Tattoo Tourism: Travelers Ink Their Journeys Across the Globe

As of October 2025, a new travel trend has been gaining momentum: tattoo tourism. Travelers are now exploring destinations with the specific purpose of getting inked, rather than just collecting traditional souvenirs like fridge magnets or snow globes.

This trend, known as "tattourism," has become a way for people to blend their love for travel and self-expression. Sunny Bhanushali, the founder and CEO of Aliens Tattoo, explains that tattoo tourism is about "experiencing a certain artist, style, or culture in its own environment" and turning "fleeting experiences into something lasting."

The appeal of tattoo tourism lies in the personal connection it offers. Tattoos made in places like Bali, London, or Goa carry the scent and stories of those destinations, becoming a "map of your evolution" that marks the people you've met and the discoveries you've made.

India, in particular, is emerging as a fascinating ink destination, with its heritage-rich tattoo cultures and talented artists. Hari Ganapathy, the co-founder of Pickyourtrail in Delhi, notes that travelers are now researching local artists, traditional techniques, and cultural significance before deciding where to get their next tattoo.

Bhanushali believes that in the next few years, India could easily become Asia's next ink destination, as people seek depth, silence, and connection – qualities that the country can provide. However, he also cautions that cultural sensitivity and hygiene standards are crucial when getting inked abroad.

Ultimately, tattoo tourism is not just about the art; it's about the transformative experience of travel and the stories it leaves behind, etched on the skin.