For Gen Z, travel is no longer about ticking off popular tourist destination. Instead, they are packing their bags, and heading to lesser- known, off-beat spots like Jibhi, Coonoor, Coorg, Varkala, Mawlynnong, Chopta, Chettinad, and Gokarna.
As mainstream tourist hubs become crowded, these hidden gems are capturing the attention of young vagabonds who are seeking tranquility, authenticity, and deeper connections with their surroundings. Far from the chaos of city life, these untouched locations offer a sense of ease and an unfiltered experience of life without the rush. “These places are not commercialised,” notes Shubham Vuniyal, a 24-year-old from Hyderabad who explored Gokarna on his bike. The lack of crowds and the slow-paced charm of these destinations provide an escape from digital overload and constant hustle.
Travel data reflects this growing trend. Year-on-year (YoY) bookings to offbeat destinations are surging, with Varkala witnessing a 146 per cent increase, Coorg 106 per cent, and spiritual tourism destinations such as Ayodhya (452 per cent), Madurai (74 per cent), Varanasi (53 per cent), and Shirdi (27 per cent) seeing remarkable growth, according to AbhiBus data. During the Maha Kumbh, travellers aged 20-25 accounted for 24 per cent of total bus bookings to Prayagraj, surpassing those aged 46 and above (21 per cent), signalling a shift in how Gen Z is embracing spirituality through travel, explained Rohit Sharma, COO, AbhiBus.
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“These places offer the luxury of privacy and calm,” observes Deepthi Tharol, a tech professional from Bengaluru who is planning a trip to Chettinad with her friend. For many young travellers, the thrill lies in discovering a place less explored. “It’s about unwinding, disconnecting, and embracing the unknown,” Vuniyal adds.
Echoing this, a yatra spokesperson said, “These trends have skyrocketed post-pandemic, as individuals are seeking mental, and emotional well-being to manage stress in their daily lives.”
For some, authenticity is the biggest draw. Ariya S, a doctor from Trivandrum, meticulously plans her trips in advance and exclusively picks offbeat destinations. “I wish to experience the place without the gloss of commercialisation.”
These changing trends are also paving way for partnerships, with travel – tech companies exploring opportunities with wellness retreats. According to yatra spokesperson, the platform has collaborated with yoga retreats in Rishikesh. In addition, it is offering targeted packages for Gen Z.
The trend goes beyond limited pockets, with redBus observing patterns in lesser-known destinations. Pallavi Chopra, CMO, redBus, highlighted that locations like Udgir, and Pusad in Pune saw a spike in interest by 25 per cent, and 36 per cent respectively, while Proddatur in Bengaluru recorded a 38 per cent YoY increase. Similarly, travellers from Hyderabad are showing a growing interest in Nandyal (18 per cent). Other location include Kadapa, Ballari, and Nandurbhar.
