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By Author
Published on January 15, 2025
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, has returned to Prayagraj in 2025, drawing millions of devotees and curious travelers from around the world. This grand event, one of the largest religious gatherings globally, is not only a celebration of faith but a remarkable opportunity for the tourism and hospitality industries, highlighting India’s potential to host monumental events that blend tradition and modernity.
A Spiritual Confluence at the Triveni Sangam
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, set at the sacred Triveni Sangam—the meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—has captivated attendees with its deeply spiritual atmosphere and extraordinary rituals. The first Amrit Snan, held on January 14, witnessed an overwhelming participation of over two crore devotees, who flocked to the Sangam for a holy dip, marking the beginning of a series of sacred rituals.
This year’s event saw the participation of diverse groups, including the Naga Sadhus and Kinnar Akhara, who performed their holy dips with immense grandeur and reverence, showcasing the inclusive spirit of the Kumbh. Alongside local devotees, international spiritual leaders such as Yogmata Keiko Aikawa from Japan added a global dimension, highlighting the universal appeal of the festival.
The event’s spectacle extends beyond spirituality. Helicopters showered rose petals on devotees during the Amrit Snan, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. Additionally, the light and sound show, narrating the rich mythology of the Kumbh, has become one of the most popular attractions for attendees, further enriching their experience.
A Global Gathering
The Maha Kumbh Mela has always been a global event, drawing attendees from across the world. This year, notable personalities like Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, participated in the rituals, embracing the spiritual essence of the festival despite minor health issues. Her presence, along with other prominent figures from the business, political, and entertainment worlds, added to the significance of the event.
The festival is not only a gathering of devotees but also a confluence of cultures and nationalities, making it a unique opportunity for cultural exchanges. Religious heads, dignitaries, and representatives from the 13 akhadas continue to lead the festival’s ceremonies, ensuring the traditions are upheld while also catering to the diverse international crowd that attends the event.
Hospitality Sector Boost
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 has had a significant impact on the tourism and hospitality sectors. With millions of people descending on Prayagraj, the demand for accommodations has soared. Hotels, guesthouses, and makeshift campsites in and around the city are experiencing unprecedented demand, catering to visitors from all over India and the globe. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, every segment of the hospitality industry is benefiting from this massive influx.
The event also presents a unique opportunity for culinary tourism, as regional cuisines from Uttar Pradesh and other parts of India are showcased to cater to the diverse tastes of international and domestic visitors. Local vendors, food stalls, and restaurants are capitalizing on the opportunity, offering an array of traditional and fusion dishes to satisfy the festival’s attendees.
Moreover, the cultural and economic impact of the Maha Kumbh extends beyond just hospitality. The festival boosts local artisans, performers, and service providers, giving them a platform to share their craft and generate income. Vendors and craftsmen from all corners of India benefit immensely from the thousands of visitors attending the event, further bolstering the region’s economic growth.
Infrastructure Development and Future Growth
In preparation for the millions of visitors, significant investments have been made in infrastructure development. Roads, sanitation facilities, public transport, and security measures have been upgraded to ensure a smooth experience for attendees. These improvements benefit local communities and create a sustainable foundation for future growth in Prayagraj, ensuring that the city remains a key destination for cultural and religious tourism long after the festival concludes.
A Cultural and Economic Phenomenon
The Maha Kumbh Mela is more than just a religious event; it’s a celebration of India’s cultural heritage and its ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds. The festival’s influence extends far beyond Prayagraj, with international media outlets covering the event and amplifying its global reach. This helps position India as a premier destination for spiritual and cultural tourism, attracting visitors from around the world.
The hospitality professionals managing the logistics of the festival—ranging from accommodation to cultural immersion experiences—play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. Their expertise ensures that the complexities of organizing such a massive event are addressed with precision, allowing attendees to focus on the spiritual and cultural aspects of their visit.
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is a testament to India’s ability to host events of monumental scale. Beyond its spiritual significance, it is a thriving hub for cultural exchange, tourism, and economic growth. As the world witnesses the grandeur of this celestial gathering, the hospitality and tourism sectors stand to gain immensely from this once-in-12-year event. The Maha Kumbh not only strengthens India’s position on the global map but also sets the stage for continued growth in the tourism industry, making it a landmark event for both spiritual seekers and industry professionals alike.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 24, 2026
Regional airline FLY91 has added Tirupati as its 13th destination, further expanding its regional network across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. With the new addition, the airline now serves four destinations across the two states.
The airline will connect Tirupati with Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Rajahmundry, supporting travel for pilgrims, tourists, business travellers and students across southern India. Bookings for the new Tirupati services are now open through FLY91’s website and travel agency network.
Tirupati is one of India's major pilgrimage destinations and is home to the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala, which attracts millions of devotees. Beyond pilgrimage, the city is also an important educational, cultural and commercial centre in Andhra Pradesh.
