More travellers looking to visit Indian temple towns in September: Report

Accommodation searches for Puri, known for Jagannath Temple, increased by two times. Photo Courtesy: PTI

There is growing interest in India's spiritual destinations ahead of September, with several temple towns noting an increase in searches, alongside continued popularity of Southeast Asian cities, according to latest accommodation search data by a global digital travel platform.

Growing interest in India's temple towns

Among domestic destinations, Pachmarhi, known as the "Queen of Satpura", recorded an almost seven times increase in accommodation searches for September compared with the same period last year, according to digital travel platform Agoda's latest report. Set in the Satpura ranges of Madhya Pradesh, the hill destination is home to the Jatashankar Temple, a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is also known for its forests, waterfalls and scenic views. Ujjain, another city in the state, recorded an almost three times increase in accommodation searches. Known for the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the city offers travellers a mix of pilgrimage, historic ghats, and cultural experiences.

In Puri, accommodation searches increased by two times, with the Jagannath Temple being a key part of the city's identity, while the coastline and beaches of Puri offer travellers another experience during their stay. Varanasi recorded a 44 per cent increase in searches, with its temples, ghats and cultural heritage offering another way to experience India's spiritual traditions. Further down south, Tirupati recorded a 29 per cent increase in accommodation searches. Known for the Sri Venkateswara Temple, the destination remains an important pilgrimage centre and spiritual travel destination of interest.

Southeast Asia brings spiritual, cultural experiences into September travel

Beyond India, September travel searches also point to Southeast Asia, where travellers can find spiritual and cultural experiences alongside beaches, food and city breaks. Hanoi recorded a 58 per cent increase in accommodation searches, with its historic streets, cultural heritage and local food offering travellers a city experience shaped by Vietnam's traditions.

Da Nang saw a 50 per cent increase in search interest, combining its beaches and proximity to Hoi An with cultural attractions such as Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula, a Buddhist site known for its 67-metre statue of Guanyin. Kuala Lumpur recorded a 35 per cent increase, offering multicultural heritage, food and landmarks including Batu Caves, Thean Hou Temple and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple.

In Indonesia, Bali recorded a 24 per cent increase in accommodation searches, offering a mix of beaches, natural landscapes and spiritual experiences, with renowned temples such as Tanah Lot, Besakih Temple and Lempuyang Temple adding to its cultural appeal.

Gaurav Malik, country director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands, of the digital travel platform said, "Agoda's 2026 Travel Outlook Report found that 19 per cent of Indian respondents consider spiritual or religious experiences when planning a trip this year, pointing to the diverse motivations shaping travel decisions. Our latest accommodation search data reflects this shift, with destinations being explored for pilgrimages, cultural experiences, nature getaways, and overseas holidays."