Palace on Wheels to Launch Spiritual Journeys to India's Holy Cities in 2024

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Published on February 12, 2024

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In an unprecedented move that blends luxury with spirituality, the Palace on Wheels, India's emblem of opulent rail travel, is set to take passengers on a divine journey through the nation's spiritual heartland. Starting May 2024, this luxurious train, known as the second most lavish rail service globally, will navigate through sacred cities including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Mathura, and Vrindavan, offering a unique blend of devotion and comfort.

For the first time in its 42-year legacy, the Palace on Wheels will alter its route, traditionally renowned for showcasing Rajasthan's royal heritage, to include pivotal spiritual destinations in Uttar Pradesh. This six-day pilgrimage marks a significant shift from the train's usual itinerary, introducing passengers to the rich spiritual tapestry of India.

The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) has announced this new initiative in partnership with Cube Construction Company Pvt Ltd, which will manage the train's operations. This collaboration aims to cater to the growing demand for religious tourism, offering customized packages that allow passengers to explore individual cities like Ayodhya and Prayagraj with attractive discounts.

In keeping with the sanctity of the journey, the Palace on Wheels will revamp its dining offerings to exclude non-vegetarian dishes and alcoholic beverages, a departure from its standard fare. The new menu, devoid of onion and garlic, aims to respect the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage, complemented by devotional music celebrating Lord Rama and Lord Krishna throughout the voyage.

Typically operational for eight months a year, plans are underway to run the Palace on Wheels year-round, boosting railway tourism and allowing more travelers to experience India's spiritual heritage in unparalleled luxury. Since its inception on January 26, 1982, the train has been a testament to India's rich cultural and historical legacy, featuring opulent cabins and state-of-the-art facilities that promise an unforgettable journey.

As the Palace on Wheels prepares to set off on this spiritual expedition, passengers can look forward to an experience that beautifully marries the realms of luxury travel with the age-old traditions of Indian spirituality. This new itinerary not only offers a unique way to explore India's sacred sites but also reaffirms the train's status as a pioneer in luxury rail travel, inviting travelers to embark on a journey that feeds the soul and the senses.

Top 4 Private Luxury Charter Companies in India to Elevate Your Dream Destination Wedding

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 3, 2025

Weddings in India have always been grand, but now, they’re literally taking off. For couples dreaming of a sky-high celebration or a dramatic bridal entry that sets Instagram ablaze, private jet charters have become the newest way to elevate wedding festivities.

From flying your family in sheer luxury to transforming an aircraft into a mid-air mehendi venue, these private charter companies are helping couples create unforgettable, cloud-kissed memories. Here are four luxury private jet companies in India making destination weddings more opulent—and airborne—than ever before.

KlasJet: European Elegance Meets Indian Wedding Flair

If you want to blend European sophistication with big-fat-Indian-wedding spirit, KlasJet is a name to remember. Led by CEO Justinas Bulka, KlasJet has already made its mark across Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S., and is now quickly soaring into Asia. Backed by the global aviation powerhouse Avia Solutions Group, this boutique private charter airline is renowned for its ultra-luxe interiors, bespoke services, and exclusive in-flight experiences.

For KlasJet, it’s not just about getting from point A to B—it’s about turning the journey itself into part of your celebration. Picture a bridal party enjoying cocktails mid-air or a romantic post-wedding getaway complete with champagne at 30,000 feet. With experience serving royalty, celebrities, and business elites, KlasJet is now perfectly positioned to tap into India’s booming destination wedding market.

Taj Air: Heritage Hospitality, Now Above the Clouds

For over two decades, Taj Air has brought the elegance and meticulous detail the Taj brand is known for—this time, at 40,000 feet. Taj Air delivers seamless, stylish travel for wedding couples, families, and VIP guests, flying them privately between top Indian destinations. From gourmet Taj-catered meals served on board to discreet check-ins and luxurious ground transfers, every touchpoint reflects India’s finest hospitality traditions.

It’s the ideal choice for couples seeking trusted luxury, flawless logistics, and the comfort of a brand with deep Indian roots that understands how to make weddings truly memorable.

JetSetGo: The ‘Uber of the Skies’ for India’s Elite

JetSetGo, founded by Kanika Tekriwal, has transformed the concept of luxury air travel in India. Dubbed the ‘Uber of the skies,’ it’s become synonymous with flying high-net-worth individuals, from Bollywood stars and business tycoons to international wedding parties. Its expansive fleet includes private jets, helicopters, and even air ambulances, with everything tailored—from in-flight gourmet experiences to interiors styled to match your wedding theme.

Whether it’s ferrying your entire bridal squad from Delhi to Udaipur or orchestrating a surprise sky-high proposal en route to the Maldives, JetSetGo combines luxury, efficiency, and personalisation like no other. Their round-the-clock concierge service and elite partnerships also make them a favourite with wedding planners who want that extra “wow” factor.

BookMyCharters: Where Tech Meets Tiaras

If you need speed alongside luxury, BookMyCharters is the answer. Their tech-driven platform provides real-time availability and instant bookings across a fleet of over 25 aircraft. From flying your bridal party from Mumbai to Jaipur to whisking the couple off to a secluded island honeymoon, BookMyCharters makes the process seamless.

Each flight comes with concierge support, gourmet catering, and experiences curated for celebrations. This blend of modern tech convenience with classic luxury makes them perfect for time-sensitive, high-budget wedding logistics—bridging the gap between traditional aviation and contemporary demands.

Whether it’s a mehendi in the clouds, a post-wedding escape, or simply flying your nearest and dearest in ultimate comfort, these private charter companies are turning destination weddings in India into something truly sky-high.

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Saudia’s Brand Value Soars to $1.1 Billion, Ranks 32nd Globally

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 23, 2025

Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has reached a brand valuation milestone of $1.1 billion, marking an impressive 34% year-on-year growth, as revealed in the 2025 airline brand rankings by Brand Finance. This remarkable surge underscores the airline's strategic evolution and rising stature in global aviation.

Saudia now ranks 32nd globally in brand value among airlines, a notable leap since its debut in the Top 50 list in 2021 with a valuation of $506 million. In just four years, the brand has more than doubled in value, thanks to focused efforts in fleet enhancement, guest experience, and innovative initiatives.

The airline’s recent order of 105 Airbus aircraft highlighted its commitment to fleet modernisation and capacity expansion. At home, Saudia grabbed attention with BLVD Runway, a creative aviation-meets-entertainment concept aimed at engaging domestic travellers.

Globally, Skytrax honoured Saudia as the 'World’s Most Improved Airline' in 2024, a nod to its operational excellence and growing global presence. The airline has also maintained strong On-Time Performance (OTP) and received accolades for enhancing passenger experiences.

Commenting on this achievement, Khaled Tash, Chief Marketing Officer, Saudia Group, said:

“Achieving a brand value of $1 billion is a testament to our strategic initiatives and operational excellence, as well as the unwavering trust and loyalty of our guests. At Saudia, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in aviation, ensuring that every journey with us is a step towards excellence.”

With this milestone, Saudia continues to strengthen its global positioning and reaffirm its role as a key player in the Kingdom’s ambitious aviation growth story.