Agoda launches New Horizons ranking

Guwahati has emerged as the fastest growing destination for attracting international travellers visiting India, according to digital travel platform Agoda. The travel platform’s New Horizons list further reveals Puri to be the top trending destination for domestic travel, and Langkawi, Malaysia to be emerging among Indian travellers going abroad.

Agoda’s New Horizons ranking, which is released annually, compares the accommodation booking ranks of the two previous years to identify the highest climbers in both domestic and international travel.

Guwahati has gained attention as an increasingly popular destination for foreign visitors. As a gateway to the Northeast, it offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and modernity. Highlights like the Kaziranga connection, river cruises, and nearby wildlife sanctuaries. Guwahati’s increased popularity is further boosted by increasing connectivity and its emergence as a MICE hub.

The broader Northeast region has seen a steady rise in tourism interest, driven by its rich cultural and natural offerings. Festivals like the Hornbill Festival, Ziro Music Festival, and Shillong's Cherry Blossom Festival have garnered attention, featuring diverse lineups of artists and performers such as Boney M, Akon, Clean Bandit and Lucas (NCT). Additionally, high-profile concerts, such as those by Diljit Dosanjh in Guwahati and Bryan Adams in Shillong in 2024, along with Ed Sheeran's scheduled performance in Shillong on February 12, 2025, have contributed to the region’s growing recognition as a destination for prominent musical events in India.

For Indian travelers, Puri is climbing the ranks as one of the popular destinations in the country. The coastal city is increasingly becoming a top choice thanks to its rich spiritual and cultural offerings. Known for its spiritual significance, Puri is home to the revered Jagannath Temple, a major pilgrimage site that draws devotees from across the country. In addition to its religious allure, Puri Beach offers a scenic retreat for those looking to unwind by the sea.

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands in Malaysia, has also emerged as a popular international destination for Indian travellers. The destination's allure lies in its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and unique local culture. Malaysia introducing visa-free travel for Indian tourists has likely contributed to Langkawi's growing popularity among Indian travellers. The ease of access, combined with Langkawi's natural beauty and recreational activities, makes it an attractive option for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director India at Agoda, shared, "It's exciting to see Guwahati, Puri, and Langkawi capturing the imagination of travellers. Guwahati especially, which is now in India’s top 20 rank for international visitors but wasn’t in the top 50 before. Guwahati's blend of nature and modernity, Puri's spiritual charm, and Langkawi's tropical allure are resonating with our customers. At Agoda, we're thrilled to connect travellers with these dynamic destinations, making their journeys as seamless and affordable as possible."

Looking at the top emerging destinations for Asian travellers combined, it is Shanghai that tops the New Horizons list. The Chinese metropolis is followed by Jeju (South Korea), Paris (France), Nha Trang (Vietnam), and Fukuoka (Japan).