National Tourism Day 2026: Why Experiences Matter & the Top Destinations to Visit in India
National Tourism Day is no longer just about celebrating destinations, but it’s about celebrating how we experience them. As National Tourism Day 2026 approaches, Indian travel is undergoing a visible transformation. Travellers are moving away from rushed sightseeing and towards journeys that prioritise culture, community, and conscious living.
While the National Tourism Day 2026 theme has not yet been officially announced, one thing is undeniable: the future of tourism in India is immersive, responsible, and deeply local.
This blog explores why National Tourism Day 2026 is all about experiences—and curates the best destinations in India to visit during January–February 2026 that truly embody this evolving travel mindset.
In this Blog
What Is National Tourism Day?
National Tourism Day is observed annually in India to recognise the importance of tourism as a driver of economic growth, cultural preservation, and people-to-people connection. Beyond boosting employment and infrastructure, tourism plays a crucial role in preserving traditions, crafts, cuisines, and regional identities.
When is National Tourism Day?
In 2026, National Tourism Day will be celebrated on Sunday, 25 January, with events, workshops, and campaigns led by the Ministry of Tourism India across states and major cities. These celebrations aim to increase tourism awareness, promote responsible travel habits, and encourage citizens to become ambassadors of Indian heritage
The Role of Tourism in Preserving Culture, Nature & Communities
Tourism plays a vital role in sustaining traditional art forms, conserving heritage structures and supporting rural communities. While responsible travel helps ensure that local cultures and natural ecosystems are not deprived of thriving.
How National Tourism Day Encourages Responsible Travel
the day promotes conscious travel choices – opting for local experiences, reducing environmental impact and engaging respectfully with communities- so that tourism benefits both the travellers and destinations alike.
National Tourism Day 2026: Theme Status & Travel Direction
The official National Tourism Day 2026 theme has not yet been announced by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
But let’s check out the previous themes:
| Year | Theme |
| 2023 | Rural Tourism |
| 2024 | Green Tourism |
| 2025 | Smart Tourism |
| 2026 | TBA (Expected: Sustainability + Tech) |
Even without a declared theme, current travel behaviour- especially winter travel, shows a decisive move toward experiential, slower, and more responsible journeys.
So Why are Indians into Experiential Travel Central in 2026?
Even without a declared theme, tourism trends across India clearly reflect a shift toward experience-led travel- a direction shaped by traveller behaviour, sustainability goals, and evolving tourism policies.
1. Travellers Want Connection, Not Checklists
Winter travel encourages depth over speed. Instead of rushing through attractions, travellers now want to linger—sharing meals, learning stories, and understanding local rhythms.
They increasingly prioritise:
- Local interactions over landmark hopping
- Cultural participation over passive observation
- Slow travel over packed itineraries
January–February trips naturally support this mindset, thanks to comfortable weather and quieter destinations.
2. Experiences Support Local Communities
Experience-led tourism plays a direct role in strengthening local economies. When travellers choose community-based activities, their spending reaches artisans, farmers, performers, and small businesses instead of remaining within large commercial chains.
Such tourism:
- Keeps money circulating within local communities
- Creates sustainable livelihoods beyond seasonal tourism
- Encourages younger generations to preserve traditional skills
This approach aligns strongly with India’s focus on community-driven and sustainable tourism.
3. Responsible Travel Is the New Normal
Eco-tourism initiatives and sustainability guidelines now shape how people plan trips. Travellers, especially during winters, are more mindful of their environmental footprint and increasingly choose destinations and accommodations that respect local ecosystems.
Responsible travel influences:
- Where travellers choose to stay
- How long do they spend in one destination
- The types of experiences they seek
In 2026, conscious travel is no longer a niche preference as it has now become a baseline expectation.
Top 7 Experience-Led Destinations to Visit in India for National Tourism Day 2026
These destinations aren’t just places to visit- they’re places to experience deeply, making them ideal for celebrating National Tourism Day.
