Your Gateway To Travel Updates
- No shutdown of Delhi-Mumbai airline route, PIB fact check calls claims 'fake' : The Press Information Bureau's (PIB) fact-check unit debunked yet another fake claim, stating that services on the Delhi-Mumbai airline route are temporarily closed.
- 32 Airports Temporarily Closed for Civil Flights Across North and West India: The affected airports are: Adhampur, Ambala, Amritsar ,Awantipur,Bathinda,Bhuj, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Halwara, Hindon, Jaisalmer, Jammu, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Kandla, Kangra(Gaggal), Keshod, Kishangarh,Kullu Manali (Bhuntar), Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Naliya, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot (Hirasar), Sarsawa, Shimla, Srinagar, Thoise, Uttarlai.
10 May 2025
- Air India sees Pakistan airspace ban costing it $600 million over 12 months, seeks aid : Air India expects to face around $600 million in additional costs if a ban from Pakistan's airspace lasts for a year, and has asked the federal government to compensate it for the hit, a company letter seen by Reuters shows.
- Delhi Airport update: Flight operations affected until May 4: Passengers departing from Delhi's IGIA can anticipate significant delays until May 4, 2025, due to runway maintenance and unfavorable wind patterns. The closure of runway 28/10 for ILS upgrades, coupled with shifting winds, has constrained airport capacity, leading to daily flight delays. Travelers are advised to stay updated with their airlines and arrive early.
02 May 2025
- Kathmandu to Kolkata in just 85 minutes: Nepal's Buddha Air resumes flights after 6-year : According to Nepal's media reports, the airline plans to introduce its commercial lights to Kolkata by mid-July.
- Australia denies ban on Indian student applications amid political debate on migration: In response to recent media reports suggesting that Indian student applications from certain states are being banned or restricted by educational institutions in Australia, the Australian High Commission in New Delhi has refuted such claims.
23 April 2025
- Mumbai to Goa in record time: Toll-free highway to be ready by June 2025: Travel from Mumbai to Goa is all set to become easier. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has announced that the long-awaited Mumbai-Goa highway will be completed by june 2025.
- Maldives closes its door to Israel passport holders in protest against Gaza war: Dream destination Maldives drops a travel bombshell with shocking passport ban, Israelis no longer welcome in this tropical paradise amid Gaza war.
- Saudi Arabia opens doors to 10,000 more Indian pilgrims: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj has reopened the Nusuk site to accept an additional 10,000 Indian pilgrims, which is a major step for Indian Muslims hoping to perform the Hajj trip in 2025.
17 April 2025
- Saudi Arabia bans visas for 14 countries including India: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has imposed new travel restrictions, suspending the issuance of certain visas to people of 14 countries including Bangladesh, Pakistan and India, as per reports. However, the suspension does not impact pilgrims from India who are travelling to Saudi Arabia strictly for Hajj and have secured Hajj visas.
- Second airport: 6-member AAI team arrives in Bengaluru: A six-member team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) arrived in Bengaluru on Monday to assess three sites finalised by the state government for Bengaluru’s second international airport.
- Taj Mahal brings in Rs 297 crore in 5 years, tops ASI monument earnings: Govt data: The iconic Taj Mahal continues to be the top revenue-generating monument among those protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), bringing in Rs 297 crore through ticket sales over the last five financial years.
08 April 2025
- China eases visa rules for Indian travelers; have issued 50,000+ visas so far in 2025: China has issued over 50,000 visas to Indian travelers in 2025, amidst new measures to simplify the application process. These include the removal of mandatory online appointments, biometric exemptions for short-term stays, and reduced visa fees. These changes aim to enhance tourism, business travel, and academic exchanges between India and China, following a period of restrictions.
- First Vande Bharat train from Katra to Kashmir set to launch on April 19; PM to flag off: The first Vande Bharat train to Kashmir will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 19 from Katra, marking the completion of the 272 km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project.
01 April 2025
- Sharjah Airport gears up to welcome over half million passengers during Eid Al-Fitr holiday: Sharjah Airport is fully prepared to manage the expected increase in passengers during the Eid Al-Fitr holiday. Over 500,000 passengers and 3,344 flights are anticipated between March 27th and April 6th.
- Delhi to replace pink tickets with digital cards for women's free bus rides: Delhi will introduce digital travel cards for women to avail free rides in state-run buses, replacing pink tickets. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that Rs 12,952 crore is allocated to improve transportation, modernize the ticketing system, and eliminate corruption.
- Delhi govt allocates INR 139 crore to boost tourism, plans International Film Festival: The Delhi government has allocated INR 139 crore in the 2025-26 budget to enhance tourism, art, culture, and language. Key initiatives include an international film festival, boat tours on the Yamuna River, and a talent hunt scheme. The budget also includes funding for a fellowship program and the development of a new tourist circuit.
26 March 2025
- Srinagar’s Tulip Garden To Open For Public On March 26: Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Zabarwan Mountains, Asia’s largest Tulip Garden, adorned with 1.7 million vibrant blooms, is set to unfurl its colors to the world on March 26, welcoming visitors into a floral paradise.
- Vietnam Airlines expands network with new direct flights from Bengaluru & Hyderabad to Hanoi: Vietnam Airlines is expanding its operations in India by launching direct flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad to Hanoi starting May 2025. The airline will operate four weekly flights from Bengaluru and three from Hyderabad,further strengthening connectivity between India and Vietnam.
- Maldives partners with Mumbai Indians as official tourist destination: The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), operating under the Visit Maldives brand, has entered into a historic partnership with Mumbai Indians, India’s most successful and valuable cricket team. This collaboration makes Mumbai Indians the Official Tourist Destination Partner for the 2025 cricket season.
