Klook data highlights the rise of the “Cool’cation”, as Indian travellers seek snowy adventures, festive cityscapes, and unique experiences for their year-end break
The holiday spirit is high, and this year, Indian travellers are redefining the year-end vacation. According to new insights from Asia Pacific’s leading pan-regional experiences platform, Klook, more travellers are seeking “cool’cations” — escapes that offer cooler climates or socially vibrant experiences— to wrap up the year.
The trend reflects a growing appetite among new-age Indian travellers for destinations that go beyond conventional holidays. From snowy winter landscapes with adventure activities to tropical retreats with unique celebrations, these journeys combine relaxation, family time, and memorable experiences.
"We're seeing a clear shift in traveller preferences," said Shivam Tyagi, Head of Marketing, Klook India and Middle East. "The new Indian traveller wants more than just a break; they want an experience. They're heading towards snowy winter destinations to 'cool down' in style or diving into the heart of celebrations to unwind with family. It's about finding that 'wow' factor to kick off the New Year."
From the Ski-ready peaks of Switzerland or the powdery slopes of Japan, combined with local cultural experiences, finding Dubai, with its extravagant year-end festivals and world-class New Year celebrations, to a refreshing change of scenery, mist-covered rice terraces in Vietnam for an end-of-year escape.
As Indians finalise their Christmas and New Year plans, the message is clear: 2025 is all about ringing in the new year in the coolest way possible.
Climatically Cool - Winter Escapes for the Year-End
As the year draws to a close, travellers are wrapping up their year amid crisp air, snowfall, and festive lights. The year-end period signals peak time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in snow-blanketed destinations.
It’s also the most inviting time to explore regions where winter brings pleasant temperatures, indoor ski slopes, ice rinks, dazzling festive markets, and light displays. For many travellers, it’s the perfect season to experience these cities at their most vibrant, where the weather feels just right for adventure, exploration, and festive celebrations.
Where It’s Cold To Be: Klook Users’ Top 3 Year-End Hotspots
● Japan (link)
Japan continues to top Indian travellers’ lists this winter, drawing visitors to its iconic onsen towns and enchanting snow festivals. From Hokkaido’s world-famous ice sculptures to Nagano’s powdery slopes, and Kyoto’s illuminated winter gardens, Indian travellers are embracing Japan’s mix of tradition and adventure, with browsing sessions surging (up 133% in winter tours and 96% in ski-activities YoY*) With hot springs, gourmet winter bites, and vibrant seasonal events, Japan offers a truly immersive winter escape.
● Switzerland (link)
The quintessential winter destination known for its dramatic alpine landscapes and picturesque mountain towns. Classic alpine holiday, Travelers are drawn to its exceptional ski slopes, festive Christmas markets, and cozy chalets tucked amid snow-laden peaks. With each snowfall, Switzerland transforms into a timeless postcard of European winter elegance. Cosy chalets, Storybook Christmas Markets, The Swiss Travel Pass is a top favourite of Indian travelers eager to explore multiple regions across Switzerland’s most scenic train routes
● South Korea (link)
South Korea is a rising favorite for Indian travelers seeking both excitement and comfort this season. Its world-class ski resorts, winter theme parks, and steaming Korean stews create the perfect blend of thrill and warmth. Its popularity is reflected in a 109% year-on-year increase in ski-tour sessions from Indian travellers. Beyond the cities, snow-capped temples, scenic islands, and national parks showcase the country’s serene winter beauty especially for younger travellers.
* Based on Klook’s internal data comparing Q3 2024 and Q3 2025
To celebrate the season, Klook is offering exclusive ski deals, including up to 50% off ski tours, and early winter deals like flat INR2000 off for early birds in its Winter Wonderlands Campaign, perfect for families, couples, and first-timers ready to embrace the chill.
Cool-er in the Tropics
For Indian travelers who chose to stay within the region’s tropical warmth this year-end, it’s about finding cool-er ways to explore.
Klook data shows a growing interest in experiences that offer escape from the heat — from river cruises in Singapore and Thailand, to adventures in nature like waterfall day tours and canyoneering in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Night activities are also gaining popularity. From exploring historic palaces after dark — perfect for history lovers who prefer slow strolls in the cool evening air — to joining locally guided night tours or glamping under the stars, travelers are discovering new ways to experience destinations after sundown to beat the heat.
