Interest in India’s birding and nature hubs soars 41%, with Kochi leading Agoda’s travel trends
As migratory birds begin their long journey from Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe, India once again transforms into a seasonal paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Between September and November, the country’s wetlands, lakes, and forests become sanctuaries for hundreds of avian species. New insights from Agoda reveal that travel interest in India’s leading birding destinations, Kochi, Coimbatore, Alwar, and Cuttack, has soared by 41% year-on-year, underscoring a national shift toward mindful, nature-led travel experiences.
Kochi Emerges as a Global Birding Favourite
Kochi has taken flight as India’s fastest-growing birdwatching destination, with international search interest climbing 2.6 times year-on-year. The city’s lush environs, particularly Thattekad Bird Sanctuary and Kumarakom, offer a haven where tropical forests and backwaters meet. Visitors can expect sightings of Siberian cranes, Brahminy kites, and Marsh Harriers, among others—species that mirror Kerala’s celebrated biodiversity.
Agoda data highlights rising enthusiasm from key Asian markets, with travellers from Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore driving interest. Searches from Hong Kong surged by 66%, Singapore by 25%, and Taiwan by 18%, showcasing the region’s growing fascination with India’s ecological getaways.
Cuttack: Gateway to Chilika Lake’s Brackish Beauty
Cuttack has recorded a 33% increase in domestic searches, fuelled by its proximity to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and one of the continent’s most vital wintering grounds for migratory birds. Each year, flamingos, herons, and painted storks traverse thousands of kilometres to reach these shores. Beyond the spectacular views, Chilika’s eco-tourism model—built on community participation and conservation—positions it as a leading example of sustainable wetland tourism.
Alwar: The Doorway to Bharatpur’s Avian Majesty
A short drive from Alwar lies Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perennial favourite among birdwatchers. Agoda search trends show a 19% rise in domestic interest for Alwar, reaffirming its pull for travellers drawn to Bharatpur’s wetlands. Each season brings an extraordinary congregation of Siberian Cranes, Bar-headed Geese, Painted Storks, Gadwalls, and Bluethroats, making it one of India’s most accessible and rewarding birding destinations.
Coimbatore: Gateway to the Nilgiris’ Living Forests
Nestled at the foothills of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Coimbatore offers a cooler, montane birding experience. The area is home to rare endemics such as the Nilgiri flycatcher and black-and-orange flycatcher, thriving within mist-laden forests. Agoda’s search data indicates a 6% rise in domestic interest, reflecting a growing trend among travellers pairing birdwatching with treks, forest trails, and wellness retreats across the Western Ghats.
A Growing Shift Toward Conscious Exploration
“As travellers seek balance between adventure and awareness, nature-based destinations are taking centre stage,” said Gaurav Malik, Country Director – Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands, Agoda. “The data points to a clear shift toward travel that celebrates both biodiversity and cultural depth. From the serenity of Kochi’s backwaters to the spectacle of Bharatpur’s bird sanctuary, India’s nature-tourism appeal is stronger than ever. At Agoda, we are consistently aiming to make it easier for travellers to discover experiences that inspire both connection and conservation.”
Data-Driven Insights Powering Nature Tourism
The movement toward eco-conscious travel is redefining how people explore, choosing meaningful encounters over mere sightseeing. Agoda continues to empower such travellers with exclusive deals, flexible booking options, and curated packages that make sustainable travel more accessible. Be it a spontaneous weekend at a sanctuary or an extended eco-adventure across India, Agoda ensures that exploring nature is as seamless as it is soulful.
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