News

Alleppey: A First-Timer's Guide To Kerala's Backwaters Paradise

Also called Alappuzha, Alleppey has all the makings of an incredible Kerala holiday - think backwater cruises, houseboat stays, ayurvedic experiences and a city carpeted in green all year round. It was the former viceroy of British India, George Nathaniel Curzon, who had famously remarked — “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties. Alleppey, the Venice of the East”. Ever since, the epithet stuck to this stunning city in God’s Own Country. Also called Alappuzha, Alleppey has all the makings of an incredible Kerala holiday; think backwater cruises, houseboat stays, ayurvedic experiences and a city carpeted in green all year round. Embrace the Backwaters on Kettuvallams It is Kerala’s backwaters that have added to its narrative as an international tourist destination. A network of brackish lagoons and canals spread take you on an incredible experience exploring the state’s bounty of natural foliage and biodiversity, in addition to being the site of the annual snake boat races. The best way to experience the backwaters of Vembanad Lake, is to rent traditional Kerala-style houseboats, known as kettuvallams, for a quintessential Kerala experience. These houseboats offer tranquil and relaxing journeys, complemented by freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer. You can opt for a day trip or an overnight stay onboard. Kayaking Adventure For the active traveller, exploring the backwaters on a kayak offers a more intimate and immersive experience. Paddle at your own pace, navigating through a maze of narrow canals. Travel companies like Nadodi Kayaking offer different tours, one of which is a sunrise tour that takes you through a sleepy village and around still houseboats on kayaks even before dawn breaks. This guided experience is an incredible and immersive experience to explore the many charms of Kerala’s backwaters.

Read more

Tourism Australia receives over 400,000 visitors from India for the first time

In January 2024 alone, Australia welcomed 26,200 visitors from India, equivalent to 106 percent of pre- pandemic levels in 2019. This surge in Indian tourists is attributed to targeted marketing initiatives, a streamlined and digitised visa application process, and enhanced travel options between the two countries. The upward trajectory in Indian arrivals highlig the enduring appeal of Australia as a top-tier destination, promising continued growth a mutual benefits for both countries' tourism sectors. Based on recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), arrivals from India for the year-ended January 2024 reached 402,200, surpassing 101% of 2019 levels. This milestone marks the first time Tourism Australia has seen over 400,000 arrivals from India, solidifying India's position as the 5th largest inbound market for Australian tourism in 2024, a significant jump from number 7 in 2019. In January 2024 alone, Australia welcomed 26,200 visitors from India, equivalent to 106 per cent of pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This surge in Indian tourists is attributed to targeted marketing initiatives, a streamlined and digitised visa application process, and enhanced air travel options between the two countries. Australia's appeal as a preferred destination for Indian travelers has never been stronger, with a sustained increase in visitor numbers since 2019. This growth underscores the success of collaborative efforts between Tourism Australia, airlines, key distribution partners, and over 5,000 Aussie Specialist Agents in India, aimed at driving interest and conversions. Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager - India & Gulf for Tourism Australia, expressed enthusiasm about this resurgence, stating, The rising number of Indian tourists visiting Australia is a testament to the resilience and recovery of international travel, especially from one of our most valued markets. It reflects the strong desire for exploration among Indian travelers, who are attracted to Australia's unique landscapes, wildlife, and the vibrant multiculturalism of our cities."

Read more

Zoji La is now open for vehicular movement; to ease travel from J&K to Ladakh

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has reopened the Zoji La, which serves as a crucial lifeline for Ladakh via Srinagar, for vehicular traffic. This route has been reopened after remaining buried under snow for 35 days, as compared to 68 days last year. This achievement highlights India's increasing expertise in constructing mountain roads, which holds significant benefits for both border defense and the lives of people in the frontier region. The 439-km Srinagar-Leh road serves as the primary link connecting Ladakh to Jammu & Kashmir and plays a pivotal role in transporting troops and essential supplies in the frontier area. Located at an altitude of 11,540 ft, approximately 100 km from Srinagar, Zoji La pass used to remain closed for about 160-180 days during winter seasons in previous years. However, due to the government's focus on enhancing border connectivity and the deployment of advanced machinery, the duration of closure has reduced in recent years. Located at an altitude of 11,540 ft, approximately 100 km from Srinagar, Zoji La pass used to remain closed for about 160-180 days during winter seasons in previous years. However, due to the government's focus on enhancing border connectivity and the deployment of advanced machinery, the duration of closure has reduced in recent years. This has been especially crucial following the Galwan border clashes with the Chinese army in May 2020. Furthermore, the reopening of the pass facilitates the transportation of civilian and essential supplies via road transport, thereby reducing the reliance on expensive air freight. It also offers a more economical travel option for residents returning home and guest workers, compared to the costly flights that become the sole means of travel during heavy snowfall and road closures. The successful clearance of challenging mountain passes highlights BRO's proficiency in snow-clearing operations. Reports further add that the government is now currently constructing a tunnel beneath Zoji La pass, which is expected to be completed soon. This thermal tunnel will significantly enhance defense preparedness, improve the quality of life for locals, and boost tourism in the region by ensuring uninterrupted connectivity throughout the year.

