Indian Travellers Are Cancelling Trips to Turkey & Azerbaijan And It Makes Sense

So here’s what’s been all over my feed lately - a sudden wave of cancellations for trips to Turkey and Azerbaijan. I wasn’t personally planning to go there, but seeing how Indian travellers are reacting, I get it.

After India’s Operation Sindoor, which came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Turkey and Azerbaijan decided to openly support Pakistan. That didn’t sit well with a lot of Indians, especially those who had already planned holidays to these countries. Now, bookings to both places are falling fast.

Thousands Are Dropping Plans

According to recent news reports, MakeMyTrip saw a 60% drop in new bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan, and a 250% rise in cancellations within just a week. Cleartrip reported a 260% spike in cancellations. That’s not a minor trend - we’re talking about thousands of travellers either backing out or changing their plans entirely.

Ixigo took an even firmer stand and completely stopped bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China. The message from their co-founders? “Blood and bookings won’t flow together.” That line really stuck with me. It says everything.

Also read: 5 Stunning European Alternatives to Türkiye and Azerbaijan You Haven’t Considered Yet

People Are Choosing With Their Wallets

Businessman Harsh Goenka also jumped into the conversation, reminding us that Indian tourists spent over ₹4,000 crore in Turkey and Azerbaijan last year. That’s a huge number. And now, a lot of people are asking - why support tourism in countries that don't support India?

Even though I wasn’t planning a trip there, it got me thinking. There are so many other beautiful places to explore - both abroad and within India. Personally, I’d rather head to Vietnam, Georgia, Sri Lanka, or even the mountains in Himachal or Kashmir.

Airlines Are Responding Too

The good thing is, many airlines and tour companies are being supportive. They’re offering full refunds or letting travellers reschedule without penalties. So people aren’t being financially penalised for making a last-minute switch. And that’s helped a lot of folks feel confident about cancelling.

Also read: Travel Guide to Explore Da Nang, Vietnam for Indian Tourists - 2025

This Time, Travel Is About More Than Just Travel

Usually, politics and holidays don’t overlap. But this time feels different. It’s no longer just about where you’re going - it’s about what you’re standing for. Travel isn’t just a fun plan right now. It’s a statement.

For many Indian travellers, cancelling isn’t just about skipping a destination. It’s about choosing who we support, and where our money goes. And honestly, I think that’s fair.