Kazakhstan Is the New Switzerland for Young Indians: Niyo Rewind 2025 Report

Central Asia sees record growth in outbound Indian travel, driven by Gen Z and millennial travellers

National, 18 December 2025: Central Asia is witnessing a record surge in interest from Indian travellers, with Kazakhstan emerging as one of India’s fastest-growing international destinations, according to the Niyo Rewind 2025 Report. Drawing insights from millions of searches, flight bookings, visa applications, and card transactions processed through Niyo, the data shows that Kazakhstan has become the new “Switzerland” for Gen Z and millennial travellers, offering alpine landscapes, winter sports, and dramatic natural beauty at far more affordable prices than Europe.

In 2025, Kazakhstan ranked as the #4 most-searched international destination for Indian travellers, ahead of Singapore, Vietnam, and France, and captured a 7.38% share of all international trips, placing it firmly among India’s Top 10 destinations. The country also emerged in the Top 5 fastest-growing flight markets, with travel volumes nearly doubling year-on-year. Strong traction was observed among Gen Z and women travellers, driven by perceptions of safety, adventure opportunities, and unique winter experiences.

Vinay Bagri, Co-founder and CEO of Niyo, said: “Kazakhstan is emerging as a standout destination for young Indian travellers. They are looking for adventure, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences without the high costs of Europe. We are seeing a new generation of confident, independent travellers who plan smart, travel spontaneously, and value experiences over conventions. The surge in interest is driven by social media inspiration, simpler visa processes, and incredible value, and destinations like Kazakhstan are perfectly meeting these aspirations.”

Niyo’s report highlights the key factors behind Kazakhstan’s popularity: Almaty’s alpine landscapes, short flights and simplified visa processes enabling impulse travel, and influencer-led content around Shymbulak Ski Resort, Big Almaty Lake, Medeu, and Charyn Canyon. Gen Z travellers, who make up 45.92% of the market, prioritise adventure, affordability, and Instagrammable experiences. Women travellers show a growing preference for emerging destinations like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan due to perceived safety, experience-rich itineraries, and well-structured trips.

Kazakhstan’s rise forms part of a broader Central Asian travel boom. Georgia (9.65%) and Uzbekistan (5.6%) also feature in India’s Top 10 destinations, appearing on both the Top Searched and Fastest-Growing lists. Together, these destinations are now competing directly with Southeast Asia for young Indians seeking scenic, value-driven travel experiences.

The report also notes that Gen Z and Millennials now power over 9 in 10 international trips. This generation is budget-conscious yet aspiration-heavy, seeking global experiences without paying global prices. Niyo has emerged as the travel companion of choice, offering zero-forex-markup travel cards, flight, hotel, visa, eSIM, and travel insurance bookings, along with rewards, cashback, and premium benefits.

“In 2025 alone, Niyo users collectively saved ₹153 crore simply by accessing better foreign exchange rates, exclusive partner offers, and smarter travel planning,” Bagri added.