22 March 2025
- Navi Mumbai airport to be inaugurated in June, says Gautam Adani: The Navi Mumbai International Airport, set to open in June, will be India's new greenfield airport, reducing congestion at Mumbai's capacity-constrained airport. Developed by NMIAL, a joint venture between Adani Airport Holdings and CIDCO, the airport will cater to 90 million passengers annually.
- Sikkim introduces INR 50 entry fee for tourists from March 2025: Sikkim introduces a INR 50 entry fee for tourists, charged at hotel check-in, excluding kids under five and official government visitors. The collected funds will enhance tourism infrastructure and environmental conservation, aiming to balance visitor demand with sustainable development, preserving Sikkim’s natural beauty and cultural heritage
- IndiGo launches non-stop flights to manchester & amsterdam, strengthening global network: India's leading low-cost carrier, IndiGo, is set to commence non-stop flights to Manchester and Amsterdam starting July 2025.
17 March 2025
- Indian Railways adds 62 special trains for Holi: Indian Railways has introduced 62 special trains to facilitate smooth travel during the Holi festival and the subsequent long weekend. These trains will operate on various routes, including Sabarmati-Haridwar,Hisar-Hadapsar, Delhi Sarai-Sabarmati, Mumbai Central-Delhi, Bareilly-Sabarmati, Bhagat Ki Kothi-Bandra Terminus, Lalkuan-Rajkot, and Durg-Madar.
- Navi Mumbai International Airport to get exclusive VVIP terminal: Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will feature an exclusive VVIP terminal for movie stars, billionaire businessmen, and high-ranking politicians. Set to begin construction in 2026 and complete by 2030, this terminal marks a significant development in India's upscale airport infrastructure, aiming to reduce congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
- Indonesia unveils plans to welcome over 900,000 Indian tourists in 2025 with visa-free access on cards: For 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has set an ambitious target of welcoming 918,480 Indian tourists, building on the 17 per cent growth witnessed in 2024, largely driven by the introduction of direct flights from India.
11 March 2025
- Mumbai To Goa In Just 6.5 Hours? New RoPAX Ferry To Make It Possible: Mumbai-Goa RoPAX ferry, set to launch soon, will reduce travel time to just 6.5 hours while accommodating both passengers and vehicles.
- Metro-3 Completes Trial Till Cuffe Parade, set for July launch: The MMRC, in a release, said it had achieved a “historic milestone" with this trial, adding that it demonstrated the readiness of key infrastructure elements, including rolling stock, tracks, and civil works.
- After 'upsets' in Myanmar and Bangladesh, India rushes to connect Bhutan with first rail network: The 69km proposed new rail line, the detailed project report for which is ready now, aims to connect Kokrajhar town in western Assam with Gelephu town in Bhutan, thereby offering the Himalayan neighbour its first rail connectivity.
03 March 2025
- Bengaluru Launches First Driverless Metro on the Yellow Line: Bengaluru is introducing its first driverless metro on the Yellow Line. This means there won’t be a driver on the train. The Yellow Line is 18.82 km long, from RV Road to Bommasandra. The trains are automatic and controlled by special technology called CBTC.
- Nagpur to Mumbai in 8 hours as Samruddhi Expressway fully complete: The expressway will reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur from 16 hours to eight hours. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) will open it for vehicular traffic by mid-March. Currently, motorists can access the expressway from Igatpuri near Nashik till Nagpur, a drive of 625 km.
- New tourist magnet in Kullu: A ropeway ride to Himachal’s hottest paragliding spot: In a significant step towards enhancing tourism in Kullu district, the Himachal government has approved the construction of an Aerial Ropeway from Kullu Bus Stand to Peej Paragliding Point with an estimated cost of ₹80 crore.
27 February 2025
- IndiGo Expands Connectivity Between Hyderabad And Madinah With Direct Flights: IndiGo launched its new direct flight service between Hyderabad and Madinah on Monday, February 24. This thrice-weekly route enhances IndiGo's network between India and Saudi Arabia by offering pilgrims and other travellers easy and reasonably priced travel alternatives. The flight, which will last around five hours and forty-seven minutes, is scheduled for Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.
- Navi Mumbai Soon To Get World-Class Theme Park Inspired By Disneyland: Navi Mumbai is gearing up to welcome a Disneyland-inspired amusement park, a project spearheaded by the Maharashtra government and Niti Aayog. The ambitious theme park, spanning 200 hectares, aims to become a major entertainment hub attracting both domestic and international tourists.
- YoloBus & Easy Green Mobility wins MP’s first inter-city electric bus tender: For this project, the first batch of state-of-the-art electric buses will be deployed in August 2025. Each bus is engineered to deliver a blend of advanced technology, passenger comfort, and environmental efficiency. Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip said, “Our entry into in-house electric bus manufacturing is a direct response to the strong demand we’ve observed through YoloBus.
25 February 2025
- Arunachal Pradesh wins 'Leader in Offbeat Mountain Destination' at World Travel & Tourism Festival 2025: Arunachal Pradesh has been honoured with the 'Leader in Offbeat Mountain Destination' award at the World Travel & Tourism Festival 2025, acknowledging its unique appeal.The state is renowned for its pristine landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cultural heritage, offering travellers a perfect blend of nature and culture.
- Goa Tourism showcases Sustainable and Experiential Travel at SATTE 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, made a significant impact at South Asia’s Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2025 with the grand inauguration of the Goa Pavilion at Yashobhoomi (IICC), New Delhi.
- Madhya Pradesh Honoured as Best State at South Asia Travel and Tourism Exhibition 2025: Madhya Pradesh has been awarded the prestigious Best State Tourism Award at the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exhibition (SATTE) 2025, cementing its position as one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations.
22 February 2025
- Airfares may rise as GMR seeks hike in user fee for Delhi airport: Airfares may rise as Delhi International Airport Ltd seeks to increase user development fees and landing charges. Domestic departures could have fees of INR 610 during peak hours. International departures for economy class may be charged INR 810, while business class could pay INR 1,620. This proposed increase might result in a 5-10 per cent rise in airfares.
