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Intimate, niche and out-of-the-ordinary: Unlocking the rise of experiential tourism in India

Gone are the days of simply ticking landmarks off a bucket list. Tourist traps and generic experiences are losing their appeal. The Indian traveller seeks genuine connections with local people and places. They want to understand the heart of a destination, not just capture a picture of it. They crave something deeper, a shift reflected in the booming trend of experiential travel, prioritising immersive experiences that connect us to musical and sporting experiences as well as new cultures, challenge our comfort zones, and create lasting memories. According to Bloomberg, a staggering 86% of millennials prioritise experiences and cultural immersion when travelling. They seek to become part of the local scene, not just passive observers. Exploring the Surge of Experiential Tourism in India "Music lovers flocking to Goa in December to participate in the city's massive Indian EDM (Electronic Dance Music) festival, Asia's biggest EDM festival, is a great example of the growing popularity of experiential tourism in the entertainment category. Local music groups and gatherings across the country also invite tourists to bunk with them for a few days, pointing to the fact that even small events can be in demand because of the exclusivity factor. Similarly, spiritual destinations like Varanasi, Amritsar and the recently inaugurated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya are the hotspots for religious experiential tourism. Religious tourism on its own is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16%, according to a recent report." says Ashish Sidhra, Co-founder, Alike.io. He further shared with HT Lifestyle, "Experiential tourism is also closely tied to cultural immersion tourism in India. Whether it is camping in a Jaisalmer desert or, performing a ritual dance with the Baiga tribes of Madhya Pradesh, or even participating in the Nongkrem dance festival, which is an annual festival of the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya, the experience ends up being educative, immersive and intimate than other forms of 'casual' tourism. A recent Skyscanner survey showcased Culture ranking higher than iconic attractions when choosing a destination. A significant 54% of respondents consider cultural immersion a major factor in their decision-making. And what better country than India to spearhead the experiential tourism revolution, given the diversity it holds across its length and breadth." "There is also a growing demand to interact with people who live in the remotest parts of the country and do not belong to the mainstream. According to The American Express Travel 2023 Global Trends report, 94% of Indian respondents want to travel to a lesser-known destination. The pandemic has contributed to the growth in this trend because people took the time to really understand themselves better and embark on journeys of self-discovery to find peace and fulfilment. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook bombard us with stunning vacation photos, fuelling a desire for these unique experiences. We crave stories beyond the ordinary, experiences that set us apart. Budget airlines, travel hacking tips, and alternative accommodation options are making travel more accessible. This financial flexibility allows travellers to invest in experiences that were once considered out of reach," says Ashish. He added, "These forces combined create a perfect storm for experiential travel. Let's delve deeper with some statistics that solidify this trend: The digital interconnectedness of the world today makes it easy for concepts like experiential tourism to take off on a large scale. Social networking sites like Instagram are also leading the revolution by spreading awareness and converting curious folks into true-blue experiential tourists. Also, gone are the days when one would save up for months to go on a trip. Budget-friendly options are galore these days; you just have to find the right travel portal that crafts these special experiences for you, book your dates and just take the plunge! If you do not want to travel alone, you can always get in touch with a group of like-minded people offline or online and get your travel on." "The benefits of experiential travel are undeniable. It fosters deeper connections with destinations, fosters cultural understanding, and creates lasting memories that go far beyond a souvenir snapshot. It allows us to step outside our comfort zones, learn new skills, and return home with a transformed perspective. So, the next time you plan a trip, consider venturing beyond the traditional tourist trail. Embrace the power of experiential travel. Seek out experiences that will challenge you, connect you, and leave you with stories that will resonate long after you return home," Ashish concluded.

