Category Archives: States

The Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), Maharashtra Chapter, successfully concluded its study tour to Goa from 14th to 16th July 2025, showcasing Goa’s diverse offerings for domestic tourism, leisure travel, and MICE potential. Led by Dharmendra Singh Chauhan, Chairman – ADTOI Maharashtra Chapter, the three-day tour brought together active members and key industry stakeholders for an immersive experience across some of Goa’s most notable hospitality and tourism assets. The delegation was hosted for two nights by Ginger Candolim – IHCL SeleQtions, who also organised a property showcase and networking lunch on 15th July morning. The event was graced by Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager – Hotels, Marketing, IT & Public Relations, Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (GTDC), who lauded the efforts of ADTOI in building strong linkages between regional tourism stakeholders and travel professionals. The itinerary featured interactive visits to: Mandrem Beach Resort – where the group was hosted for high tea and a property walkthrough Neelam De Glitz – which offered lunch and a comprehensive hotel orientation Aralia Beach Resort, Morjim – the setting for a gala dinner evening Jumping Heights, Goa – offering a thrilling insight into Goa’s adventure tourism landscape Snow Park & Thunder World – offered us A unique experience of such type of activities first time in Goa These experiences were designed to deepen the understanding of Goa’s evolving hospitality and tourism ecosystem, encourage partnerships, and boost confidence among travel trade professionals to position Goa as a year-round destination. “It was a wonderful and enriching experience for all involved,” said one participant. “The hospitality, local experiences, and opportunities to connect with Goa’s top tourism players have been truly valuable.”

‘Fairmont Udaipur Palace’ has thrown open in Udaipur. Speaking on this, Omer Acar, CEO, Raffles & Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, said, “This new palace reflects Fairmont’s commitment to honouring the spirit of each location we enter, blending global luxury with deep local resonance. We are proud to bring the Fairmont experience to Udaipur and to be part of the city’s enduring legacy as a jewel in India’s cultural crown.”  

Himachal Pradesh government has banned adventure activities in the state for two months, from July 15 to September 15, due to monsoon. The Tourism Department will take action in case of a violation, which could lead to the cancellation of the operator’s license and confiscation of materials used in the activities. A letter has also been sent to the sub-divisional officers by the department in this regard, so that all areas can be monitored.

Meghalaya has kicked off a ₹1,087 crore development wave, placing tourism and MICE infrastructure front and centre. Laying the foundation in Shillong, Nirmala Sitharaman, Finance Minister, GoI, said, “I appreciate Meghalaya’s efforts as the funds are being fully utilised.” Projects include the ₹120.8 crore redevelopment of Umiam Lake into a world-class eco-tourism hub and ₹103 crore for MICE infrastructure at Mawkhanu. The initiatives are expected to attract 1.27 lakh tourists annually and generate nearly 4,000 jobs.

MP Bezbaruah, General Secretary, Hotel Association of India (HAI), highlighted India’s tourism infrastructure gap, citing a need for 4 lakh branded rooms and 2.8 million non-branded units. He urged the government to develop a long-term, capital-intensive accommodation policy looking ahead to 2047. He emphasised that while the industry will build it, policy support is crucial for encouragement and growth.

The 12th edition of the Travel M!CE & Corporate Show will take place on 2–3 August in Chennai. As an exclusive, invite-only B2B platform, it will feature 40 leading corporate buyers engaging in pre-scheduled, one-on-one meetings with handpicked exhibitors. The event fosters high-value networking and business opportunities in a focused, closed-door setting.

Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister, Government of Goa  chaired a meeting of tourism stakeholders, where hospitality sector urged to simplify trade licence process and ease excise permits for restaurants. The Minister said, “If policies need to be tweaked, we will tweak them. Whether it is connectivity or visa, we will do what is necessary to ensure that tourism continue to flourish.”

Agoda has revealed its list of the most budget-friendly summer destinations in Asia for June to August 2025. Surabaya, Indonesia, leads the list with an average room rate of just INR 3037 per night*, making it a top choice for those eager to embrace culture and adventure this summer. Surabaya is followed closely by Tirupati, with average room rates of ₹3211 per night.

Gujarat has become the first state to join the Cruise Bharat Mission, signalling its commitment to boost maritime tourism. It positions the state as a frontrunner in India’s coastal development. The mission aims to increase sea cruise traffic 10-fold by 2029, propelling India toward becoming a globally competitive cruise tourism destination.

The Kerala government will go ahead with its action plan to support newcomers, especially women, to the tourism sector, aligning with the vision of inclusive and sustainable development of tourism, said PA Mohammed Riyas, Tourism Minister. Supporting newcomers will ensure that they flourish in the completive ecosystem, he said.