Backlash for support to Pakistan: Indians cancel trips to Turkey, Azerbaijan; travel portals report big dip
May 15, 2025: Indian travelers are canceling trips to Turkey and Azerbaijan in large numbers after both nations publicly supported Pakistan during the recent India-Pakistan conflict. Leading travel portals report a steep decline in bookings, reflecting a strong public backlash and a growing call for a tourism boycott.
Travel Cancellations Surge Following Diplomatic Fallout
Major Indian travel agencies have reported a significant drop in bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan. MakeMyTrip observed a 60% decrease in new bookings and a 250% increase in cancellations for these destinations over the past week. EaseMyTrip reported a 22% rise in cancellations for Turkey and 30% for Azerbaijan.
Nishant Pitti, Founder and Chairman of EaseMyTrip, stated, “In view of the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, and war-like situations between India and Pakistan, it is disheartening to note that Turkey and Azerbaijan have extended their support to Pakistan. EaseMyTrip strongly advises limiting travel to these countries unless absolutely essential.”
Travel companies like Ixigo have suspended bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China altogether.
Public Figures and Industry Leaders Advocate for Boycott
Industrialist Harsh Goenka called for a tourism boycott against Turkey and Azerbaijan, highlighting that Indian tourists contributed over ₹4,000 crore to their economies last year. He urged Indians to avoid these countries, suggesting alternative destinations within India and globally.
Karan Agarwal, Director of Cox & Kings, announced a pause on all new travel offerings to Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Turkey, stating, “This decision is driven by our commitment to uphold principles that matter deeply to us and the people of our country.”
Shift in Travel Preferences
With the decline in interest for Turkey and Azerbaijan, Indian travelers are now favoring destinations such as Georgia, Serbia, Greece, Thailand, and Vietnam. These countries are perceived as more neutral or supportive of India, making them attractive alternatives for tourists.
Economic and Trade Implications
The boycott extends beyond tourism. Udaipur, a major hub for marble imports, has suspended ₹3,000 crore worth of marble imports from Turkey in response to its support for Pakistan. This move could stimulate increased demand for Indian marble and reduce reliance on politically sensitive trade partners.
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