The world of luxury tourism is buzzing with excitement, and at its heart lies a force reshaping the landscape—Indian travellers. Christine Galle-Luczak, Founder & CEO, Heavens Portfolio, Priyanka Nijhawan, Director – Representations, Nijhawan Group, Lubaina Sheerazi, CEO & Co-founder, BRANDit share their experiences with Luxury Tourism.
By Tripti Jain
With their penchant for grandeur, insatiable curiosity for unique experiences, and willingness to invest in exclusivity, they’re not just travelling; they’re redefining what it means to experience the world. The Indian luxury traveller is no longer a participant—they’re a trendsetter.
The loudest cheerleader in global luxury
Once considered a niche demographic in luxury tourism, Indian travellers are now a dominant force on the world stage. With over 1.4 million high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and a growing number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs), their demand for global luxury offerings has surged. “India’s luxury market is projected to touch $200 billion by 2030,” says Priyanka.
But numbers tell only part of the story. What makes Indian travellers stand out is their unique approach to luxury—an emotional, experiential, and cultural exploration. Christine shares, “Indian travellers are not just looking for lavishness; they’re seeking something deeply authentic—whether that’s in the French Riviera, Baden-Baden, or remote locales that offer an off-the-beaten-path charm.”
Not just Delhi and Mumbai
Luxury has long been popular with metro cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, but today, the story is shifting. Smaller cities such as Ahmedabad, Pune, Chandigarh, and Indore are taking their place on the global map of luxury consumption. “Non-metro cities now contribute 55 per cent of luxury brand engagements online,” says Lubaina.
She elaborates on the aspirational ethos driving these cities: “We’re seeing consumers who are as eager to spend on luxury as their metro counterparts. What they seek are new experiences—be it a heritage cruise or a Michelin-star dining adventure.” Roadshows in these cities are fostering a sense of inclusion, where affluent individuals find themselves ready to embark on international adventures fuelled by dreams and an undeniable spending power.
From stuff to stories
The Indian luxury traveller has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when luxury was measured in material terms—a glittering chandelier, a private jet, or a platinum wristwatch. Today, it’s about stories, experiences, and transformations. Wellness retreats, eco-tourism, and sleep tourism are gaining traction as Indian travellers seek vacations that restore and rejuvenate.
Priyanka highlights the buzz around sleep tourism: “This niche trend is gaining momentum, with travellers prioritising destinations designed to improve sleep quality and well-being. Think serene retreats with personalised sleep programs and accommodations equipped with cutting-edge technology.”
The demand for immersive, experience-based luxury is not just a preference—it’s a statement. Christine shares, “Indian travellers want itineraries that tell stories. They crave cultural richness,
exclusive culinary experiences, and architectural wonders that connect them to the essence of a destination.”
The family that travels together
Few cultures embrace the concept of family as deeply as India. This familial ethos translates directly into travel, where multi-generational holidays have become a defining trend. Families spanning three generations—grandparents, parents, and children—are exploring the world together.
“Indian families frequently request interconnected rooms or apartment-style setups to maintain both privacy and togetherness,” shares Lubaina. Hotels around the world are adapting to this unique requirement, offering tailored packages that cater to every age group—from adventurous excursions for the young to serene wellness experiences for the elders.
This trend isn’t just a logistical challenge for hoteliers; it’s an opportunity to craft deeply personal experiences that cater to family dynamics, making Indian travellers stand out as a uniquely influential segment.
“I Do” in style: India’s destination weddings
India’s destination wedding phenomenon has taken the world by storm. From grand palaces in Europe to exotic beachfronts in Southeast Asia, Indian couples are sparing no expense in turning their nuptials into fairy tales.
Lubaina points out, “India is becoming a key driver in the luxury wedding market. Global brands such as Shangri-La are tailoring their offerings specifically for Indian clientele with bespoke wedding services that blend tradition and modernity.” The rise of destination weddings has added a new dimension to luxury tourism, where culture, cuisine, and celebration come together in breath-taking settings.
Greener horizons
As global attention pivots towards sustainability, Indian travellers are stepping up as champions of eco-conscious luxury. From eco-friendly resorts to carbon-neutral travel, the demand for responsible luxury has never been higher.
“Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s becoming a core requirement,” says Priyanka. “Affluent Indian travellers want their experiences to be luxurious yet leave a positive impact on the environment and local communities.”
Christine adds, “Whether it’s staying in eco-friendly villas or engaging with local artisans, Indian travellers are setting a precedent for responsible luxury. This shift is not just reshaping how brands innovate but also ensuring that luxury tourism aligns with global sustainability goals.”
When global meets local
One of the most exciting aspects of Indian luxury tourism is the potential for cultural cross-pollination. From international brands collaborating with Indian designers to chefs curating menus with Indian flavours, the opportunities are endless.
“There’s immense potential in partnerships that bring a local flavour to global luxury,” says Lubaina. “It creates an experience that feels authentic yet cosmopolitan, appealing to India’s affluent, culturally conscious travellers.” These collaborations also serve to bridge cultural gaps, creating offerings that
resonate deeply with Indian audiences while introducing a global audience to Indian artistry and heritage.
India as a Global Luxury trendsetter
The Indian luxury travel market is poised for unparalleled growth, with outbound travel alone expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.4 per cent over the next decade. Visa reforms, better connectivity, and an appetite for unique experiences are all contributing to this momentum.
“We’re ending the year with numerous hotel brands prioritizing the Indian market,” says Christine. “This market is no longer just a segment—it’s a driving force.”
As Indian travellers demand more and more from their global adventures, they’re not just reshaping luxury travel—they’re reinventing it. Priyanka sums it up and shares, “Indian travellers are not only consuming luxury; they’re setting trends and standards that the world must follow.”
Indian travellers taking the world by storm
The Indian luxury traveller is rewriting the rules of tourism with a unique blend of cultural values, aspirational goals, and global sensibilities. From destination weddings to multi-generational adventures, from sustainability to storytelling, they are shaping the future of luxury travel with every journey.
