The desert state of Rajasthan has been officially crowned India’s most popular festive holiday destination, dethroning long-time favourites Goa and Kerala.

According to a new travel pulse report released by a leading travel aggregator, the ‘Jaipur–Udaipur–Jaisalmer circuit’ in Rajasthan has captured 16% of total domestic festive season bookings, placing it firmly at the top. This surge leaves Goa at 10% and Kerala at 9% of the domestic market share during the holiday period.

The dramatic shift underscores a significant change in Indian travel preferences, with holidaymakers increasingly opting for curated cultural and heritage experiences over traditional beach or backwater escapes.

Industry analysts attribute Rajasthan’s monumental growth to a few key factors:

• Vibrant Festivals: The state’s calendar of major events—including the Pushkar Camel Fair, the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), and the Jaisalmer Desert Festival—has proven a massive draw for both domestic and international tourists seeking authentic cultural immersion.
• ‘Smart Luxury’ Trend: The rise of “smart luxury” travel, where travellers seek high-impact experiences and better stays without overspending, has boosted demand for Rajasthan’s expansive range of heritage hotels and luxury palace conversions.
• Infrastructure & Connectivity: Improved road, rail, and air connectivity to major cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, which are also part of the popular ‘Golden Triangle’ circuit, has made the region more accessible than ever before.
• Diversified Offerings: Beyond the famous forts and palaces, the state’s aggressive promotion of eco-tourism, rural tourism, and adventure sports (like hot-air ballooning and desert safaris) has broadened its appeal to diverse age groups.

“This festive season, Indian travellers are redefining holidays as curated, meaningful escapes,” said an official from the travel company. “The Rajasthan circuit, with its blend of history, unique luxury, and festival glamour, perfectly captures this new spirit of travel.”

The state government’s recent policy focus on promoting wedding and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism is also expected to further solidify Rajasthan’s position on the national and global tourism map.