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Ahom Dynasty's Mound-Burial System Now In UNESCO World Heritage List

New Delhi: The mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam -- 'Moidams' -- was on Friday included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, making it the first cultural property from the Northeast to get the coveted tag. The decision was taken during the ongoing 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) being held in India. 'Moidams' was submitted as India's nomination for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the year 2023-24. In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it was a matter of "immense joy and pride" for India that 'Moidams' had made it to the WHC list "The Moidams at Charaideo showcase the glorious Ahom culture, which places utmost reverence to ancestors. I hope more people learn about the great Ahom rule and culture. Glad that the Moidams join the #WorldHeritage List," he said. The unique burial mounds, represented by pyramid-like structures known as 'Moidams', were used by the Tai-Ahom dynasty that ruled Assam for around 600 years. 'Moidams' are vaulted chambers (chow-chali), often double-storied, that has an arched passage for entry. Atop the hemispherical mud mounds, layers of bricks and earth are laid. The base of the mound is reinforced by a polygonal toe-wall and an arched gateway on the west, according to the UNESCO website. "Eventually, the mound would be covered by a layer of vegetation, reminiscent of a group of hillocks, transforming the area into an undulating landscape," the description of 'Moidams' said. Excavation shows each vaulted chamber has a centrally-raised platform where the body was laid. Several objects used by the deceased during his life, like royal insignia, objects made of wood, ivory or iron, gold pendants, ceramic ware, weapons, clothes to the extent of human beings (only from the Luk-kha-khun clan) were buried with their king, according to the website. Reacting to 'Moidams' receiving the UNESCO tag, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said it is a day "etched in golden letters" and thanked UNESCO, the World Heritage Committee for understanding the outstanding universal value of 'Moidams'. The session of the WHC being held at the Bharat Mandapam here from July 21 to July 31, will examine 27 nominations from across the world, including 19 cultural sites, four natural sites and two mixed sites. India is hosting the key event of UNESCO for the first time. Ahead of the start of the session, Janhwij Sharma, additional director general of the Archaeological Survey of India, told reporters that ICOMOS, an advisory body to UNESCO, had recommended favourably for the inscription of the 'Moidams' which meant that it "fulfils all those parameters". The Paris-based International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) is one of the key advisory bodies to UNESCO and its experts visit the nominated sites. Vishal V Sharma, chairperson of the WHC and ambassador and permanent representative of India to UNESCO, had said in a press conference that if the nomination gets accepted, it would be the first cultural property from the Northeast to get a UNESCO tag. The Kaziranga National Park and the Manas National Park fall in the natural and mixed heritage categories respectively, he added. In an interview with news agency PTI on Monday, Sharma said he was hopeful that 'Moidams' would make it to the list.

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Pakistan Eases Visa Rules for Sikh Visitors for 126 nations

In response to its financial challenges, the Pakistani government has introduced visa-on-arrival privileges for Sikhs holding passports from countries other than India, along with waiving visa fees for travelers from 126 nations. This decision, made during a federal cabinet meeting on Wednesday, aims to generate additional revenue sources. The cabinet approved a sub-category for visa-on-arrival facilities specifically for Sikh pilgrims from third countries and decided to implement a dashboard at the Interior Ministry to oversee the online visa system. Shiromani Akali Dal Delhi Chief Paramjit Singh Sarna welcomed the move, stating that the decision to grant visas on arrival to NRI Sikhs visiting Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and other historical gurdwaras in Pakistan aligns with Sikh aspirations. He also expressed hope that Pakistan would extend similar facilities to Sikhs living in India and appealed for relaxation of passport requirements for devotees visiting Gurdwara Darbar Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib via the Kartarpur Corridor, suggesting the use of other identifications like Aadhaar cards. The Pakistani government has also launched a relaxed visa policy that includes an online visa application system, allowing citizens from 126 countries to obtain business and tourist visas within 24 hours, with exemptions from processing fees. To attract Sikh pilgrims from countries beyond India, Pakistan plans to establish several ‘star category’ sarais (inns) at Kartarpur Sahib and open shopping malls offering branded Pakistani products, catering to the high demand from the Indian diaspora.

