New Delhi: Hospitality and travel services providers are witnessing robust demand this festive season in the run-up to the long Diwali weekend, registering strong bookings across urban and leisure destinations, with intercity bus services occupancy levels even touching 95-100 per cent. With the GST reform acting as a key driver for mid-scale hotels and mid-market domestic customers, making it easier for travellers to explore lesser-known destinations, Hotel Association of India (HAI) President K B Kachru said early trends show higher hotel occupancy, reflecting the excitement of travellers celebrating festivals with family, friends, and leisure getaways.

“Booking patterns this season highlight travellers’ preference for convenience, flexibility, and curated experiences. Many hotels are reporting growing interest in premium and experiential stays, signalling a shift toward immersive travel that blends leisure, culture, and wellness,” he said. Kachru,........

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