1. Alibaug, Maharashtra – Coastal Living Beyond the Beach
Alibaug offers more than just beaches, especially in winters. It invites travellers into a slower coastal rhythm shaped by fishing villages, local cuisine, and maritime history.
Experience highlights:
- Cycling through quiet fishing hamlets at sunrise
- Enjoying Konkani home-style meals prepared with local catch
- Walking to sea forts like Kolaba during low tide
Where to Stay when Visiting Alibaug in January-February 2026?
27 Flora in Alibaug is a serene retreat designed for slow, feel-good getaways. Surrounded by lush lawns and a dreamy fountain, the villa invites you to unwind outdoors—whether it’s poolside lounging, carefree strolls, or relaxed lawn picnics. Inside, warm interiors and a welcoming living space set the tone for comfort, while five cosy bedrooms ensure restful stays for families and groups alike. Perfect for those seeking privacy, space, and effortless relaxation, 27 Flora offers a refreshing escape where every moment feels unhurried and memorable.
2. Nashik, Maharashtra – Wine, Spirituality & Rural Tourism
Nashik uniquely blends modern vineyard culture with ancient spiritual traditions, offering a well-rounded experiential escape. You can also take pleasure in attending the Sula Fest 2026, which starts on 31st January.
Experience highlights:
- Grape-stomping and guided vineyard tours
- Participating in temple rituals along the Godavari River
- Farm-to-table dining that showcases regional produce
Nashik represents Sustainable Tourism India by balancing agriculture, culture, and tourism seamlessly.
Also read: A complete Nashik Itinerary
Where to Stay when Visiting Nashik in January- February 2026?
Breezy Whispers in Nashik is a tranquil escape set amid rolling greenery and sweeping views of the Darna Dam. Designed for slow, restorative getaways, the villa blends nature, comfort, and thoughtful experiences. Spend your days floating in the private infinity pool, unwinding on the sunlit deck, or relaxing on the expansive lawn as nature provides the soundtrack. Inside, elegant interiors and indoor games create a cosy retreat, while curated experiences like live guitar sessions and starlit barbecues add a memorable touch. Located close to Nashik’s iconic attractions, Breezy Whispers offers the perfect balance of peaceful seclusion and easy exploration.
3. Artist Village (Kashid–Revdanda Belt), Maharashtra – Living Art & Culture
Often associated with Tourism Day events at Artist Village, Maharashtra, this region focuses on preserving and sharing indigenous art forms.
Experience highlights:
- Learning Warli painting directly from local artists
- Attending folk music and dance performances
- Participating in storytelling sessions rooted in regional folklore
This destination allows travellers to become participants in culture, not just observers.
Where Should You Stay when Visiting in January- February 2026?
Casa Bella – Kashid
Casa Bella is a sleek hilltop retreat overlooking the endless blues of Kashid Beach, where two elegant villas are connected by a breathtaking infinity pool. Designed for both relaxation and recreation, the interiors feature a lively mix of indoor games including a pool table, air hockey, poker, carrom, and an electronic dartboard. Step out onto the deck to soak in sweeping ocean views, unwind by the pool, or simply let the sound of the waves set the mood. With its seamless blend of modern luxury and coastal beauty, Casa Bella is made for laid-back days and memorable evenings by the sea.
4. Coorg, Karnataka – Coffee, Forests & Slow Living
Coorg encourages travellers to slow down and engage with nature responsibly. You will have more fun during the winter season, as the weather becomes more pleasant for outdoor explorations.
Experience highlights:
- Guided walks through coffee plantations
- Experiencing authentic Kodava cuisine and hospitality
- Exploring forest trails with local naturalists
Also Read: Travel Guide to Coorg
Where to Stay when Visiting Coorg in January and February 2026?