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Romantic & affordable: 8 honeymoon hotspots in India

​Goa​ Embarking on a honeymoon doesn’t have to strain your finances. In India, there are numerous enchanting destinations that offer a perfect blend of romance and affordability. Here are eight budget-friendly honeymoon spots where you can create unforgettable memories without overspending. Goa remains a perennial favorite among honeymooners due to its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and wallet-friendly lodging options. Whether you're lounging by the shore, exploring colonial-era architecture, or relishing fresh seafood at local eateries, Goa promises diverse experiences for every couple. Udaipur, Rajasthan​ Known as the ‘City of Lakes,’ Udaipur provides a picturesque setting with its palaces, tranquil lakes, and lush gardens. Glide across Lake Pichola on a boat, delve into the grandeur of City Palace, and wander through the historic lanes of the old city. With affordable guesthouses and street-side vendors offering delicious Rajasthani cuisine, Udaipur caters well to budget-conscious honeymooners. Darjeeling, West Bengal​ Nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling allures with its tea plantations and panoramic mountain vistas. Couples can enjoy a ride on the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, explore Buddhist monasteries, and trek amid verdant landscapes. Cozy guesthouses and homestays amidst breathtaking views make Darjeeling a charming yet economical choice. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand​ Tucked away in the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh is renowned for its spiritual ambiance and adventure activities. Couples can partake in thrilling river rafting, join yoga sessions, and explore ancient temples and ashrams. Affordable accommodations and local eateries serving delicious vegetarian fare make Rishikesh an accessible destination for spiritual seekers. Puducherry​ Exuding a blend of French colonial architecture and serene beaches, Puducherry is a haven of tranquility and romance. Take leisurely walks along the waterfront, discover the quaint French Quarter, and savor delectable Creole dishes at local cafes. Affordable guesthouses and boutique accommodations near the coast offer a peaceful retreat for honeymooners. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu​ Perched amidst the verdant Western Ghats, Kodaikanal offers a serene escape with its natural beauty and mild climate. Enjoy boat rides on the tranquil Kodaikanal Lake, stroll through fragrant pine forests, and admire panoramic views from Coaker's Walk. Budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays amidst nature’s tranquility make Kodaikanal a peaceful retreat for honeymooners. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh​ Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, McLeod Ganj beckons nature enthusiasts with its serene ambiance. Hike along scenic trails, visit Tibetan monasteries, and immerse yourselves in yoga and meditation practices. Budget-friendly guesthouses and cozy cafes serving authentic Tibetan cuisine cater to couples seeking a serene escape amidst nature’s beauty. Coorg, Karnataka​ Known as the ‘Scotland of India,’ Coorg charms with its emerald coffee plantations, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls. Couples can embark on nature walks, visit enchanting waterfalls like Abbey Falls, and relish aromatic coffee brews. Comfortable homestays amid serene surroundings make Coorg an ideal retreat for honeymooners.

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Madras HC orders to issue e-passes to enter Ootty, Kodaikanal from May 7 to June 30

The Madras High Court has ordered to issue e-passes to tourists for entering Ootty and Kodaikanal between May 7 to June 30 in view of environmental emergencies. The respective district authorities have to be contacted for the e-passes. The epochal tourist places have been battered by influx of tourists for decades and related decadence of the eco-system and infrastructure facilities. The perpetual traffic snarls and pollution have made the life of local residents in the hilly townships miserable. According to the tourism department, around 8 lakh visitors flock to Kodaikanal during the peak summer months and the floating population leave a trail of environmental hazards in the form of garbage, pollution, resource depletion and so on.

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Kashmir on Edge as Avalanches and Landslides Block Highways, Travel Disrupted

On Monday, a significant avalanche occurred in the Sarbal region of Sonamarg within central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, coinciding with intense rain and snowfall. Footage of the event showed the avalanche cascading down a snow-laden mountainslope. Officials confirmed that there were no injuries or financial damages as the avalanche impacted an uninhabited forest area in Sonamarg, avoiding any structural damage. Concurrently, heavy rainfall triggered landslides across various parts of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar national highway. The adverse weather conditions also caused roadblocks in Mehar, Gangroo, Mom Passi, and Kishtwari Pather within Ramban district. Additionally, on the preceding Sunday, thirty-five vehicles were reported stranded in the snow at Razdan Top along the Bandipora-Gurez route in the region. Significant destruction was also observed on April 27 in Pernote village, roughly six kilometers from Ramban town, where landslides damaged roads, homes, and power infrastructure. In the last three days, relentless rain has elevated water levels in all rivers, lakes, and waterways across Kashmir. The local Meteorological (MeT) office anticipates that this weather will continue for a few more days. In response, numerous schools in flood-prone and landslide-susceptible areas have temporarily shut down as a safety precaution.

