The coastal town continues to charm couples with its seaside promenades, quiet beaches and French-era architecture—offering a relaxed, walkable setting dotted with cafés, boutique hotels and ocean-facing stays.

Pondicherry

Coastal Calm Takes Centre Stage

Close behind Pondicherry is Varkala, which saw a 41% year-on-year increase in travel interest. Known for its dramatic cliffside views overlooking the Arabian Sea, Varkala has become a favourite for couples seeking privacy, scenic sunsets and intimate guesthouses. Cafés perched along the cliffs and access to tranquil beaches add to its romantic appeal.

Varkala

Chennai also featured prominently, registering a 38% rise in accommodation searches. The city is attracting couples looking for a blend of beachside relaxation and urban comforts. Many travellers are pairing strolls along Marina Beach with visits to historic temples, museums and the city’s diverse dining scene—creating flexible itineraries that balance romance and culture.

Weekend Escapes and Heritage Romance

Among popular short-haul getaways, Lonavala recorded a 36% jump in searches, driven largely by couples from Mumbai and Pune. With misty hills, seasonal waterfalls and nature trails, the hill station continues to be a convenient and scenic Valentine’s weekend escape.

In North India, Udaipur saw a 33% increase in travel interest, reaffirming its status as one of India’s most romantic destinations. The city’s lakes, palaces, heritage hotels and old-city streets remain a draw for couples seeking picture-perfect stays steeped in history.

Udaipur

Experiences Over Extravagance

The report's data indicates a broader shift in how Indian couples are celebrating Valentine’s Day in 2026. Rather than high-energy party destinations, travellers are gravitating towards places that encourage slowing down, spending quality time together and sharing memorable experiences.

With Valentine’s Day just a day away, the trend is clear: calm coastal towns, nature-rich escapes and heritage cities are defining romance for Indian couples this year—proving that meaningful moments often matter more than grand gestures.