How seasonal business earns profit?

Indian travel agents are uniquely positioned to turn seasonal trends into high-conversion opportunities by blending data, storytelling and strategic partnerships. Key opportunities for the agents are in decoding emerging seasonal tourism trends like cherry blossom festivals, winter markets, or cultural carnivals, and crafting compelling journeys for niche travellers.

Surbhi Sharma

From selling destinations to curating distinctive and time-sensitive experiences, India’s travel trade is undergoing a pivotal shift. This moment demands a smarter, more strategic approach from Indian travel professionals—powered by tech, insight and meaningful partnerships— to cash in on the opportunities.

Tracking trends with intelligence

Emphasising the role of technology and market intelligence in spotting emerging seasonal tourism trends, Nitin Mittal, National Coordinator, NIMA & CEO, Hotel n Apartment, said, “This enables to cater to niche customers who constantly seek new destinations and unique experiences. To stay ahead of the curve, travel agents and operators must integrate technology with market intelligence, segmentation strategies and innovative promotional tactics.” By harnessing multiple data sources, monitoring trends highlighted and subscribing to tourism boards newsletters, they can proactively anticipate and respond to shifting traveller preferences, he added.

Offline wins with focused offerings

To stand out against OTAs, Guldeep Singh Sahni, Founding President, OTOAI & Managing Director, Weldon Tours & Travels, suggested that tour operators must become product experts. Deep knowledge of seasonal events, from Europe’s festive markets to Japan’s bloom trails, can be gained through webinars, tourism boards and travel media. Offering curated itineraries that prioritise immersive, unrushed experiences boosts conversions—especially for younger travellers seeking personalisation and adventure.

Strengthening DMC partnerships

Underscoring the power of collaboration with DMCs and tourism boards, Dheeraj Ranjan Kumar, Director, Balitrip Wisata, said, “Advance planning, transparent forecasting and joint marketing build trust and unlock better inventory, rates and access.”