Air India’s Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Delhi to Bangkok Air India's Surprise Bargain for 2024

Bangkok, a vibrant city known for its bustling markets, delicious street food, and ornate temples, is surprisingly accessible from Delhi thanks to Air India's recent fare reductions. You can currently find economy class tickets for as low as INR 22,723, making this exotic destination more affordable than one might expect.

The flights, which take roughly 4 hours and 20 minutes, operate twice daily, ensuring convenient options for various travel schedules. If you're looking for a touch more comfort, business class tickets are available starting at INR 41,701.

While Air India is making Bangkok more accessible, budget-minded travelers might even find even lower fares with airlines like VietJet Air, which offer one-way flights for under INR 10,000. It appears that the competition is pushing fares down, giving savvy travellers several choices.

Air India's commitment to enhancing the customer experience is evident with the introduction of the Airbus A350-900 on some routes, but if sheer cost is the main driver, other carriers might be the way to go.

It seems Air India has found a sweet spot with its Delhi-Bangkok route. The distance, around 2,560 kilometers, makes air travel a practical choice compared to other transport options for travelers looking to explore Southeast Asia from a convenient starting point. Interestingly, this route's popularity is on the rise, with ticket sales reportedly up 30% year-over-year, suggesting a growing interest in affordable flights to Thailand.

The affordability is quite notable, with round-trip tickets starting at roughly INR 18,000 – that's a competitive price for a direct flight to Bangkok. A flight duration of about 4 hours and 15 minutes offers a fast travel time to a city known for its vibrant culture, amazing street food, and bustling markets.

The route stands out in several ways. Air India's baggage allowance (25 kg in economy and 30 kg in business) potentially helps reduce overall travel expenses for those who anticipate purchasing items during their trip. They seem to use a mix of Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s, likely prioritizing fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. It's noteworthy that Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport ranks among the world's busiest, offering passengers numerous onward connections to other destinations.

From a passenger experience perspective, Air India’s meal service is quite clever – blending Indian and Thai flavors. This creates a sort of cultural teaser, introducing travelers to elements of Thailand's cuisine even before they arrive. This, alongside earning loyalty points within Air India's program for potential future flight upgrades, adds value to the overall experience for travelers looking for a budget-friendly, yet enjoyable journey. Further, with the majority of flights departing from Delhi in the evening, it appears Air India is aiming for business travelers as well, who might appreciate the convenient evening departure times that allow for full workdays.

What else is in this post?

1. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Delhi to Bangkok Air India's Surprise Bargain for 2024
2. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Mumbai to Singapore A Hidden Value Route
3. Mumbai to Singapore: A Hidden Value Route
4. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Chennai to Kuala Lumpur Affordable Asian Adventure
5. Chennai to Kuala Lumpur: Affordable Asian Adventure
6. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Kolkata to Dhaka Short Hop Big Savings
7. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Bengaluru to Male Maldives on a Budget
8. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Ahmedabad to Dubai Desert Destination Deal
9. Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Hyderabad to Colombo Sri Lankan Getaway for Less
10. Hyderabad to Colombo: Sri Lankan Getaway for Less

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Mumbai to Singapore A Hidden Value Route

Air India's offerings extend beyond Delhi, with the Mumbai to Singapore route proving to be another surprisingly affordable international flight option for 2024. Direct flights on Air India itself can be found for about INR 22,930, and the journey takes roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking a relatively short international flight. While Air India is a strong option, it's worth noting that other carriers, such as Vistara, have been known to offer even lower fares, potentially around INR 24,309 or even less during sales. Some budget-minded travellers can potentially snag economy seats as low as around INR 11,492, making this a truly enticing route for budget travellers looking for an adventure in Southeast Asia.

The sheer frequency of the flights, around 91 per week, is remarkable and adds to the convenience factor. Whether it's a spur-of-the-moment weekend trip or a carefully planned vacation, this route gives travelers the flexibility they might need. Singapore, a vibrant, futuristic city with its mix of cultural heritage and modern attractions, is an excellent destination for a wide range of travelers. The appeal lies not just in the destination, but also in the availability of flights, and the potential for truly budget-friendly travel. It is a welcome option amidst what can be the rather expensive landscape of international air travel. It remains to be seen if the current low fares will stay consistently low, but for now, the Mumbai to Singapore route with Air India and its competitors presents itself as a real gem among affordable international travel options in 2024.

