In the serene landscape of Sarnath, just behind the historic Chaukhandi Stupa, a new spiritual landmark is rising to national and global prominence—The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom. Fast becoming one of India’s top emerging destinations for spiritual tourism, this thoughtfully designed garden offers a unique blend of mindfulness, art, and cultural insight, deeply rooted in Buddhist and Indian philosophy.

More than just a tranquil garden, it’s a space for contemplation, learning, and connection. Through art installations, educational galleries, and serene landscapes, the Garden brings ancient teachings to life in a way that is both accessible and visually captivating. Visitors are invited to slow down and explore the timeless wisdom of India’s spiritual heritage in a format that is engaging and deeply peaceful.

The visionary behind this initiative is Umesh Mathur, Chief Functionary of Foundation For Learning Technologies, an NGO committed to promoting spiritual learning through videos, books, and cultural experiences. “Evenings in summers are the perfect time to visit the Garden,” says Mathur. “The serene atmosphere, combined with the warmth of the season, allows for deep reflection and an uplifting spiritual experience.”

The Garden includes various themed sections, such as:

• The Gallery of Indian Philosophy
  

• Buddhist Philosophy Zone
  

• The Journey of the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path
  

• An Ayurvedic Plant Display, showcasing traditional herbs and their healing wisdom

Among the highlights is the Ayurvedic Garden, which brings together herbs from across India. Ayurveda, the country’s ancient system of natural healing, is represented here not just as a medical science but as a way of living in harmony with nature and inner balance.

Located just minutes away from the iconic Dhamek Stupa, the Garden adds a meaningful, interactive layer to any visit to Sarnath. Whether you are a pilgrim, a wellness traveler, or simply a seeker of peace, this evolving sanctuary offers a deep spiritual resonance and a modern-day reminder of ancient truths.

As the world turns to mindfulness and wellness for balance, the Garden of Spiritual Wisdom stands as a shining symbol of India’s enduring spiritual legacy—inviting all to explore, reflect, and reconnect.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has revealed exciting new details about its third ultra-luxury superyacht, Luminara, ahead of its July 2025 debut. Promising a transformative experience at sea, Luminara will offer immersive itineraries, world-class dining, museum-worthy art, and meticulously designed interiors—all starting with its maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome.

Following successful sea trials, Luminara is now prepped for an ambitious sailing calendar. The yacht will introduce Ritz-Carlton’s first-ever journeys to Asia and Alaska, offering guests a broader spectrum of destinations and deeper experiences of exploration.

“With Luminara, we’ve raised the bar once again,” said Ernesto Fara, President of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “This superyacht opens the door to new destinations and deeper guest experiences, reinforcing our commitment to thoughtful exploration and continuous innovation across the fleet.”

Stretching 794 feet and accommodating 452 guests across 226 ocean-facing suites, Luminara lives up to its name—meaning "light" in Latin—through soft tones, sculptural lighting, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Designs by Chapi Design and AD Associates blend walnut wood, Arabescato Corchia marble, and rich textiles, while each suite comes with a private terrace and bespoke furnishings by design houses like Minotti and Poltrona Frau.

Guests will be treated to 731 art pieces onboard, 65% of which are specially commissioned. The collection celebrates the spirit of yachting and Malta’s heritage, with works by iconic artists such as Paul Klee, Matisse, and Andy Warhol. A seven-story light sculpture in the atrium adds dramatic flair to the experience.

On the culinary front, Michelin-starred chefs Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina will lead signature dining venues. Seta su Luminara will offer an 8-course Venetian-inspired menu, while Beach House will feature bold Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Additional options like Azur, Haesu Bit, and Mistral will round out the gourmet journey.

Bars include the stylish new Art Bar, where craft cocktails meet Cycladic art, and sea views elevate every toast. The yacht also features a floating marina with a central pool, water sports, and direct sea access. Wellness takes center stage at The Ritz-Carlton Spa®, offering Asian-inspired treatments and products from ESPA, 111SKIN, and Pisterzi.

In retail, Luminara partners with luxury icons like Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, and Piaget—making their first appearance at sea—along with curated selections of apparel, accessories, and vintage finds.

After sailing the Mediterranean, Luminara will explore Africa and the Indian Ocean before beginning Asia-Pacific itineraries in late 2025. Highlights include stops in Vietnam’s Hạ Long Bay, Japan’s Osaka, and Thailand’s Bangkok. By summer 2026, the yacht will head to Alaska and Canada, offering intimate access to the region’s wild beauty.

With bookings now open, Luminara is set to become a new benchmark in oceanic luxury, blending The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service with adventurous itineraries and transformative experiences at sea.

Air India Express has announced the launch of direct flights between Bengaluru and Kathmandu, starting 1 June 2025, marking the airline’s official entry into Nepal. With this route, Kathmandu becomes the 55th destination in the carrier’s expanding network, furthering its reach in South Asia.

The launch establishes a direct air corridor between South India and Nepal’s capital, enhancing cultural and economic connections between the two nations. With this move, travellers from 20 Indian cities and two international hubs, Abu Dhabi and Dammam can now access Kathmandu via convenient one-stop connections through Bengaluru.

Introductory fares for the new route start at INR 8,000 for Xpress Lite and INR 8,500 for Xpress Value, available through the airline’s official website and booking platforms.

Kathmandu, known for its spiritual landmarks, scenic landscapes, and nearby destinations like Lumbini and Pokhara, appeals to both religious and adventure travellers. The new connection offers smoother travel for leisure tourists from India, supporting the rise of short-haul international tourism.

Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, stated, “We are delighted to expand our footprint to Nepal, our neighbouring country in the subcontinent, further strengthening the deep-rooted cultural and economic ties we share. This new route brings people, tales, and traditions closer, while reinforcing our vision of making travel more accessible and meaningful.”

Air India Express currently operates over 450 weekly flights from Bengaluru, connecting to 31 Indian cities and three international destinations. With the recent addition of Bangkok and Phuket, the airline continues to focus on short-haul international leisure destinations, expanding its presence across Asia.