Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Invites Travellers to Explore Madurai’s Living Heritage During Maha Kumbabhishekam

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Invites Travellers to Explore Madurai’s Living Heritage During Maha Kumbabhishekam

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 17, 2026

Madurai is preparing for a significant spiritual and cultural occasion as the historic Maha Kumbabhishekam of the Meenakshi Amman Temple takes place on September 17, 2026. With faith, history and tradition closely connected to everyday life in the Temple City, the occasion offers travellers an opportunity to experience Madurai beyond a temple visit.

Against this backdrop, Courtyard by Marriott Madurai is inviting travellers to explore the city’s living heritage through curated itinerary experiences covering its spiritual traditions, history, local cuisine and culture, along with the comfort of a contemporary stay.

The experience can begin with the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of South India’s most celebrated temple complexes, known for its intricate architecture, towering gopurams and centuries-old traditions. Guests can then explore the historic streets and traditional markets around the temple, experiencing the everyday rhythm of Madurai.

The itinerary can also take travellers to Thirumalai Nayak Palace, offering a glimpse into the city’s royal past and its connection with the Nayak dynasty. For guests interested in local culture, Madurai’s food traditions form another important part of the experience, with options ranging from the iconic Jigarthanda and traditional South Indian fare to the city’s popular street food.

Travellers can also explore Madurai’s traditional shopping and craft culture, including Sungudi textiles and locally crafted products. Early-morning or evening walks through the heritage streets can provide another way to experience the Temple City, as the streets come alive around its historic landmarks.

“Madurai is a destination where spirituality, history, food and everyday life come together in a very distinctive way. The Maha Kumbabhishekam gives travellers an opportunity to experience this living heritage at a particularly significant moment. Through our curated itineraries, we want our guests to explore not just the temple, but the many stories and experiences that make Madurai special, while returning to the comfort of Courtyard by Marriott Madurai,” said Mahesh Padala, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Madurai.

The curated experience can be tailored according to the duration and interests of guests. A shorter city experience can combine the Meenakshi Amman Temple, heritage streets and local cuisine, while longer itineraries can include Thirumalai Nayak Palace, traditional shopping, local food experiences and other cultural landmarks.

The idea is to encourage travellers to spend more time discovering Madurai and experience its architecture, flavours, traditions and people. As devotees and travellers arrive for the Maha Kumbabhishekam, the occasion also offers an opportunity to discover the city through its many layers, as a sacred city, historic destination, culinary hub and living cultural centre.

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai aims to complement this journey by offering guests a contemporary and comfortable base from which to explore the Temple City. For further information and reservations, guests can contact Courtyard by Marriott Madurai.


Summit Hotels & Resorts to Open 17-Villa Retreat in Lachung, Sikkim

Summit Hotels & Resorts to Open 17-Villa Retreat in Lachung, Sikkim

By Hariharan U

Published on October 25, 2026

Summit Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its Signature Collection with a 17-villa retreat in Lachung, North Sikkim, scheduled to open in December 2026. The upcoming property will strengthen the company's premium hospitality portfolio in the Eastern Himalayas, with an emphasis on local architecture, cultural experiences and the region's natural landscape.

Located at an altitude of approximately 8,600 feet, Lachung is around 118 km from Gangtok and serves as a gateway to destinations including Yumthang Valley, Zero Point and Katao. The retreat will feature 17 villas inspired by traditional Sikkimese architecture, reflecting the area's cultural character and mountain setting.

Beyond accommodation, the property is expected to offer experiences that encourage guests to explore North Sikkim beyond conventional sightseeing. Planned activities include guided village walks, opportunities to discover Bhutia traditions and cuisine, visits to nearby orchards and monasteries, and excursions to alpine valleys. Seasonal experiences such as rhododendron viewing, winter snow excursions and stargazing are also being considered, subject to local conditions.

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Commenting on the development, Sumit Mitruka, CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts, said, “North Sikkim has considerable potential to develop beyond conventional sightseeing-led tourism. Lachung is already an important stop on the Yumthang and Zero Point circuit, but we believe there is an opportunity to encourage travellers to spend more time in the destination itself. With this retreat, we want to introduce a premium stay experience that draws on the region's architecture, culture and natural surroundings. We also see opportunities to work with local communities through employment, sourcing and destination experiences as tourism develops.”