Read more

Vistara takes delivery of 7th wide-body Boeing aircraft.

  • Mar 30,2024
  • e

Full service carrier Vistara on Thursday said it has received the delivery of the seventh wide-body Boeing 787-9 plane, thus completing the order it had placed for 56 aircraft in 2018. The airline has now a total of 70 Dreamliner aircraft. Vistara, which is a 51:49 joint venture airline between India's Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, had announced an order of a total of 56 planes with Airbus and Boeing. "We recently took delivery of our last Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and that's also the 70th aircraft in our fleet. This marks the culmination of the order that we had placed in 2018 for 56 aircraft across Airbus and Boeing," Vistara said in a statement.

Read more

Summer Escapes: Explore India's Enchanting Hill Stations

With the summer season right around the corner, the intent to travel has been on the rise. India’s diverse landscape offers multiple options for travellers seeking a respite from the scorching heat. The hill stations, known for their cool weather, lush greenery, and serene ambience are summer favourites for travellers. Cleartrip recommends some of the most captivating hill stations across India that are ideal for your summer getaway. SrinagarNestled in the magnificent Kashmir Valley, Srinagar boasts of Mughal gardens, sufi shrines and the mesmerizing Dal Lake. Do not forget to explore the Central-Asian style bazaars and mouth-watering Kashmiri delicacies, when in Srinagar. LehThe capital of Ladakh, Leh, acts as a starting point for various treks and expeditions. Encircled by rugged mountains, this destination is home to the Buddhist monasteries of Lamayaru and Alchi. Perched above the town, the Leh Palace provides a glimpse into the region’s regal history. Jammu: Located in the northernmost part of our country, Jammu is blessed with the famous Vaishnodevi temple. Other major tourist attractions in the region include Bahu Fort, Peer Kho Cave, Mansar Lake and Natha Top. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, Kishtwar National Park is a must-visit place for you. Himachal: Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh offers a perfect escape for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Trek through breathtaking trails like Hampta Pass, Triund, and Chandratal, or experience the thrill of mountain biking in Shimla, Manali, and Spiti Valley. Explore ancient temples, monasteries, and quaint villages for a glimpse into vibrant culture. Discover serene lakes, lush forests, and wildlife in spots like Rohtang Pass and Great Himalayan National Park. Himachal Pradesh is an unforgettable journey of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Dharamshala :Graced by the presence of the Dalai Lama, Dharmashala is a vibrant reflection of Tibetan culture. This picturesque destination in Himachal Pradesh houses the Kangra Art Museum, Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Read more

IndiGo starts daily flights on Benglauru-Denpasar route

IndiGo today started daily direct flights between Bengaluru and Denpasar in Bali, Indonesia. After Jakarta, Denpasar is the second destination in Bali that IndiGo is offering connections to. Flight 6E 1605 departed from Bengaluru at 12.05 a.m. and landed in Denpasar at 10.20 a.m. Flight 6E 1606 departed Denpasar at 11.20 a.m. to reach Bengaluru at 3.15 p.m. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said, “We are pleased to announce the commencement of direct flights between Bengaluru and Bali, one of the extremely popular destinations amongst tourists. Bali is the second destination in Indonesia to join our 6E network, after Jakarta, and offers an enhanced range of travel options. This new connection will play a key role in strengthening ties between India and Indonesia while promoting tourism and fostering potential business collaborations. IndiGo remains committed to delivering on its promise of affordable, on-time, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network.”

Read more