5 Indian states that consume the most petrol per person and why travellers should pay attention

India’s booming domestic tourism, and long-distance highway travel are among the prime factors driving petrol consumption to record highs. As per recent data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC), some Indian states and Union Territories are consuming petrol significantly more per person than the national average. It is largely because of tourism and higher vehicle density. For travellers, this means the destinations Indians travel to the most are often the same places where fuel demand is historic high.

As per data, here are five Indian states with the highest per capita petrol consumption and what travellers should know before planning a road trip.

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Sources: Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC), Reuters, ETEnergyWorld, Business Standard

Now this is surprising but true! Data reveals that Goa has India’s biggest fuel consumer per person. One of the biggest reasons is tourism with self-drive cars, rental scooters, beach hopping contributing heavily. As per recent PPAC-linked reports, Goa recorded around 52.4 litres of petrol consumption per 100 people daily in 2024–25.

For travellers, rented scooters and four-wheelers are the easiest way to explore the beauty of Goa. Weekends and holiday seasons see the maximum crowd at the petrol stations in Goa.

Shocking, right? Puducherry is on the second spot on the list and again tourism, short-distance travel, and a high number of personal vehicles are the prime reasons driving the trend. PPAC-linked data shows Puducherry, a small coastal territory, consumes over 41 litres of petrol per 100 people on a daily basis.

Travellers from Chennai prefer driving down here. Two-wheelers are widely popular within the French Quarter, White Town, and nearby beaches.

Chandigarh, India’s first planned city, has secured third spot on the list. The city remains India’s one of the most car-friendly hubs with strong road culture. The dependence on private transport also drives petrol demand significantly.

For travellers, Chandigarh is the gateway to Himachal Pradesh and road trips to Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala are quite popular.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also on the list and tourism is the reason. The islands recorded very high fuel consumption per capita because of tourism logistics, ferry connectivity, and transportation needs.

Travellers visiting the Andamans often depend on taxis, rented scooters, and ferries which consume fuel. Transportation to islands is expensive and petrol prices can differ from mainland India.

Arunachal Pradesh is another surprise state on the list. But the fact is mountain roads and long distances increase fuel use. It is among the most fuel-consuming regions due to long travel distances and limited public transport.

Arunachal Pradesh is quite a rage among adventure tourists. Routes connecting Tawang, Ziro Valley and Bomdila attract bikers and SUV travellers from all over the country.