And for those dreaming of a true winter scene without leaving Southeast Asia, there is a place that offers just that — Sapa, Vietnam. This charming mountain town north of Hanoi is known for its terraced rice fields and peaceful atmosphere. It transforms between December and February into a mist-shrouded winter wonderland, occasionally blanketed in velvety snow. Definitely a rare sight in Southeast Asia.
Socially Cool
“Cool” isn’t just about the climate, but it can be about the vibe too. More and more Klook Indian users are redefining what is ‘cool’. Beyond winter destinations, they are on a search to uncover hip, authentic destinations that blend culture, community and experiences that feel authentic, inspiring and slightly off the beaten path. And for travelers who make the extra effort, the reward is what we call the “socially cool” factor — the satisfaction of discovering a place before everyone else does.
Where It’s Cool To Be: Klook Users’ Top 3 Year-End Hotspots
*Year-on-year comparison: Q3 2024 versus Q3 2025
● Da Lat, Vietnam (+280% sessions year-on-year)
Perched in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat charms travelers with its pine forests, flower gardens, and misty mountain air. A blend of French villas, waterfalls, and local coffee culture gives this “City of Eternal Spring” its timeless allure.
○ Zip through the lush forest of Datanla on the longest coaster trail in Asia (link)
○ Join the Dalat Flower Festival in December (link)
○ Bask in the glow of dawn and snuggle under the blanket of clouds (link)
● Chiang Rai, Thailand (+241% sessions year-on-year)
Northern Thailand’s hidden gem, Chiang Rai captivates with its surreal temples — white, blue, and black — each a masterpiece of local artistry. Beyond the city, tea plantations and mountain views make it a serene yet culturally rich escape.
○ Visit a local market, pick fresh ingredients, and cook like a local (link)
○ Master the art of Muay Thai where it all began (link)
○ Pick the temple tour that fits best (link)
● Bali, Indonesia (+354% sessions year-on-year)
A tropical island where spirituality meets surf culture, Bali captivates with its lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and golden beaches. The island’s vibrant energy flows from the bustling streets of Seminyak to the serene cliffs of Uluwatu, while Ubud’s jungles and wellness retreats offer moments of calm and reflection. With warm, pleasant weather and fewer rains, Bali is an ideal escape for winter travelers seeking sun, sea, and serenity.
○ Watch a mesmerising sunrise up at Mount Batur, one of the most active volcanoes in Bali (link)
○ Take a Surfing Lesson at Kuta Beach(link)
○ Watch a Kecak and Fire Dance Show at Uluwatu Temple(link)
Seamless Journeys to All Cool Places
Getting to cool destinations has never been easier. Klook’s users are increasingly turning to multi-destination transport passes that simplify movement between cities and countries.
More are purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat to top destinations like Zurich, Lucerne, and Mount Titlis, along with free access to mountain adventures and over 500 museums. Eurail Pass sales have also climbed, granting unlimited train travel across 33 European cities. Demand for high-speed rail travel in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan increased by more than 140% quarter-on-quarter, reflecting stronger year-end travel momentum.
Whether by scenic rail, alpine funicular, or riverside ferry, these passes make it easier for travelers to embark on their own "Cool’cation” — from seamless online booking to smooth transfers on the ground.
Dubai: The Classic Yet Cool Year-End Getaway for Indian Travelers
Dubai continues to reign as the #1 international destination for Indian travelers, a timeless favorite that blends familiarity with festive grandeur.
Every year-end, from November through January, the city transforms into a global stage of celebration, anchored by the Burj Khalifa’s iconic New Year fireworks and the excitement of the Dubai Shopping Festival, where irresistible deals meet world-class entertainment.
Its mild winter weather makes it a natural escape from India’s colder or hazier climates, while superior air connectivity from over 20 Indian cities and streamlined visa processes make it easy for families and last-minute planners alike. With a steady 28% year-on-year growth in sessions from India*Dubai's appeal continues to soar.
