From Darjeeling To Shillong: Reports Show North-East Dominated Year-End Travel Trends

As the year 2026 paces up and we struggle to tear ourselves out of the habit of writing "25" on dates, reports form the past year continue to enlighten us on travel trends. Fresh data from digital travel platform Agoda suggests that when it came to planning an October-to-December escape in 2025, Indian travellers looked east—towards misty hills, cool weather, and landscapes that feel far removed from the everyday.

Leading the surge was Darjeeling, which emerged as the most searched domestic destination in the North-East for the final quarter of the year. The finding is based on accommodation searches made by Indian users on Agoda between July and September 2025, offering a revealing glimpse into where the country is planning to travel next.

Hills In Demand

Darjeeling’s enduring appeal needs little explanation. Long associated with colonial-era charm, sweeping tea estates, and uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga range, the hill station seems to tick every box for a year-end getaway. Whether it’s a short break to soak in the mountain air or a more languid holiday spent café-hopping and riding the toy train, Darjeeling continues to hold its ground as a classic.

Close behind came Gangtok, which secured the second spot on the list. Sikkim’s capital has steadily evolved into a favourite for travellers seeking a mix of natural beauty and urban comfort. Monasteries, mountain viewpoints, bustling local markets, and easy access to nearby attractions make Gangtok a versatile base—especially during the festive months, when the weather is crisp and clear.

Shillong took the third spot, reinforcing Meghalaya’s growing popularity among domestic travellers. Often referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East’, the city’s rolling hills, lakes, and music-infused culture have made it a recurring favourite, particularly among younger travellers and families looking for something scenic yet accessible.

Gateways And Cities

Beyond the top three, the data also highlights the importance of cities that function as both destinations and transit hubs. Guwahati ranked fourth, underscoring its role as the North-East’s primary gateway. With improved connectivity, riverfront developments, temples, and a growing hospitality scene, the city has become more than just a stopover on the way to the hills.

Siliguri followed in fifth place, reaffirming its strategic importance. Sitting at the crossroads of West Bengal, Sikkim, and Bhutan, Siliguri often serves as the entry point for travellers heading deeper into the region. Its inclusion in the top searches suggests that more travellers are planning layered itineraries—combining hill stations with convenient urban bases.

Together, these destinations paint a picture of how domestic travel in the North-East is evolving. Rather than rushing through, travellers appear to be crafting slower, more immersive journeys that blend nature, culture, and comfort.

Beyond The Obvious

Perhaps the most telling insight from the Agoda data is the growing interest in smaller towns and less-hyped destinations. Places like Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, Pelling in Sikkim, and Kalimpong in West Bengal are seeing a noticeable uptick in searches, signalling a shift towards quieter, more experiential travel.

Cherrapunji, known for its dramatic rainfall, waterfalls, and living root bridges, continues to draw nature lovers and photographers. Pelling, perched at a vantage point overlooking the Kanchenjunga range, appeals to travellers seeking postcard-perfect views without the crowds of larger hill towns. Kalimpong, with its flower markets, colonial-era buildings, and relaxed pace, offers a gentler alternative to Darjeeling while retaining the same mountain charm.

This rising curiosity around smaller destinations also reflects a broader change in how travellers are exploring the North-East. Improved accommodation options—ranging from hotels and hostels to homestays, villas, and serviced apartments—are making it easier to venture beyond the usual circuit.

With its vast inventory of holiday properties, flight routes, and activities, platforms like Agoda are enabling travellers to plan these nuanced journeys with greater flexibility. For the North-East, this means not just increased footfall, but a more diversified form of tourism—one that spreads interest across cities, hill stations, and lesser-known towns alike.

FAQs

1. Which North-East destination topped domestic travel searches for late 2025?
Darjeeling emerged as the most searched domestic destination in India’s North-East for October to December 2025.

2. What other destinations ranked among the top five in the North-East?
Gangtok, Shillong, Guwahati, and Siliguri followed Darjeeling in domestic search interest.

3. What period does the travel data cover?
The data is based on accommodation searches made between July and September 2025 for travel dates in October to December 2025.

4. Are travellers showing interest beyond major hill stations?
Yes, smaller towns like Cherrapunji, Pelling, and Kalimpong are seeing increased domestic interest.

5. Why is the North-East becoming popular for year-end travel?
Pleasant winter weather, scenic landscapes, improved connectivity, and diverse accommodation options are driving interest.