With India and China recently restoring direct air connectivity after the pandemic and periods of border tension, tourism industry stakeholders are beginning to observe a positive impact on travel demand.
Beginning October 26, 2025, Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo introduced daily direct flights from Delhi and Kolkata to Guangzhou. China Eastern Airlines began its Shanghai-Delhi service on November 9, 2025, making it the first Chinese carrier to resume direct air connectivity to India after a gap of five years.
“The restoration of direct air connectivity between India and China is already driving a noticeable rise in two-way travel demand. As more seats and frequencies gradually return, we anticipate sustained growth in inbound travellers exploring India’s commercial centres and tourism routes alongside a steady rise in outbound movement from India to China for trade, academic exchange, events, and shorthaul leisure,” said Sandeep Arora, director, Brightsun Travel.
Thomas Cook India has expanded China portfolio, launched for 2026-27 to showcase the destination’s diversity from the historical treasures of Beijing and Xi’an to the contemporary vibrancy of Shanghai and the scenic landscapes of Zhangjiajie and Guilin. The company has also introduced high-speed train experiences and curated culinary journeys to China.
“China has made a strong comeback on the travel map, emerging once again as a destination of high interest among Indian travellers. Its seamless blend of tradition and innovation offers compelling experiences that appeal across traveller segments,” said Rajeev Kale – president & country head, holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India).
According to S D Nandakumar, president and country head, holidays and corporate tours, SOTC Travel, the resumption of travel to China has reignited demand across leisure, business and MICE segments.
He shared: “The positive response from travellers highlights the growing appetite for rediscovering China in fresh and meaningful ways. We have designed an extensive range of China holidays that go beyond the conventional – combining marquee destinations such as Shanghai and Beijing with newer and experiential locales like Chengdu, Chongqing and the Avatar-inspired Zhangjiajie mountains.”
