News

Global Tourists Drive Record Visitor Growth to Karnataka’s Historic Vijayanagar

Karnataka’s Vijayanagar district has emerged as a magnet for global travelers, drawing visitors from the United States, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Australia, Japan, and many other countries. Between 2021 and 2025, the district welcomed over 1.53 crore tourists, a surge fueled by its unique blend of ancient heritage, stunning landscapes, and wildlife attractions. From the majestic ruins of Hampi to the serene Tungabhadra reservoir, along with temples, sanctuaries, and cultural hotspots, Vijayanagar offers an experience that appeals to history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike, making it a must-visit destination on India’s tourism map. Hosapete’s Vijayanagar district continues to shine as a prime destination for travelers, maintaining its allure even five years after being carved out from Ballari district. Tourism officials report that between 2021 and 2025, the district welcomed an impressive 1.53 crore visitors, reflecting its growing importance on both the domestic and international tourism map. Of these visitors, 69,304 were foreign nationals, underscoring Vijayanagar’s global appeal. The region’s historical and natural landmarks form the backbone of its tourism success. Hampi, the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient ruins and architectural marvels, drew 39.36 lakh tourists in the last five years. Its iconic stone temples, intricately carved monuments, and scenic landscapes continue to captivate history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

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Thailand Tourism Stays Strong as Malaysian Arrivals Hold Steady Amid Rising Costs

Thailand’s travel sector continues to attract strong numbers of Malaysian tourists despite rising travel costs and global energy challenges, with the country benefiting from a steady inflow of visitors from China, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other key markets. This resilience is largely driven by the ease of overland travel, making cross-border trips more accessible, and the growing preference for short-haul holidays amid broader economic pressures. Even as airfares rise and flight frequencies fluctuate due to geopolitical tensions and fuel price volatility, Thailand’s combination of proximity, cultural appeal, and regional connectivity keeps it high on the list of preferred destinations for neighboring countries. Thailand’s tourism sector is showing remarkable resilience, particularly among visitors from Malaysia, even as global energy market volatility pushes travel costs higher. Many Malaysian travellers continue to rely on overland routes rather than air travel, helping sustain cross-border tourism despite rising airfares and economic pressures.

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Thailand Introduces New Visa-on-Arrival Fee for Indian Travellers in 2026

Thailand is introducing a major change in 2026 for Indian travellers by ending the 60-day visa-free entry and replacing it with a Visa on Arrival system requiring a fee of two thousand Thai Baht, a move aimed at improving border security and regulating tourist arrivals. Visitors will need a passport valid for at least six months, confirmed return or onward tickets, and proof of accommodation, ensuring smoother and safer entry processes. Despite the added requirement, Thailand remains a top destination, offering vibrant cities, pristine beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, cultural temples, and scenic northern highlands, allowing travellers to enjoy Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, and other iconic locations while experiencing a more structured and secure travel environment. Thailand remains one of the top international destinations for Indian travellers, thanks to its tropical beaches, vibrant cities, affordable accommodations, and diverse cultural experiences. However, 2026 marks a significant shift in entry regulations for Indian visitors. The long-standing 60-day visa-free entry policy has been replaced with a Visa on Arrival (VoA) system. Under this updated framework, travellers will need to obtain a visa upon arrival at designated entry points, pay the prescribed fee of 2,000 Thai Baht, and present essential documents, including a passport valid for at least six months, confirmed return or onward flight tickets, and proof of accommodation. This change reflects the country’s efforts to improve border security while continuing to welcome international tourists.

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Etihad and Condor Expand Partnership with New Bangkok–Abu Dhabi Flights

Etihad Airways and Condor have expanded their strategic cooperation with a new phase of network and loyalty integration, highlighted by the introduction of a Condor-operated Bangkok–Abu Dhabi service. The development further strengthens connectivity across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a central interchange point for long-haul international travel. The latest announcement builds on the partnership framework agreed in 2025 and reflects a gradual deepening of collaboration between the two carriers. What initially began as limited codeshare cooperation has evolved into a broader commercial alignment that now includes route expansion, frequent flyer integration, and coordinated network planning across multiple regions. At the centre of the expansion is Condor’s new Bangkok–Abu Dhabi route, which becomes part of its growing operations through the UAE capital. This service joins previously announced routes from Frankfurt and Berlin, forming a three-city European and Asian connection strategy via Abu Dhabi. The addition of Bangkok introduces a high-demand leisure market in Southeast Asia, strengthening both inbound and outbound travel flows.

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Delta vs United: The Airline Battle Reshaping Global Travel Routes

The steady stream of Delta airline news has been hard to ignore lately, especially as the Delta vs United rivalry continues to shape how long-haul travel is evolving across the Pacific. What used to feel like routine network planning is now turning into a much more visible competition between two of the biggest names in US aviation—Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. Every new update feels connected to a bigger shift. Flights are changing, routes are being added or reshuffled, and both carriers are clearly trying to outmaneuver each other in one of the most valuable travel corridors in the world. At the heart of it all is simple pressure: demand between the US and Asia isn’t just recovering—it’s reorganizing itself. And both airlines are racing to keep up. The Pacific Is Where The Real Battle Is Happening A big part of recent Delta airline news revolves around long-haul expansion, especially across Asia. The competition shows up most clearly in the transpacific flight route updates, where both airlines are adding and fine-tuning services to key cities.

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Thailand Travel Guide for Indians: Visa Rules, Best Time to Visit & Top Destinations

Thailand continues to captivate Indian travellers as a top international destination, offering a perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cities, rich culture, and affordable experiences. With visa rules changing in 2026, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about entry requirements, peak seasons, and practical travel tips. From exploring Bangkok’s bustling markets to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Phuket and Krabi, and discovering northern gems like Chiang Mai, understanding when to visit, how to get around, and where to stay can transform a simple holiday into an unforgettable adventure. This guide reveals everything Indian travellers need to know to plan the ultimate Thailand getaway. Thailand continues to rank among the top international destinations for Indian travellers, thanks to its short flight durations, affordable accommodation, tropical beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse experiences. From bustling cities to serene islands, the country offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion suitable for every type of traveller.

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