Pune: Rajasthan and Kerala have emerged top destinations for upcoming Diwali vacation despite soaring hotel room rates and airfares, travel companies said. Travel firms said that bookings have already started pouring in for the Christmas period, well in advance of the holiday season. Vikas Agarwal, director, VT Travel, said, "While there's some hesitation to travel during Diwali due to uncertainty around assembly election dates in the state, causing several groups to hold their plans, others are still eager to leave the city this Diwali.
" Agarwal said that coastal Karnataka has also gained popularity among travellers. The surge in demand is partly attributed to improved connectivity. "Good air connections from Pune to Rajasthan and Kerala are definitely spurring demand," Agarwal added.
Zelam Chaubal, director, Kesari Tours, Pune, said, "Rajasthan, Kerala, and Ayodhya (due to Ram Temple), are the top destinations within India. We're also seeing interest in smaller tours to the northeast, Madhya Pradesh, and 12 Jyotirlings. Both long-haul and short-haul holidays are in demand," she said.
"Internationally, Dubai and Vietnam are emerging as popular choices. In fact, people are already securing spots for December vacations, including tours to Christmas markets in Europe," she added. Harshada Dholepatil, the owner of Kingston Travels, said, "Kerala is one of the top destinations this Diwali.
In fact, we are already seeing a shortage of rooms in hotels there, as many are fully booke.
