Gramping: When Grandparents Take the Wheel

For the Sharma family from Pune, the annual holiday used to mean one of two things: either the grandparents stayed home, or everyone was miserable. “Dad would complain about the walking. Mom would worry about the food,” recalls daughter Anjali. Then they tried gramping — a resort in Mahabaleshwar with wheelchair-friendly paths, a kitchen that catered to senior dietary needs, and a schedule that included afternoon naps. “Now my parents plan the trip. They send us the itinerary.”

The Data

India’s senior citizen population exceeds 150 million, with increasing disposable income and a demonstrated willingness to travel. The EY-FICCI report specifically identifies “safe, inclusive travel experiences for seniors” as a high-growth segment awaiting structured intervention. Travel insurance data shows seniors are travelling more frequently year-on-year, though growth has moderated amid global uncertainty. Resorts with accessible facilities, medical support, and senior-friendly meal plans are reporting occupancy increases of 22%.

The Story Behind the Number

Indian families are rewriting the multi-generational contract. In nuclear family structures, grandparents are no longer just occasional visitors — they are active participants, often contributing financially to holidays and providing childcare support during travel. Gramping is the logical extension of this shift: three generations under one resort roof, with separate but connected accommodations, varied activity levels, and a shared sense of adventure that respects different paces.

B2B Takeaway

Design intergenerational packages with connecting rooms, accessible facilities, and varied activity levels adventure for kids, relaxation for grandparents. Train guides in senior care and mobility assistance. Partner with medical tourism providers for health-assured travel. This demographic has time, savings, and a desire to create lasting family memories. Untapped and undervalued.