Agoda Sees 41% Surge in Searches for India’s Birding and Nature Hotspots

Nature-Based Travel in India Soars Ahead of Migratory Bird Season

Every year, India transforms into a sanctuary for migratory birds arriving from as far as Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe. Between September and November, the post-monsoon season sees hundreds of species flock to the country’s wetlands, lakes, and forests, offering spectacular opportunities for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

According to Agoda’s latest search data, interest from both domestic and international travellers in four key destinations - Kochi, Coimbatore, Alwar, and Cuttack- has risen by 41% year-on-year, reflecting a growing movement towards mindful, nature-led travel.

Kochi – The New Global Favourite

Kochi stands out as the top-rising destination, with international searches climbing 2.6 times year-on-year. The city’s nearby birding sanctuaries, including Thattekad and Kumarakom, offer a unique combination of tropical forests and serene backwaters. Travellers can spot species such as Siberian Cranes, Brahminy Kites, and Marsh Harriers, each emblematic of Kerala’s thriving biodiversity.

Agoda’s data shows the strongest interest from Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore. Among these, searches from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan have surged by 66%, 25%, and 18% respectively, underscoring the region’s growing fascination with India’s natural getaways.

Cuttack – Gateway to Asia’s Largest Brackish Birding Haven

Cuttack recorded a 33% rise in domestic searches, driven by renewed focus on Chilika Lake, one of Asia’s largest wintering grounds for migratory birds. From September onwards, flamingos, herons, and painted storks journey thousands of kilometres from Central Asia and Siberia to the lagoon. Its scenic boat trails and community-led conservation initiatives have turned it into a model of sustainable wetland tourism.

Alwar – Neighbour to One of India’s Most Iconic Bird Sanctuaries

Located near the famed Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, Alwar continues to attract travellers seeking world-class birdwatching experiences. Agoda searches for Alwar have grown by 19% domestically, reflecting steady enthusiasm for thisUNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors flock to its wetlands each year to spot Siberian Cranes, Bar-headed Geese, Painted Storks, Gadwalls, Bluethroats, and other remarkable avian species.

Coimbatore – At the Foot of India’s Living Forests

At the foothills of the Nilgiris, Coimbatore offers a contrasting birding experience with its mist-laden forests and montane habitats. The region is home to endemics such as the Nilgiri Flycatcher and the Black-and-Orange Flycatcher, vital stopovers for migratory forest species. Agoda data shows a 6% rise in domestic search interest, suggesting that travellers are pairing birdwatching with hill-station retreats and eco-trails across the Western Ghats.

“As travellers seek balance between adventure and awareness, nature-based destinations are taking centre stage,” said Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda. “The data points to a clear shift towards travel that celebrates both biodiversity and cultural depth. From the serenity of Kochi’s backwaters to the spectacle of Bharatpur’s bird sanctuary, India’s nature-tourism appeal is stronger than ever. At Agoda, we are consistently aiming to make it easier for travellers to discover such experiences that inspire both connection and conservation.”

The trend towards nature-conscious travel is shaping how, when, and where people explore. As this momentum builds, Agoda continues to empower travellers with flexible booking options, exclusive deals, and a broad selection of stays, flights, and packages at competitive prices. Whether it’s a weekend escape to a birding sanctuary or an extended eco-adventure across India, Agoda helps travellers transform inspiration into experience.

(Based on Agoda searches made between March and August 2025 for check-ins between September and November 2025, compared with the same period last year.)