The historic Ram Raja Temple in Orchha celebrated the momentous occasion of Pran Pratishtha, marking the consecration of Lord Shri Ram’s divine presence in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024. This unique temple holds a distinctive position as the only place where Lord Shri Ram is worshipped not only as a God but also as a King. Originally the palace of Queen Orchha, the temple’s fascinating history traces back to the 16th century AD as a testament of queen’s profound devotion. When the Chaturbhuj Temple was undergoing its finishing stages, the queen acquired a statue of Lord Shri Ram from the sacred Sarayu River in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Due to the temple’s ongoing construction at the time, the queen placed the statue in the palace’s kitchen overnight. Miraculously, the next day, Lord Ram refused to be moved from that spot, turning the palace into a divine temple. Since that miraculous day, the Ram Raja Temple has been witness to the daily Guard of Honour bestowed upon King Shri Ram, emphasizing the unique dual role of the deity as both a divine figure and a royal sovereign. Under the dedicated leadership of Commissioner Smt. Urmila Shukla, the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives, and Museums, Government of Madhya Pradesh, has been steadfast in its efforts to preserve and protect the rich cultural and heritage assets of Orchha. The Directorate’s commitment extends to safeguarding prestigious monuments such as the Chaturbhuj Temple, Jahangir Mahal, Cenotaphs of Orchha, Raja Mahal, Laxmi Temple, and numerous other historical marvels. The Directorate of Archaeology has garnered commendable recognition for its relentless work in the conservation and preservation of the state’s monuments and artifacts. Smt Urmila Shukla’s leadership has been instrumental …

Noida International Airport today entered a strategic collaboration with Akasa Air, to support each other in their growth journeys. Akasa Air will base aircraft at the airport to operate domestic and international flights from Noida International Airport, to support the growing air travel demand in the region. India has witnessed a surge in passenger traffic in recent times, and this is poised to grow further in the years ahead. Noida International Airport and Akasa Air share a commitment to supporting this growth by deepening air connectivity from Delhi NCR and Western Uttar Pradesh to India and the world. Mr. Christoph Schnellmann, Chief Executive Officer, Noida International Airport, said, “We are excited to welcome Akasa Air as our airline partner, marking a significant step forward as we progress towards airport opening. This partnership highlights our commitment to strengthen air connectivity in the Delhi NCR region and Western Uttar Pradesh. Akasa Air is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the country, and we are thrilled to have them join us on our mission to establish a comprehensive air network, connecting major metros as well as Tier 2 and 3 cities across the country. Our goal remains to offer passengers unmatched connectivity and an exceptional travel experience.” Commenting on the occasion, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air said,” “Noida International airport exemplifies our government’s focus on developing aviation infrastructure as the country moves towards becoming an international aviation hub. Akasa Air’s proposed partnership with the airport is in line with our endeavour to build a holistic network that connects the length and breadth of the nation. We are confident that the synergy will enable us to further fortify connectivity to and from …

In an eagerly anticipated announcement, the theme for Taj Mahotsav 2024 is revealed as ‘Sanskriti & Samriddhi,’ echoing the profound connection between culture and prosperity. Under the patronage of the Uttar Pradesh Government and organised by the Taj Mahotsav Committee, this festival stands as a legacy initiative, celebrating the rich roots of Indian heritage. As a tradition, the Taj Mahotsav’s Management Jury invited the public to contribute ideas for this year’s theme. The response has been overwhelming, showcasing the enthusiasm and creative spirit of the community. After careful consideration, the theme ‘Sanskriti & Samriddhi’ was selected to encapsulate the essence of cultural richness intertwined with prosperity. The associated slogan, “Viksit Bharat Ke Sankalp Sang, Taj Mahotsav Ke Rang,” reflects a commitment to the development of an evolved India and the vibrancy that Taj Mahotsav brings to this shared vision. The chosen individual/entity whose theme suggestion has been selected will be honoured with a token of appreciation amounting to ₹10,000, a gesture of gratitude for their contribution to this cultural extravaganza. The deadline for theme submissions was January 15th, 5 PM. Revised dates for the mega festival have been announced, with Taj Mahotsav 2024 commencing on February 17th and continuing until February 27th, ‘24. This extension promises an extended period of revelry and cultural immersion for both locals and visitors. Anticipating the excitement, the Taj Mahotsav 2024 has lined up a spectacular array of events, including a Kite Festival, Hot Air Balloon rides, Musical Performances, and captivating showcases of various art forms, encompassing dance and handicrafts. Bollywood & Punjabi Nights will add a glamorous touch to the festivities. Moreover, a mesmerising light show has been planned, promising to enhance the grandeur …