The project comes amid renewed tourism interest in North Sikkim, supported by improved accessibility along the Lachung–Yumthang–Zero Point circuit. Known for its Himalayan scenery, rhododendron forests and traditional Bhutia settlements, Lachung offers opportunities to develop longer, nature-focused stays alongside established sightseeing itineraries.

The retreat will join Summit's Signature Collection, which includes Summit Norbu Ghang in Gangtok and Summit Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh. The collection forms part of the company's wider strategy to develop premium, destination-focused hospitality across the Eastern Himalayas and other leisure markets in India.

With the Lachung project, Summit is looking to combine premium accommodation with local culture and nature-based experiences, while creating opportunities for community participation as tourism in North Sikkim evolves


The Long Weekend Escape You Didn't Know You Needed: Cintacor Island, Karwar

The Long Weekend Escape You Didn't Know You Needed: Cintacor Island, Karwar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 22, 2026

Looking for a peaceful escape this Dussehra? Cintacor Island Resort in Karwar, Karnataka, offers a private island getaway where guests can enjoy the beach, explore the sea and unwind amid nature. Spread across a 33-acre private island along Karnataka's lesser-explored coastline, the resort offers an alternative to crowded holiday destinations for the festive long weekend from 20–22 October 2026.

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the resort brings together relaxation, outdoor activities and scenic coastal views. Guests can spend their days at the private beach, enjoy the swimming pool or explore the island's NatureLab, making it a refreshing choice for travellers looking to slow down and enjoy a few days away from their usual routine.

For those who want more than a relaxed beach holiday, Cintacor Island offers several experiences on land and at sea. Guests can try kayaking and fishing or head out on dolphin cruises to explore the surrounding waters. Those looking to unwind can visit the private Kurmasana Spa, which offers a peaceful setting to relax during their stay.

One of the island's highlights is Nemo's Deck, located at its highest point. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, it provides a beautiful spot to watch the sunset. As the day winds down, guests can head to Jolly Rogers for a leisurely meal while enjoying the island's relaxed atmosphere.

With its private beach, sea-facing experiences and natural surroundings, Cintacor Island Resort offers a different way to celebrate the Dussehra long weekend. Whether travellers are looking for a quiet break, a little adventure or simply time by the sea, the island provides an opportunity to step away from busy holiday destinations and enjoy a coastal retreat.

For those planning a festive getaway, Cintacor Island Resort, Karwar, presents an inviting option to spend the long weekend surrounded by nature, with the Arabian Sea setting the scene for a memorable holiday.

  • Venue: Cintacor Island Resort, Karwar, Karnataka
  • Location: Cintacor Island Resort
  • Dates: 20–22 October 2026.


Sayaji Raipur Brings Dussehra Dining and Halloween Celebrations to October

Sayaji Raipur Brings Dussehra Dining and Halloween Celebrations to October

By Hariharan U

Published on October 20, 2026

Sayaji Raipur is bringing the festive season to the table with two special dining experiences this October, combining a Dussehra celebration at Cravings with a themed Halloween evening at its rooftop destination, Horizon.

Designed around food, festivities and social gatherings, the hotel's October calendar offers guests opportunities to celebrate traditional occasions and enjoy a contemporary seasonal experience with family and friends.

Dussehra Celebration at Cravings

On October 20, 2026, Cravings at Sayaji Raipur will mark Dussehra with a special festive dining experience featuring traditional flavours and a celebratory atmosphere.

Guests can avail themselves of a 2+1 offer during lunch, providing an opportunity for families and groups to gather over a festive meal.

Halloween Night at Horizon

The celebrations will continue on October 31, 2026, with a themed Halloween Night at Horizon, Sayaji Raipur's rooftop destination.

The evening will feature Halloween-inspired food and drinks, themed décor and an entertaining ambience, bringing a seasonal twist to the rooftop dining experience.

Guests can also enjoy 15% off the à la carte menu, while drinks will be available at MRP.

Together, the two events reflect Sayaji Raipur's approach to seasonal dining, bringing traditional festivities and contemporary themed celebrations into its October programme.

Event Details

Dussehra at Cravings

  • Date: October 20, 2026

  • Offer: 2+1 during lunch

Halloween Night at Horizon

  • Date: October 31, 2026

  • Offer: 15% off the à la carte menu

  • Drinks: Available at MRP

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