Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, GoI, said, “From predictive analytics to smart visitor management, digital innovation will define the next era of travel.” He emphasised on government’s push for tech-driven solutions, citing opportunities for collaboration between startups, airlines and tourism bodies.

Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, Jammu & Kashmir, revealed plans to develop nine new tourist destinations with multilateral funding. Speaking at ICC Aviation and Tourism Conference, he emphasised shifting from volume to value tourism to ease pressure on saturated hotspots like Gulmarg and Srinagar. “We must move up the value chain,” he said, adding that newer sites would boost sustainable growth and tourist experience.

At a recent PATA forum, Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, GoI, delivered a compelling message to the country’s travel trade. She emphasised to empower Indian tour operators, convert global partners into India ambassadors and think beyond destinations by thinking of markets. Sinha called on tourism associations to offer consistent, high-quality training to equip Indian tour operators with deeper knowledge of their own country. “It is not just about showcasing India. It is about understanding it well enough to package it meaningfully,” she said.

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, GoI, said, “Tourism is all about access, and aviation provides that access on scale and speed. By aligning the National Air Connectivity Plan with the National Tourism Development Plan, the synergy could be transformative.” He emphasised that aviation and tourism must collaborate as twin engines to double the sector’s GDP contribution from 5 per cent to 10 per cent in the coming decade.

A vibrant three-day cultural festival celebrating Madhya Pradesh’s heritage and the glorious legacy of Emperor Vikramaditya. Hon’ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Hon’ble Governor of Madhya Pradesh Shri Mangubhai Patel, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Delhi Smt. Rekha Gupta, and Smt. Sudesh Dhankhar, wife of the Hon’ble Vice President, marked their presence on the inaugural day. Bhopal, 12 April 2025: The majestic Red Fort in New Delhi came alive on Saturday evening with the grand inauguration of the three-day cultural celebration “Vikramotsav 2025.” The festival, organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism and Culture Department, aims to honor the glorious legacy of Emperor Vikramaditya while showcasing the rich heritage, tourism potential, arts, and crafts of Madhya Pradesh on a national and global platform. The event will run until 14 April 2025. The inaugural day witnessed the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Vice President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Hon’ble Governor of Madhya Pradesh Shri Mangubhai Patel, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Delhi Smt. Rekha Gupta, and Smt. Sudesh Dhankhar, wife of the Hon’ble Vice President. Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, shared that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Vikramotsav 2025 is showcasing Madhya Pradesh’s vibrant traditions and tourism potential on a national platform. This initiative not only celebrates the historical and cultural significance of Emperor Vikramaditya but also brings global recognition to Madhya Pradesh’s arts, …

Antalya, the breathtaking resort city overlooking the Mediterranean Sea along the Turkish Riviera, stands unmatched with its golden sands, azure skies and deep blue waters. Located in the southwest of the country, the city also enjoys a consistently pleasant climate with 300 days of sunshine, creating an ideal setting year-round for visitors seeking summer bliss. However, this world-famous coastal gem isn’t only a magnet for seaside and sun aficionados but also a proud custodian of some of the world’s cleanest beaches. Antalya holds the world record for having the highest number of Blue Flag-certified beaches at 233. These untouched and pristine beaches stretching as far as the eye can see offer the summer holidays of your dreams. Sun-Kissed Sands Meet Crystal Waters As summer vacations draw closer, let your wanderlust lead you to some of the world’s cleanest beaches. You can pick among Antalya’s beaches, which have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag distinction thanks to their quality and safety. Antalya’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures ensures that each beach is maintained to the highest sustainability standards. Crystal-clear waters, clean stretches of sand and a well-protected natural environment, all bathed in radiant sunshine… You’ll have no shortage of choices regarding Antalya’s idyllic beaches. Discover the serene beauty of Alanya, Side, Manavgat, Finike, Kemer, Kalkan, Kaş and many other towns, each boasting Blue Flag beaches that offer unmatched tranquillity and calmness. Patara, Kleopatra, Kaputaş, Lara and Konyaltı Beaches are definite standouts. Imagine hearing the soothing sounds of the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea washing up the shores, sinking your feet into the soft and warm sands and sipping a refreshing cocktail while sunbathing. These beaches are also ideal spots for various adrenaline-filled …

FAITH Conclave 2025 will be held from 4–5 June 2025 at Taj Palace, New Delhi. “Registration will open shortly,” revealed Rajiv Mehra, General Secretary, FAITH. The conclave’s theme is going to be ‘Tourism 2030 – India on mission mode.’ Leaders from the sector will carve framework for India’s tourism till 2030

Looking for a scenic getaway this Good Friday long weekend? Leave the city bustle behind and head towards Kathgodam, your gateway to the tranquil hills of Uttarakhand. Skip the overdone itineraries and dive into these lesser-known gems that promise peace, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes. Hidden Gems to Discover Around Kathgodam Bhimtal: A Quieter Cousin of Nainital Just 22 km from Kathgodam, Bhimtal is perfect if you love serene lakes minus the crowds. Boating in Bhimtal Lake with its quaint island aquarium is a must-do. The lush green surroundings and calm vibe make it an ideal stop for nature lovers. Sattal: Where Seven Lakes Meet A little further from Bhimtal, Sattal is an untouched paradise of interconnected lakes surrounded by dense oak and pine forests. It’s a birdwatcher’s dream and a haven for kayaking, camping, and angling. Golu Devta Temple, Ghorakhal: Seek Blessings with a Twist Located near Bhowali, this unique temple is known for devotees offering bells along with their prayers. The temple is surrounded by sweeping valley views, perfect for a quick spiritual stop. Lansdowne: Untouched Colonial Charm Around 180 km from Kathgodam, Lansdowne is a serene cantonment town with old churches, pine forests, and quiet trails. Visit the War Memorial, Tip-in-Top viewpoint, and St. John’s Church for a laid-back exploration. Mukteshwar: Adventure and Spirituality Rolled into One About 70 km from Kathgodam, Mukteshwar is an offbeat hill town perfect for those seeking adventure and calm. Rappel down cliffs, trek through fruit orchards, or visit the 350-year-old Mukteshwar Temple perched atop a hill. Pangot: A Hidden Birdwatcher’s Paradise Just 15 km from Nainital and about an hour from Kathgodam, Pangot is a tiny village known for its rich birdlife. …

After TAAI’s intervention, IndiGo will reinstate SME fares for retail agents withdrawn earlier due to misuse. Agents must sign an indemnity and upload GST details for every booking. TAAI also ensured OTAs will soon be restricted, creating a fair marketplace. Agents are advised to contact the respective IndiGo sales representatives.

Speaking about the woes of Indian travel agents, Tarun Malhotra, Managing Director, InOrbit Tours, said, “China embassy and consulate are rejecting 98 per cent visa application without any reasons. Passports are returned to applicants without any reason ? Please be careful and inform your guests accordingly.”