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Spiritual travel in India is no longer defined by endurance. Travellers are, now, seeking ways to reconnect with their heritage without compromising comfort.
Spiritual travel in India now blends faith, comfort, and discovery.
For generations, religious travel in India was seen as a deeply personal, often austere experience – one that involved long train journeys, basic accommodation, and minimal comfort. But today, this sacred ritual is being reimagined. Pilgrimages are no longer just about devotion; they’ve evolved into curated cultural experiences that blend faith, comfort, and discovery. From premium train routes and spiritual flight getaways to boutique stays near temples, India’s travellers are embracing a more elevated way to reconnect with their roots this festive season.
The Rise of Premium Pilgrimage Experiences
Spiritual travel is witnessing a makeover, led by convenience, personalisation, and cultural immersion. “Spiritual travel in India is undergoing a quiet transformation. What was once purely devotional is now being reimagined with curated cultural layers, boutique stays, and seamless transport options,” says Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, and Visa at Thomas Cook (India).
Similarly, S.D. Nandakumar, President & Country Head, Holidays and Corporate Tours at SOTC Travel, notes that spiritual tourism is no longer restricted to older pilgrims. “We’re witnessing a growing interest in curated journeys that combine spiritual depth with cultural discovery and comfort,” he explains. Alongside the popular routes like Char Dham, Dwarka, and Velankanni, new destinations such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Bodh Gaya with guided tours and boutique stays are also picking up momentum.
The Journey Matters: Trains and Buses Drive the Movement
It’s not just the destination that’s changing – the journey itself is getting an upgrade. Trains and buses, long the backbone of Indian travel, are now part of the premium experience. “We’re seeing a sharp rise in train searches and bookings for Dussehra, with spiritual destinations leading the demand,” says Dinesh Kumar Kotha, CEO of ixigo Trains & Confirmtkt.
Tirupati has seen an 80% year-on-year growth, while Vijayawada is surging thanks to its 11-day Dasara festivities.
Rohit Sharma, COO at AbhiBus, adds that last-mile connectivity is driving demand for festive travel. “Many Indians are heading home or visiting Dussehra fairs, with bus bookings surging to hubs like Vijayawada, Hyderabad, and Chennai,” he says. For many, these bus journeys are no longer a matter of necessity; they’re designed to be seamless, comfortable, and family-friendly.
A Redefined Ritual
The festive season’s travel trends reveal a fascinating shift: spiritual journeys are becoming experiential, inclusive, and indulgent – all at once. Whether it’s a train to Tirupati, a boutique stay in Varanasi, or a helicopter ride across the Himalayas, India’s pilgrims are upgrading their paths to faith. With improved infrastructure, direct connectivity, and a growing appetite for comfort, the country’s oldest travel tradition is finally entering its golden era.
Delhi, India, India
October 05, 2025, 20:00 IST
