Indian women are rewriting the rules of travel—one solo trip at a time, shows study

Travel is no longer just a leisure pursuit for Indian women—it is becoming a powerful tool for self-expression, independence, and cultural connection. There was a time when the idea of women traveling alone within India was unheard of, but over the past year, international travel applications from Indian women have risen by 22%, according to data from visa processing platform Atlys. This reflects a significant societal shift in how women approach travel.

The data reveals that solo travel now accounts for 20.6% of applications, driven by a desire for independence and exploration. Popular destinations among solo women travelers include Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and parts of Europe—locations known for their safety, affordability, and cultural richness. Group travel, which makes up 35% of applications, is often tied to milestone celebrations such as bachelorettes, birthdays, or career achievements, with hotspots like Dubai, Bali, Bangkok, Singapore, and Malaysia topping the list.

Garima Bhatia, a senior recruitment advisor for a UK university, initially set out on a work trip to Thailand but decided to extend her stay to explore the country on her own. Financial independence gave her both the confidence and freedom to make that decision. "It was almost liberating to do so, plus it felt really safe, and that empowered me to stay longer," she says.

“We’re seeing a generation of women who view travel as essential for self-expression and growth,” says Mohak Nahta, founder & CEO of Atlys. “Whether it’s a solo journey for cultural immersion or a group trip to celebrate a milestone, these experiences are reshaping how women perceive travel and its role in their lives.”

A key factor behind the rising numbers is women's increasing financial independence. As more women gain economic autonomy, they are channeling resources into experiences that blend leisure with personal and professional enrichment. Younger women under 35 are more inclined toward spontaneous, adventure-driven itineraries, while those between 35 and 45 tend to plan structured trips around work or family obligations. Despite these differences, there is a clear shift across age groups away from conventional sightseeing toward immersive cultural experiences.

Experiential travel is also playing a larger role, with 28% of applications linked to international concerts, cooking retreats, yoga getaways, and cultural explorations. Travel is no longer just about visiting places—it is about engaging deeply with different cultures and communities.

The growing demand for global travel among Indian women speaks to evolving social norms and a rising sense of empowerment. By venturing beyond borders, women are not only exploring new destinations but also redefining their personal narratives and building global networks.