The Estate Villa
Tucked into Coorg’s lush greenery, The Estate Villa blends clean, modern design with warm rustic charm. Its striking white façade stands out against the verdant landscape, creating a serene, secluded escape that’s still easy to reach. Inside, contemporary interiors are softened by earthy accents, while the beautiful aangan-style courtyard becomes the soul of the home, perfect for slow mornings and easy conversations.
With spacious living areas, peaceful bedrooms, and plenty of cosy corners to relax, this villa is designed for unhurried stays. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet coffee on the terrace or heading out to explore Coorg, every moment here feels effortlessly special.
5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh – High-Altitude Conscious Travel
Spiti demands mindful travel due to its fragile ecosystem and remote setting.
Experience highlights:
- Staying at monasteries and learning about Buddhist traditions
- Stargazing under some of India’s clearest night skies
- Engaging with village communities through homestays
Here, travel becomes a lesson in patience, respect, and introspection.
Where to Stay when Visiting Spiti Valley in January and February 2026?
Cottage 2 @ Casa Bella Vista
Set amid lush greenery and sweeping mountain views, Casa Bella Vista captures the true essence of Manali. Regal interiors pair beautifully with manicured outdoor spaces, while private balconies open up to birdsong, gentle breezes, and stunning Himalayan vistas. From here, you can step straight into Manali’s rich culture, exploring cedar-lined trails, scenic treks, and charming heritage walks. Designed as a peaceful yet immersive escape, this elegant holiday home is perfect for nature lovers seeking a serene retreat in the hills.
6. Chettinad, Tamil Nadu – Heritage Through Food & Architecture
Chettinad tourism revolves around storytelling, told through cuisine, architecture, and family traditions. It’s a compelling example of promoting Indian heritage beyond monuments. The winter season is the ideal season to visit, as the weather offers a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing.
Experience highlights:
- Staying in restored heritage mansions
- Learning traditional Chettinad cooking techniques
- Exploring grand architecture shaped by global trade history
Where to Stay when Visiting Chettinad in January- February 2026?
Pérola Do Mar – Mahabalipuram
Set between the tranquil Mudaliarkuppam backwaters and the Bay of Bengal, Perola Do Mar is a luxury escape made for unforgettable group getaways in Pondicherry. From an outdoor movie theatre and archery to air pistols, karaoke nights, ATV rides, and relaxed poolside lounging, every moment here is designed for fun and indulgence. Add in lively barbecue evenings served by the in-house staff, and you have the perfect recipe for memorable nights with your favourite people. With air-conditioned bedrooms and attached bathrooms ensuring complete comfort, this vibrant holiday home blends high-energy experiences with laid-back luxury effortlessly.
7. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – Music, Nature & Tribal Life
If you want to experience an amalgamation of the modern world and a world full of modern wonders, then Ziro valley is the destination for you. With the evolving philosophy behind modern Travel and Tourism Day celebrations, it will open a Pandora’s box filled with amazing stories and cultural experiences.
Experience highlights:
- Interacting with indigenous Apatani tribal communities
- Nature walks through rice fields and forests
- Responsible participation in sustainable music festivals
8. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh – Quiet Nature & Village Life
January and February transform Tirthan Valley into a serene winter haven, ideal for travellers who want to disconnect from fast-paced tourism and reconnect with nature. With light snowfall in higher reaches and crisp mountain air, the valley offers an intimate look at Himalayan village life when tourism is at its slowest.
Why winter works here:
Fewer visitors mean deeper interactions—with locals, landscapes, and traditions. Winter in Tirthan is not about adventure sports but about observation, stillness, and mindful travel.
Experience highlights:
- Guided village walks through Gushaini and nearby hamlets, where daily life continues at an unhurried pace
- Riverside strolls along the Tirthan River, especially peaceful in winter
- Forest hikes in the Great Himalayan National Park, accompanied by local guides
- Evenings around a bonfire, sharing stories under star-filled skies
This is slow travel in its purest form—perfectly aligned with the values National Tourism Day 2026 seeks to promote.
