In the wake of the COVID-9 pandemic, a remarkable surge in wanderlust has swept across the globe. With the global tourism market poised to skyrocket to a staggering 16.9 trillion USD (Rs 1,267.5 lakh crore) by 2030, it's evident that the desire to explore new horizons knows no bounds.

Indians, too, are avid participants in this travel resurgence, with projections indicating a market size growth to $131.7 billion (Rs 13,170 crore) by 2030. However, not everyone yearns for the throngs of tourists and exorbitant expenses associated with high-end destinations. Enter the burgeoning trend of destination dupes.

But what exactly is a destination dupe?

"Two places may have very similar terrain, landscape, and even overall vibe and social setups. When one place resembles another (generally more popular) place in such a manner, it is referred to as a destination dupe," Niyati Saxena, founder of Migrant Musings & Co, elucidated.

Ashish Ahuja, founder and CEO of Dashmesh Voyage Private Limited, further elaborates on this concept, highlighting that destination dupes not only mimic the attractions or scenery of renowned locales but also offer a respite from the crowds and expenses. "People choose these spots because they get a similar experience without the usual downsides of busy tourist areas. So, it's like finding a great alternative that's just as good but without all the fuss," Ahuja remarked.

A recent survey conducted by travel experts at 1st Move International delved into Instagram data to unveil the most picturesque holiday destination dupes. Bengaluru, often dubbed the Silicon Valley of India, secured the 6th spot on this list, with an impressive 18.8 million Instagram posts showcasing its allure.

Pranav Dangi, founder & CEO of The Hosteller, echoes the sentiments of the survey, affirming Bengaluru's status as a top destination dupe for Silicon Valley. He describes Bengaluru as a melting pot of innovation and startup culture akin to its Californian counterpart.

The rise of destination dupes can be attributed to the pervasive influence of social media on travel preferences. Platforms like Instagram have transformed obscure locales into must-visit destinations, with picturesque spots garnering millions of posts and capturing the imagination of travelers worldwide.

The appeal of destination dupes lies not only in their affordability and accessibility but also in their portrayal of authenticity on social media. Dangi asserted that platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow travelers to share real-time experiences, shedding light on lesser-known gems that rival their more famous counterparts.

But why are Indians gravitating towards destination dupes?

Experts posit various reasons for this shift, citing cost efficiency, easier accessibility, and a burgeoning desire for quick getaways amidst busy lifestyles. Additionally, there's a growing awareness of sustainable travel practices and a penchant for supporting local economies by exploring within one's own country.

The trend of destination dupes has given rise to a plethora of alternatives, offering travelers the opportunity to experience the essence of iconic destinations at a fraction of the cost. From Kashmir's resemblance to Switzerland to Goa's echoes of Bali, India boasts an array of destination dupes waiting to be explored.

In essence, destination dupes represent a paradigm shift in travel preferences, ushering in an era where travelers prioritise authentic experiences over popular landmarks. As Indians continue to embrace this trend, the landscape of travel is poised for a transformation, with hidden gems overshadowing their more illustrious counterparts.

In conclusion, destination dupes encapsulate the essence of wanderlust in the digital age, offering a gateway to uncharted territories and redefining the way we explore the world.