Mumbai to Singapore: A Hidden Value Route

Flights between Mumbai and Singapore have become increasingly attractive, especially considering the recent price drops. Economy fares are now often seen at around INR 22,000 for a return ticket, a figure that makes this route competitive even with budget airlines in the mix. These direct flights usually take around 5 hours and 45 minutes, which is quite appealing for both short business trips and weekend getaways. The high frequency of flights also adds a lot of flexibility for travellers, with various departure times catering to diverse preferences.

Mumbai's airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, is a major hub in itself, which makes it easy to connect to other international destinations and potentially lower overall costs for travelers with more complex itineraries. The route also boasts a nice touch in the cuisine department. While the offerings can vary, the in-flight menu sometimes includes options that appeal to Indian tastes like biryani or paneer tikka, which might be a plus point for Indian passengers.

Another thing to consider is the frequent flyer programs that operate on this route. They can be a real bonus for frequent travelers, especially with possibilities like accumulating miles for potential future upgrades or even free tickets. The experience extends beyond the flight, as Singapore's Little India district welcomes travelers with a familiar touch, offering a blend of Indian and Singaporean cultures, which might be especially nice for those visiting for the first time.

Interestingly, it seems Indian citizens can visit Singapore without a visa for short-term visits. This removes a significant administrative hurdle and probably makes it easier to plan trips at a whim. The city-state itself has also been gaining momentum as a tech and finance hub. It makes sense that the flight demand is increasing, which is fuelled by the increasing number of corporate travellers.

It's noteworthy that Air India has been investing in its fleet to include newer, more efficient aircraft. This trend seems to be contributing to lower fares and making the overall passenger experience more enjoyable. From a broader perspective, the Mumbai to Singapore route demonstrates a few interesting aspects of airline dynamics, market forces and the evolving travel trends, making it a route worth watching.

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Chennai to Kuala Lumpur Affordable Asian Adventure

Chennai to Kuala Lumpur offers a surprisingly affordable gateway to Southeast Asia in 2024, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Air India's route, while not the cheapest, is certainly a consideration, and it is notable that carriers like AirAsia offer a wide range of flights at very competitive prices, starting as low as around Rs. 6,000. The flight times are fairly short – under 4 hours – which makes it a practical choice for a quick trip, be it a long weekend or a longer vacation.

The destination, Kuala Lumpur, has much to offer with its mix of modern infrastructure and a vibrant cultural scene. It's a great choice for anyone who enjoys exploring bustling markets and sampling local foods, with spots like Jalan Masjid India Market becoming renowned for its street food. It's likely that even lower fares may become available if the competition continues to heat up, so booking ahead and comparing fares across a range of airlines can be a good strategy. The ease of direct flight availability and the affordability of the fares have certainly made this a more accessible destination for Indian travelers. It's a destination worth checking out as it can offer a lot of value for money, and potentially a really memorable journey.

Chennai to Kuala Lumpur: Affordable Asian Adventure

The Chennai to Kuala Lumpur route, spanning roughly 3,000 kilometers, is comfortably covered by a flight of about 4 hours and 30 minutes. This makes air travel the most practical option compared to other transportation methods for this distance. It seems that the travel time is a factor that aligns with broader travel trends, where shorter flight times between major Asian cities are becoming increasingly popular.

The price of tickets on this route has seen a welcome decline in recent years, with return fares sometimes falling as low as INR 18,500. This seems to be part of a larger trend where airlines are aggressively reducing fares to encourage more travel after a period of reduced activity. It appears that many people are interested in traveling to Southeast Asia, which is pushing fares down.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) holds a strategic position as a gateway to other Southeast Asian destinations. This can significantly cut down on costs related to layovers and connecting flights for travelers looking to explore the region. KLIA is consistently ranked among the busiest airports globally, handling a huge volume of connecting passengers every year.

Air India has recently increased the number of flights on the Chennai-Kuala Lumpur route, aiming for a twice-daily schedule. This increase in frequency is convenient for travelers and seems to reflect a shift in the airline industry, where offering more flights is considered important, in addition to lower fares. This strategy could potentially attract both business and leisure travellers.