Signs multiple hotels with Bangalore-based Grand Continent Hotels  India’s fastest growing group of hotels, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts declare its latest business model – A Sarovar Affiliate,  a model that will position the group on a rapid trajectory of growth and expansion to meet its business plan for the next five years. with the launch of this model, the group foresees bringing a large number of hotels into its existing portfolio within the mid-market and premium categories across India. The first agreement in this direction has been signed with Bengaluru-based Grand Continent Hotels to manage its upcoming hotels across key metropolitan and secondary cities pan India. With this development, Sarovar will add over 10 hotels in the next five years to its proliferating portfolio. The recently opened hotels include a 45-room hotel Grand Continent Hosur, Tamil Nadu, and a 48-room hotel Grand Continent Hebbal, Bengaluru. Under the new agreement, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts will extend robust sales and marketing support to Grand Continent Hotels which stand to gain from Sarovar’s wide network of Regional Sales Offices (RSOs) across eleven cities and Louvre’s global distribution platform. Mr. Ajay K Bakaya, Managing Director Sarovar Hotels & Resorts and Director, Louvre Hotels India said, “We are pleased to introduce a flexible, limited-services and bespoke model that addresses the paradigm shift being experienced globally. Businesses are exploring and discovering possibilities of alliances and partnership opportunities which forge businesses on a fast track and offer scalability and our Affiliate business model is an important step in this direction.” Mr. Ramesh Shiva, Managing Director Grand Continent Hotels Pvt Ltd Said, “We are excited to partner with Sarovar Hotels & Resorts which enjoys a legacy of size …

Mr. Prakash Bedi, Vice President, Clarks Safari  India is blessed with a varied landscape and architectural marvels, most travelers visit India to experience heritage or spiritual tourism apart from being a favorite destination for leisure and business travel. The hospitality sector is a billion-dollar industry and gives employment to 137 billion individuals. Last year’s budget was promising, with the announcement of opening up 220 airports by 2025, the allotment of 2.4 lakh crores to Indian railways capital expenditure, and increasing coastal shipping using India’s eastern and western shipping lines, boosting the tourism sector. With the 2024-2025 budget in the pipeline, there are a lot of expectations within the industry. The sector only has 1,90,000 branded rooms which is significantly lower than the other Asian counterparts. China has nine times more branded rooms than us. The industry needs more foreign investments and big chains setting up properties in India. Too much of licenses are acting as dampeners, it is essential to have one clearance window, to support ease of doing business and to encourage new players to enter the sector. This will lead to the expansion of the hotel industry and more inflow of international tourists. For long, the industry has been struggling to get industry status, rationalize taxes, and easier loan conditions for small and medium properties. We are hoping this budget will address a few of those issues. It is high time the indirect taxes especially the goods and services taxes need to be standardized as per global standards. All across the globe the GST charged is 12%, whereas in India we charge 18% GST, this leads to the driving of the room tariffs. This will make India globally …