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Travel + Leisure Honors Hotel Casa Real of Viña Santa Rita as One of the World’s Best Hotels

Travel + Leisure, one of the world’s most influential tourism magazines, has announced the winners of the World’s Best Awards 2024. Among the top 100 hotels globally, Hotel Casa Real of Viña Santa Rita was ranked #40. In addition, the magazine compiled a list of the best resorts in South America, where Hotel Casa Real secured the second position. Situated in the Maipo Valley, just 45 minutes from Santiago, Hotel Casa Real is renowned for its heritage wine offerings. Guests can tour the 40-hectare centenary park, visit the neo-Gothic chapel adjacent to the hotel, explore over eight types of tours and historical cellars, and enjoy lunch at the Doña Paula restaurant. The Andean Museum, part of the Claro Vial Foundation, houses a collection of nearly 3,000 archaeological and ethnographic pieces from pre-Columbian cultures. For Elena Carretero, Corporate Affairs, Sustainability, and Tourism Manager of Viña Santa Rita, South America is an ideal choice for travellers seeking authentic and sophisticated experiences in the region, and this recognition is a clear reflection of the natural and cultural wealth that Chile has to offer. “Our country provides unique and memorable experiences, from the stunning landscapes of the north to the majesty of Patagonia, along with the wine tradition and history, which is one of Chile’s great ambassadors. Hotel Casa Real, along with the other distinguished hotels, symbolizes the effort and passion of the Chilean tourism industry to deliver its natural and cultural essence, forged and preserved over time, to be sustainably visited by national and international visitors. To this end, a world-class service and unparalleled hospitality have been developed. Additionally, wine represents Chile’s identity globally, and we are proud to be part of the effort to establish our country as a top-tier destination,” she says. Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards annually highlight the finest in the travel industry, from hotels and resorts to destinations and airlines. These accolades are highly esteemed in the tourism sector and are based on reader surveys. Evaluation criteria include service quality, facilities, gastronomy, prime location, and the overall tourism offerings of each establishment. In the latest survey, 186,000 readers participated, casting over 700,000 votes for more than 8,700 establishments, including hotels, cities, and cruise lines. The complete list of winners across various categories can be viewed at this link. This recognition adds to the growing list of accolades for Viña Santa Rita. In April, the World Wine Tourism Organization (OMET) awarded the winery the title of “Best Responsible Wine Tourism Experience” globally. Last year, Hotel Casa Real was also named one of the seven best resorts in the region by Conde Nast through its Readers’ Choice Awards.

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Swosti Premium achieves 5-star Deluxe classification

Swosti Premium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, after complete renovations and upgradaton in service standards, has now been upgraded from 5-star to 5-star Deluxe Classification by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This prestigious recognition acknowledges our team’s tireless efforts, dedication and commitment to deliver excellence in service, amenities and overall guest experience. The 5-Star Deluxe classification is a testament towards luxurious accommodations and amenities, world-class dining experiences, exceptional service standard and State-of-the-art facilities and services. In the coming days, Swosti Group will be unveiling the first 5-star deluxe hotel in Puri to cater to domestic and international tourists.

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Suriname Tourism Surge as 24 countries Eligible Under Visa Free Travel Program

