When Kullu Calls: A Dussehra of Deities and Dances!

When Kullu Calls: A Dussehra of Deities and Dances!

By Author

Published on October 15, 2023

As the golden hues of autumn kiss the earth, Himachal Pradesh is buzzing with anticipation for the forthcoming International Kullu Dussehra Festival 2023. Scheduled from October 24 to 30, this grand event, enriched with history and culture dating back to the 17th century, is more than a festival – it's a spectacle of international camaraderie, cultural vibrancy, and historical grandeur.

The curtains rise with the iconic Lord Raghunath Rath Yatra, a divine procession that sets the spiritual tone for the festivities. However, this year, the celebration transcends local boundaries as over 300 local deities grace the event, illuminating Kullu with divine energy.

Yet, the divine gathering isn’t the sole highlight. In a historic collaboration, the Himachal Pradesh Government and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) aim to metamorphose this local gem into a global extravaganza. The festival is not just a nod to the past but a dynamic mix of tradition and global culture.

The ICCR’s involvement ensures the participation of cultural troupes from over 20 countries. From the rhythmic dances of Africa to the melodic tunes of Europe, Kullu will echo with diverse art forms, symbolizing global unity amidst the divine ambiance.

Accessibility to this grand event is seamless, thanks to the operational flights from Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Delhi to Kullu. The improved infrastructure and reduced travel time from major cities ensure that the festival is within easy reach for both domestic and international tourists.

The Kullu Dussehra Festival marks not just a cultural resurgence but also a testament to Himachal Pradesh’s resilience. The state, bouncing back from the natural calamity, is a sanctuary of natural beauty, ready to embrace visitors with open arms.

Chief Parliamentary Secretary Tourism, Sunder Singh Thakur, is optimistic. The expedited restoration efforts have not only revived the state’s scenic splendor but also infused life into the hospitality sector, signaling a new dawn for tourism in Himachal.

As October unfolds, the valley of Kullu, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, isn’t just a witness to a festival. It is the epicenter of a global gathering where tradition, culture, and international brotherhood converge, weaving a tapestry of unforgettable memories.

As the world steps into the post-pandemic era, the International Kullu Dussehra Festival isn’t just a celebration; it’s a beacon of hope, resilience, and unity. The scenic valleys of Himachal are not just hosting a festival but are echoing the harmonious tunes of global solidarity, showcasing the indomitable human spirit that dances in unison, transcending boundaries under the divine gaze of centuries-old deities.


Planning a Solo Trip? These Top Booking Platforms Have You Covered!

Planning a Solo Trip? These Top Booking Platforms Have You Covered!

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 28, 2025

While traveling with loved ones can be an enriching experience, sometimes a solo adventure is just what you need to relax, recharge, and explore on your own terms. Whether it’s that long-awaited European escape or a tranquil retreat to refresh your spirit, solo travel offers the ideal opportunity for self-discovery and adventure.

If you’re considering a solo trip, planning is key for safety, comfort, and making the most of the experience. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled a list of the top travel platforms that will help you plan the ultimate solo getaway.

1. Yatra.com – Your One-Stop Travel Partner

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Yatra Online, Inc. is one of India’s leading travel service providers, offering:

  • Flight bookings (domestic & international)
  • Hotel reservations
  • Holiday packages & homestays
  • Bus, train & cab bookings
  • Cruise and in-city activity bookings

With its user-friendly interface and extensive network, Yatra makes planning your solo adventure smooth and hassle-free.

2. EaseMyTrip – Budget-Friendly & Hassle-Free

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If you're looking for a platform with great deals, EaseMyTrip is a fantastic choice! It offers:

  • Competitive prices on flights, hotels & vacation packages
  • No convenience fee on flight bookings
  • Discounts on domestic & international travel
  • User-friendly mobile app & website

Solo travelers can take advantage of special offers to make their trips more affordable and convenient.

3. TripXL – Customized Travel Solutions

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TripXL is a travel marketplace that offers affordable and comfortable holiday experiences. It stands out for its:

  • Personalized travel services & expert guidance
  • Verified travel agents for a hassle-free experience
  • Informative travel guides & vacation ideas
  • Easy-to-use booking interface

Whether you’re dreaming of the beaches of Kerala or the snowy landscapes of Scotland, TripXL offers a range of custom travel plans to suit your needs.

4. Goibibo – The Trusted Travel Partner

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Goibibo is one of India’s most trusted online travel booking platforms, offering:

  • Flight, train, bus, and car bookings
  •  A wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury
  • Quick refunds & seamless payment options
  • GoStays for standardized, affordable stays

With its easy-to-use interface and GoCash+ rewards program, Goibibo is perfect for solo travelers looking for budget-friendly yet quality travel options.

5. Booking.com – Global Travel at Your Fingertips

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A household name in global travel, Booking.com helps solo travelers find:

  • Millions of accommodation options worldwide
  • Flexible payment and cancellation policies
  • Verified guest reviews for informed decisions
  • Exclusive deals on hotels, apartments & homestays

Whether you’re looking for a cozy hostel in Bangkok, a luxury resort in Bali, or a charming homestay in Paris, Booking.com has something for every traveler.

Time to Pack Your Bags!