Spree Hospitality, a subsidiary of EaseMyTrip and a distinguished name in the hospitality industry announces the grand opening of its latest addition, Zip by Spree Hotels located in the serene city of Gangtok, Sikkim. This new establishment reflects Spree Hospitality’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences and redefining luxury for its valued guests. Zip By Spree Hotels is located on Tibet Road, representing an enchanting blend of sophistication, efficiency, and modern comfort. Its strategic location, just a short walk from MG Marg, enhances the guest experience with the added convenience of exploring the vibrant heart of the city. The hotel boasts an impressive array of spacious and state-of-the-art rooms, meticulously designed to provide an outstanding staying experience. Each room is a beautiful combination of modern aesthetics and traditional warmth, ensuring a retreat of comfort for every guest. Adding a unique touch to the offerings is the Chesum Temple Room, a distinctive Buddhist Temple room where guests can engage themselves in prayer and immerse themselves in a tranquil cultural experience. Zip by Spree Hotels, offers an enchanting rooftop restaurant, Treat, providing a panoramic view of the mountainous city; nestled in the heart of Sikkim. Here, guests can indulge in a diverse culinary experience while relishing the breathtaking views that define Gangtok’s landscape. Mr. Sagar Khurana, Executive Vice President, Spree Hospitality said, Expressing his excitement about the new launch, “As we unveil Zip By Spree Hotels in Gangtok, we are not just introducing a new destination; we are presenting an immersive experience where modern luxury meets the cultural richness of Sikkim. The unique blend of comfort, the stunning rooftop views, and our exclusive Buddhist Temple room exemplify Spree Hospitality’s unwavering commitment to delivering unforgettable …

Brij Hotels organized a specially Curated wellness retreat for wellness travelers, and corporate guests in association with Sarvesh Shashi, a celebrity yoga guru and the visionary founder of Diva Yoga. This retreat was organized at the Brij Bageecha, an experiential property nestled in the serene landscapes of Kukas, Rajasthan. The retreat was attended by celebrities like Harleen Sethi, Regina Cassandra, and Deepti Alapati. This retreat was meticulously crafted to provide participants with a holistic experience, seamlessly blending various wellness practices. Through yoga, meditation, creative activities, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals, the retreat aimed to foster rejuvenation and personal well-being. There were several activities such as nada meditation, journaling, hatha yoga, sound healing, and kindness meditation planned to bring balance between mind and body.  To get the digestive system in order a sattvic diet was designed, based on the ancient Ayurvedic principles that were strictly followed. Anant Kumar Co-Founder Brij Hospitality shares, “We are immensely pleased with the response our wellness retreat garnered. We have consciously designed our garden resort to provide a unique and immersive experience, with a focus on seamlessly merging nature, wellness, and relaxation. The property is surrounded by lush greenery, water bodies, orchards in bloom, an organic vegetable farm and manicured lawns. This helps our guests in disconnecting from the virtual world and reconnecting with the self, to get their natural balance back. We further plan to conduct such retreats on Brij’s other properties.” Brij Bageecha Kukas has 20 spacious and tastefully designed Villa Suites, that feature indigenous elements of the finest that Jaipur has to offer. Villa offers a lake view from private verandas, ensuite he/she washrooms, individual shower area, rooms with a view …

