Diwali Getaways: Top Cities to Visit for a Sparkling Celebration

Diwali Getaways: Top Cities to Visit for a Sparkling Celebration

By Author

Published on November 8, 2023

The festival of lights is upon us, and this year's Diwali is set to sparkle with more than just firecrackers. With a calendar that blesses us with a long weekend, why not swap the usual festivities at home for a burst of new experiences? Let's jet set to some of India's most iconic cities, where Diwali isn't just a festival, it's a lifetime memory waiting to happen.

 Varanasi: A Divine Spectacle on the Ganges

First up, Varanasi – the spiritual heart of India, where the Ganges isn’t just a river but the canvas for the grandest aarti you'll ever witness. Diwali here is a celestial event, an endless cascade of lights and colors that makes the city feel like a galaxy on earth. As the ghats light up with thousands of diyas, the echoes of chants and bells create a soundtrack that's more soul-stirring than any orchestra.

 Jaipur: Royal Splendor Amidst Pink Walls

Next, let's take our Diwali celebration royal at Jaipur, the Pink City that turns into a golden mirage during the festivities. Here, palaces aren’t just historic landmarks; they’re timeless sentinels watching over a city draped in vibrant hues and twinkling lights. The markets bustle with activity, as locals and visitors alike seek treasures in the form of traditional wear and artisanal crafts.

 Ayodhya: An Epic Homecoming Celebration

In Ayodhya, the essence of Diwali goes back to its mythological roots – a homecoming and a victory of good over evil. The city isn’t just lit; it reenacts history, inviting everyone to be a part of a celebration that has been ongoing for millennia. Here, the warmth of the people matches the warmth of the lights that adorn the city.

Goa: A Beachside Festivity with a Twist

Then there's Goa, which offers a Diwali with a twist. It's not just about the sandy shores; it's about cultural fusion where traditional lamps meet the serenity of the sea. Goa's version of the festival includes vibrant fairs, effigies of Narakasura being paraded through the streets, and, as night falls, a panorama of fireworks that reflect over the ocean.

 Kolkata: The City of Joy and the Goddess of the Night

Our festive trail ends in Kolkata, the cultural capital that turns into a panorama of devotion and celebration during Diwali. Known for its grand Kali Puja, the city takes on an ethereal aura, offering a stark contrast to the usual Lakshmi Puja observed elsewhere. The city is alive with thematic pandals, sweets that are culinary masterpieces, and a collective spirit that could light up the darkest of nights.

Each city on this list offers a slice of Diwali that's unique, immersive, and utterly unforgettable. This isn't just about escaping the routine; it's about enriching it with stories you'll tell for years to come. So, light up your inner traveler and let this Diwali be a journey that celebrates not just the victory of light over darkness, but also the joy of exploration and the spirit of India in all its festive glory.


Tathastu Resorts Expands with New Wildlife Retreat in Satpura

Tathastu Resorts Expands with New Wildlife Retreat in Satpura

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 27, 2026

Tathastu Resorts has strengthened its presence in India’s wildlife hospitality space with the launch of ‘Tathastu Satpura’, a new retreat located at Satpura Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. With this addition, the group now marks its fifth property, joining its existing resorts in Pench, Kanha, Tadoba, and Bandhavgarh.

Set amidst one of Central India’s rich forest landscapes, the retreat is designed to offer a peaceful and close-to-nature stay. The property features 34 Villa Rooms and 5 Exclusive Pool Suites, each planned to give guests a sense of space and privacy. With private verandas and forest-facing views, the stay aims to blend comfort with an immersive wilderness experience. A thoughtful detail includes rooms equipped with two washrooms, allowing guests a more relaxed start before heading out for early morning safaris.

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Sharing his thoughts on the destination, Mr Anil Agarwala, Managing Director, Tathastu Resorts, said, “Hidden quietly in the heart of Madhya Pradesh lies a destination that offers something far more peaceful, raw and authentic Satpura. Often overlooked, this forest region is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and travellers seeking calm, away from crowded tourist circuits. At its core is Satpura Tiger Reserve, one of India's most underrated yet rewarding wildlife destinations, known for its rich biodiversity and remarkably tranquil safari experience where visitors can truly listen to the forest. With the launch of Tathastu Satpura, we aim to create a stay that complements the spirit of this landscape, immersive, intimate and deeply connected to the wilderness.”

Dining at the resort is led by ‘Gilhari’, a multi-cuisine restaurant inspired by the Indian Giant Squirrel found in the region, which is also the official mascot of the Satpura Tiger Reserve. The menu brings together Indian and international dishes, offering guests a wide variety of options. The resort also features a bar space designed with earthy tones and wooden elements, reflecting the surrounding forest environment.

Wildlife remains at the heart of the Satpura experience. Guided safaris give guests the chance to spot species such as Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Indian giant squirrels, sambar deer and several bird species. Known for its relatively untouched terrain, the reserve offers a quieter and more immersive safari experience compared to many other parks.

Beyond safaris, guests can take part in a mix of nature-led and recreational activities, including jungle walks, riverside sundowners, pottery sessions and reflexology walks. The resort also offers indoor options such as a games room, box cricket arena, karaoke evenings and a temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool.

Adding a meaningful touch, Tathastu Satpura has introduced a team of visually impaired spa therapists who provide therapeutic massage experiences as part of the resort’s social initiative.

With this launch, Tathastu Resorts continues to build its presence across India’s leading tiger landscapes. Its growing portfolio reflects a focus on offering travellers a balanced experience of nature, comfort and curated activities.

