Travel
Uttar Pradesh boosts religious tourism with development of key pilgrimage sites
Uttar Pradesh aims to boost religious tourism by developing sites like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Prayagraj. Projects include the Mahakumbh 2025, generating temporary jobs and local economic growth. The state focuses on infrastructure and industrial development alongside religious tourism with support from the central government.
Travel firm Joy n Crew hires CEO and chief service delivery officer from Cox & Kings
Joy n Crew has appointed former Cox & Kings officials Sangram Ghorpade and Abhinav Chandra as CEO and chief service delivery officer respectively. With significant experience in scaling retail expansion and service quality, they aim to strengthen Joy n Crew's premium travel offerings, tapping into the optimistic Indian travel market.
Travel and accomodation platforms report surging demand for Maha Kumbh
Accommodation and travel platforms are seeing a significant rise in demand for the Maha Kumbh mela in Prayagraj, starting Monday. Oyo and MakeMyTrip report spikes in hotel searches and bookings. Premium hotel rates are rising due to high demand. Neighboring cities like Varanasi are also experiencing increased travel interest as attendees seek spiritual experiences.
Pack light, fly right: The art of travelling with only the essentials
From 2025, cabin luggage policies will limit passengers to one handbag weighing 7 kg, not exceeding specified dimensions. Travelers are advised to choose lightweight, durable luggage, avoid overpacking, and organize efficiently with packing cubes or compression packs. Functional toiletry kits and versatile, wrinkle-free clothing are recommended for frequent flyers.
Beside Vasco da Gama’s tomb, 500 years later: A story of neglected opportunities to lure foreign tourists
India’s tourism sector needs a fresh and dynamic approach. Leveraging colonial legacies and historical sites could attract more foreign visitors. Examples include celebrating Vasco da Gama’s legacy in Kochi and restoring the British-era tramway in Assam. The tourism sector sustains millions of jobs and significantly contributes to the GDP. It is time to innovate and reinvigorate the industry.
Karnataka's MSIL enters travel business, Minister Patil unveils domestic and overseas travel packages
Industries Minister MB Patil launched travel packages by Mysore Sales International (MSIL) offering affordable, innovative options for all, including homely food, door-to-door services, and EMI plans. Packages cover religious and international destinations. MSIL aims to boost annual transactions from Rs 250 crore to Rs 5,000 crore.
Pay 10-40% to book international flights under MakeMyTrip's part payment feature
MakeMyTrip has launched a Part Payment Option allowing customers to confirm international flight bookings by paying only 10–40% of the total fare upfront, with the balance payable within 45 days or before travel. This feature has seen strong adoption among various travelers, especially for high-value bookings.
Sold small portion of shares for personal reasons: EaseMyTrip Co-Founder Nishant Pitti after resignation
Nishant Pitti sold a small portion of promoter shares for personal reasons after resigning as CEO of EaseMyTrip. His brother Rikant Pitti has taken over as the new CEO. Nishant reassured that the share sale does not indicate a lack of confidence in the company's future and confirmed no further sales from his side.
Travel bug takes a bigger bite, industry expects a promising year
The travel industry expects 2025 to be a significant year, driven by events like the Maha Kumbh Mela and strong summer bookings. Increased connectivity and the popularity of domestic and international destinations are boosting demand. Technological advancements and easing visa regulations are further supporting this growth.
2025 Outlook: Bleisure & luxe escapes may define future of travel, check forecast from Nishant Pitti
In 2024, the travel industry embraced innovation, sustainable practices, and global connectivity, showing significant growth. As we approach 2025, trends like bleisure travel, eco-tourism, and advanced technology will continue to shape the industry with an emphasis on thoughtful, meaningful travel and improved infrastructure.
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Easy Trip CEO Nishant Pitti resigns over personal reasons
Nishant Pitti, CEO and co-founder of Easy Trip Planners, resigned citing personal reasons after divesting a 1.4% stake for Rs 78 crore. Rikant Pitti will take over as CEO from January 1, 2025. Shares of the company fell 6.98% following these announcements.
Cyber attack on IT infrastructure of Thomas Cook (India)
Thomas Cook (India) Ltd reported a cyber attack on its IT systems and is collaborating with leading cybersecurity experts to assess and mitigate the impact. The company immediately shut down affected systems and is investigating the incident to determine its scope and implement necessary remedial actions.
#25 For 2025: The year of mindful wanderlust and AI-powered travel?
In 2025, travel trends will emphasize mindful exploration, with a rise in interest for dark-sky destinations and celestial events. Technology will play a significant role in planning trips that align with sustainability, wellness, and cultural immersion. Destinations like the Philippines, Japan, and South Korea are expected to gain popularity.
Latest travel trend: How Instagram influencers are becoming the preferred companions for offline adventures
Social media-driven travel revolution is not limited to Insta influencer-led trips. Platforms like Threads and Facebook are bustling with strangers banding together to create their own adventures, bypassing traditional agencies. “For some, it is about cutting costs. For others, it’s the thrill of trying something new after exhausting traditional travel formats,” says content creator Vanika Sangtani, who has 426,000 followers on Instagram and curates trips through her community page Pink Experiences.
Year in review: The 2024 project scorecard of India's Ministry of Tourism
The Ministry of Tourism sanctioned 76 projects under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, 48 projects under the PRASHAD Scheme, and 65 projects under the Assistance to Central Agencies Scheme. The schemes aim to develop sustainable and responsible destinations. Proposals have been invited under various thematic categories, and funding has been granted for projects across multiple states under special assistance initiatives.
Puri, Varanasi, Haridwar top spiritual destinations in 2024, Hyderabad most-booked city: OYO report
Hyderabad tops the booking list in 2024 while Puri, Varanasi, and Haridwar lead as popular spiritual destinations. There is a notable rise in travel to less explored spiritual spots like Deoghar, Palani, and Govardhan. Leisure travel surges with Jaipur, Goa, Pondicherry, and Mysore drawing tourists.
