Following Lanka blasts, Indian tourists choose Bhutan, Thailand and NE destinations

After a spate of attacks hit Sri Lanka, increasing number of Indian tourists who had decided to travel to Sri Lanka are now opting for a destination change. Bhutan, Thailand, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Assam and Darjeeling are destinations that have emerged as new hot-spots for those who have deferred or cancelled their travel to Sri Lanka. As temperatures are on rise in throughout central, western and southern India, the eastern destinations come as a respite with their pleasant climate. In addition, Indian tourists are attracted to their vibrant wildlife, intrinsic culture and delectable cuisine. Paro, Punakha, Thimpu, Guwahati, Kaziranga, Shillong, Gangtok and Kalimpong are the top visited tourist-sites at these destinations this season.

The postponement / cancellation also comes in the wake of special advisory released by the Government of India asking the citizens to only undertake essential travel. Speaking about the destination shift, Karan Anand, head, relationships said, "Indian travellers are shifting their choice of destination due to the situation in Sri Lanka. The Indian travel advisory by the Indian government adds to the anxiety of the traveller and he makes a shift to other safe destinations."

Similar cost bracket is one of the significant factors influencing Indian tourists to choose Bhutan and North East destinations. Tourists can avail a five-night / six-day package to Bhutan for about 42,000 per person inclusive of airfare and Sikkim along with Darjeeling for Rs 38,000 per person for a six-night / seven-day inclusive of airfare from Cox & Kings. Cost to Sri Lanka is not starkly different.