Lakshadweep Eyes Global Tourism Limelight with Major Development Projects

Lakshadweep Eyes Global Tourism Limelight with Major Development Projects

By Author

Published on February 11, 2024

In a significant move to position Lakshadweep on the global tourism map, the island administration has announced a series of ambitious projects aimed at unlocking the archipelago's untapped tourism potential. With an eye on enhancing connectivity as a foundational step, the administration has welcomed the entry of major airlines, including Fly19 and Spice Jet, with Indigo also showing interest in starting operations to Agatti Island.

Expanding Horizons with Enhanced Connectivity

The connectivity boost is not just about flights; the Agatti Island airport is set to undergo a comprehensive expansion. With a contract awarded to construction giant L&T, the airport's runway will be extended to 2,800 meters, supporting larger aircraft and increasing tourist influx. Furthermore, a new Greenfield airport is on the cards for Minicoy Island, strategically located near the Maldives, promising to open new routes and opportunities for the island's tourism sector.

Upscaling Accommodation with Luxury Resorts

To complement the improved connectivity, the Tata Group has proposed the construction of three major Taj resorts on Suheli, Minicoy, and Kadmat islands. With plans for over 100 rooms in Lagoon Villas and land villas—marking the first of their kind in India—these developments are set to redefine luxury accommodation in the region. The projects have received the green light after thorough Environmental Impact Assessments, ensuring sustainable development that respects the fragile island ecosystem.

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Balancing Development with Environmental Sustainability

Marine Biologist K K Idrees Babu emphasized the stringent guidelines underpinning these projects, aiming to avoid the ecological missteps observed in other island destinations like the Maldives. The focus is on eco-friendly construction and operations that preserve the islands' natural beauty while offering world-class tourism experiences.

A Community-Centric Approach to Tourism

Despite the enthusiasm for the economic benefits these projects are expected to bring, there's a call for greater community involvement in the decision-making process. Local leaders and the current MP of Lakshadweep have voiced concerns about the lack of consultation with the island's residents, stressing the importance of preserving the local culture and ensuring sustainable tourism practices that align with the community's values.

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Future Prospects: Smart Cities and Eco-Friendly Infrastructure

Beyond airport expansions and luxury resorts, the administration is planning a smart city project and two city centers with five-star hotels in Agatti and Kavaratti. A novel 'Tent City' concept is also being introduced, offering flexible, eco-conscious accommodation options along the coastline.

As Lakshadweep gears up for a transformative phase, these initiatives are designed to not only boost the local economy but also establish the islands as a premier destination for tourists seeking an alternative to the Maldives. This comes at a time when diplomatic tensions have highlighted the need for India to develop its own high-end tourism destinations, leveraging its natural beauty and cultural heritage.


IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manchester

IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manchester

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, has launched direct flights between Delhi and Manchester, starting 15th November 2025. This follows the airline’s successful first long-haul route connecting Mumbai to Manchester earlier this year.

The new 5x weekly service is operated on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. The plane offers a two-class cabin with 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy Class seats, ensuring comfort for long-haul travellers.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), one of India’s top global gateways, now hosts IndiGo’s long-haul operations from the capital. On the UK side, Manchester Airport serves as a key hub, providing easy connections to Northern English cities including Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle.

By linking Delhi and Manchester, IndiGo aims to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between India and the UK, making international travel faster and more convenient.

Flight Schedule (Effective 15 November 2025)

Delhi to Manchester

  • Flight No.: 6E 0033

  • Days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday

  • Departure: 04:05 (local time)

  • Arrival: 09:30 (local time)

Manchester to Delhi

  • Flight No.: 6E 0034

  • Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

  • Departure: 11:15 (local time)

  • Arrival: 02:10 (+1, next day)

Note: All timings are in local time zones; +1 indicates arrival the next day.

About IndiGo
IndiGo is India’s preferred carrier and one of the fastest-growing airlines globally. Focused on affordability, punctuality, and hassle-free travel, the airline operates 2,300+ daily flights across 90+ domestic and 40+ international destinations. With a fleet of over 400 aircraft, IndiGo inducted 58 aircraft in 2024 and served 118 million passengers in FY25. It was also named ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ by Skytrax at the 2025 World Airline Awards.

For more details, visit www.goindigo.in or download the IndiGo mobile app.


Cox & Kings Unveils ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ as Indians Choose Offbeat Winter Destinations

Cox & Kings Unveils ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ as Indians Choose Offbeat Winter Destinations

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

As Europe settles into its most scenic season, Indian travellers are increasingly looking beyond the usual winter hotspots. This year, Central and Eastern Europe have become strong favourites, leading Cox & Kings to introduce its new ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ collection. The series focuses on handpicked journeys through quieter, cultural, and lesser-explored regions, offering an intimate view of Europe away from the typical tourist trails.

Booking patterns show a clear trend: places like Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Bulgaria are seeing higher demand among Indian travellers. These destinations offer a mix of heritage, calm winter beauty, and good value. From snow-covered old towns to peaceful mountains and festive markets without long queues, the region appeals to travellers seeking a more soulful winter holiday.

The new itineraries, ‘Eastern Wonders: A Winter Tale’, ‘Essence of Europe: Winter Journey’, and ‘Passionate Europe: A Winter Tale’, have been curated to highlight the slower and more immersive side of Europe. While winter does bring affordability with airfares and stays dropping up to 40% across Europe between November and March, Cox & Kings says the real focus is on meaningful experiences rather than seasonal discounts.

"There's a kind of quiet grandeur to Europe in winter especially in the regions that aren't yet overrun by tourism," says Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings. "Our Winter Tales itineraries bring that to life for travellers who want to go beyond the obvious and experience Europe as it truly feels to locals."

The Winter Tales series is open to a wide range of travellers: families looking for festive breaks, honeymooners, solo travellers joining group departures, senior explorers, and all-women groups under Cox & Kings’ Group Inclusive Tours (GIT) format. There is also flexibility for travellers who prefer independent travel, as the itineraries can be customised. Bookings for these journeys remain open until mid-March 2026.

About Cox & Kings
Cox & Kings is the world’s first and one of the most iconic travel houses, with a legacy of over 260 years. Established in 1758, it has been a pioneer in global travel across leisure, business, and specialised segments. Known for its deep expertise and curated experiences, the brand continues to guide generations of travellers with a blend of tradition, innovation, and customer-first hospitality.


Andaman Tourism to Host ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15

Andaman Tourism to Host ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15

By MAnu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 16, 2025

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands government is set to host an ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15, aiming to promote eco-adventure tourism and encourage local youth participation. Organised by the Tourism Department with support from the Environment and Forests Department and MY Bharat, the event highlights the islands’ natural beauty and historical legacy.

A tourism department official stated that the festival seeks to inspire youth to take up eco-guiding and adventure guiding as viable paths for self-employment, aligning with the administration’s vision of sustainable tourism development. Participation will be limited to 50 individuals, including local youth, trekking enthusiasts, tour operators, and tourists. The first 50 registered participants will be selected for the trek, and all will receive participation certificates from the Tourism Department.

Mount Manipur, formerly known as Mount Harriet, is the third-highest peak in the Andaman archipelago and one of its most scenic and historically significant trekking routes. The site carries deep historical importance, following the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, Maharaja Kulachandra Singh and 22 freedom fighters were exiled to the Andaman Islands.

To honour their bravery, Union Home Minister Amit Shah renamed Mount Harriet as Mount Manipur during his 2021 visit to the islands. In recognition of this history, the Tourism Department chose the location as the venue for the Island Trekking Festival, merging adventure with remembrance.

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