Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel Expand China Holiday Portfolio Amid Growing Demand and Enhanced Connectivity

Thomas Cook India and its group company SOTC Travel have announced the strategic reintroduction of China as a key holiday destination for Indian travellers. This expansion comes amid strengthening diplomatic ties, the resumption of direct flight connectivity, and a streamlined visa approval process, all contributing to a notable surge in travel interest from Indian tourists.

The companies have reported strong consumer response, with departures selling out well in advance, even during the traditionally low-demand months of October and November. To cater to this growing demand, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have curated an extensive portfolio of itineraries designed to appeal to diverse traveller segments, including multi-generational families, millennials, GenZ, working professionals, couples, and solo travellers.

The enhanced offerings combine classic attractions with new and immersive experiences. Popular destinations such as Shanghai, Xi’an, and Beijing—featuring iconic sites like the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, and the Forbidden City—are complemented by emerging locales like Chongqing, known for its futuristic skyline and LED-lit river cruises; Chengdu, home to the Giant Panda Research Base and renowned Sichuan cuisine; and Zhangjiajie, the ethereal mountain range that inspired the film Avatar.

Travellers can also enjoy unique experiences such as riding the Shanghai Maglev, the world’s fastest train; witnessing immersive theatrical performances like Chongqing 1949 in a 360-degree rotating auditorium; and indulging in Michelin-starred dining or private Baijiu distillery tours.

For group tours, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have integrated high-speed train journeys, including the popular Xi’an–Beijing route. Enhanced services such as porter assistance at major stations and curated menus—prepared by Indian chefs to cater to local tastes—ensure a comfortable and familiar travel experience. The portfolio also includes multi-destination tours, such as China-Japan during the cherry blossom season.

Beyond leisure travel, China’s modern infrastructure and growing flight connectivity are also driving interest in business travel and the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment. Cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu are increasingly preferred by corporates for events and incentive programs.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited, stated, “The resumption of direct flights has reignited interest in China. We have expanded our portfolio to include new regions and experiences that appeal to today’s traveller. With world-class venues and unique offerings, China also presents significant potential for MICE tourism.”

SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head, Holidays and Corporate Tours – SOTC Travel Limited, added, “China’s return as a preferred destination is a significant opportunity. Our itineraries offer a seamless blend of iconic landmarks and new attractions, tailored to the preferences of Indian travellers.”

Indiver Rastogi, President & Group Head, Global Business Travel – Thomas Cook (India) & SOTC Travel Limited, highlighted the growing trend of “bleisure” travel, noting, “Strengthened bilateral ties and the return of trade events are boosting business travel to China, with an increasing number of professionals extending their stays for leisure.”

With this strategic expansion, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel aim to position China as a top-of-mind destination for Indian travellers, offering a mix of cultural, recreational, and business-oriented experiences.