Category Archives: States

Skål International India officially launched its Jammu & Kashmir Chapter with a special ceremony in Srinagar. This marks a proud moment for the sector as Skål becomes the first tourism association to enter J&K post Operation Sindoor, reinforcing confidence in the region and opening new avenues for tourism growth.

In its latest India Holiday Report, Thomas Cook & SOTC Travel states that 85% of Indians are planning to increase their frequency of holidays and a significant number intending to boost budgets by up to 50%. Experiential and event-led travel such as polar/ icebreaker cruises, music concerts, global sporting events, wildlife safaris, gastronomy and vineyard trails, stargazing camps and phenomenon travel (Northern Lights, Cherry Blossom, Midnight Sun, etc.) are at the forefront of Indian travellers’ preferences. Phygital journeys, blending digital discovery with human touchpoints, continue to influence and drive bookings. Travellers are showing a clear inclination towards longer holidays – both domestic and international.”

Launching the Maharashtra Convention Bureau, Indranil Naik, Minister of State for Tourism, says, “This marks a transformative moment for our state’s economic and cultural landscape. This initiative will serve as a catalyst across key sectors—from tourism and hospitality to higher education, manufacturing, and infrastructure. It will attract global thinkers, investors, and changemakers to Maharashtra, generating new opportunities for our youth, our entrepreneurs, and our communities. As Minister of State, I am proud to support this visionary step forward that will elevate Maharashtra as a premier destination not just for business, but for bold ideas and inclusive growth.”

IHCL announces the signing of a Gateway hotel in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Nathdwara offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for pilgrims and tourists. This signing is in line with IHCL’s strategy to expand in key spiritual hubs. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Madan Singh Chauhan for this project.” The 101-key Gateway Nathdwara, Rajasthan, spanning over 6 acres in the heart of the destination. Guests can indulge in culinary experiences at the all-day dining restaurant, and specialty restaurant. The hotel will feature banqueting facilities, including over 8,000 sq. ft. of indoor event space as well as an outdoor lawn spanning 10,000 sq. ft. Recreational facilities include a swimming pool and a fitness centre. Madan Singh Chauhan said, “We are delighted to partner with IHCL to introduce the Gateway brand to Nathdwara. This hotel will enhance the hospitality landscape of the temple town.” Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Nathdwara is a prominent pilgrimage and tourist destination. While deeply spiritual, the town also draws visitors with its rich cultural heritage, serene surroundings, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality. With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 31 hotels in Rajasthan including 8 under development.  

Highlights: Hosting the 21st World Rose Convention is a matter of pride for us – Principal Secretary Shukla Sushil Prakash elected President of World Rose Society Official flag ceremoniously handed over to Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board represented India at the 20th Convention held in Japan India to host the convention for the first time; over 700 international delegates expected The 21st World Rose Convention will be held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh in 2028, as announced by the World Federation of Rose Societies (WFRS) at the recently concluded 20th World Rose Convention in Fukuyama, Japan. The event will mark the first time India hosts the prestigious international gathering, which will bring together more than 700 delegates from across the globe. With its scenic backdrop of lakes and gardens, Bhopal is set to provide an ideal setting for the convention with thematic gardens, technical sessions, cultural performances, and a showcase of tourism experiences from across the state. The official announcement was made at the 20th World Rose Convention, where Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) represented India. The delegation was led by Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. During the closing ceremony, Shukla was ceremoniously handed over the WFRS flag, formally bestowing Madhya Pradesh with the responsibility of hosting the next edition of the convention. In a significant milestone, Sushil Prakash was elected as the new President of the World Federation of Rose Societies. He becomes the first Indian to be appointed to this prestigious post, further strengthening India’s global footprint in the horticultural and floriculture sector. At the closing ceremony of the 20th convention, the WFRS …

Pickyourtrail has forayed into domestic travel and is starting this segment of its business with Kashmir. “As Kashmir reels from recent events that have shaken both its people and its tourism-dependent economy, Pickyourtrail’s entry is guided not by market opportunity—but by intention,” the company said.

ADTOI is planning to launch a third-party app in India aimed at benefiting its members. “This will serve as a marketplace platform where vendors—big or small—can showcase their tourism-related products and services,” Ved Khanna, President, ADTOI, said. We are also set to launch our Bihar Chapter soon, he added.

In light of the current geopolitical situation impacting international and domestic travel sentiments, FAITH (Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality) announces the rescheduling of its conclave this year. Originally scheduled for an earlier date, the conclave will now take place at Taj Palace New Delhi on 12 and 13 August.

Speaking about the changing traveller preferences, Dhruv Shringi, Co-Founder & CEO, Yatra Online, says, “We added close to 140mn domestic trips in a 20-year period and the next 140 mn trips will be added in less than 5 yrs. That is the kind of growth that we are seeing as a country right now when it comes to domestic travel. That’s one of the main pivots that we’ve had to look at in the last decade or so to move closer to where the customer behaviour is, and make sure that you as a company are in line with where the consumer trends are moving.”

Karma Lakelands, India’s leading eco-resort known for its lush golf course and eco-conscious experiences, is thrilled to unveil the Karma Summer Karnival, an exclusive six-part golf series that seamlessly blends sport, indulgence, and community connection. This one-of-a-kind series stands apart by offering a specially curated sundowner experience after each tournament—a signature touch that turns every game into a celebration. An evening of live barbecues, gourmet cuisine, and immersive whiskey-tasting sessions, all set against the backdrop of golden hour skies, made it an unforgettable experience for the guests and the participants. The inaugural event teed off on May 17, welcoming 60 golfers to a spirited 9-hole tournament that encouraged both friendly competition and relaxed interaction. Each event in the series is open to Karma Lakelands members, guests, and all golf lovers, with over 500 unique participants expected across the season, celebrating the game and the growing golfing community. What truly sets the Karma Summer Karnival apart is the synergy of lifestyle partners who’ve come together to elevate the experience at every touchpoint. The series is presented by Laphroaig, known for its bold Islay heritage and unforgettable tasting sessions. On-Kourse, Karma’s signature restaurant, kept players refreshed throughout with curated bites and beverages. These collaborations reflect a shared vision: to create best-in-class experiences that go far beyond the sport. The opening event featured highlights such as the Laphroaig Closest to the Pin – Signature Hole and Straight Drive, along with thoughtfully curated goodie bags and vibrant on-course activities. The post-game sundowner saw over 100 attendees, creating a relaxed and welcoming social atmosphere for both players and guests. Commenting on the launch, Aryadev Khurana, Vice President, Karma Lakelands, says, “The successful launch of the …