* Based on Klook’s internal data comparing Q3 2024 and Q3 2025
“Cool”cations: The New Year-End State of Mind
From chasing snow to chasing new scenes, “cool”cations are redefining how travelers close out their year, blending comfort, curiosity, and creativity. Whether it’s finding cool weather or cool experiences, travelers are rewriting what it means to end the year on a high.
Travellers can bring their “Cool”cation plans to life through Klook’s amazing year-end offers. A full line-up of daily deals and surprises awaits, making this the perfect time to plan your next great escape.
The gateway to your “cool”cation starts here.
About Klook
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler. Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
Perched in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat charms travelers with its pine forests, flower gardens, and misty mountain air. A blend of French villas, waterfalls, and local coffee culture gives this “City of Eternal Spring” its timeless allure.
○ Zip through the lush forest of Datanla on the longest coaster trail in Asia (link)
○ Join the Dalat Flower Festival in December (link)
○ Bask in the glow of dawn and snuggle under the blanket of clouds (link)
● Chiang Rai, Thailand (+241% sessions year-on-year)
Northern Thailand’s hidden gem, Chiang Rai captivates with its surreal temples — white, blue, and black — each a masterpiece of local artistry. Beyond the city, tea plantations and mountain views make it a serene yet culturally rich escape.
○ Visit a local market, pick fresh ingredients, and cook like a local (link)
○ Master the art of Muay Thai where it all began (link)
○ Pick the temple tour that fits best (link)
● Bali, Indonesia (+354% sessions year-on-year)
A tropical island where spirituality meets surf culture, Bali captivates with its lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and golden beaches. The island’s vibrant energy flows from the bustling streets of Seminyak to the serene cliffs of Uluwatu, while Ubud’s jungles and wellness retreats offer moments of calm and reflection. With warm, pleasant weather and fewer rains, Bali is an ideal escape for winter travelers seeking sun, sea, and serenity.
○ Watch a mesmerising sunrise up at Mount Batur, one of the most active volcanoes in Bali (link)
○ Take a Surfing Lesson at Kuta Beach(link)
○ Watch a Kecak and Fire Dance Show at Uluwatu Temple(link)
Seamless Journeys to All Cool Places
Getting to cool destinations has never been easier. Klook’s users are increasingly turning to multi-destination transport passes that simplify movement between cities and countries.
More are purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat to top destinations like Zurich, Lucerne, and Mount Titlis, along with free access to mountain adventures and over 500 museums. Eurail Pass sales have also climbed, granting unlimited train travel across 33 European cities. Demand for high-speed rail travel in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan increased by more than 140% quarter-on-quarter, reflecting stronger year-end travel momentum.
Whether by scenic rail, alpine funicular, or riverside ferry, these passes make it easier for travelers to embark on their own "Cool’cation” — from seamless online booking to smooth transfers on the ground.
Dubai: The Classic Yet Cool Year-End Getaway for Indian Travelers
Dubai continues to reign as the #1 international destination for Indian travelers, a timeless favorite that blends familiarity with festive grandeur.
Every year-end, from November through January, the city transforms into a global stage of celebration, anchored by the Burj Khalifa’s iconic New Year fireworks and the excitement of the Dubai Shopping Festival, where irresistible deals meet world-class entertainment.
Its mild winter weather makes it a natural escape from India’s colder or hazier climates, while superior air connectivity from over 20 Indian cities and streamlined visa processes make it easy for families and last-minute planners alike. With a steady 28% year-on-year growth in sessions from India*Dubai's appeal continues to soar.
* Based on Klook’s internal data comparing Q3 2024 and Q3 2025
“Cool”cations: The New Year-End State of Mind
From chasing snow to chasing new scenes, “cool”cations are redefining how travelers close out their year, blending comfort, curiosity, and creativity. Whether it’s finding cool weather or cool experiences, travelers are rewriting what it means to end the year on a high.
Travellers can bring their “Cool”cation plans to life through Klook’s amazing year-end offers. A full line-up of daily deals and surprises awaits, making this the perfect time to plan your next great escape.
The gateway to your “cool”cation starts here.
About Klook
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler. Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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