From January to October 2024, U.S. tourists made up 17% of all foreign tourist arrivals to India, marking a continued rise in American interest in the country.
Two transformative trends are emerging to redefine how American travelers experience India: heritage restoration with purpose and a shift toward responsible, slow travel. These trends not only cater to those seeking luxury and adventure, but also champion responsible tourism, blending cultural immersion with eco-conscious practices.
Today’s travelers can engage with India like never before, whether by staying in beautifully restored heritage properties that support local artisans or embarking on mindful treks through Kerala’s lush landscapes. These experiences offer more than just a journey through India - they nourish both the soul and the community, enabling travelers to connect deeply with the places they visit.
1. Restoring India’s Past with Purpose
Travelers are increasingly drawn to meticulously restored heritage properties that act as cultural custodians. These stays blend opulent history with modern comforts while directly supporting local artisans and communities.
Embark on a journey where history, luxury, and culture come together in perfect harmony. From the majestic palace hotels of Jaipur to the serene lakeside havelis of Udaipur, each destination invites you to experience a stay in beautifully restored palaces, havelis, and tea estates, each with a story centuries in the making.
Timeless Stays:
- Stay in the heart of history at iconic locations like Jaipur’s regal palace hotels or Udaipur’s picturesque lakeside havelis, where the architecture whispers tales of a bygone era.
- Experience the Mughal splendor of Haveli Dharampura in Old Delhi or the minimalist elegance of RAAS Devigarh near Udaipur, where heritage meets modern comfort.
- Deeppura Garh in Shekhawati enchants with its restored frescoes and European influence.
- RAAS Chhatrasagar offers a tranquil escape with luxury tents by a serene reservoir.
- At Brij Laxman Sagar, earthy cottages made from local stone provide the perfect retreat for solitude and reflection.
- Fort Dhadhikar near Alwar offers a rustic yet luxurious experience steeped in history.
Rooted in Restoration:
- Take part in the Amber water reservoir walk and immerse yourself in the region's rich past.
- Visit the Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ School in Jaisalmer, a masterpiece of sustainable architecture crafted from local sandstone, supporting women’s education and empowerment.
Cultural Immersion:
- Engage in hands-on experiences like block-printing workshops, traditional cooking classes, and guided heritage walks to connect with Rajasthan’s living traditions.
- Walk through the soul of Jaipur with Tripti Pandey, one of Rajasthan’s foremost cultural ambassadors, and experience the city’s rich heritage through her storytelling.
- Explore artisan trails in Agra, Jaipur, and Jodhpur, guided by award-winning creators, and discover the region’s craftsmanship in its purest form.
Responsible Impact:
- Your stay helps fund preservation efforts and provides stable livelihoods for local communities, ensuring tourism benefits everyone.
- Witness the art of carpet weaving by women in villages like Salawas near Jodhpur or Dilwara near Udaipur.
- In Old Delhi, join a Salaam Baalak Trust food walk and explore the city’s culinary roots while supporting a meaningful cause that uplifts the local community.
TravelLocal can tailor trips like their Experience rural Rajasthan in 10 days priced from US$2,390pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights) to include heritage stays.
2. Slow Travel, Big Impact
American travelers, with their growing focus on eco-conscious travel, will find Kerala's eco-lodges and spice plantation treks an ideal way to experience India’s rich culture while making a positive impact.
Cycle through the vibrant streets of Kochi, reducing your carbon footprint while immersing yourself in the city’s rich heritage. Join a heritage walking tour in Alleppey guided by local women, and enjoy a traditional lunch that offers a true taste of local life. To slow down and connect with nature, spend a peaceful night on a serene houseboat, where the calm backwaters provide the perfect setting for relaxation and reflection.
Scenic Trails:
- Wander through the lush tea plantations of Munnar, where the rolling hills provide both beauty and tranquility.
- Explore the rich biodiversity of Periyar National Park, where wildlife and nature come alive with every step.
- Trek through Jageshwar Valley to discover ancient temples and a sense of timelessness in the mountains.
- The Lady-Life tour in Munnar offers an intimate look into the lives of women tea pluckers, directly supporting them and providing a deeper understanding of their world.
- Depending on the season, visit Wayanad’s coffee plantations or unwind in a treehouse surrounded by the forest, offering the perfect escape into nature.
Responsible Stays:
- Stay in eco-lodges that prioritize sustainability and community well-being, like those nestled in Kerala’s Western Ghats, where nature and comfort go hand in hand.
- Choose eco-conscious accommodations that seamlessly blend heritage with sustainability, such as the locally rooted CGH Earth properties, the organic farm life at Dewalokam, or the serene wilderness of Rainforest Athirapally beside Kerala’s iconic waterfall.
- Explore a village near Kochi, where you can directly support local communities through craft experiences with traditional artisans.
Cultural Exchange:
- Step into the kitchen with Keralan chefs for intimate cooking classes that reveal the secrets of local cuisine. Learn the art of Kerala’s flavors, then enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal.
- Meet the trailblazing women of Kathakali, a once all-male classical dance-drama now shaped by powerful female pioneers. Hear their stories and witness a rare, unmasked performance that captures the raw, emotional soul of the art.
- Visit the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village in Vellar, where you can take part in hands-on workshops in terracotta, dry flower art, and traditional jewelry-making — a colorful celebration of local craftsmanship.
Trips like the 9-day Immersive India Eco Tour priced from US$3,430pp for 2 travelers (excl international flights) can be adjusted to include eco-treks and cultural experiences.
“We design journeys around travelers’ passions, like temple history or artisan visits”.
Akash, TravelLocal’s local expert who lives and works in India
Why TravelLocal?
TravelLocal is empowering travelers to experience these trends responsibly by connecting travelers with local specialists, like Akash, who craft trips that balance iconic sites (e.g., the Himalayas, Kerala’s backwaters) with hyper-local experiences that provide direct support for local economies and ecosystems.
"We’re flipping the old travel model on its head. By connecting travelers directly with local experts, we’re not just delivering richer, more authentic experiences – we’re channeling tourism dollars straight into local hands, helping to sustain traditions, livelihoods, and landscapes."
Huw Owen, Co-Founder, TravelLocal
These trends align with the growing interest among American travelers seeking to make responsible choices while exploring the world. By focusing on community-based tourism and responsible travel choices, these experiences provide a refreshing and meaningful alternative to traditional sightseeing.
TravelLocal’s custom itineraries offer a unique opportunity for your readers to experience India in ways they’ve never imagined, helping travelers connect more deeply with India’s culture while supporting local communities.
