Islands have always held a magical allure for travellers seeking idyllic getaways—picture-perfect beaches, turquoise waters, lush greenery, and an atmosphere of tranquillity. Over the past decade, islands have become some of the most sought-after vacation spots for travellers across the globe. This trend is no different when it comes to Indian travellers, who are increasingly opting for island destinations as their choice of vacation. With diverse preferences in travel and growing disposable income, Indian tourists are now exploring beyond conventional destinations. Islands, both in India and abroad, have emerged as an alluring escape for those in search of serenity, adventure, and exotic beauty. Let’s dive into the rising trend of Indian tourists flocking to island destinations and why this shift is happening.
Maldives
India’s love affair with nature is reflected in its growing interest in pristine island getaways. Islands offer a combination of lush greenery, stunning coastlines, and peaceful vibes that many Indian travellers crave. Whether it’s the white sandy beaches of the Maldives, the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, or the scenic beauty of Bali, Indians are flocking to destinations that promise natural beauty and serenity. The rise of luxury resorts and all-inclusive packages on islands has made these destinations more accessible to a wider demographic of Indian tourists. Top-tier resorts offering spa treatments, private beaches, and personalised services cater to Indians seeking relaxation and indulgence. The Maldives, Seychelles, and Bali, for instance, have become synonymous with luxurious stays that promise an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
For the more adventurous Indian traveller, islands offer an array of thrilling activities, from snorkelling and diving to hiking and wildlife safaris. The Andaman Islands, with their marine life and water sports, have become a favourite among thrill-seekers. Similarly, Bali’s surfing beaches or the wildlife safaris in Sri Lanka’s coastal regions offer experiences that Indian tourists are actively seeking.
Sri Lanka
Top Island Destinations for Indian Tourists
Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Perhaps the most obvious choice for Indian travellers, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide an easily accessible tropical escape. Located in the Bay of Bengal, this archipelago is famous for its stunning beaches, clear waters, coral reefs, and indigenous culture. With domestic flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, it has become a favoured destination for both family holidays and honeymooners. The islands’ untouched natural beauty, marine biodiversity, and historical significance (like the Cellular Jail) make it an all-rounder destination for different kinds of travellers.
Maldives: The Maldives has long been a favourite for honeymooners and luxury seekers in India. With direct flights from key cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, the Maldives has become a popular international choice for Indians looking to experience luxury on a global scale. The overwater bungalows, private pools, and pristine beaches make it the ultimate dream destination for those seeking exclusivity and natural beauty.
Bali: Bali, Indonesia’s famed island, has seen a surge in Indian tourists, particularly due to its affordability, rich cultural experiences, and array of activities. From exploring the rice terraces in Ubud to surfing in Kuta and visiting ancient temples, Bali offers a little bit of everything. The mix of adventure and spirituality, combined with beach resorts and budget-friendly options, makes Bali an attractive option for a variety of Indian travellers.
Bali
Seychelles: For Indian travellers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Seychelles offers a quiet haven. With its remote location in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a place where luxury meets natural beauty. The pristine beaches, exotic wildlife, and secluded resorts attract high-end travellers from India. With direct flights from India to Seychelles, it’s becoming a top destination for Indian honeymooners and those seeking a private retreat.
Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka, though often overlooked in favour of more popular destinations, is a hidden gem for Indian tourists. Being so geographically close to India, Sri Lanka is easy to access, and its rich history, ancient temples, tea plantations, and beautiful beaches make it an attractive option. The coastal towns of Mirissa, Galle, and Unawatuna are popular for those seeking a tropical yet cultural experience.
Mauritius
The fact that several island destinations are just a few hours away from India by flight plays a huge role in the increasing popularity of these vacation spots. Unlike long-haul flights to Europe or the Americas, islands in the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, and even closer regions like the Andaman Islands are easily accessible. This reduces travel time and makes it easier for Indian tourists to opt for short, spontaneous holidays.
Gone are the days when island vacations were reserved only for the wealthy. Thanks to increasing competition and the rise of budget airlines, island destinations are now more affordable. Countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Bali offer a range of options from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts, making it easier for middle-class Indian families to visit these islands. This has made island destinations more inclusive for Indian travellers from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
Langkawi, Malaysia
After the COVID-19 pandemic, many Indians turned their attention to beach destinations and islands as a way to recover from the isolation of lockdowns. With the craving for outdoor spaces and open skies, islands provided the perfect getaway to recharge. The rise in domestic travel also boosted the popularity of local islands like the Andaman Islands, Lakshadweep, and others.