- US tightens visa renewal rules, reduces interview waiver period: The US Department of State has reduced the eligibility period for interview waiver visas, commonly known as 'dropbox' appointments, from 36 months to 12 months in India. This change, aimed at tightening the non-immigrant visa process, affects various categories, including H1B visas, while maintaining exceptions for children under 14 and applicants over 80 years old.
- Saudia Expands Global Network with Over 10 New Destinations for 2025: Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has announced a significant expansion of its global flight network, adding more than ten new destinations for 2025. This strategic growth, fueled by a 16% increase in international guest numbers last year, reflects the airline’s commitment to connecting the world and meeting increasing global travel demand. The new destinations offer a diverse range of options, spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
21 February 2025
- New travel option for Ghaziabad, Noida: Air India Express to connect Kolkata with Hindon: Air India Express, a subsidiary of Tata Group-owned Air India, will launch flights between Kolkata and Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, starting March 1. The Kolkata-Hindon route will operate daily, while flights from Hindon to Kolkata will run six days a week, excluding Saturdays.
- Govt targets one airport in every 150 kms: Madhya Pradesh's new aviation policy aims to enhance connectivity, boost religious tourism, and strengthen the economy by building airports, airstrips,and helipads. The state plans to establish an airport every 150 km by 2030.
- Tourism Malaysia organises Food & Cultural festival in New Delhi: The Malaysia Food & Cultural Festival 2025, organised by Tourism Malaysia and ibis Kuala Lumpur, brings Malaysia’s culinary and cultural heritage to New Delhi from February 17 to 23.
19 February 2025
- Bengaluru Airport to get new rail link to Bengaluru city: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced a new railway link connecting Bengaluru city to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA).
- Ethiopian Airlines to Launch a Passenger Service to Hyderabad, India: Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa and one of the fastest-growing airline brands in the world, is pleased to announce the launch of a new thrice-weekly passenger service to Hyderabad, India, starting from June 16, 2025.
- The UAE unveils its pioneering transportation projects to revolutionize urban mobility : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is pioneering transformative transportation projects to revolutionize urban mobility across land, air, and water.
18 February 2025
- Sonamarg Tunnel to Boost Connectivity and Tourism in J&K, Says PM Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel, enhancing connectivity and boosting tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The tunnel addresses challenges like heavy snowfall and avalanches, ensuring year-round access.
- Goa's tourism sector performing better than national average, says minister : Goa's tourism sector outperforms the national average, said State Minister Rohan Khaunte. The government focuses on educating tourists about local culture and tradition.
- Mumbai airport plans to shift private and charter planes to Navi Mumbai by end of this year : Mumbai's congested airport plans to move business jets, turboprops, and charter aircraft to Navi Mumbai airport by year-end. Navi Mumbai International Airport, operational by 2025, will feature advanced infrastructure.
14 January 2025
- paris retains title as world's leading city destination for 2024: Paris has once again been declared the world's leading city destination for 2024, maintaining its top position for the fourth consecutive year.
- president murmu inaugurates three new railway lines in odisha : President Droupadi Murmu recently laid the foundation for three new railway lines in Odisha, aiming to enhance connectivity and boost the regional economy.
- philippines launches e-visa for indians for faster travel processing: Indians can now enjoy quicker travel processing to the Philippines with the new e-visa system.
10 December 2024
- India Gets First Water Transport Service 'Uber Shikara' In Srinagar: Tourists visiting the Dal Lake will now enjoy a hassle-free travel experience with the launch of Uber's first water transport service 'Uber Shikara'. This innovative initiative aims to combine technology with tradition allowing travelers to pre-book shikara rides through the popular ride-hailing app.
- Saudi to expand services, aims to bring 705 million indians to saudi arabia by 2030 : Saudi Arabia aims to attract 705 million Indian tourists annually by 2030, strengthening ties and economic growth between the two nations.
- Malaysia airlines expands network with inaugural flight to kolkata: Malaysia airlines proudly celebrated the inaugural flight to its new route to Kolkata, marking another milestone in its mission to provide seamless connectivity between Malaysia and key destinations in South Asia.
04 December 2024
- Kerala to formulate women-friendly tourism policy, aims to be world's safest destination: Kerala introduces a women-friendly tourism policy aiming to be the safest global destination, announced by Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas at the Global Women Conference.
- SpiceJet to operate Haj flights from four Indian cities in 2025 : SpiceJet will operate Haj flights in 2025 from Kolkata, Guwahati, Srinagar, and Gaya. The airline will facilitate the travel of approximately 15,500 pilgrims. Over 100 special flights will be operated using narrow-body and wide-body aircraft.
- Flights to Kolkata from Bangladesh dwindling due to ongoing crisis: Flights between Kolkata and Bangladesh have decreased significantly in recent months due to the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh. This has affected tourism and local businesses, with hotels, shops, and travel agents experiencing a drop in customers and occupancy rates.
02 December 2024
- travelers on schengen visas can add romania and bulgaria to their europe itinerary from 2025: Romania and Bulgaria are set to become full members of the Schengen Area by January 2025.
- China Extends Visa-Free Entry to 9 More Countries, Doubles Stay Limit to 30 Days: China has further expanded its visa-free entry program to cover citizens from nine additional countries. Starting November 30, visitors from a total of 38 eligible countries can stay in China visa-free for up to 30 days, doubling the previous limit of 15 days.
- Delhi-Kashmir direct trains to start from january 2025: Starting in January 2025, travelers can look forward to a direct railway from Delhi to kashmir, marking the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link(USBRL) project.
26 November 2024
- The rise of sleep tourism in 2025: Sleep tourism is emerging as a major travel trend for 2025, sleep tourism involves vacations aimed at enhancing sleep quality, often at luxurious resorts with wellness facilities.
