Experiential Tourism in India: The New-Age Elixir of Wanderers

‘Travel not to find a destination, but to seek a new perspective.’ This driving mantra for new-age travellers has changed the landscape of the tourism industry in India and across the globe. Guides and itineraries are now becoming a thing of the past. A growing tide of adventure-seekers and culture curators have set their compasses towards “experiences” and away from primitive definitions of travelling.

Redefining the Travel Experience

Far from one-day clicks at the Taj Mahal, hotel buffets, and overly done sightseeing tours, travellers want to experience places differently. Travellers today crave authentic adventures. They want to cook and try the local dishes, not just record but participate in festivals, and hear stories about rituals being passed down by generations. This is what experiential tourism is all about. It facilitates meaningful interactions between visitors and locals, bringing fulfilment beyond the touristy holiday experience.

The Pandemic Effect: A Surge in Immersive Travel

Among other factors, like the boom in backpacking, the 2020 pandemic can be credited to this shift in the travelling mindset. According to researchandmarkets.com, the global market for tours and activities reservations is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% during the 2020-2027 period. Furthermore, the segment is estimated to reach US$266.7 Trillion by 2027. Domestically, the American Express Travel 2023 Global trends report shows 94% of Indian respondents wanting to travel to a lesser-known destination and 95% to a destination off the beaten path.

Unleashing Your Inner Explorer

Experiential tourism prioritises connecting with local cultures, people, food, environment, and activities. In a culturally and geographically diverse country like India, it spans adventure, cuisine, wellness, spirituality, arts, volunteering and much more. The memories and personal connections made as you indulge in stay etched in your mind forever. 

To get you started on some fine experiences that are in store for you in popular and offbeat Indian destinations, here are some recommendations:

• If self care is your purpose, meditate in the Himalayas, practice yoga in Rishikesh and go on silent retreats in Nilgiris.
• Adventure lovers can look forward to bouldering and rock climbing as they discover the culturally rich land of Hampi.
• In for a really new travel story? Tour the perfume distilleries in Kannauj and even make some for yourself. 
• If you travel to get to know places and people, interact with the local tribes of the North-East, learn their customs and participate in their festivals.
• If you’re seeking some adrenaline rush, try bamboo rafting in Kuruva Island, Wayanad.
• Go on a hike and cookout experience in Goa and prepare your meals under the open sky for a less-sought after adventure in a much-sought after location. 
• For some western Indian realia, take the Bishnoi village tour in Jodhpur. Try your hands at block printing and carpet weaving and enjoy a meal with the local community there.
• Looking for an offbeat thrill? Go for an exhilarating session of rappelling and rock climbing in Mashobra.  
• For a more rogue and meaningful adventure, opt for farm stays in Phyand and Phey villages in Leh and volunteer for fieldwork in these completely run-by-women villages. 
• Try the World's hottest chilli, 'Bhut Jholokia' in Assam & Manipur if food is where you seek thrill.
• Ditch regular kayaking and go for Bioluminescence Kayaking in Mulki and Havelock Island under a starry sky on your next romantic getaway. 

These experiences not only add to your good memories but also empower the local community. It provides them with a good source of income, supporting their livelihoods and helping them preserve their precious culture. You get woven into each other's life, leaving an impact that resonates long after the departure. 

A Transformative Journey

Experiential tourism isn't just a trend but a transformation. It's about shedding the typical tourist skin and stepping into the heart and soul of a place. And to help you escape the ordinary and embrace the less-explored, we have Zostel Homes. These cosy homestays at offbeat locations, away from the tourist thongs, provide you and your loved ones the comfort to connect with nature and yourself a bit differently. So, the next time you are looking to experience something different, leave your World behind and take the road less travelled with Zostel Homes.