In today’s fast-paced world, heartfelt experiences are quickly replacing material gifts. For Mother’s Day, Indian families are increasingly choosing travel as a meaningful way to celebrate, blending relaxation, connection, and gratitude into one unforgettable journey.
Market Trends: From Traditional Gifts to Experiential Escapes
According to Rajeev Kale, President and Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., more consumers are leaning towards travel to honor their mothers. “Travel offers the perfect solution—to express appreciation for mothers while offering the dual benefit of rejuvenation and quality me-time,” he explains. This shift reflects broader market trends, where soulful, wellness-driven getaways are seeing a surge in popularity.
Top domestic destinations in demand include the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, the serene retreats of Kumarakom, and the lush beauty of Wayanad. South Goa’s beaches and the French-inspired charm of Pondicherry are also favorites. For those preferring cooler escapes, the misty hills of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Munnar, and Coonoor offer refreshing options.
Bank Rally in Experience-Led Gifting: Emerging Preferences
Meanwhile, SD Nandakumar, President and Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours at SOTC Travel, notes a significant pivot toward meaningful, curated stays. “Travel is increasingly being viewed as a thoughtful and contemporary gift that fosters wellness and togetherness,” he shares. Plantation bungalows in Coorg, heritage villas in Darjeeling, and eco-resorts focused on nature immersion are capturing the imagination of travelers seeking deeper connections.
Auto stocks, often viewed as indicators of discretionary spending power, also hint at a growing consumer appetite for travel experiences. Families are opting for slow, soulful journeys rather than the traditional checklist tourism.
Short-Haul International Destinations: Rising Favorites
Short-haul getaways are trending strong this season. Easy connectivity and culturally rich experiences are steering Indian travelers toward vibrant hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. As Kale points out, “Mother-Daughter trips are seeing an uptick,” with experiences like Muay Thai lessons in Thailand, luxurious K-Beauty treatments in Korea, and thrilling Vespa tours in Singapore making headlines.
That said, Bali’s wellness retreats, Maldives’ exclusive island resorts, and Abu Dhabi’s blend of tradition and luxury remain top picks for those seeking to infuse global elegance into their celebrations. For official travel insights, visit the SOTC Travel site.
Ultimately, these journeys go beyond mere vacations. They represent a powerful new expression of love—creating lasting memories and honoring the essence of togetherness in an increasingly busy world.