Air India's meal service on these flights occasionally incorporates elements of Malaysian cuisine. This clever approach introduces travelers to the flavor profiles of Malaysian food even before they arrive. It's interesting to consider the impact of food on travel decisions. Research suggests that the taste and presentation of food have a significant influence on a traveler's overall experience.

One positive aspect for travelers from India is that Malaysia offers a relatively straightforward visa-on-arrival system for Indian passport holders. This eliminates a significant administrative burden and makes it easier to plan short trips to the region. The ease of access has likely contributed to a rise in tourism to Malaysia, as it removes bureaucratic hurdles and potentially attracts more people.

Kuala Lumpur has become a popular destination due to its reasonable prices for hotels and food. Hotel rooms typically start at around INR 1,500 per night, making it a much more wallet-friendly option compared to other major Asian cities. This cost-effective environment could be attracting budget-conscious travelers who are looking for value for money.

Malaysian Airlines has created a strong hub in Kuala Lumpur, allowing for relatively smooth connections to other Southeast Asian cities. It is interesting to consider how these hub airports enhance the connectivity within a region, making them appealing to travelers who are keen on multi-destination trips.

Kuala Lumpur offers a diverse range of leisure activities that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank, from exploring sites like the Batu Caves to the wide array of street food. It appears that many travellers today are looking for destinations with a cultural element that also provide value for money, and Kuala Lumpur seems to satisfy both criteria.

Airline loyalty programs offered by Air India and other carriers provide points for every flight, creating the possibility of earning free or discounted travel in the future. The effectiveness of loyalty programs in influencing traveler choices and building brand loyalty has been noted in multiple industry analyses. It seems airlines increasingly use these strategies to encourage repeat business.

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Kolkata to Dhaka Short Hop Big Savings

Kolkata to Dhaka is quickly becoming a popular choice for those looking for an inexpensive international escape in 2024. The flight itself is incredibly short, just over an hour, thanks to direct, nonstop flights making it a perfect quick trip. While Air India operates many flights, this route is dominated by carriers like IndiGo, offering some seriously competitive prices. Some one-way tickets can be found for as low as $63, which is quite a bargain for an international flight. The sheer number of flights—around 97 per week—hints at the route's popularity. This convenience makes it a good choice for last-minute trips or well-planned journeys to explore Bangladesh. However, don't rule out checking other carriers, as they might offer even better deals than Air India on this route.

### Kolkata to Dhaka Short Hop Big Savings


The Kolkata to Dhaka route, a mere 250 kilometers, offers a quick flight of roughly 50 minutes. This makes it attractive for both business and leisure travel, minimizing travel time and maximizing time in either city. Air India's pricing on this route has made it one of the most affordable international flight options in the region. One-way fares sometimes drop below INR 5,000, highlighting the value proposition.


Dhaka acts as a convenient starting point for exploring the rest of Bangladesh. Chittagong and Cox's Bazar, for example, can be efficiently accessed from Dhaka, making the route more than just a connection between two cities. Interestingly, this coincides with an observed 15% annual growth in Indian travelers to Bangladesh. This could be attributed to the ease of travel and perhaps shared cultural connections. It appears more and more people find the region increasingly appealing.

Air India keeps a steady pace with multiple weekly flights between the two cities, offering travellers a good degree of flexibility. The frequent schedule likely also translates into a consistent level of pricing and makes it more likely to find last-minute deals. It seems Air India is responding to traveler demand with the high frequency of flights.


Air India's clever inclusion of dishes like macher jhol and rice on the in-flight menu hints at the regional cuisine before arrival. This creates a kind of food-related anticipation of the travel destination. For Indian travelers, obtaining a visa in Bangladesh has become easier. It's not unusual for Indian nationals to receive a visa on arrival, which probably fuels the growing trend of short-haul travel on this route. The Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka is currently in a state of expansion, suggesting they are anticipating a continuous increase in passengers.


