Hashtags are one of the most important elements you should include in your Instagram content to achieve better results.
However, it is important to use the right hashtags, in the right quantity and in the right content format, whether that is feed posts, stories or reels.
In this blog, we will discuss the best hashtags to help you go viral on Instagram, the best practices to follow, different hashtag categories and much more.
Let's get started.
What Is a Hashtag?
We all talk about hashtags, but what exactly is a hashtag?
A hashtag is a symbol made of two vertical and two horizontal strokes, represented by the # sign.
Although its social media usage is relatively new, according to Britannica, the symbol itself dates back to Roman times.
Social media began widely using hashtags after the 2007 San Diego wildfire, when users frequently posted updates on Twitter using hashtag-based categorisation.
Hashtags are words or phrases preceded by the # symbol to categorise content and group conversations around specific topics or events.
Today, with more than 2 billion Instagram users sharing millions of posts every day, hashtags remain one of the most effective content discovery tools on the platform.
Why Are Hashtags Important for Instagram?
Before discussing the best Instagram hashtags, it is important to understand why hashtags matter.
Algorithm Boost
Posts that include relevant hashtags have a greater chance of becoming visible on Instagram.
Hashtags help Instagram organise content into categories, making it easier for the algorithm to understand and distribute posts to interested audiences.
This organisation can improve visibility across Explore pages, feeds and reels.
Discoverability
When Instagram understands your content through hashtags, your posts become easier to discover.
New users are more likely to find and engage with your content through hashtag searches and recommendation systems.
Participation in Trends
Hashtags allow creators to participate in trending discussions and viral movements.
You can discover trends through Instagram's search bar or by monitoring frequently appearing content in your feed.
For example, the famous #IceBucketChallenge started as a hashtag challenge before becoming a global social media trend.
Connect With Like-Minded People
Hashtags help users find communities based on shared interests.
For example, professionals can join networking conversations through industry-specific hashtags.
Every hashtag effectively represents a community on Instagram.
Types of Hashtags to Use in 2025
There are many hashtags that can help increase visibility, but most fall into the following categories.
1. Trending and Viral Hashtags
These hashtags are connected to current events, trends and viral conversations.
Examples:
- #throwback2025
- #mondaymotivation2025
- #newyearnewme2025
2. Niche-Specific Hashtags
These hashtags target audiences within a specific industry or niche.
Chef and Cooking Examples:
- #homechef
- #cooklikeapro
- #recipes4you
Fitness Examples:
- #fitnessfirst
- #musclesgame
- #bicepsday
3. Branded Hashtags
Branded hashtags are created by businesses to promote products, campaigns and brand awareness.
Examples:
- #starbuckslovers
- #shareacoke
- #JustDoIt
4. Location-Based Hashtags
Location hashtags help target users within specific cities, regions or countries.
Examples:
- #LondonCalling
- #DubaiLuxury
- #TokyoDiaries
Best Hashtags to Go Viral on Instagram in 2025
General Instagram Hashtags
- #Viral
- #Explore
- #InstaDaily
- #TrendingNow
- #PopularPage
Travel Hashtags
- #TravelGram
- #Wanderlust
- #LuxuryTravel
- #DigitalNomad
- #AdventureTime2025
Fitness and Gym Hashtags
- #FitnessGoals
- #GymLife
- #FitFam
- #WorkoutMotivation
- #HealthyLifestyle
Beauty Hashtags
- #BeautyRoutine
- #SkincareGoals
- #GlowingSkin
- #BeautyTips
- #SkincareAddict
Business and Entrepreneurship Hashtags
- #hustlehard
- #instawork
- #EntrepreneurLife
- #BusinessSuccess
- #StartupJourney
How to Find the Best Hashtags for Your Niche in 2025
Using the right hashtags can significantly impact your Instagram growth.
1. Use Instagram Search and Explore
Instagram's search function is one of the easiest ways to find relevant hashtags.
How to do it:
- Type a keyword in the search bar.
- Switch to the Tags section.
- Review popular hashtags.
- Analyse top-performing posts.
2. Analyse Competitor Hashtags
Your competitors can provide valuable hashtag inspiration.
How to do it:
- Identify 3–5 competitors in your niche.
- Review their latest posts.
- Document frequently used hashtags.
- Avoid copying hashtags exactly.
3. Use Hashtag Generator Tools
AI-powered hashtag generators can help create niche-specific hashtag suggestions.
Popular Tools:
- Ahrefs
- Inflact
- Canva
Simply enter a keyword related to your niche and these tools will generate relevant hashtag suggestions.
Note: Canva currently does not support image-based hashtag generation.
4. Track Results Using Instagram Insights
Not every hashtag performs equally.
Instagram Insights can help identify which hashtags generate the most visibility.
How to do it:
- Open one of your posts.
- Tap View Insights.
- Check Discovery metrics.
- Review hashtag-driven impressions.
Note: Your account must be public or a business profile.
Common Hashtag Mistakes to Avoid in 2025
1. Using Spammy Hashtags
Instagram occasionally restricts certain hashtags that violate platform guidelines.
Using banned hashtags can negatively impact reach.
How to check:
- Search the hashtag on Instagram.
- If no Top Posts section appears, the hashtag may be restricted.
2. Overstuffing Hashtags
Although Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags, using the maximum number is not always necessary.
Too many hashtags may:
- Trigger spam filters.
- Reduce engagement.
- Lower content reach.
3. Using Irrelevant Hashtags
Irrelevant hashtags confuse both users and algorithms.
For example, using a fitness hashtag on a travel-related post can reduce content relevance.
4. Failing to Update Hashtags
Trending hashtags change frequently.
To stay relevant:
- Monitor Instagram trends regularly.
- Review competitor content.
- Refresh your hashtag strategy consistently.
Bonus: How Many Hashtags Should You Use?
- Feed Posts: 5–15 hashtags per post
- Reels: 8–10 hashtags per reel
- Stories: 1–3 hashtags per story (preferably hidden behind stickers)
Conclusion
This guide explained the importance of hashtags, the different types of hashtags available and the best Instagram hashtags you can use in 2025.
We also covered strategies for finding niche-specific hashtags, using hashtag generation tools and avoiding common hashtag mistakes that can limit your growth.
By implementing these practices, you can improve discoverability, increase engagement and maximise your chances of going viral on Instagram.
Comment below and let us know which hashtags you are planning to use on your Instagram posts this year.
