Indian Travelers Say No to Turkey: 250% booking Cancelled
TRAVEL
The boycott’s impact on Turkey’s tourism from India is profound. Over the last week alone, bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan have plummeted by 60%, while cancellations have surged by 250%, according to travel platforms like MakeMyTrip and EaseMyTrip. EaseMyTrip reported that 22% of its Turkey bookings were canceled in recent weeks, and group cancellations have made headlines, with over 800 members of the Jain Lotus Group in Ahmedabad scrapping a 12-day Turkey trip.
Introduction
Turkey has long been a magnet for Indian travelers, with its breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture attracting over 270,000 visitors from India in 2024. From the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the bustling streets of Istanbul, Turkey’s tourism industry, which accounts for 12% of its GDP, has thrived on the enthusiasm of Indian tourists. However, in 2025, this trend has taken a sharp turn. Indian travelers are canceling trips to Turkey in droves, driven by geopolitical tensions and a powerful social media movement. This blog dives into the reasons behind this boycott, its impact, and what it means for the future of travel.
The Trigger: Geopolitical Friction
The catalyst for this wave of cancellations stems from the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam, India, followed by heightened India-Pakistan tensions during India’s Operation Sindoor. Turkey’s public support for Pakistan during this period has sparked outrage in India, where national sentiment is deeply felt. Turkey’s stance, perceived as antagonistic, has transformed it from a beloved travel destination into a focal point of public backlash. This sentiment has not only affected Turkey but also extended to other countries like Azerbaijan, which some Indians associate with Turkey due to their close diplomatic ties.
The Extent of the Boycott
The boycott’s impact on Turkey’s tourism from India is profound. Over the last week alone, bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan have plummeted by 60%, while cancellations have surged by 250%, according to travel platforms like MakeMyTrip and EaseMyTrip. EaseMyTrip reported that 22% of its Turkey bookings were canceled in recent weeks, and group cancellations have made headlines, with over 800 members of the Jain Lotus Group in Ahmedabad scrapping a 12-day Turkey trip. Major travel companies, including EaseMyTrip, Ixigo, and Cox & Kings, have suspended new bookings to Turkey, with some extending this policy to Azerbaijan.
These cancellations are a significant blow to Turkey’s tourism sector, especially since Indian travelers are among its highest spenders, often indulging in luxury tours and cultural experiences. The ripple effect is also felt in Azerbaijan, where Indian tourist numbers, though smaller, are declining rapidly due to its perceived alignment with Turkey.
Social Media’s Role: #BoycottTurkey
Social media, particularly platforms like X, has amplified the boycott. The hashtag #BoycottTurkey has trended widely, with thousands of posts urging Indians to skip Turkey and Azerbaijan in favor of alternative destinations. Influencers and citizens alike have fueled the movement, with posts like, “Support nations that respect India—visit Greece or Armenia instead!” The sentiment has resonated, leading to organized efforts to reroute group tours to other countries. The Jain Lotus Group’s cancellation, for instance, was celebrated on X as a patriotic stand.
This digital campaign has not only driven cancellations but also reshaped perceptions. Travelers are increasingly vocal about aligning their choices with national pride, and the boycott’s momentum shows no signs of slowing.
Turkey and Azerbaijan’s Response
Turkey’s tourism board has scrambled to address the crisis, issuing statements that emphasize the country’s safety and appeal for Indian visitors. They argue that geopolitical disputes should not deter tourists, but these pleas have largely fallen on deaf ears. Azerbaijan, though less vocal, faces similar challenges as its tourism industry braces for losses. Both countries rely heavily on tourism—Turkey generates $40 billion annually, while Azerbaijan’s sector is a growing contributor to its economy. The loss of Indian travelers, a key market, threatens local businesses, from Istanbul’s bazaar vendors to Baku’s tour operators.
Alternative Destinations for Indian Travelers
As bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan drop, Indian travelers are flocking to alternative destinations. Greece has seen a 35% spike in bookings, according to MakeMyTrip, thanks to its ancient ruins and island charm. Armenia, with its historical depth and proximity to Turkey, is emerging as a favorite, particularly for those seeking unique experiences. Georgia, Uzbekistan, and domestic destinations like Kashmir and Rajasthan are also gaining traction. Travel agencies are adapting quickly, with Cox & Kings rolling out “Mediterranean Escape” packages for Greece and Armenia, and EaseMyTrip promoting “Pride of India” campaigns to boost domestic tourism.
These alternatives offer Indian travelers a chance to explore new horizons while aligning with the boycott’s ethos. For many, the shift is as much about discovery as it is about making a statement.
The Bigger Picture
The boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan underscores the complex interplay of geopolitics and tourism. Travel, often a bridge between cultures, can become a casualty of diplomatic tensions. For Indian travelers, canceling trips is a way to express solidarity and national pride. For Turkey and Azerbaijan, the loss of a lucrative market highlights the vulnerability of tourism to political shifts.
Social media’s role in this movement is equally significant. Platforms like X have empowered individuals to shape narratives and influence behavior, turning a diplomatic issue into a widespread consumer movement. As travelers grow more conscious of their destinations’ political stances, similar boycotts could reshape global tourism in the future.
Conclusion
The 2025 boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan by Indian travelers is a powerful reminder that tourism is more than just leisure—it’s a reflection of values and identity. With bookings down 60% and cancellations up 250% in just a week, the impact is undeniable. Driven by Turkey’s support for Pakistan and amplified by #BoycottTurkey, Indian travelers are choosing destinations that resonate with their principles. Whether it’s the sun-soaked islands of Greece, the ancient monasteries of Armenia, or the vibrant heritage of India’s own regions, the options are vast.
For travelers, the message is clear: your destination is a choice with meaning. As this boycott unfolds, it challenges us to think about where we go, why we go there, and what our travels say about who we are.