- indian travelers can now use paytm upi for payments abroad: Paytm has launched UPI International, enabling Indian travelers to make cashless payments at select international destinations, enhancing convenience and security abroad.
- Chattisgarh's dhudmaras makes it to UNWTO's best tourism village upgrade programme: Dhudmaras, a small village in Chattisgarh's Bastar, has been listed by the UNWTO' for its best tourism village upgrade programme, showcasing its eco-tourism potential.
22 November 2024
- Andhra Pradesh’s first seaplane service set for trial run: Andhra Pradesh prepares for its first seaplane service. The trial is expected to take place on November 9 or shortly after November 15. The seaplane will fly from Vijayawada to Srisailam, reducing travel time from seven hours to 40 minutes.
- Myanmar introduces visa-free for 8 countries to boost tourism: Myanmar has introduced visa-free travel to citizens of eight countries as part of its efforts to boost tourism. The visa-free policy targets Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- Thailand extends visa-free entry for indian travelers indefinitely: Thailand's visa-free entry for Indians, initially set to end on November 11, 2024, has been extended indefinitely, allowing stays up to 60 days, extendable by 30 days.
06 November 2024
- China provides visa-free entry to nine more countries: China will offer visa-free entry to citizens from South Korea, Norway, Finland, and six other countries starting November 8, 2024. This policy will last until December 31, 2025. The 15-day visa-free entry aims to boost tourism and business.
- Karnataka will be made an international tourism destination: The Karnataka government approved the Tourism Policy 2024-29 to attract investments and promote international tourism. INR 1,349 crore has been granted for necessary amenities.
- Saudi arabia unveils sindalah island, first luxury tourism destination on red sea: Sindalah Island, part of Saudi Arabia's NEOM mega-city project, marks a significant step in the kingdom's luxury tourism under Vision 2030.
02 November 2024
- PM Modi virtually inaugurates Maa Mahamaya airport: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Maa Mahamaya airport in Darima, Chhattisgarh on Sunday. This airport will provide easier access to major cities from the remote tribal district of Surguja.
- Medical tourism system will be improved to eliminate middlemen: The health department of Karnataka is planning to create a transparent system to provide quality healthcare at reasonable costs for international patients. This cludes a government portal listing accredited hospitals and combining health tourism with wellness tourism.
- Two new lighthouses to be set up on Odisha's coast to boost tourism: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced the establishment of two new lighthouses on Odisha's coast to boost tourism. The lighthouses will be at Chaumukha and Dhamra.
21 October 2024
- India to become 5th country to operate hydrogen-powered trains India is set to become fifth country in the world to operate hydrogen-powered trains, marking a significant milestone in sustainable transportation.
- srilanka cheapest visa-free foreign destination for indians: Srilanka emerges as the most affordable visa-free destination for Indian travelers in 2024, offering a cultural and scenic experience without financial strain.
- festivities spark demand for travel and gold in india and china: Festive seasons in India and China have significantly influenced the travel and gold markets, with unique trends emerging in response to cultural traditions and economic factors.
09 October 2024
- japan, china india indonesia and south korea boost tourism in Asia: Japan, China, India, Indonesia and South Korea are enhancing tourism through rail, air and seac expansions.
- Direct flight from Kullu to Jaipur will start from, October 14: A new flight service by Alliance Air will connect Jaipur to Kullu starting October 14, reducing the travel time to two hours.
- First flight to take off from noida airport on april 17, 2025: Noida International Airport is set to commence commercial operations on April 17 next year, handling both domestic and international flights.
05 October 2024
- 'chalo India' campaign: India has launched the "Chalo India" campaign, offering 100,000 free visas to foreign tourists to boost international tourism.
- Shankh Air: India is all set to welcome its newest airline, Shankh Air, which will operate from major hubs in Uttar Pradesh.
- South africa set to boost tourism with focus on Indian and chinese markets: South Africa is set to boost its tourism sector by focusing on the lucrative Chinese and Indian markets.
02 October 2024
- US mission opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travelers: .The US Mission to India has announced an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travelers, covering tourists, skilled workers, and students This initiative aims to ease the visa process and strengthen US-India relations.
- Maharashtra Tourism Department introduces electric bus fleet for tourists visiting Ajanta Caves: The new electric bus fleet will cater to both domestic and international tourists. Visitors will be transported from the parking lot to the caves site.
- Abu Dhabi Airports marks early reopening of northern runway at Zayed International Airport: Abu Dhabi Airports has successfully reopened Zayed International Airport's Northern Runway ahead of schedule after completing a comprehensive rehabilitation project.
30 September 2024
- New fast-track immigration process at Delhi airport; expanding to 21 cities soon: .The Centre has introduced the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Travellers Programme (FTI-TTP) at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, reducing immigration time to a few seconds. The program will soon expand to 21 cities and major airports in India, enhancing the travel experience for pre-verified Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
- UK promotes eVisa transition, urges everyone, including Indians, to switch over: The UK government is urging immigrants, including Indian nationals, to switch from physical immigration documents to eVisas as part of its plan to digitize the border and immigration system by 2025.
- Thailand all set to launch ETA for India and 92 additional countries: Starting December 1, Thailand will introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for travellers from visa-exempt countries, including India. The ETA aims to enhance security and streamline immigration procedures. It will be valid for a single entry and allow a stay of up to 60 days, with an additional 30-day extension option.
19 September 2024
- Bali puts ban on building new hotels and clubs: Bali seeks two-year ban on building new hotels and clubs to slow down overcrowding.
- Bengaluru Airport on high alert: Bengaluru Airport on high alert amid Mpox outbreak; passengers from African countries to go through mandatory screening.
