Booking.com plans long-term India push

Booking.com, the global online travel agency, is looking to strengthen its presence in India's expanding travel market through long-term partnerships, a wider inventory of accommodations, and continued technological investments. In an interview with PTI, Santosh Kumar, the company's Regional Manager for South Asia, emphasized the importance of building a robust partner ecosystem and making reliable accommodation options accessible across various destinations and price points.

Kumar highlighted that the company's strategy focuses on long-term growth through stronger relationships with accommodation providers, broader inventory depth, and ongoing technological advancements. He reiterated the company's commitment to supporting evolving travel needs of Indian customers and helping partners connect with more travelers.

The expansion into India's accommodation market presents an opportunity to cater to the growing demand for alternative accommodation options, such as homestays, villas, and apartments. This trend is increasingly popular among families, groups, and individuals seeking more space, flexibility, and immersive destination experiences.

In fact, a recent report by Booking.com, titled "How India TravelsTM 2026: The Homes Edit," found that 94% of surveyed travelers had considered alternative accommodation during their most recent leisure trip.

To unlock India's inbound tourism potential, Kumar stressed the importance of a balanced approach that combines destination promotion, infrastructure development, and easier travel processes. He suggested that targeted marketing can raise awareness, while long-term growth depends on improved international air connectivity, simplified visa processes, and robust last-mile infrastructure.