The rise of social media platforms like Instagram has also influenced travel trends. Young Indian travellers, especially millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly drawn to islands due to their picturesque landscapes that make for stunning photos and memorable experiences. Exotic beach resorts with clear waters, private bungalows, and sunset views have become iconic in the social media space, fuelling the desire for island vacations.
Hishamuddin Bin Mustafa, Director, Tourism Malaysia
“Langkawi is fast becoming a favoured escape for Indian travellers seeking sun-kissed beaches, cultural immersion, and thrilling adventures. This idyllic Malaysian archipelago offers a stunning blend of natural splendour, warm hospitality, and rich heritage — all wrapped in a relaxed island charm. Langkawi’s appeal is reflected in its growing visitor numbers. 2.81 million tourists arrived in Langkawi in 2023 — a strong rebound in post-pandemic travel. Malaysia recorded 1,133,331 Indian tourist arrivals in 2024, marking a 68.7% increase from 671,846 in 2023 and a 54.1% increase from the pre-pandemic figure of 735,309 in 2019, highlighting a strong recovery and growing interest in the destination. With an expansive range of accommodations— from luxury resorts to family-friendly hotels — Langkawi caters to every traveller’s needs.
Travel has never been easier. A direct flight from Bangalore to Langkawi International Airport is now available for Southern Indian travellers. With 90+ daily domestic flights connecting Bangalore to various metro and tier-2 cities across India, travellers from different regions have seamless access to IndiGo’s direct flights to Langkawi. This strong domestic connectivity makes Langkawi an easily accessible international destination for Indian tourists via Bangalore, further enhancing its appeal for leisure and holiday travel — a convenient gateway to paradise. Whether it’s a family vacation, honeymoon, or solo retreat, Langkawi delivers unforgettable memories. Its natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and improved connectivity position it as one of the most exciting emerging destinations for Indian travellers in 2025,” says Hishamuddin Bin Mustafa, Director, Tourism Malaysia.
Fawzan Fareid, Regional Manager of India, Bangladesh & Nepal, SriLankan Airlines
“Island destinations have become increasingly attractive among Indian travellers, especially Gen Z, who seek beach-related activities and tropical escapes. Among these, Sri Lanka has emerged as a prominent choice due to its close proximity, rich diversity of attractions, and deep-rooted cultural ties with India. Sri Lanka offers a compelling mix of experiences—from pristine beaches and adventurous wildlife safaris to historical landmarks and vibrant cultural festivals. Its accessibility is another strong advantage, with numerous direct flights connecting major Indian metro cities to Colombo, making travel seamless and convenient. Adding to the appeal, Sri Lanka introduced a free 30-day visa for travellers from 35 countries, including India, effective October 2024. With 90 flights connecting Sri Lanka to 9 Indian cities, travel between the two nations has become more streamlined, encouraging more Indian tourists to explore the island nation.
From January to July 2024, Sri Lanka welcomed 198,161 Indian tourists, accounting for 18% of total arrivals. With relaxed visa policies and visa-on-arrival facilities, this number is projected to climb to 416,974 by year-end, making India Sri Lanka’s largest source market with a 20.3% share. Recent initiatives by Sri Lanka Tourism targeting the Indian market have further strengthened its position as a favoured destination. This momentum is reflected in the January to March 2025 data, which recorded 118,315 Indian arrivals—a 22% growth compared to the same period in the previous year. Among the silver segment (older travellers), the Ramayana Trail has had a significant impact. Launched by SriLankan Airlines, this trail emphasises shared cultural and spiritual heritage, drawing Indian visitors to sites associated with the epic Ramayana. This initiative has contributed meaningfully to the surge in arrivals by offering a spiritually enriching experience rooted in familiarity and tradition, adds Fawzan Fareid, Regional Manager of India, Bangladesh & Nepal, SriLankan Airlines.
Seychelles
As Indian tourists continue to explore new destinations, the demand for islands as vacation spots is only expected to rise. With easier access, better infrastructure, and an increasing desire for unique, luxurious, and adventure-filled experiences, island destinations are positioned to dominate the Indian travel landscape in the coming years. Moreover, with the advent of eco-tourism and sustainable travel, Indian tourists are becoming more conscious of how their travel choices impact the environment. As a result, there is a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly island tourism, where travellers can enjoy the beauty of nature while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Lakshadweep
Islands offer a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and tranquillity, which makes them ideal destinations for Indian travellers seeking a break from the ordinary. Whether it is a relaxing holiday on a remote beach or an adrenaline-filled adventure in the sea, the appeal of island destinations is undeniable. As Indians increasingly seek out these beautiful locales for their next vacation, it is clear that islands will continue to be among the top choices for Indian tourism in the years to come.