- Bhutan open to unlimited tourists, confirms Tourism Chief: Bhutan will not limit the number of visitors, ensuring high-value tourism. The country aims to attract quality tourists while preserving its environment and culture. Visitors must pay a sustainable development fee, contributing to Bhutan's sustainability goals. Indian travelers are the majority, followed by the US and UK.
16 September 2024
- Kerala to declare 25 'green tourism destinations': Kerala is set to declare 25 locations across the state as 'Green Tourism Destinations' on October 02, aiming to enhance sustainable tourism practices.
- bihar rolls out 'bed-and-breakfast scheme' for homeowners near tourist spots: The Bihar government has introduced a new bed-and-breakfast scheme aimed at boosting tourism and providing additional income to local residents.
- karnataka's ambitious plan to lead India's river cruise tourism: Karnataka is gearing up to transform its river systems into bustling cruise tourism hubs, with full support from the Tourism Department.
13 September 2024
- 90-day visa-free access: South Africa's new visa scheme aims to enhance tourism by offering 90-day visa-free access to Indian travelers.
- tashkent-goa flights from october 27: Uzbekistan Airways is set to launch direct flights from Tashkent to Goa, creating new avenues for tourism and cultural exchange between Uzbekistan and India.
- saudi tourism launches its first integrated consumer campaign: Saudi tourism authority has launched its first comprehensive consumer campaign in India, aiming to attract Indian travelers to explore Saudi Arabia's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
10 September 2024
- Wi-Fi in the air: Air India is set to introduce Wi-Fi on its flights, starting with the A350 aircraft on the Delhi to London Heathrow route.
- New Zealand to triple entry fees for international tourists: New Zealand plans to nearly triple entry fees for international tourists from NZD 35 to NZD 100 starting October 1.
- Delhi to Dehradun in just 2.5 hours with new expressway opening soon: While the expressway is set to offer a faster route to Dehradun, the link connecting the expressway to Haridwar is expected to be completed by May 2025.
06 September 2024
- India’s longest sea bridge creates record: The Atal Setu in Mumbai has created a mindblowing record. Since its inauguration seven months ago, India's longest sea bridge connecting Mumbai with Navi Mumbai, has been used by over 5 million vehicles according to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
- Train services in Tripura, Mizoram hit for a week due to flood, landslides: Floods in Tripura and Mizoram caused severe damage to railway tracks, suspending train services for nearly a week.
- Toll hike from september 1 in Tamil nadu: Starting September 1, tolls in Tamil Nadu will increase, affecting travel from Chennai and Bengaluru as well as southern and western districts.
27 August 2024
- Sri Lanka To Offer Visa-free Entry: Sri Lanka to offer visa-free entry to citizens of 35 countries, including India, from October 1.
- France in Europe - Most Visited Country: In a recent update, France is all set to become the most visited country in the world by 2025.
- New road to reduce Travel Time Between Assam And Meghalaya: In a latest update, the road travel time between Assam and Meghalaya will be reduced to mere 45 minutes from 1.30 minutes. This development promises to enhance transportation efficiency, providing a smoother and quicker journey for travelers.
24 August 2024
- Abu Dhabi Named World's Safest And Most Livable City For 2024: Abu Dhabi retained its position as the world's safest city, as reported by the Global Livability Index and Number's rankings.
- Australia To Trial Digital Travel Passes As Replacement For Paper Cards: Australia launched a pilot program to replace paper passenger cards with a digital system for Qantas flight passengers from New Zealand. Travelers can submit immigration and customs details digitally up to 72 hours before arrival.
- VFS Global To Deliver Algeria Visa Services Across India, Nepal & Sri Lanka: Starting September 1, 2024, VFS Global will begin accepting visa applications for Algeria at its centers located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kathmandu, and Colombo. This marks a significant improvement for applicants in India, who previously could only submit their visa applications through the Algerian Embassy in Delhi.
19 August 2024
- Delhi Airport's Terminal 1 To Resume: Good news for travellers! Delhi Airport's Terminal 1 (T1) is all set to resume operations from August 17 with SpiceJet flights.
- North Korea To Restart International Tourism: After a long COVID shutdown, North Korea has announced plans to restart international tourism in its northeastern city of Samjiyon from December 2024.
- Himachal Pradesh Announces Rs 696 Crore Investment To Boost Tourism: Himachal Pradeshh Chief Minister has announced 11 projects worth Rs 696.47 crore to signify boost the state's tourism sector.
16 August 2024
- India Cautions Citizens Against Travelling To Bangladesh: In response to escalating violence in Bangladesh, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a strong advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid travel to the country until further notice.
- Visa-on-Arrival Facility Available For Nationals Of Japan, South Korea, UAE: The Visa-on-Arrival facility for Japan, South Korea, and UAE nationals has been announced, allowing a stay of up to 60 days. This initiative, along with expand expanded e-Visa access to nationals aims to simplify travel to India.
- India Advises Visitors To UK To Stay Cautious: The High Commission of India in London has issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals in the UK, urging them to "stay vigilant and exercise due caution" due to ongoing violent clashes targeting immigrants and asylum seekers..
06 August 2024
- Himachal Pradesh - New Tourism Hotspot: Himachal Pradesh to develop Bhohat Kasol as new tourism hotspot.
- Kenya Visa-free Travel: Kenya boosts tourism with visa-free travel for 75 countries including Singapore, Botswana, South Africa.
- Indonesia Launches Golden Visa: Indonesia introduced a 'Golden Visa' scheme to attract skilled professionals and investors, allowing five to ten year stay.
02 August 2024
- Direct Flights From Mumbai To Kuwait: Akasa Air to launch direct flights between Kuwait City and Mumbai from August 23.
- Complimentary WiFi On International Flights: Vistara becomes first Indian airline to offer complimentary WiFi on international flights.