Air India’s standard baggage allowance of 25 kg in economy might be a plus for travelers interested in Dhaka's retail scene. They can bring back more of their shopping souvenirs without incurring extra fees for overweight luggage. The accumulating of loyalty points even on short-haul routes provides an interesting aspect. It appears Air India recognizes the potential of building a loyal base of passengers who appreciate a consistent and good value travel experience on this route, and the potential of accruing rewards for future flights is enticing.

It seems the travel dynamics between the two cities are increasingly appealing to travelers, with the growing volume of flights and the observed increase in tourist numbers pointing toward a continued rise in popularity. The factors behind this growth in the Kolkata to Dhaka route appear to be a mix of low-cost, short flight time, visa accessibility and a cultural affinity between the two regions.

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Bengaluru to Male Maldives on a Budget

The Maldives, with its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, is surprisingly within reach of budget-conscious travellers from Bengaluru. In 2024, fares on the Bengaluru-Male route are relatively low, typically around $268. SriLankan Airlines and IndiGo are popular choices, often offering flights with one stop. If you plan ahead, you might be able to find tickets for as little as $124, depending on the time of year and booking period. A wide range of airlines are active on this route, including budget carriers and larger airlines with a focus on comfort and service. The frequent direct flights make it easier to plan a trip to this popular destination. This combination of affordability and ease of travel makes the Maldives a great option for a budget-friendly adventure.

Bengaluru to Malé, Maldives, has become a surprisingly accessible destination, especially for budget-conscious travelers from India. Round-trip fares can be found starting at roughly INR 14,000, making it a competitive option compared to other international getaways. The relatively short flight time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes for a direct flight is also appealing for travellers who value shorter travel times.

It's interesting to note that bookings have been growing on this route, with an observed 25% increase year-over-year. This suggests that the destination is gaining popularity, probably fueled by the appealing mix of affordability and a shorter travel time to a tropical paradise. The fact that Indian passport holders can often get a visa on arrival in the Maldives also makes it more convenient to visit, allowing for more spontaneous trips.

Airlines like Air India and a few budget carriers operate this route regularly, offering travellers choices based on their comfort and budget needs. Some budget airlines frequently offer very competitive fares, with one-way tickets occasionally being available for as low as INR 8,000. It seems that the combination of factors, including the increasing competition on this route, is what's driving the price declines. It also seems that airlines have recognized the demand from travelers in Bengaluru, especially as they ramped up flights on the route. Some airlines now offer upwards of 10 flights a day, offering a lot of flexibility for travellers seeking to align their trips with their schedules.

Interestingly, during peak travel times around Indian festivals, such as Diwali or Christmas, airlines often implement promotional fares, providing opportunities to snag truly excellent deals. This can create travel opportunities for budget-minded travellers who are looking to find more affordable access to this popular destination.

Another notable aspect of the travel experience is the culinary element in-flight. The menus often feature Maldivian dishes, giving travelers a sneak peek into the local cuisine. This little 'culinary teaser' before arrival can potentially create a richer experience.

Accommodation in the Maldives is relatively diverse, with prices for some guesthouses starting as low as around INR 2,500 per night. This provides more options for travelers looking to experience the islands without resorting to higher-cost resort stays.

Lastly, it's important to consider that this route participates in airline loyalty programs. This provides the opportunity to collect miles and points that can be redeemed for future travel perks like free flights, upgrades, or other benefits. For frequent travellers to the Maldives or using Air India generally, this is a benefit to consider.

Overall, the Bengaluru to Malé route offers an attractive travel option, particularly for travelers looking for a mix of affordability, shorter flight times, and visa convenience to a tropical location. The increase in travel and flight frequency indicates a potential upward trend in popularity for this route and perhaps other routes targeting the Maldives from India. It remains to be seen if this will continue to be a competitive and affordable destination for travellers in the coming years.

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Ahmedabad to Dubai Desert Destination Deal

The Ahmedabad to Dubai route presents a compelling option for travelers seeking a quick and potentially affordable trip to experience the desert landscapes and bustling city of Dubai. Flights, which typically take around 3 hours and 40 minutes, can be found for surprisingly low prices, with one-way fares starting from just INR 7,760. While average fares can climb to INR 55,509 depending on demand and booking time, several airlines service the route, creating a competitive environment that can work in favor of travelers. Emirates and IndiGo are among the popular carriers, but Air India also offers flights at prices starting around INR 26,181.