Where to stay in Tirthan Valley?
Wisteria Whispers
Wisteria Whispers, Tirthan Valley is an ideal winter escape for January and February 2026, when the valley is at its quietest and most atmospheric. Tucked away in the peaceful village of Gushaini, this cosy StayVista retreat offers uninterrupted views of the Tirthan River, misty mountains, and pine-covered trails that come alive in winter. Chilly mornings invite slow walks and riverside stillness, while afternoons are perfect for forest explorations near the Great Himalayan National Park. As temperatures drop, evenings turn magical with bonfires, hot meals, and starry skies. For travellers seeking crowd-free mountains, mindful travel, and nature-led experiences in early 2026, Wisteria Whispers captures the essence of slow winter living in Himachal.
9. Landour, Uttarakhand – Winter Solitude, Heritage & Creative Retreats
Perched above Mussoorie, Landour is a winter favourite for travellers who value quiet reflection over crowded viewpoints. January–February brings misty mornings, empty forest paths, and an old-world charm that feels almost cinematic. While Mussoorie buzzes, Landour slows down—making it ideal for writers, artists, and travellers seeking solitude.
Experience highlights:
- Morning walks through pine and deodar forests wrapped in fog
- Café hopping and bakery visits that feel especially cosy in cold weather
- Exploring colonial-era churches, cottages, and heritage lanes
- Literary trails inspired by authors and artists associated with the region
Landour represents a softer, more introspective side of Indian tourism—one rooted in mood, memory, and atmosphere rather than sightseeing.
10. Shekhawati, Rajasthan – Heritage Told Through Frescoes
Winter is the best time to explore Shekhawati’s heritage towns, when desert temperatures are pleasant and walking tours become truly enjoyable. Often overshadowed by Jaipur and Jodhpur, this region rewards travellers who slow down and listen. Shekhawati’s heritage is lived, not curated—stories are passed down through families, frescoes, and everyday rituals
Experience highlights:
- Walking tours of fresco-painted havelis in Mandawa, Nawalgarh, and Fatehpur
- Conversations with local historians and craftsmen preserving mural art
- Exploring lesser-known desert towns without tourist crowds
- Winter evenings spent in courtyards, soaking in local hospitality
This is heritage tourism beyond monuments—exactly the kind National Tourism Day encourages.
Where to Stay when visiting Shekhawati in January- February 2026?
Winter is the best time to explore Shekhawati’s heritage towns, when desert temperatures are pleasant and walking tours become truly enjoyable. Often overshadowed by Jaipur and Jodhpur, this region rewards travellers who slow down and listen.
Why it fits National Tourism Day 2026:
Shekhawati’s heritage is lived, not curated—stories are passed down through families, frescoes, and everyday rituals.
Experience highlights:
- Walking tours of fresco-painted havelis in Mandawa, Nawalgarh, and Fatehpur
- Conversations with local historians and craftsmen preserving mural art
- Exploring lesser-known desert towns without tourist crowds
- Winter evenings spent in courtyards, soaking in local hospitality
This is heritage tourism beyond monuments—exactly the kind National Tourism Day encourages.
Morbaugh Palace
Morbaugh Palace, Jaipur, is a regal yet relaxed escape that lets you live in Jaipur rather than just visit it. Set in the quiet Bhankrota enclave, this elegant StayVista villa blends traditional Rajasthani charm with modern comfort—think earthy red-brick architecture, warm tones, and thoughtfully designed living spaces that feel both timeless and welcoming. With six beautifully styled bedrooms, a private pool framed by manicured lawns, and spacious outdoor courtyards perfect for slow mornings or starlit evenings, the villa creates an intimate backdrop for shared stories and leisurely moments. Whether you’re unwinding poolside, hosting a barbecue on the lawn, or exploring Jaipur’s heritage from Amer Fort to the City Palace nearby, Morbaugh Palace turns a Jaipur getaway into an immersive cultural experience
Experiences That Make Travel Meaningful on National Tourism Day
India offers diverse experiences for every travel style—be it family-friendly stays, group getaways, or peaceful solo retreats.