- Singapore Now Has The Most Powerful Passport In The World: Singapore has reclaimed its position as the holder of the world's most powerful passport, surpassing European countries like France, Germany, Italy and Spain.
30 July 2024
- India Saw 92 Lakh Foreign Tourists: India saw a significant increase in foreign tourist arrivals in 2023, making a strong post-pandemic recovery.
- Union Budget 2024: The union budget 2024 has allocated Rs 2,479 crore for the tourism sector in FY25, with several initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in Bihar and Odisha.
- India Expands UPI one World: UPI One World wallet now enables seamless digital payments for all inbound international travelers visiting India, enhancing their financial convenience and travel experience.
24 July 2024
- Mumbai Airport: Mumbai Airport sees 7.2% rise in passenger traffic, handles 13.46 million travellers in June quarter.
- Mumbai’s First Underground Metro: Mumbai’s first underground metro line to commence operations from July 24.
- New Zealand Immigration : Foreigners restricted to support work or student visa applications for spouses.
18 July 2024
- UAE Visas Now Available For Bangladeshi Citizens Worldwide: Bangladeshi citizens can now apply for UAE tourist visas through DuDigital Global Bangladesh, regardless of their current location.
- Qutub Minar Leaves Agra Fort Behind : Qutub Minar leaves Agra Fort behind to become the second most visited monument by foreigners in 2023-24.
- Women-friendly Tourism Gains Momentum In Kerala : Kerala is emerging as a leading destination for women-friendly tourism, initiatives aimed at creating a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for women travelers.
13 July 2024
- Bengaluru Second Airport: The Karnataka government has emphasized the need for a second airport in Bengaluru, a rapidly expanding global metropolis, capable of handling 100 million passengers annually.
- Indians Travelling To Qatar Will Soon Be Able To Make UPI Payments : NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), on Thursday signed an agreement with QNB, headquartered in Qatar, to launch QR code-based payments across the Gulf nation.
- Akasa Air Expands International Reach With Inaugural Flight To Abu Dhabi : Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, marked a significant milestone by launching its inaugural daily direct flight from Mumbai to Abu Dhabi.
12 July 2024
- Asia's Largest Flying School : Air India to launch South Asia's largest flying school in Amravati.
- Saudi Launches New Visa Schemes : Saudi launches new visa schemes, aims to attract 7.5 million Indian tourists by 2030.
- Italy's Tourism Industry Booms : Italy's tourism industry experiences a significant boost in 2024 due to visa-free access to 196 countries, including UAE, USA, UK and Singapore .
08 July 2024
- Akasa Air To Add 200 Aircraft : Akasa Air to add aircraft over next eight years and begin Abu Dhabi service from July 11.
- India Announces Free 30-day e-Tourist Visa : India has introduced a free 30-day e-Tourist visa for Malaysian passport holders, a move aimed at boosting tourism between the two countries, effective from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
- Qatar Airways Posts Highest-Ever Annual Profit : Qatar Airways posted a 39% increase in annual profit, achieving a record $1.67 billion.
05 July 2024
- India's Tourism To The USA : India emerges as second biggest tourist market for the USA in the first half of 2024.
- Millions Spent On Rejected Schengen Visa : Indians spent over €12 million in rejected Schengen visa applications in 2023.
- World's Largest Museum : India all set to get world's largest museum at Raisina Hill by 2025.
03 July 2024
- Akasa Air Pay Day Sale : Akasa Air announces pay day sale, up to 20% discount on airfares. Customers can avail the offer till July 1st.
- Taiwan Warns To Avoid Travel : Taiwan tells citizens to avoid travel to China, Hong Kong, and Macao amid execution threats.
- Japan's Tourism Surge- 14.5 Million Arrivals In 2024 : Japan is currently witnessing an extraordinary tourism boom driven by a weakened yen and a post-pandemic surge in global travel.
29 June 2024
- Kolkata Metro : Kolkata Metro Boosts 5G Connectivity Under Hooghly River.
- Flight Chaos In Delhi : Amid heavy rainfall in Delhi, several domestic airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, issued critical travel advisories to passengers, urging them to carefully monitor their flight statuses before heading to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).
- Reconsider Travel Plans To Lebanon : India, US Issue Advisories For Nationals Amid Security Concerns.
28 June 2024
- Noida International Airport : Noida International Airport set to begin operations by April 2025.
- Skytrax Awards : Vistara flies high in top 20 Best Airlines, Qatar Airways takes the crown.
- India In Top 5 : India ranked fifth in the number of Schengen visa applications to Spain, with 91,863 applications in 2023.
26 June 2024
- Global Domestic Airline Market : India secures third spot in the Global Domestic Airline Market.
- Visa-Free Travel : Maldives sets record with 1.8 million new international tourists; leaves Seychelles behind.
- Paris’s Eiffel Tower Ticket Price : Paris’s Eiffel Tower ticket price increased by 20 percent to meet the maintenance cost.
25 June 2024
- Solan Tops The Chart Of Visitor Numbers : Solan - Himachal Pradesh records 7.4 million tourists.
- World’s Highest Railway Bridge - Services On The Line Will Start Soon : Indian Railway conducts a trial run on the newly constructed world’s highest railway bridge-Chenab Rail Bridge, built between Sangaldan in Ramban district and Reasi.
- Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Services : Namo bharat rapid rail services to Meerut will start next week, to cut travel time by 30 minutes.
21 June 2024
- Vande Metro Ready : Vande Bharat sleeper trials set for 15 August 2024.
- Air India - Premium Economy Cabins : Air India is set to launch premium economy cabins on select domestic routes starting in july 2024.
- South Korea To launch K-Culture Training Visa : South Korea is set to launch a new visa that allows foreign nationals to train like K-pop idols, aiming to boost tourism and cultural immersion.
20 June 2024
- Travel Demand Among Indians : Travel demand soars among Indians for T20 Cricket World Cup and Paris Olympics.
