Cox & Kings Expands into Smaller Indian Cities to Capture Next Wave of International Travellers

The Rise of Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities in India’s Outbound Travel

India’s travel landscape is shifting dramatically, with Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities emerging as the new engines of outbound international tourism. Cox & Kings has identified these smaller cities as a vital source of first-time international travellers, triggering a strategic shift from traditional metro-centric focus to a broader “Bharat” approach.

Why Small Cities Are Stepping Into The Spotlight

Several factors are fuelling this surge, including rising household incomes, improved transport and digital connectivity, and the growing influence of social media. With more financial freedom and travel aspirations, residents of cities like Faridabad, Gurgaon, Dharamshala, Agra, and Ahmedabad are now more empowered to explore overseas destinations. This new market segment is expected to outpace metros in producing first-time international travellers over the next five years.

Cox & Kings’ Expansion Strategy

Backed by private equity firm Wilson & Hughes, Cox & Kings is responding with a rapid franchise rollout, opening new outlets primarily in these Tier-2 and Tier-3 urban centres. The company plans to spread its presence to 200 outlets, driving growth through a phygital model – blending physical franchise presence with digital booking efficiencies. This model aims to deliver curated, trustable travel experiences right at customers’ doorsteps, balancing legacy and innovation.

Travel Preferences and Popular Destinations

The upcoming festive and holiday seasons are expected to pump up demand from these smaller cities even more.

Short flight durations and streamlined visa procedures make Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian destinations especially appealing. Family groups, honeymooners, and celebratory travellers each have defined preferences, which the travel industry is keenly adapting to.

Understanding Market Drivers

• Passport Ownership Growth: Around 8.7% of Indians currently hold valid passports, with over 1.24 million passports issued in just July 2025.
• Visa Applications: First-time international visa applications rose by 32% in the last year, with 56% originating from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
• Social Media Influence: Rising exposure through platforms inspires aspirational travel choices and peer-led demand.
• Розвиток інфраструктури: Better air connectivity and travel services enable easier access to global destinations.

Наслідки для служб таксі та трансферу

As outbound travel grows from smaller cities, so does the demand for reliable taxi and private transfer services from local areas to airports and beyond. Booking platforms that provide transparency in pricing and vehicle options can significantly enhance the travel experience of first-time international travellers from these emerging urban hubs.

Services offered through platforms like GetTransfer.com allow travellers to select their exact vehicle type, driver, and fare upfront—removing guesswork and ensuring peace of mind. This is especially valuable for families or groups from smaller cities unfamiliar with airport transfer logistics or requiring specific seating arrangements.

Benefits of Using a Smart Transfer Platform

• Exact Vehicle Choice: From private sedans to limousines or multi-seaters, catering to diverse group sizes and comfort needs.
• Driver Ratings and Vehicle Details: Ensuring passenger safety and service quality.
• Прозоре ціноутворення: No hidden fees, allowing travellers to plan their budgets accurately.
• Зручно: Online booking with instant confirmation, ideal for busy families and last-minute planners.

The Big Picture: The Growth Engine of New-Age Indian Travel

The emergence of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities as significant contributors to outbound tourism is a major trend shaping the Indian travel industry. Cox & Kings is tapping into this growth with a savvy franchise and tech-enabled approach, making premium international travel more accessible and trustworthy for first-time travellers from smaller cities.

The data on passport issuance and visa applications further underscores the expanding reach of global travel aspirations beyond metro areas. For taxi and transfer services, this means heightened opportunities to provide excellent, personalized travel solutions connecting passengers smoothly to airports and throughout their journeys abroad.

Key Highlights and Personal Experience Matter Most

While industry data and reviews highlight this shift well, the true measure of service quality comes down to personal travel experience. On GetTransfer, travellers can book a car with a driver from verified providers at reasonable fares. This platform empowers users to make informed choices without unnecessary expenses or unpleasant surprises. The convenience, affordability, and wide range of vehicles and service options make it easier than ever for travellers from any city to enjoy reliable transfers, ensuring arrivals and departures go off without a hitch.

Забронюйте поїздку за адресою GetTransfer.com to benefit from transparent booking details, competitive prices, and a broad selection of transport services perfect for every traveler’s unique needs and destination.

Looking Ahead: Impact on Global Tourism

While the surge in outbound travel from India’s smaller cities might not immediately reshape the global tourism map, it signals an important democratization of international tourism. Platforms that keep pace with this trend by offering tailored and accessible transfer solutions will be essential for smooth travel experiences. GetTransfer remains focused on these developments, committed to providing seamless, worldwide transfer services that keep travelers moving confidently, whatever the future holds.

Підсумок

In summary, the growth of outbound international travel from India’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities represents a dynamic shift in the tourism landscape. Cox & Kings is at the forefront with an aggressive expansion strategy targeting these emerging markets. The popularity of convenient, nearby franchise outlets alongside popular international destinations with easy visa access encourages first-time global exploration. This trend also elevates the need for dependable taxi and transfer services, underscoring the value of transparent booking platforms like GetTransfer.com that offer a variety of vehicles, clear fares, and driver details—enhancing convenience and confidence for global travellers from every city and town.