The addition of Satpura also highlights the rising interest in experiential wildlife travel in India, where more travellers are choosing destinations that offer both adventure and a deeper connection with nature.


CRC Partners with CBRE for Facility Management at Noida Project

CRC Partners with CBRE for Facility Management at Noida Project

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 27, 2026

CRC Group has partnered with CBRE to manage integrated facility operations at CRC The Flagship, its large office-led mixed-use development in Sector 140A along the Noida Expressway. The move comes as the project enters its final stage of construction, with delivery expected in the 3rd quarter of this year.

Spread across around 2.4 million sq. ft., CRC The Flagship is designed as a campus-style IT/ITES development. The project brings together Grade A+ office spaces along with retail, food and beverage outlets, and hospitality elements, creating a well-rounded business environment.

The master planning for the project has been done by Benoy, UK, with architectural inputs from RSP and Vastunidhi Architects. Several specialist consultants have also contributed across areas such as structure, MEP services, façade, lighting, traffic planning, and security. The overall design focuses on efficient layouts, smooth movement across the campus, and long-term operational ease.

Under this partnership, CBRE will handle end-to-end facility management services. This includes operations and maintenance, sustainability practices, technology-driven systems, and predictive maintenance. The scope will cover office towers, retail spaces, shared areas, and hospitality zones, with a focus on maintaining service quality and enhancing the overall occupier experience.

The office infrastructure has been built to support large-scale corporate operations. Each tower includes 10 high-speed elevators with destination control systems to manage peak-time traffic. The campus also features separate driveways for different zones, organised vehicular movement, and spacious multi-height lobbies, offering a premium arrival experience.

Sustainability is another key highlight of the project. CRC The Flagship is IGBC Platinum pre-certified and includes features such as climate-responsive design, high-performance façade glazing, centralised air conditioning with air quality monitoring, EV-ready parking, and a Building Management System to improve energy efficiency. The developer has also enhanced the nearby green belt to improve the surrounding environment.

Commenting on the association, Salil Kumar, Director-Marketing & Business Management - CRC Group, said the company was pleased to bring CBRE on board as the project nears completion.

“We welcome CBRE into the CRC Group ecosystem and place strong trust in their proven commitments and service delivery capabilities. As CRC The Flagship moves into its operational phase, we look forward to delivering a best in class workplace experience with CBRE, aligned with the expectations of global IT/ITES and enterprise occupiers,” he said.

With its scale, infrastructure, and location along the Noida Expressway, CRC The Flagship is set to emerge as a future-ready office destination, catering to the evolving needs of businesses in the NCR market.


Radisson Hotel Group Strengthens Europe Leadership, Eyes 2026 Growth

Radisson Hotel Group Strengthens Europe Leadership, Eyes 2026 Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 26, 2026

Radisson Hotel Group wrapped up 2025 on a strong note with more than 272 hotel signings and openings, further strengthening its position as an owner-focused hospitality group. The performance reflects steady growth across regions and segments, setting a solid base as the group moves into 2026.

In Europe, the group continued to lead the upper-upscale category, with Radisson Blu maintaining its position as the largest brand in this segment, present in 154 cities. The brand also held its ground in the resort space, with Radisson Blu resorts spread across 27 destinations, showing consistent demand for leisure-led travel across the continent.

The year also saw the group entering key partnerships that added to its portfolio. This includes The Medlock, a Radisson Blu Hotel at Manchester City football club’s Etihad Stadium, along with collaborations on projects like “The Butler” with the MIMCO Group and Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside with Byron Gestion. At the same time, existing relationships remained strong, with a majority of owners continuing to invest, and 65% of them operating more than one hotel with the group.

Sustainability remained a clear focus area. Radisson Hotel Group introduced two Verified Net Zero Hotels, Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre and Radisson RED Oslo City Centre. These developments highlight the group’s push towards responsible growth while also offering long-term value for owners through environmentally conscious operations.

Commenting on the growth, Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, said, "We are grateful for the trust of our owners in our brands and our people. We create more opportunities and possibilities for our investors and guests across continents and segments, from midscale to lifestyle, luxury to resorts, and eventually crossing into alternative segments. The momentum that we achieved over the last years, alongside the competence and grit of our leadership teams, will secure more growth, resilience and opportunities in 2026 and beyond.”

On the global front, China emerged as a key growth driver, with 170 hotels signed and opened during the year, taking the pipeline close to 300 properties. Much of this growth was led by the mid- to upper mid-scale segments, especially through the expansion of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson.

India also stood out as one of the most active markets for the group. Crossing the milestone of 200 hotels in operation and under development, the country continues to play a key role in Radisson’s long-term plans, supported by strong domestic travel demand and investor confidence.

Across EMEA, the group recorded around 70 signings and openings, focusing on markets such as Southern Europe, the UK, France, Germany, and Poland. Key additions included projects in Paris, Bucharest, Egypt, Germany, and Barcelona, reflecting a balanced expansion strategy across both established and emerging destinations.

Leisure-focused growth remained a major highlight, with the group’s resort portfolio crossing 160 properties worldwide. New additions such as Atiara Ubud Bali, a Radisson Collection Resort, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Çeşme, and Radisson Collection The National Hotel in Brussels underline the rising demand for resort and urban-resort experiences.

With strong performance across regions, a focus on sustainability, and steady expansion in key markets like India and China, Radisson Hotel Group is well-positioned to carry its momentum forward into 2026.

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