The flexibility of the route is a plus point, with various departure and return options available, catering to different travel plans. Dubai itself is a destination known for its stunning attractions, like the iconic Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach. Those looking for a luxurious experience can consider resorts like Atlantis, The Palm, making this a potentially tempting travel option for those wanting a mix of modern city exploration and desert adventures. March appears to be a particularly good month for finding deals on flights, with one-way fares falling in the INR 10,304 to 15,205 range in previous years. However, it's important to compare fares across airlines and monitor prices for the best deals, as it's a competitive route with a good range of available services and pricing options.

### Ahmedabad to Dubai: A Desert Destination Deal – Exploring the Route

The Ahmedabad to Dubai flight route has emerged as an intriguing option for travelers seeking a relatively quick and affordable escape to the UAE. The flight itself covers a distance of roughly 1,104 miles and clocks in at approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes, a convenient travel time especially for shorter trips or weekend getaways.

The route's appeal is underscored by a notable surge in passenger numbers, with a year-over-year growth of over 20%. This growth indicates a developing trend among travelers from Gujarat to explore Dubai for leisure and business purposes. It's likely a combination of Dubai's established appeal as a luxury destination, a growing economy in Gujarat and an increased awareness of affordability that fuels this trend.

A notable feature of this route is the competitive pricing environment, especially when considering budget airlines like IndiGo. One-way fares can start as low as INR 7,760, a figure that often undercuts more established airlines. While fares can go up significantly (reaching INR 55,509) it's the budget options that likely draw more travelers, especially for the spontaneous traveler. This competitive landscape suggests an increasingly intense race among airlines to win over travelers on this route. It will be interesting to see how this pans out in the future.

Another significant advantage of this route is that travelers from India benefit from visa-free travel for up to 30 days, which means that there are less administrative hurdles for short stays. This ease of travel likely plays a role in the increasing popularity of the route, removing a major obstacle to spontaneity.

Surprisingly, despite the presence of several low-cost carriers, Air India manages to stand out on this route with a notable baggage allowance of 25 kg in economy class, exceeding the limitations of many budget airlines. This is an intriguing observation and could attract travelers who expect a comfortable travel experience with luggage.

The route's attractiveness extends beyond the direct flights to Dubai itself. Dubai serves as a major airline hub, which makes it a convenient starting point for exploration of other cities within the UAE. This might be particularly appealing for travellers who are considering more elaborate travel itineraries and perhaps wish to explore cities such as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.


Further, it is interesting to note that Air India's in-flight meal service demonstrates a thoughtful effort to bridge cultures through the food offered. The inclusion of both Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine gives a sort of taste of the destinations even before landing. While this feature alone might not be a decisive factor in choosing the route, it certainly contributes to the overall travel experience.

It appears that the flight frequency on this route is on the rise. The schedule has increased to roughly 10 flights per day, reflecting the growing popularity of the route. This expansion in frequency is likely designed to cater to both business travelers seeking flexibility and leisure travelers who value more options for their schedules.

A potentially less obvious, but still relevant, feature of this route is the integration with various airline loyalty programs. Travellers can collect miles and points, potentially using these points for future upgrades or to get discounted or free flights. This aspect, usually discussed in conjunction with long-haul flights, is surprisingly relevant on a shorter route as well.

Lastly, the allure of Dubai’s shopping scene has likely also played a significant role in the route’s increased appeal, especially during events like the Dubai Shopping Festival. It is plausible that Dubai’s shopping scene draws a segment of travelers, who in turn contribute to the route's rising popularity.

The Ahmedabad to Dubai route offers a dynamic mix of factors that have contributed to its recent growth, including a short flight time, relatively affordable options, visa-free entry for short visits, convenient onward connections, a decent baggage allowance, and a thoughtful approach to inflight services. It will be interesting to follow the evolution of this route in the years to come, and how its appeal among travellers develops.

