Darjeeling Reigns Supreme: North East's Crown Jewel Tops Agoda's Travel Wishlist

Ever wondered where everyone's dreaming of heading next? Well, if you're like many travelers, a charming hill station might just be calling your name. According to Agoda, one of the world's fastest-growing online travel platforms, the stunning 'Queen of the Hills,' Darjeeling, is absolutely stealing the show! It's topped their list as the most-searched domestic destination in India's vibrant North East region for those planning trips between October and December 2025.

It's quite telling, isn't it? When folks are looking ahead, their thoughts are drifting to the serene beauty and crisp mountain air that Darjeeling so effortlessly offers. Imagine sipping world-famous tea while gazing at the majestic Kanchenjunga – it's an experience that clearly resonates with countless wanderlusters across the country. And honestly, who can blame them?

But Darjeeling isn't alone in capturing hearts. Right on its heels, securing the second spot, is the equally enchanting Gangtok. Sikkim's capital, with its serene monasteries and breathtaking vistas, truly offers a spiritual balm for the soul. Following closely behind, we see Guwahati, Assam's bustling gateway city, at number three. It’s a crucial hub, often serving as the starting point for adventures deeper into the North East, and a destination in its own right with its significant temples and proximity to the mighty Brahmaputra.

Shillong, famously known as the 'Scotland of the East,' takes the fourth position, charming visitors with its rolling hills, lush greenery, and delightful waterfalls. And in a rather intriguing twist, the bustling metropolis of Kolkata, though not geographically within the North East, makes a strong appearance at number five, proving its enduring appeal as a cultural powerhouse and perhaps a transit point for many. Even more fascinating, the spiritual beach town of Puri in Odisha found its way onto the list, suggesting a broader desire for diverse travel experiences.

What these trends really highlight, as Girdhar Balaji, Agoda’s Country Director for India, so aptly puts it, is the incredible appetite among Indian travelers to truly explore the diverse tapestry of their own country. The festive season, stretching from October to December, is always a prime time for travel, and it seems many are opting for domestic escapades, particularly those promising a blend of natural beauty and spiritual solace. It's a wonderful affirmation of India's vast and varied attractions, reminding us that sometimes, the most incredible journeys are found right here at home.