Ahead of International Tea Day, observed on 21 May, digital travel platform Agoda witnessed an increased number of accommodation searches for travel to hill stations that are famous for their tea experiences and heritage. India, popularly known as ‘The Land of Chai’, is home to vast tea estates that offer a chance to learn more about tea culture, while taking in breathtaking mountain views.

Source Credit: Agoda

Ooty, Palampur, and Chikmagalur are the destinations with the highest increase in searches according to Agoda’s insights when comparing Q1 2024 to the same period in 2023, generating a higher increase in searches than iconic and ever-popular tea garden locations like Darjeeling and Munnar.

Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, offers panoramic views and aromatic tea experiences topping the board for the biggest increases in searches (46%) followed by Palampur (44%) which, set amidst the Himalayan foothills, boasts scenic beauty and distinctive Kangra tea flavors. Chikamagalur in the picturesque region of Karnataka comes in third (35%).

Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director India Subcontinent and Maldives at Agoda shared:  “It’s not surprising to see travelers increasingly searching out new experiences or exploring the heritage and culture that India has to offer. While Indian travelers love to go abroad to unexplored destinations, they also appreciate just how much there is to see and do within their own borders that allows them to discover India’s landscapes and culture. The increasing popularity of destinations like Ooty and Palampur showcasing India’s unique Chai experience is a prime example of this and on Agoda it’s easy to find all types of places to stay.”

Agoda’s online travel platform offers accommodation, transportation, and activity options in many of India’s most popular tea destinations. Furthermore, Agoda has over 4.2 million holiday properties globally that can be booked on its platform plus flights and activities. Agoda is well-known for its great value deals, helping Indian travelers see the world for less, domestically and abroad.