Suriname travel industry is experiencing a surge, fueled by its recent implementation of visa-free travel for 24 countries, including Japan, Malaysia, and Russia. This strategic move is expected to significantly boost tourism, attracting visitors from diverse regions and enhancing the country’s appeal as a premier travel destination. Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is characterized by its vast tropical rainforests. The economy is heavily reliant on its abundant natural resources, particularly bauxite, of which it is one of the world’s leading producers. Suriname is a culturally diverse nation with influences from the Caribbean, India, Africa, Asia, and the United States, reflected in its varied cuisine, musical styles, and languages. Expats living in Suriname enjoy good access to shops, restaurants, healthcare, and educational facilities.The country with the most visitors to Suriname is typically the Netherlands. This is due to historical connections, as Suriname was a former Dutch colony, and there are strong cultural and familial ties between the two countries. Suriname experienced a steady increase in tourist arrivals from 2010 to 2017, reaching a peak of 279,000 visitors in 2017, the highest in 22 years. The country’s rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife attract visitors worldwide. Despite some fluctuations, Suriname’s tourism industry demonstrates promising growth. Airports in Suriname: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport located near Zanderij, is Suriname’s main airport, handling over 200,000 passengers annually. It serves as the primary gateway for international travelers, connecting Suriname with major destinations worldwide. Zorg en Hoop Airport (IATA: ORG), situated in Paramaribo, primarily serves domestic flights and some regional destinations, handling around 30,000 passengers annually. It plays a crucial role in connecting the capital with remote areas within Suriname. Laduani Airstrip (IATA: LDO), located in the interior of Suriname, primarily supports charter and domestic flights, handling approximately 5,000 passengers annually. It is essential for access to remote regions and serves as a vital link for local communities and tourists. Moengo Airstrip,located in the eastern part of Suriname, primarily handles domestic flights and charter services, accommodating around 3,000 passengers annually. It provides crucial connectivity for the town of Moengo and surrounding areas. Vliegveld Wageningen, situated in the Nickerie District of Suriname, primarily caters to domestic flights, handling approximately 2,000 passengers annually. It serves as an important hub for agricultural regions and local communities. Airlines in Suriname: Surinam Airways (SLM): The national airline, based at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, handles approximately 150,000 passengers annually, operating international flights to major destinations in the Americas and the Caribbean. Fly All Ways (FAW): Based at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, this airline serves around 50,000 passengers annually, offering regional and international flights connecting Suriname with neighboring countries. Blue Wing Airlines (BWI): Based at Zorg en Hoop Airport, Blue Wing Airlines primarily operates domestic and regional flights across Suriname and the Caribbean, handling about 20,000 passengers annually. Gum Air (GUM): Headquartered at Zorg en Hoop Airport, Gum Air provides charter services and domestic flights to remote locations within Suriname, accommodating around 10,000 passengers annually. MAF Suriname (MAF): Based at Zorg en Hoop Airport, MAF Suriname specializes in humanitarian and mission flights to remote and underserved areas, transporting approximately 5,000 passengers annually. Suriname, a country rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, offers a unique blend of historical sites, vibrant festivals, and diverse wildlife. With its welcoming locals and increasing tourist infrastructure, Suriname presents an attractive destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Paramaribo to the serene rainforests and rivers, Suriname promises an unforgettable journey filled with memorable encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

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Top Asian passports: Countries that consistently ranked in top 10

In today's interconnected world, the power of a passport cannot be overstated. This humble document almost single-handedly determines the ease with which its holder can cross borders and explore new horizons. The Henley Passport Index, a prestigious global ranking, offers a detailed snapshot of the world's most powerful passports. The Henley Passport Index ranks countries based on the number of destinations their citizens can access without a visa prior to arrival. This ranking is meticulously compiled using data provided by the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), which maintains the world's largest and most comprehensive database of travel information. The methodology behind this index is both comprehensive and nuanced. It considers not only visa-free access, but also a country's diplomatic relations and international agreements. After all, the power of a passport is inextricably linked to a nation's geopolitical standing and the strength of its global connections. Countries with strong international ties and positive diplomatic relations often wield the most powerful passports. These nations have negotiated extensive visa-waivers, allowing their citizens to move freely across borders and explore the world with minimal bureaucratic hurdles. The 2024 Henley Passport Index paints a fascinating picture of global mobility. Singapore,with its strong economic and diplomatic prowess, ranks first with its citizens able to access a staggering 195 countries without a visa. Close behind are South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, which shows the rising influence of Asia on the world stage. Conversely, passports from war-torn or politically unstable regions tend to offer their holders far more limited travel freedom. This stark disparity in global mobility can have a profound impact on individuals, shaping their educational and professional opportunities, as well as their personal experiences. So, here are the top Asian passports that consistently managed to remain at the top Singapore tops the Henley Passport Index, boasting a passport that allows its holders to access 195 countries without a pre-arrival visa. This exceptional travel freedom reflects Singapore's strong global diplomatic relationships and its strategic international agreements. South Korea ranks third, with a passport that offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 191 countries. The strength of South Korea's passport underscores the country's robust international connections and its effective diplomacy, facilitating extensive global mobility for its citizens. The United Arab Emirates holds the ninth position, with its passport providing entry to 185 countries without requiring a visa beforehand. This high ranking highlights the UAE's successful foreign relations and its growing influence on the global stage, enhancing travel ease for its residents.

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