Manoj Chacko, MD and CEO, FLY91, said, "The addition of Tirupati marks another important milestone in the steady expansion of our regional network and reinforces our commitment to Andhra Pradesh, where we now serve three destinations. By connecting Tirupati to 3 important cities, we are making travel across an important religious, educational and cultural corridor more convenient while improving connectivity between key regional centres. As a regional airline focused on 'Connecting Bharat' through safe and reliable air services, we remain committed to enhancing access between India's growing regional markets."
FLY91 will operate daily flights between Tirupati and Hyderabad. Flights between Tirupati and Vijayawada will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, while services between Tirupati and Rajahmundry will run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
With Tirupati now added to its network, FLY91 serves Goa (Manohar International Airport, Mopa), Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Solapur, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Agatti, Kochi, Hubballi, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada and Tirupati. The addition strengthens FLY91’s focus on connecting regional markets and improving access between important destinations across India.
By Hariharan U
Published on August 19, 2026
Air India Express has commenced operations from the newly inaugurated Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh, connecting Visakhapatnam with Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Vijayawada.
The airline began operations from the new airport on August 17, 2026, with 10 daily flights serving the three key domestic destinations. The inaugural flight departed for Bengaluru at 8:00 AM, with guests receiving ceremonial boarding passes to mark the launch.
The new services strengthen air connectivity for Visakhapatnam and the surrounding region, while providing travellers with additional options to connect with major business, tourism and commercial centres across southern India.
Air India Express currently operates two daily flights between Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad and two daily services between Visakhapatnam and Bengaluru, along with a daily service connecting Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.
The Bengaluru–Visakhapatnam schedule also includes additional services on Thursdays and Saturdays, providing greater flexibility for travellers.
All timings are local and are effective from August 17, 2026.
The airline is also expanding its network from Andhra Pradesh with the addition of Tirupati, with daily flights connecting Tirupati and Hyderabad scheduled to commence from September 1, 2026.
From the same date, Air India Express will also resume its daily service on the Hyderabad–Chennai route, further strengthening connectivity between key cities in southern India.
With the latest additions, Air India Express currently serves 48 domestic and 16 international destinations, operating more than 3,000 weekly flights across India, Southeast Asia and West Asia.
The commencement of operations at Bhogapuram marks another step in the airline's network expansion strategy while strengthening connectivity to and from Visakhapatnam, one of Andhra Pradesh's important commercial, industrial and tourism centres.
Published on August 15, 2026
With Independence Day falling on a Saturday this year, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have curated 12 short getaway options for travellers looking to make the most of the weekend.
The list brings together destinations that are easy to reach from Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, covering everything from monsoon-filled hills and wildlife escapes to heritage cities and coastal retreats. Whether it is adventure, nature, culture or simply some time away from the city, there is an option for different kinds of travellers.
1. Rishikesh: For an Adventure-Filled Break
Just a few hours from Delhi, Rishikesh offers a mix of adventure, spirituality and relaxation along the Ganga.
2. Jaipur: For a Dose of Culture & Heritage
Jaipur is an easy heritage escape from Delhi, with royal history, grand architecture, local food and colourful markets.
3. Jim Corbett: For a Wildlife Escape
For travellers looking to spend the weekend closer to nature, Jim Corbett offers forests, wildlife and peaceful resort stays away from the city.
4. Mussoorie: For a Refreshing Hill Retreat
Mussoorie continues to be a popular short getaway from Delhi, with mountain views, colonial charm and a pleasant hill-station atmosphere.
5. Lonavala: For a Quick Monsoon Escape
Lonavala becomes especially scenic during the monsoon, with green hills, misty landscapes and waterfalls. Its easy access from Mumbai makes it a convenient weekend option.
6. Alibaug: For a Coastal Reset
Alibaug brings together coastal landscapes, heritage, local food and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a good choice for travellers looking to slow down.
7. Mahabaleshwar: For Misty Mountain Views
Surrounded by the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar offers lush and misty landscapes during the monsoon, making it ideal for a peaceful break.
8. Nashik: For Food, Culture & Countryside
Nashik offers a mix of heritage, spirituality, countryside landscapes and Maharashtra's growing wine culture, giving travellers an alternative to the usual hill or beach escape.
9. Coorg: For a Monsoon Nature Break
Coorg's coffee plantations, green landscapes and relaxed pace make it a refreshing getaway from Bengaluru. The destination also offers opportunities to experience local culture and plantation life.
10. Chikmagalur: For Coffee & the Hills
Chikmagalur combines misty mountains, coffee plantations and scenic countryside, offering travellers a relaxed break from Bengaluru.
11. Mysuru: For a Heritage-Filled Weekend
Mysuru offers an easy cultural getaway with grand architecture, historic landmarks, lively markets and its own distinctive food culture.
12. Kabini: For Wildlife & the Wild
Kabini is suited to travellers looking for a deeper nature escape, with forests, wildlife and peaceful riverside experiences.
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