What are you waiting for? Book that solo trip you’ve been dreaming of and choose the perfect platform to customize your itinerary. Whether you crave an adventure-filled backpacking trip or a relaxing retreat, these top travel websites make planning easier than ever.

Cheers to discovering new places—and yourself—on your solo journey!


How India Assist Uses Tourist Information Centres (TICs) to Facilitate Smooth Travel and Special Needs at Kumbh

How India Assist Uses Tourist Information Centres (TICs) to Facilitate Smooth Travel and Special Needs at Kumbh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 15, 2025

Kumbh Mela is a gathering like no other—an awe-inspiring confluence of spirituality, culture, and tradition. But as millions of pilgrims and visitors converge, the challenge is clear: how do we ensure that each person’s experience is safe, accessible, and stress-free? Well, that's where India Assist steps in, working in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Government to modernise travel assistance for Mahakumbh 2025. Through Tourist Information Centres (TICs) located at key places like the railway stations, airport, and within the Mahakumbh area, we're making the Kumbh experience smoother for everyone.

Mr. Harish Khatri, Founder and MD at India Assist, shares valuable insights on enhancing travel experiences, as featured in our article on facilitating smooth travel and special needs at Kumbh.

These TICs are not your typical information desks. They’re lifelines for the millions attending the festival. Right from providing live updates on travel routes, assisting with local transportation, or guiding elderly pilgrims and those with disabilities, the TICs are designed to be accessible, responsive, and human-centered. When someone loses a belonging or needs help locating a loved one, TICs offer real-time assistance in locating them, ensuring that no pilgrim is left feeling lost or alone. The multilingual support ensures that visitors from across the globe feel heard and understood, breaking down language barriers and connecting them to the heart of the Kumbh experience.

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Perhaps most importantly, TICs are equipped with a team of responsive on-ground staff that allows us to address health-related emergencies quickly. From directing pilgrims to the nearest medical station or coordinating emergency response, these centres act as the first point of contact for medical aid. In a sea of people, it’s critical that help can be found without delay. With a simple tap on our mobile application, followed by a quick phone call, we ensure that pilgrims receive the immediate assistance they need. India Assist’s involvement in large-scale events like MotoGP Bharat has given us valuable experience in managing complex logistics, tech integration, and crowd management. We've learned that the key to success is seamless coordination between technology and human touch & that’s exactly what we’re bringing to Mahakumbh 2025.

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We are excited about the impact TICs will have at Kumbh. For millions of pilgrims, these centers are not just places to seek directions but also sources of care, comfort, and support. By combining technology with compassionate, on-the-ground expertise, we’re ensuring that every pilgrim’s journey remains focused on their spiritual experience, not the stress of hovering through a sea of people. As we move forward into this new era of tech-enabled religious tourism, we’re proud to play our part in making Mahakumbh 2025 safe, accessible, and unforgettable for all.


OTM 2025: Shaping the Future of Travel and Tourism

OTM 2025: Shaping the Future of Travel and Tourism

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 18, 2025

OTM 2025, the premier travel trade show in India and Asia, is set to take place from January 30 to February 1, 2025, at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre. With over 2,100 exhibitors, 40,000 buyers, and participation from 80+ countries, OTM promises to be a transformative event for the global travel and tourism industry.

This year’s edition will bring together a diverse mix of national tourism organizations, airlines, hotels, destination management companies, and travel tech innovators. Global VIPs, including Hon'ble Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Shri Omar Abdullah, and international leaders like H.E. Mr. Haim Katz (Minister of Tourism, Israel) and Mr. Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan (Deputy Minister of Tourism, Malaysia), will grace the event.

Key Highlights of OTM 2025:

  • Exclusive Destinations: Countries such as Georgia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Morocco, and Peru will exclusively participate in OTM, showcasing offerings not seen at other regional travel events.
  • Networking Opportunities: Over 1,000 handpicked buyers from India’s Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities will connect with exhibitors and global destinations.
  • Thought Leadership: The OTM Forum will host discussions on key industry trends, including fireside chats with government officials and sessions featuring leaders from Airbnb, Skyscanner, Booking.com, and major corporations like Deloitte and L&T.
  • Specialized Events: Day 2 will highlight WeddingSutra Engage, a platform for wedding planners to explore trends in luxury celebrations and destination weddings.

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Expressing his enthusiasm, Mr. Sanjiv Agarwal, Founder & CEO of Fairfest Media, shared, “India is emerging as the future growth engine for global tourism. OTM 2025 will bring unmatched opportunities for the Indian travel industry to connect with international destinations and foster collaborations.”

OTM’s strategic location in Mumbai, which contributes to over 60% of India’s outbound travel, makes it the perfect venue for this event. The city’s role as a departure point for travelers underlines its importance in shaping the future of tourism.

About OTM and Fairfest Media:

OTM Mumbai is Asia’s leading travel trade show, creating unparalleled opportunities for the Indian travel industry to engage with global markets. Organized by Fairfest Media, the event attracts Tourism Ministers, CEOs, and industry leaders from around the world. With a legacy of organizing TTF-branded travel shows in seven Indian cities, Fairfest Media continues to be a pioneer in shaping the travel ecosystem in the world’s fastest-growing market.

If you are in the travel business, mark your calendars—OTM 2025 is the event you cannot afford to miss!

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