Indian Travel Giants Boycott Turkey, Azerbaijan & More Amid Geopolitical Rift

In the wake of growing tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam attack, leading Indian travel companies have taken a strong and strategic stance. EaseMyTrip, ixigo, and Cox & Kings have all announced the suspension of travel services to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and other select countries. Their decisions reflect growing concerns over the perceived pro-Pakistan alignment of these nations during the ongoing conflict.

Travel with a Purpose

EaseMyTrip, one of India’s fastest-growing travel platforms, has issued a firm travel advisory urging Indian citizens to visit Turkey and Azerbaijan only if absolutely necessary. Founder and Chairman Nishant Pitti made a bold statement-

Cox & Kings, one of India’s oldest travel operators, has echoed similar sentiments. Karan Agarwal, Director at Cox & Kings, announced a temporary halt to new travel offerings for Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan.

“This decision is driven by our commitment to uphold principles that matter deeply to us and the people of our country,” Agarwal stated, adding that Indian travellers should reconsider travel to these destinations unless absolutely essential.

ixigo, another key player in India’s digital travel space, also declared its solidarity through a public post on social media platform X.

Aloke Bajpai, MD and Group CEO, posted: “Enough is Enough! Blood and bookings won’t flow together.” The company confirmed it is suspending all flight and hotel bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China.

The shift

The joint actions by these travel giants reflect a broader shift in India’s consumer and business behaviour—one where national interest is taking precedence over profits. For the first time in recent years, geopolitics is significantly reshaping outbound travel choices.

As global tourism becomes an economic pillar for many nations, the Indian travel industry is now highlighting that tourism is not just leisure—it is economic support. The decision to suspend travel offerings sends a clear message that India expects respect and alignment from global partners, especially during times of internal strife.

What This Means for Travellers?

Travellers who had planned trips to these destinations are advised to reconsider or postpone their plans. Companies are likely to offer refunds, credits, or alternative packages to destinations not affected by the advisory.

Meanwhile, Indian tour operators are expected to redirect focus toward safer, more aligned destinations in Southeast Asia, Europe, and within India itself.

The travel ban serves as a timely reminder that tourism is more than just tickets and tours—it’s about values, unity, and national pride. With India's travel sector taking a definitive stand, it marks a new era where consumer choices are being driven by conscience, not just convenience.