Every summer, India’s passion for cricket ignites stadiums and screens across the country. In recent years, The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved into more than just a cricketing tournament—it is now a major catalyst for domestic travel and youth tourism across the country.
As matches are hosted in cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow, Dharamshala, Vizag, and Guwahati, there has been a noticeable shift in travel patterns, particularly among younger demographics.
Cricket fans are increasingly travelling across states to witness live matches, and in the process, are engaging with the local culture, cuisine, and experiences that each destination offers. This trend is contributing significantly to the growth of sports tourism in India. The IPL’s multi-city format is uniquely positioned to encourage domestic movement. This year, early reports from travel and hospitality platforms show that hotel bookings in IPL-hosting cities have increased, while flight bookings have risen on match weekends. Demand peaks in cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad- especially when high-stakes matches are scheduled.
For many fans, especially younger ones, watching a live match is no longer a stand-alone activity- it’s the central anchor around which a travel experience is built. The trend of multi-city travel, where fans follow their teams across venues, is gaining popularity. This behaviour not only boosts airline and railway bookings but also benefits ancillary sectors like local transport, tourism services, and short-term rentals.