- Air India Express : Air India Express to begin daily flights on Kolkata-Ghaziabad route from August 15.
- Mumbai - AI enabled Cameras : Mumbai airport enhances passenger processing capacity, to deploy AI-enabled cameras.
13 June 2024
- Regenerative Tourism : Goa becomes India’s first state to launch Regenerative Tourism.
- Ras Al Khaimah : Ras Al Khaimah is eyeing over 20% growth in tourist arrivals from India with targeted marketing campaigns and addition of new hotels.
- Azerbaijan Tourism : Azerbaijan Tourism appoints BRANDit as its India Representative.
11 June 2024
- Thailand Opens Doors : Two-month visa-free travel for Indian passport holders.
- Bengaluru To London : Air India to operate direct flights from Bengaluru to London Gatwick,Starting August 18 2024.
- Eid Al Adha in Dubai : Free entry for children at Expo City attractions.
08 June 2024
- Big Boost To Tourism : Five-star hotels to be constructed in all 20 districts of J&K.
- Germany’s ‘Opportunity Card’ : The new visa system commenced June 1, 2024, the Opportunity Card program, which allows non-European Union (EU) citizens to move to Germany for a year to explore employment opportunities.
- Rajasthan Heatwave Dents Tourism : Severe heatwave in Rajasthan has significantly impacted the hospitality and tourism industry with occupancies and room rates crashing to worst levels witnessed in years.
03 June 2024
- Historic Palaces Into Heritage Hotels : Uttar Pradesh to convert historic forts and palaces into heritage hotels to boost tourism.
- Schengen Visa Fees To Cost More : Starting June 11, obtaining a Schengen visa for travel to Europe will come at a higher cost, as the European Commission has approved a fee increase.
- Increase In Tourism - 1.25 Million Visitors : Kashmir is experiencing a tourism boom in 2024, with an influx of over 1.25 million visitors, which contributes to the local economy in a big way.
01 June 2024
- Delhi To Agra In Just 90 Minutes : Travel Between Delhi To Agra In Just 90 Minutes With New High-Speed Vande Bharat Express Train.
- Airline Of The Year : Qatar Airways Named ‘Airline of the Year’ by Airline Ratings for 2024.
- Thailand Expands Visa-Free Entry : Starting June 1, the number of countries eligible for visa-free entry to Thailand will increase from 57 to 93.
31 May 2024
- Time To Travel Offer : Air India Express has started its ‘Time to Travel’ offer that allows travellers to book air tickets starting at just ₹1,177. The offer is valid from May 29 until June 3.
- US Travel Chaos : Thousands stranded due to Southwest Airlines system outage. 1500 flights delayed and cancelled.
- 63-Hour Mega Block : The Central Railway has announced a 63-hour mega block that will commence at midnight on May 30, which will cancel 930 local trains.
30 May 2024
- High-Speed Trains : Indian Haj pilgrims will now travel from Jeddah airport to Makkah on high-speed trains, reducing travel time.
- Advance Booking For Houseboats : Increased tourist footfall in Srinagar; may have to book a month in advance for houseboat rides.
- IndiGo : IndiGo to connect North Goa with Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar & Nagpur with direct flights from July 2.
27 May 2024
- Schengen Area : Schengen Area now consists of 29 Countries as, Bulgaria and Romania officially joined the Schengen area.
- UAE Visa Update : Travellers need to have INR 68,000; only visa and return tickets not enough.
- India Ranks 39th : India ranks 39th on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development.
25 May 2024
- United Kingdom : Flood alert across UK, people warned against travel.
- Kazakhstan : Visa-free travel policy with Vietnam introduced.
- Schengen Visa : Schengen Visa Demand Surges In India, Travel Plans Disrupted By Interview Slot Shortages.
17 May 2024
- Akasa Air : Akasa Air to start flights to Jeddah from Jul 15.
- Mount Fuji : Mount Fuji Implements Online Booking System To Deal With Overcrowding.
- China : China allows visa-free entry for overseas groups on cruise ships to boost its sluggish inbound travel market.
16 May 2024
- UAE-Visa Support For Indians : UAE to offer visa support for Indians hosting Abu Dhabi destination weddings.
- Thailand : Visit thailand's top destinations as visa -free for Indians extended until november.
- Air India Express : Air India Express flight cancellations cause surge in airfares.
15 May 2024
- Thailand Visa-free : Thailand extends visa-free entry to Indians till November 11.
- Sri Lanka : Sri Lankan government has announced an extension of visa-free entry for visitors from India and select countries until May 31, 2024.
- Maldives : Tourists arrivals from India to the Maldives decreased by 42 percent.
09 May 2024
- Kerala's Private Train : Kerala's first private train service from June 4.
- Oman Tourism Innovations : Oman to Highlight New Innovations in Tourism at Arabian Travel Market 2024.
- Sanglaphu Lake Opened : Sikkim’s Sanglaphu Lake opened to the public for the first time in history!
06 May 2024
- China Tourism Booming : China tourism booming as visa-free travel for 15 countries climbs over 266%.
- Dubai - Arabian Travel Market : Dubai Set to Host Arabian Travel Market, Unveiling New Horizons in Travel and Tourism Industry, May 6-9.
- Ooty Flower Festival : Ooty Flower Festival 2024 to begin from May 17; details inside.
04 May 2024
- Astro Tourism : Uttarakhand partners with Starscapes to promote Astro Tourism.
- Dubai Flights Cancelled : Dubai hit by heavy rainfall again; flights cancelled and advisories issued.
- Air India : Air India Doubles Down on Phuket Routes Starting June 2024.
03 May 2024
- IndiGo's Future Takes Flight : CEO Elbers discusses A350 order, busines model flexibility & FSC plans.
- Dubai - Invest $35 Billion : Dubai to invest $35 billion to build world's largest airport.
