The Indian Himalayas have been named the top trending travel destination for 2026 by American Express Travel. This recognition is based on 2025 global bookings and insights from Amex’s travel consultants, reflecting a growing trend toward off-the-beaten-path, authentic, and transformative travel experiences. The Indian Himalayas offer a mix of adventure, spirituality, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural immersion, appealing to travelers seeking nature escapes, trekking, wildlife safaris, and spiritual retreats. This destination leads the 2026 list alongside other notable spots like Killarney in Ireland, Las Vegas in the US, Marrakech in Morocco, and Okinawa Islands in Japan. The list highlights a shift in traveler behavior favoring new and first-time experiences, with 89% of respondents expressing more excitement for visiting unfamiliar locations or hotels.​

This makes the Indian Himalayas a premier choice for travelers planning their 2026 trips for both adventure and cultural richness.

The recognition of the Indian Himalayas as a top trending travel destination for 2026 by American Express Travel is based on a combination of booking data and expert insights. Key details include:

  • The Indian Himalayas topped the list due to increased traveler interest in remote, nature-rich, and less commercialized destinations that offer unique cultural and spiritual experiences.

  • Popular areas within the Indian Himalayas attracting tourists include Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim, featuring trekking routes, monasteries, mountain landscapes, and wildlife sanctuaries.

  • The trend reflects a global shift toward meaningful travel experiences centered on wellness, adventure, and authentic local culture.

  • American Express Travel’s survey found that 89% of respondents in 2025 were excited about visiting new or unfamiliar destinations, indicating a strong traveler preference for exploration beyond typical tourist spots.

  • Alongside the Indian Himalayas, other trending destinations for 2026 include places like Killarney (Ireland), Marrakech (Morocco), and Okinawa Islands (Japan).

  • This global ranking highlights India’s growing appeal as a premium travel destination, combining natural beauty with rich heritage and hospitality.

This trend is expected to boost tourism infrastructure, hospitality services, and conservation efforts in the Himalayan region while promoting sustainable and experiential tourism for 2026 and beyond.

The Indian Himalayas’ recognition as a top trending travel destination for 2026 by American Express Travel highlights several aspects:

  1. Traveler Preferences: There is a marked shift among travelers seeking destinations that offer authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences combining natural beauty, culture, and wellness. The Indian Himalayas fit this trend perfectly with opportunities for spiritual retreats, trekking, eco-tourism, and wildlife exploration.

  2. Leading Destinations Within the Indian Himalayas: Regions such as Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh (including Manali and Dharamshala), Uttarakhand (Rishikesh, Nainital, Mussoorie), and Sikkim are popular highlights. These areas are known for scenic vistas, ancient monasteries, adventure sports, yoga and meditation retreats, and rich local traditions.

  3. Sustainable Tourism Impact: The spotlight is expected to increase tourist footfall, which can boost local economies but also requires sustainable development practices to preserve ecological balance and cultural heritage.

  4. Comparison With Other Trending Destinations: The Indian Himalayas stand alongside globally popular destinations like Killarney (Ireland), Marrakech (Morocco), and Okinawa (Japan), reflecting their rising global appeal.

  5. Insights From American Express Travel: The list is compiled based on booking trends, travel advisor consultations, and customer surveys, with a large majority of travellers (89%) showing interest in exploring new locations in the upcoming year.

  6. Travel Industry Implications: The trend will drive investment in travel infrastructure, enhance hospitality experiences focusing on experiential and wellness tourism, and encourage eco-tourism initiatives across the Himalayan belt.

This growing momentum cements the Indian Himalayas’ status as a must-visit region for global travelers in 2026, blending adventure, culture, and spirituality in a unique setting.