Across the country, National Tourism Day 2026 will be marked through experiences rather than spectacles.
Common celebration formats include:
Cultural & Art-Led Experiences
Engage with local artists, attend folk performances, and learn traditional crafts that keep India’s cultural heritage alive.
Nature-Based & Outdoor Activities
From forest walks and mountain trails to beachside cycling and riverside picnics, outdoor experiences help travellers reconnect with nature.
Food, Wine & Local Culinary Trails
Discover regional flavours through vineyard tours, home-style meals, food walks, and traditional cooking experiences.
Wellness, Relaxation & Digital Detox Breaks
Yoga sessions, meditation retreats, nature immersion, and slow mornings make travel restorative and rejuvenating.
Tips for Planning a Trip Around National Tourism Day
Best Time to Travel in January Across India
January offers pleasant weather across most regions—ideal for hill stations, wildlife destinations, and coastal getaways.
Short Getaways vs Longer Holidays
While weekend trips are perfect for nearby escapes, extending your stay allows for deeper exploration and a more relaxed pace.
Tips for Responsible & Eco-Conscious Travel
Choose local experiences, minimise waste, respect cultural norms, and support community-run initiatives wherever possible.
Travelling With Family, Friends or Solo
How Different Indian States Celebrate National Tourism Day
National Tourism Day in Maharashtra
Heritage walks, coastal experiences, vineyard tours, and cultural showcases take centre stage across destinations like Alibaug and Nashik.
National Tourism Day in Himachal Pradesh
Mountain villages and valleys host nature walks, cultural programmes, and eco-tourism initiatives.
National Tourism Day in Uttarakhand
Hill towns celebrate with heritage trails, forest experiences, and wellness-focused activities.
National Tourism Day in Rajasthan
Guided tours, cultural performances, and heritage events highlight the state’s rich history and art.
Cultural Events, Heritage Walks & Local Festivals
Many regions host local fairs, exhibitions, and workshops that offer travellers an authentic glimpse into regional traditions.
Regional highlights:
- National Tourism Day celebrations in Mumbai: Heritage walks, food trails, and coastal storytelling
- National Tourism Day 2026 Delhi events: History walks, cultural pop-ups, and museum-led programs
- State-led initiatives promoting experiential tourism circuits
Importance of National Tourism Day in 2026
In essence, National Tourism Day now shapes how India chooses to travel.
- Encouraging sustainable tourism practices
- Supports local livelihoods and traditional skills
- Builds cultural pride among citizens
- Educates travellers and students on responsible tourism
This is why villas, especially those embedded in local settings like StayVista villas are becoming integral to experience-led travel.
FAQs: National Tourism Day 2026
National Tourism Day is celebrated on 25 January every year.
No, the official theme is yet to be announced by the Ministry of Tourism India.
Experience-led, sustainable, and community-based tourism.
Destinations offering cultural immersion, eco-tourism, and meaningful local engagement.
Destinations like Alibaug, Nashik, Coorg, Spiti Valley, Landour, and Shekhawati are ideal for meaningful travel experiences.
Alibaug, Nashik, and nearby heritage villages make for perfect short getaways.
Yes, January offers crisp weather and scenic landscapes, though travellers should be prepared for colder temperatures in higher altitudes.
Artist villages, lesser-known hill towns, and heritage regions like Shekhawati offer unique alternatives to mainstream destinations.
National Tourism Day 2026 isn’t about how many places you visit, it’s about how deeply you experience them. The destinations that matter most today aren’t the most photographed, but the most felt.
This year, celebrate tourism by choosing journeys that leave you richer in stories and destinations richer for your presence.
Cover image credits: Perfect Click
Written by Taniya Eppaturi