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Shimla in Himachal Pradesh experiences rise in number of tourists over the weekend

Given the soaring temperature in most of the north Indian destinations, people are making their way to all hill stations including Shimla. Recently, Shimla experienced a tourist influx over the weekend. Across most parts of India, the sweltering heat is becoming unbearable, with mercury levels soaring and heat waves engulfing many regions. So to escape the current situation, a number of people visited Shimla. Presently, Shimla stands out as one of India's most bustling hill stations, teeming with visitors seeking respite. Its picturesque landscapes offer an ideal setting for exploration and a chance to indulge in a refreshing holiday. The tourism industry is brimming with optimism this year, buoyed by the influx of visitors from both within India and abroad. The surge in demand and bookings signals a forthcoming increase in visitors, promising to breathe new life into various businesses and the hospitality sector as a whole. This remarkable surge in tourism serves as a beacon of hope, promising to rejuvenate revenues after a lackluster 2-year period. As per data from the Himachal Pradesh tourism department, over a thousand tourists flock to the hill state each year. In 2019, the state welcomed nearly 1,720,000 tourists, including nearly 400,000 foreign visitors. This marked a significant increase of almost 5 percent compared to the previous year, highlighting the enduring popularity of Himachal Pradesh as a tourist destination. Shimla, from 2021 to 2022, tourist arrivals witnessed a decline due to the pandemic, but now, they are gradually picking up again. However, recent bouts of rain and floods have posed fresh challenges. The tourism sector in the state of Himachal Pradesh plays a pivotal role, generating an economy of over 11,000 crore rupees. It is widely regarded as the backbone of the state's economy, contributing approximately 7.3 percent to the state's GDP. Shimla, the 'Queen of Hills,' stands as a beacon of charm and tranquility amidst the rugged Himalayan landscape. Renowned for its colonial architecture, lush greenery, and panoramic vistas, Shimla beckons travelers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The town's pleasant climate, with cool summers and snowy winters, makes it a year-round destination. Visitors to Shimla can explore its timeless landmarks, such as the iconic Ridge, Mall Road, and Viceregal Lodge, which offer glimpses into its colonial past. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking, paragliding, and skiing in nearby areas like Kufri and Narkanda. Shimla's vibrant culture, reflected in its festivals, handicrafts, and delectable cuisine, captivates the hearts of tourists. From leisurely strolls through pine-scented forests to thrilling experiences atop Jakhu Hill, Shimla promises an unforgettable journey steeped in natural beauty and cultural heritage, leaving visitors enchanted and yearning for more.

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Sikkim witnesses record tourist influx; projected to reach 1.2 million visitors by year end

Sikkim, known for its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and enchanting weather, experienced an unprecedented surge in tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2024. The Himalayan state's allure lies in its unique blend of culture, weather, and scenic locales, attracting nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and cultural aficionados alike. Tourism and Civil Aviation Department statistics reveal that Sikkim welcomed a record-breaking 290,401 tourists—256,537 domestic guests and 30,864 overseas visitors—up to March 31, 2024. This surge is attributed to the rebuilding of Sikkim's hospitality industry, which suffered greatly from the devastating flash floods in October 2023. Over the past decade, Sikkim has seen a steady increase in tourist numbers, with figures rising from 576,749 in 2013 to 1,625,573 in 2023. With a strong start in 2024, estimates suggest that if the current growth rate continues, the destination might receive 1.2 million tourists by the end of the year. A primary factor driving the surge in footfalls is Sikkim's vibrant cultural tapestry. Home to diverse ethnic communities such as the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalese, Sikkim boasts a rich heritage reflected in its festivals, traditions, and cuisine. Additionally, the state's favorable weather conditions year-round make it an all-season destination. While summer offers respite from the scorching heat elsewhere, winter transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. Whether trekking in Himalayan trails or paragliding over picturesque valleys, Sikkim offers activities for travelers of all interests. Gangtok, the capital city, serves as the gateway to Sikkim's wonders, blending modern amenities with traditional charm. Its bustling markets, vibrant monasteries, and panoramic viewpoints provide a glimpse of Sikkim's essence. While Sikkim's tourism industry has been growing steadily, the surge in arrivals in the first quarter of 2024 has been unprecedented. With its unparalleled natural beauty and cultural richness, Sikkim continues to captivate the hearts of travelers, promising memorable experiences for all who visit.

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