Travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan has gone down after India’s recent conflict with Pakistan. Many Indian tourists are avoiding these two countries because they supported Pakistan after Operation Sindoor. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Karan Agarwal, director of Cox & Kings, said that Indian travelers are now looking for other places that feel similar and fit the same budget.
Decline in Travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan
With the boycott going on, Indian travel companies have stopped bookings or put travel packages to Turkey and and Azerbaijan on hold. The boycott has also led Indian businesses and politicians to speak out against both countries. Some people have even asked for a ban on Turkish products.
But why have so many Indians been interested in visiting Turkey and
Azerbaijan in recent years? In 2024, about 3.3 lakh Indians travelled to Turkey, and 2.4 lakh went to Azerbaijan. These visitors made a big contribution to the tourism economy of both countries.
Why Turkey and Azerbaijan Were Popular with Indian Tourists
Karan explained that many Indians chose Turkey and Azerbaijan in recent years because both were easy to visit and affordable. He said, “Turkey and Azerbaijan quickly became preferred choices for Indian travellers in the last few years because of how easy and affordable they were. In 2024 alone, around 2.4 lakh Indians visited Azerbaijan and 3.3 lakh visited Turkey, together contributing over ₹69 billion to their tourism economies.”
He also said that Azerbaijan became popular because of its simple e-visa system and direct flights. “Azerbaijan’s e-visa facility, short flight time, and direct connections made it a convenient getaway,” he said. “Turkey, on the other hand, with its historical sites, diverse landscapes, and relatively affordable pricing, offered an accessible international option for Indian travellers.”
New Travel Options for Indian Tourists
Karan said that because many Indians are now avoiding Turkey and Azerbaijan, they are choosing other places instead. Greece, with its famous historical sites and beautiful views, and Egypt, known for its rich culture and ancient landmarks, are becoming popular new travel choices for Indian tourists.
More Travel Options Instead of Turkey and Azerbaijan
If you are skipping Turkey and Azerbaijan, there are many other countries that Indian tourists can enjoy. These places are beautiful, budget-friendly, and full of culture, just like Turkey and Azerbaijan.
- Jordan:
Jordan is great for history lovers. You can visit the famous ancient city of Petra and float in the Dead Sea.
Indians can get a visa on arrival. - Georgia:
Georgia has beautiful mountains, tasty food, and is not too expensive.
It’s easy to get an e-visa, and people are very friendly. - Armenia:
Armenia is peaceful, has old churches and lovely scenery. It’s still not crowded with tourists.
It’s affordable and rich in culture. - Uzbekistan:
Uzbekistan is full of history, old buildings, and colorful markets.
The visa process for Indians is now simpler. - Serbia:
Serbia feels like Europe but is easier to visit. It has nice towns, fun nightlife, and good food.
Indians can visit without a visa for up to 30 days. - Vietnam:
Vietnam has beaches, hills, tasty street food, and is easy on the wallet.
Indians can get an e-visa and there are many flight options. - Indonesia:
Bali is perfect for beaches, temples, and relaxing holidays. It’s great for couples and families. - Morocco:
Morocco is a good option if you liked Turkey. It has markets, deserts, and a rich history.
Flights and tourist facilities are improving for Indian visitors.