Sarovar Hotels & Resorts declare the opening of  Tulip Inn in the pilgrimage city of Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh, a revered destination for Buddhist pilgrims. The hotel is the second Tulip Inn branded hotel in India following a successfully operational hotel in Koramangala, Bengaluru and the latest addition to Sarovar’s existing pilgrimage portfolio of 09 hotels across leading pilgrimage destinations including Haridwar, Katra, Bodhgaya, Tirupati, Amritsar, Pavagadh, Badrinath, Ayodhya and Vrindavan. The opening is aligned to Sarovar’s strategy of expanding its footprint and driving growth across popular pilgrimage and tourist destinations. Located near Airport Chouraha, Katra Balrampur – Bahraich Highway, the hotel is 18 km from Balrampur railway station and can be accessed via the nearest airport Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow. Nestled in Tarai region, the hotel features 71 rooms and suites that epitomize modern-day comfort, Tulipe Inn – an all-day dining restaurant, an expansive banquet hall with an attached lawn, swimming pool and fitness center. Mr. Ajay K. Bakaya, Managing Director Sarovar Hotels & Resorts and Director Louvre Hotels India said, “We are excited to enter into a partnership with Orison Hotel & Resort and express our deep gratitude to Dr. Anil Kedia and Dr. SK Verma for reposing trust in us with their flagship hotel. We stand committed to preserving and celebrating the cultural ethos of the region while offering a contemporary and world-class hospitality experience.” Dr. Anil Kedia said, “With Tulip Inn opening we intend to fill the gap for quality accommodation in one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations. We look forward to welcoming pilgrims from diverse backgrounds looking for comfortable and relaxed stays while discovering the scenic beauty of the Shravasti and seeking spiritual growth and …

Vietjet, Vietnam’s leading new-age carrier, has once again been listed among the world’s safest airlines for 2024 by Airline Ratings, the renowned airline safety and product rating website. Additionally, Vietjet has consistently held a seven-star rating, the highest level for aviation safety globally, since 2018. In its annual evaluation, Airline Ratings monitored 385 global airlines, considering the airlines’ incident records in recent years, fleet age, results of audits conducted by the governing body of aviation, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and other aviation authorities. Vietjet, along with other notable low-cost peers worldwide such as Ryanair, easyJet, Frontier, etc., has been honoured in the top 10 for many consecutive years, recognizing their excellent performance in flight safety for both flight crews and passengers. Geoffrey Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of AirlineRatings.com, said, “Vietjet’s dedication to maintaining a culture of safety across all aspects of operations is commendable, especially as it actively expands its flight network. The implementation of a robust safety management system and strict compliance with international regulations have contributed to the airline’s excellent technical reliability indicators, ensuring the highest level of safety in its operations for many years.” Vietjet continues to add new aircraft to its modern and fuel-efficient fleet, boasting a technical reliability rate of 99.72% among top operators in the region and the world. The airline invests continuously in training, aircraft engineering, and MRO services to ensure the highest standard in terms of safety and quality. In recent developments, Vietjet Aviation Academy (VJAA) has officially become a training partner of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to ensure a high-quality aviation workforce.

Türkiye’s Eastern Express, one of the world’s finest railway routes provide an unforgettable journey from the center to the east of Türkiye, started welcoming its passengers. As a route that every adventure seeker visiting Türkiye should experience, the Eastern Express recently completed its first service of the 2023-2024 period. Spanning approximately 1,310 kilometers, the train journey begins in Türkiye’s capital, Ankara, continues to Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan, and Erzurum, and concludes in Kars. Taking around 26 hours, the trip allows passengers to observe the diverse geography of Türkiye along the route and see how the eastern provinces transform into extraordinary winter destinations during the season. A ‘One-of-a-kind’ adventure Two separate trains operate on the Ankara-Kars route, the Eastern Express and the Touristic Eastern Express. The Eastern Express grew so popular recently that a touristic version was added to the route in 2019 to meet demand. The Eastern Express features pullman and couchette wagons and has approximately 50 stops, whereas the Touristic Eastern Express includes sleeping and dining wagons and has 29 stops. While the Eastern Express has limited break times, the Touristic Eastern Express has two- to three-hour breaks so passengers can see more along the route. The Touristic Eastern Express’s new season service makes sightseeing stops at the Erzincan and Erzurum stations in the Ankara-Kars direction and at the İliç, Divriği and Sivas stations in the Kars-Ankara direction, which is the return route. The Touristic Eastern Express has eight sleeping beds and one dining car, which are pretty comfortable. Each sleeping car has ten compartments (rooms) with two beds. Although passengers can enjoy breakfast and dinner in the dining car, a growing trend – influenced by social media – …