- Sikkim Tourist Influx : Sikkim witnesses record tourist influx; projected to reach 1.2 million visitors by year end.
02 May 2024
- Australia - Travelers Stranded : Travelers stranded as Australian airline cancels all flights.
- Indian Railways : No more 1 litre water bottles for passengers on Vande Bharat and Shatabdi trains; says Indian Railways.
- Madras HC : Madras HC orders to issue e-passes to enter Ootty, Kodaikanal from May 7 to June 30.
01 May 2024
- Kashmir Travel Disrupted : Kashmir on Edge as Avalanches and Landslides Block Highways, Travel Disrupted.
- Bhutan : Travel to Bhutan Made Easier as Its Government Lifts Mandatory Travel Insurance Requirement.
- Dubai - World’s Largest Airport : Dubai Announces Start of Construction on World’s Largest Airport.
30 April 2024
- Sky One : Lack of senior pilots threatens airlines’ profitability.
- Cash Refunds : Airlines now required to offer cash refunds for canceled flights, delays and luggage woes.
- Second Cheapest Passport : Indian passport is the second cheapest passport in the world, after UAE.
26 April 2024
- India Travel Trends : Search for spiritual destinations surges 97%, Delhi scores high in inquiries.
- Bali-Dengue Fever Increasing Cases : Bali urges foreign tourists to get dengue fever vaccines amid increasing cases.
- Traffic Warning : Traffic warning as 10,000 Sikhs expected to take part in Leicester's Nagar Kirtan parade.
24 April 2024
- Report : 95% of Indian travellers interested in sustainable travel.
- Domestic Air Traffic : Domestic air traffic soars to new single-day high, crosses 4.71 lakh passengers.
- IndiGo-Electric Air Taxi : IndiGo soon to launch electric air taxi. Travel from Delhi to Gurugram in 7-minutes.
23 April 2024
- Age Limit For Adventure Sports : Himachal Pradesh High Court sets age limit for adventure sports like rafting and kayaking amid safety concerns.
- Air India-A350 Aircraft : Air India Introduces A350 Aircraft on Delhi-Dubai Route.
- Indonesia: Tsunami alert issued as Mount Ruang volcano erupts 5 times in a row.
22 April 2024
- 70-Storey Skyscraper Temple : Vrindavan to soon have a 70-storey Skyscraper temple to boost tourism.
- Travelling To South America? : Indians Will Now Need An e-Transit Visa Via Istanbul.
- Best Airport In The World : Doha’s Hamad International Airport crowned as the best airport in the world.
18 April 2024
- Top 10 Busiest Airports : Delhi Airport ranked among world’s top 10 busiest airports.
- Digital Nomad Visa : Italy and Spain launch Digital Nomad Visa.
- Hajj Package Announced : Pilgrims travelling via Kozhikode to pay highest amount.
17 April 2024
- Ahmedabad-Delhi Bullet Train : Ahmedabad-Delhi Bullet Train to Cut Travel Time to 3.5 Hours.
- Iran Israel War Travel Advisory : India issues advisory, says “not to travel to Iran or Israel”.
- Amarnath Yatra 2024 : Pilgrimage to start from June 29, registration now open.
16 April 2024
- Indian Railways Prioritizes Senior Citizens : Indian Railways Prioritizes Lower Berth Reservation For Senior Citizens.
- Digi Yatra: Digi Yatra will be implemented at 14 additional airports by the end of April.
- Gujaratis Rescheduling Travel Plans: Gujaratis rescheduling domestic travel plans due to polls, say agents.
15 April 2024
- Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia eyes 7.5 mn Indian travellers as Riyadh pushes Vision 2030.
- Roadshows In India: Maldives plans to win back Indian tourists by organising roadshows in India.
- Incentive Travel In India: Incentive Travel Is Growing in India as a Performance Booster.
13 April 2024
- United States Travel Restrictions: The United States has restricted travel for its employees in Israel amid fears of an attack by Iran.
- Increase In Permanent Residence Fees: Canadian Permanent Residence Application Fees to Increase End of April.
- Spain-Golden Visas: Spain to scrap ‘golden visas’ for foreign investors.
12 April 2024
- Nonstop To Saigon: Nonstop To Saigon! Air India's New Delhi-Ho Chi Minh City Route Takes Flight In June.
- US Relaxing Travel Warnings: US considers relaxing travel warnings for China-bound Americans.
- Indian Railways: Indian Railways nearing milestone to become world’s largest green network.
11 April 2024
- Mount Everest Access: China reopens Mount Everest access to foreigners.
- Solar Eclipse: Solar eclipse boosts travel as Americans chase rare celestial event.
- Vistara Flight Costs Up: As Vistara scales down flights by 10%, Srinagar, Jammu flight costs up by 25%.
09 April 2024
- Kerala: Beach tourism activities banned in Kannur due to rough seas.
- SpiceJet : SpiceJet launches direct flights between Hyderabad & Ayodhya, resumes operations from Pakyong.
- Travel Caution: Sydney and southeast Australia on alert as torrential rains trigger flood warnings, travel caution.
06 April 2024
- Bali : Bali implements tourist tax, sparks global traveller debate.
- Vietnam : Vietnam among world's safest places for solo female travel.
- Japan eVisa: Japan starts issuing eVisas for Indian tourists.
05 April 2024
- India Report: IndiGo Partners With Malaysia Airlines.
- Vistara Cancellations: Fliers cancel Vistara bookings, airline crisis could drive up fares.
- Manali: Devlok Manali, the newly launched theme park, is a cultural gem.
04 April 2024
- Precautions To Take: Tourism activities temporarily banned in Kerala's coastal areas
- Uttarakhand: Helicopter services launched for Adi Kailash and Om Parvat yatra
- Vistara | Air India: The prominent Indian airlines Air India and Vistara have announced a merger.