Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have relaunched China as a key holiday destination for Indian travellers, capitalising on the resumption of direct flights, relaxed visa processes, and strengthened diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The move follows strong consumer demand, with departures selling out even during the traditional low season of October-November.
The expanded China portfolio offers itineraries for multi-generational families, millennials and Gen Z, working professionals, couples, seniors, and solo travellers. Popular destinations such as Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, and the Great Wall remain central, while new locations including Chongqing, Chengdu, and Zhangjiajie have been added.
Unique experiences include rides on the Shanghai Maglev, immersive storytelling at Chongqing 1949’s 360° theatre, Yangtze River drone shows, Michelin-starred dining, and private Baijiu distillery tastings.
Multi-destination tours to China-Japan for the Cherry Blossom season are also available.
Group tours feature high-speed train travel, including the Xi’an-Beijing route, with enhanced comfort through porter services and pre-planned menus combining regional Chinese cuisine and Indian favourites, catered by Indian chefs to meet vegetarian preferences.
China’s growing infrastructure and connectivity are also boosting business travel and the MICE segment. Cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu are emerging as key hubs, attracting corporates for meetings, incentive programmes, and conferences, alongside increased interest in bleisure travel.
Rajeev Kale, president and country head, holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook India, said: “Announcement of direct flight connectivity has opened the doors to China and driven consumer interest. Leveraging on this opportunity, we have enhanced our China portfolio to go beyond the conventional, introducing new regions and experiences that resonate with India’s new age holidaymaker.”
S D Nandakumar, president and country head, holidays and corporate tours, SOTC Travel, added: “China’s re-emergence as a preferred destination is a significant opportunity. With direct connectivity restored and traveller confidence on the rise, our expanded portfolio offers Indians a seamless blend of China’s iconic landmarks and exciting new experiences.
“From group tours to customised holidays, we’re delighted to bring China back on the travel map for our customers. We also see growing traction for MICE, with organisations seeking culturally rich and high-impact destinations for their events and incentive programmes.”