Air India's Hidden Gem Routes 7 Surprisingly Affordable International Flights for 2024 - Hyderabad to Colombo Sri Lankan Getaway for Less

Sri Lanka, a captivating island nation known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes, is surprisingly easy to reach from Hyderabad if you're on a budget. Airfares on the Hyderabad-Colombo route can be remarkably affordable, averaging about INR 24,100, especially during the shoulder season, like June. You might even stumble upon one-way deals for as low as INR 8,379, as Air India has recently made the route a priority. Other established airlines, like IndiGo and SriLankan Airlines, are also actively competing for travelers, contributing to a landscape of competitive ticket pricing.

The travel time is a major factor here – a direct flight to Colombo is around 1 hour and 55 minutes. With typically one or two nonstop flights each day, a short Sri Lankan vacation becomes a viable option for a quick escape. To optimize your travel budget, consider booking your flights 61 days in advance. Mondays and Sundays appear to be better for departures, with Mondays also proving to be beneficial for returning flights in terms of pricing. It's interesting to see this route gaining momentum – it might not have been a primary consideration for many in the past, but the factors of affordability, flight times, and multiple airlines offering competitive rates are definitely changing the game for travelers looking to explore Sri Lanka from Hyderabad.

Hyderabad to Colombo: Sri Lankan Getaway for Less

The Hyderabad to Colombo route offers a compelling option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a quick escape to Sri Lanka. Prices for round-trip flights frequently hover around INR 13,000, which is quite competitive when you consider other international destinations reachable from India. Especially with Colombo being relatively close and offering a tropical getaway, the pricing makes this route stand out.

The flight itself takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, which is remarkably short. This short duration is attractive for those looking for a quick change of scenery, especially when compared to other Southeast Asia flights that can stretch beyond 4 hours.

The frequent flyer programs are another interesting aspect of this route. It makes sense that you can accrue miles for future travel. It's definitely appealing to those who are traveling multiple times a year to the region or elsewhere, or who wish to rack up miles for potential upgrades.

One of the more convenient aspects is the number of direct flights offered from Hyderabad. Compared to many Southeast Asia destinations, a lack of direct flights from India often adds a substantial layover, increasing flight time and the probability of missing connections. The airlines servicing this route tend to provide a decent amount of flexibility for both leisure and business travelers.

Sri Lanka has transitioned to an online visa system (Electronic Travel Authorization - ETA) for Indian citizens. That's a big plus when compared to other locations that require complex paperwork and consulate visits. This online ETA system makes spontaneous weekend trips more likely to be considered, and it cuts down on administrative burden and waiting times.

Many airlines serving this route include Sri Lankan-style food on their in-flight menu. This gives passengers a taste of what they can expect on the ground. It's a clever marketing approach, as well, potentially stimulating traveler interest in the destination. The focus on hoppers and rice and curry is a good example of the focus on local flavors, and it might well sway some travellers.

The number of Indian travellers to Sri Lanka has increased significantly in recent years, with year-over-year growth rates reportedly exceeding 20%. It seems that this route's appeal is on the rise. That suggests that the cultural and travel related aspects of Sri Lanka are attractive to a wide audience, possibly stemming from a greater familiarity with the location and ease of travel.

Beyond Sri Lanka, Colombo is a key transit point for other nearby locations in South Asia. The possibility of extending a trip to the Maldives or even Southeast Asia via Colombo increases this route's value proposition. It also adds flexibility to the traveller's plans, which might entice those seeking a more comprehensive regional travel experience.

Accommodation in Colombo is quite affordable when compared to many other urban areas. Hotels can be found for as low as INR 1,500 per night. It's a factor that makes the location more enticing for budget travelers. This affordability extends to restaurants and activities in the city itself, suggesting a higher potential for attracting a wider variety of travelers.

The underlying cultural similarities between India and Sri Lanka appear to play a substantial role in the increased appeal of this travel destination. Many of the traditions, like food, language and religious customs, are quite close to India, making a trip to Colombo feel familiar. This familiarity makes it an easy and comfortable destination for Indian tourists. It's reasonable to speculate that this aspect helps drive the growing popularity of this route.

Overall, this route seems to offer a strong set of benefits to travelers, with a mixture of affordability, flight duration, visa convenience, and cultural familiarity working in favour of attracting tourists. It will be interesting to observe if the growth trend continues. It's likely that the factors mentioned will continue to play a role in the route's popularity, as a convenient gateway for those seeking a relatively short and affordable tropical escape from India.