Gen Z Chooses Experiential, Offbeat Destinations, Why Meghalaya Tops the List for 2026

National Tourism Day and a New Way of Seeing India

Since the end of the pandemic, a new era of travel has emerged, defined not by sightseeing checklists, but by experiences, discovery, and intent. Travel today is no longer about predictable photo stops at the Taj Mahal, Mall Road in Manali, or party circuits in Goa. Instead, Indian travellers, especially Gen Z, are seeking immersive journeys that allow them to explore the unfamiliar and connect more deeply with destinations.

Leading this revolution is the Gen Z. This cohort is not only driving the much-discussed shift in ‘work culture’ but is also at the forefront of redefining travel. S.D. Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel said, “There is a growing appetite among Indian travellers, particularly Young India's GenZ and millennials, for visually striking, experience-led holidays. Travel planning is increasingly influenced by India’s dynamic social and cultural calendar.”

On National Tourism Day, the curiosity and adventurous spirit of these young travellers are shaping the destinations and experiences that will define 2026. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE & Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, said “Young India’s millennials and Gen Z are showing a strong and growing interest in exploring India through immersive, experience-led journeys that blend nature, wildlife and distinctive local settings.”

Another leading voice in the industry, Bharatt Malik, Senior VP – Air and Hotel Business, Yatra Online added that Gen Z travel choices will be defined more by intent and experiences than by one standout destination.

While talking to industry leaders, experiential travel, off-the-beaten-path spots and nature emerged as common interests of these trendsetters for 2026 travel, and while India offers plenty of hidden gems; one destination that consistently stood out was Meghalaya.

Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings (a Wilson & Hughes portfolio company) said, “Meghalaya is quietly coming into its own as one of India’s most compelling destinations for 2026. What we are seeing especially among Gen Z and millennials is a conscious move away from crowded, over-exposed locations towards places that allow for depth, not display. Meghalaya offers exactly that: space, pace, and a sense of discovery that hasn’t been diluted.”

“Meghalaya, is expected to see growing interest from Gen Z travellers seeking offbeat, authentic experiences,” added Bharatt Malik of Yatra Online.

Meghalaya - India’s Misty Marvel

Located in the far Northeast of India this “Abode of Cloud” feels like a fairytale come to life. Meghalaya is all about rolling hills, thick green forests, stunning waterfalls and misty mornings - everywhere you look, its nature at its finest.  

However, Meghalaya isn’t just about jaw-dropping views, it’s packed with experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Think walking on the living root bridges of Cherrapunji or visiting Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, where nature and human creativity come together perfectly.  

You can chase waterfalls near Shillong, like Elephant Falls and Nohkalikai, or explore the Mawsmai and Siju caves for a peek into the state’s hidden underground world. And if you are lucky with timing, local festivals like Wangala or Shad Suk Mynsiem give a glimpse into the native Khasi and Garo traditions. 

Beyond these highlights, Meghalaya is also about slowing down and soaking it all in. Days here can also be spent exploring quiet villages, sipping local tea or taking long drives where every turn opens up to a new stunning landscape.  

It is the kind of place where itineraries don’t matter, perfect for travellers who want to disconnect, explore at their own pace and come back with stories and experiences that feel truly their own.

As India marks National Tourism Day 2026, Meghalaya captures the spirit of how the Gen Z is redefining travel, moving away from cliché checklists towards journeys rooted in experience.