With the first snowfall in the Himalayas, a travel frenzy has begun, and with it, a parallel boom in shopping for adventure and cold-weather gear. Urban Indians planning trips to destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Auli are driving a massive demand for functional and stylish winter apparel.
"The typical Indian tourist is now more experienced and prepared. They are investing in quality gear rather than relying on last-minute, low-quality rentals at the hill station," observes a travel influencer from Delhi. "Comfort and safety are the new priorities."
The shopping lists for these travelers are very specific:
Technical Outerwear: Insulated, waterproof jackets, thermal innerwear, and trekking pants are the top sellers. E-commerce platforms have noted a 120% increase in searches for "ski jackets" and "thermal wear for men and women."
Essential Accessories: Beanies, fleece-lined gloves, thick woollen socks, and sturdy, grippy snow boots are considered essential purchases. Sales of lip balms and heavy-duty moisturizers have also surged due to the dry, cold climate.
Portable Comforts: Compact room heaters, heated travel blankets, and high-capacity power banks are emerging as unexpected bestsellers. Families are purchasing these items to ensure comfort in often-chilly hotel rooms and homestays.
This trend indicates a more mature travel market where pre-trip shopping is a crucial part of the experience. The retail ecosystem around winter travel is expanding rapidly, catering to a growing class of Indians who seek both adventure and comfort in the majestic Indian Himalayas.
