Hyderabad Tops India's Travel Charts in OYO's 2024 Report

Hyderabad has topped the list of most-booked cities in India for 2024, according to the annual ‘Travelopedia 2024’ report released by travel tech platform OYO on Tuesday. The report analyzes travel trends and patterns throughout the year, offering insights based on OYO’s extensive booking data.

Religious tourism remains a dominant theme in Indian travel. The report highlights Puri, Varanasi, and Haridwar as the leading spiritual destinations in 2024, attracting a significant number of pilgrims. Notably, emerging locations such as Deoghar, Palani, and Govardhan have seen remarkable growth. These destinations are witnessing increased interest as travelers explore beyond the traditional spiritual hubs.

While Hyderabad claimed the top position for bookings, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata followed closely. Uttar Pradesh continues to hold its status as the most popular state for travel in India. Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka also reported strong booking volumes. In addition to metropolitan areas, smaller towns such as Patna, Rajahmundry, and Hubli have recorded a surge in travel activity. These towns have experienced year-on-year booking growth of up to 48 per cent, showing an expanding interest in non-metro destinations.

Leisure travel has shown significant momentum this year. Jaipur remains a preferred tourist destination, with steady visitor interest. Goa, Pondicherry, and Mysore continue to draw travelers as perennial favorites for leisure and relaxation. However, Mumbai has seen a dip in bookings as travelers opted for nearby alternatives.

Shreerang Godbole, Global Chief Service Officer at OYO, noted that 2024 has been a transformative year for global travel. He highlighted the increasing adaptability of travelers, driven by the rise of remote work and flexible travel options. “The demand for quick getaways and extended stays has significantly shaped booking trends this year,” Godbole remarked. The report also sheds light on key travel periods. The fourth of July weekend emerged as the peak booking time, coinciding with national celebrations. Additionally, the Christmas season marked another high point, with travel activity surging during the festive period.