Meghalaya Celebrates Responsible Tourism, Wins Recognition f

Meghalaya Celebrates Responsible Tourism, Wins Recognition for Sustainability

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 7, 2024

Meghalaya, known as the "abode of clouds" and celebrated for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has been acknowledged for its dedication to responsible tourism. The state recently gained recognition at the 2024 Indian Responsible Tourism State Awards (IRSTA), organized by the Meghalaya Tourism Department in partnership with Outlook Group to mark World Tourism Day. The awards highlighted various categories such as sustainable leadership, experiences, and champions of sustainability.

The state’s tourism initiatives emphasize the blend of natural beauty with the traditions of the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia tribes, known for living in harmony with their environment. A prime example of this harmony is the iconic Living Root bridges, crafted by weaving the roots of trees over rivers and streams. These marvels showcase Meghalaya’s approach to sustainable and immersive tourism, where community and culture are at the forefront.

The Sieng Riti Institute, led by Shri Snar Singh Malngiang, was awarded Gold in the Sustainable Leadership Cultural Ambassadors category. Malngiang stated, “The sole objective of Sieng Riti Institute when we formed was based on three pillars – Learn, Preserve, and Impart.” Established in 2002, the institute has grown from training young adults to now including children as young as six, with over 170 learners engaged in preserving traditional Khasi music and customs.

Another significant honoree was Smt. Vianney Basiewdor Nongrum, who won the Sustainable Leadership Grassroots Heroes Award. She shared, “After completing my studies in Fashion and Textile Design, I worked with the women of Raid Nongtluh and other village clusters in the Ri Bhoi district. These women possess exceptional weaving skills, using natural dyes. Our collaborative efforts not only create employment but also promote cultural preservation.”

Shillong, the state’s capital, has also been recognized as a top travel destination for 2025 by Skyscanner’s “Travel Trends Report,” overtaking notable cities like Baku, Azerbaijan. This achievement is bolstered by Meghalaya’s focus on eco-tourism and sustainable practices. The upcoming Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival on November 15-16, 2024, at RBDSA Sports Complex in Ri Bhoi District, is expected to draw even more visitors.

Staying true to its 2023 Meghalaya Tourism Policy, the state continues to develop tourism that respects and preserves its unique environment and culture, enhancing its status as a sustainable and attractive travel destination.

Dook International: Revolutionizing CIS Travel for Over 15 Years

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 22, 2025

For over 15 years, Dook International has been a trusted name in CIS travel, offering seamless travel experiences across Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and more. What started as a modest venture in Uzbekistan has now grown into a leading travel agency, with an extensive network of 10,000+ travel agents and offices across nine countries.

A Legacy of Trusted Travel Solutions

Dook International has proudly served over 500,000 travelers and 500+ corporate clients through its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment. The company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service has cemented its reputation as a go-to travel partner for CIS destinations.

"Travel is about more than just visiting new places; it's about creating lifelong memories. For 15 years, we've been dedicated to making CIS travel easy and unforgettable for our clients," said Gopal Kapoor, Director of Dook International.
"As we continue to grow and innovate, our mission remains to provide extraordinary travel experiences that inspire and connect people worldwide."

Strategic Expansion with Ease My Trip

To meet the evolving demands of modern travelers, Dook International has partnered with Ease My Trip, further expanding its market reach and enhancing its service offerings.

Operating from its registered office in Delhi, the company boasts a dedicated team of 250+ employees, working tirelessly to craft unique and personalized travel experiences.

The Road Ahead

As Dook International looks to the future, it remains committed to exploring new destinations, enhancing travel experiences, and strengthening its foothold in the CIS region and beyond. With innovation and customer satisfaction at its core, the company continues to set new benchmarks in the travel industry.

Luxeglamp Unveils Luxe Chateau: India's First Double-Glass Glamp at Kodaikanal

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 18, 2025

Luxeglamp, the pioneers in luxury glamping in India, has introduced a groundbreaking concept with the launch of the Luxe Chateau—India’s first double-glass glamping domes. Nestled at Luxeglamp’s eco-resort in Kodaikanal, these innovative Luxe Chateaus offer guests an immersive 360° view of the surrounding forests and starry skies, providing a truly unique stay.

The glass domes, designed for both luxury and sustainability, offer excellent sun protection, wind resistance, and warmth preservation, ensuring a cozy stay no matter the weather. Whether you're admiring the tranquil landscape or gazing at the stars, the transparent glass structure creates an uninterrupted connection to nature, allowing guests to sleep under the stars and wake up to one of the most breathtaking sunrises in Kodaikanal.

Antony Thomas, the CEO and founder of Luxeglamp, expressed his excitement, saying, "We wanted to elevate our guests’ connection with nature. Our new Glass Glamps offer an all-encompassing experience where guests can sleep under the stars and wake up to one of the most beautiful sunrises in Kodaikanal—all while staying warm and cozy."

For couples seeking a romantic escape, Luxeglamp offers a variety of exclusive experiences, including a floating breakfast in the infinity pool, an afternoon tea experience, a guided scenic horseback ride, and an intimate candlelit dinner under the stars with a specially curated 5-course gourmet meal. Guests can also enjoy a private sauna or unwind by a cozy campfire in the evening, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of their stay.

The interiors of the Luxe Chateaus are minimalist and nature-inspired, reflecting the rustic charm of the Wild West. Private decks provide the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation, while eco-friendly amenities enhance the sustainable luxury experience. This new concept continues Luxeglamp’s mission of combining comfort with sustainability, ensuring an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and travelers seeking something extraordinary.

The Luxe Chateaus are built with double-glazed, insulated glass, which helps maintain the internal temperature, reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. This energy-efficient design contributes to a lower carbon footprint, allowing guests to enjoy their stay while being mindful of environmental impact. The glass domes blend seamlessly into the landscape, ensuring that the beauty of nature is preserved without visual pollution.

Building on the success of the Luxe Chateau, Luxeglamp plans to expand its glamping offerings with more thematic experiences across locations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, solidifying its position as a leader in eco-friendly luxury glamping.

About Luxeglamp Eco-resorts L.L.P

Luxeglamp Eco-resorts L.L.P is India’s first luxury glamping provider, offering a glamorous yet eco-friendly way to immerse in nature. Located in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Luxeglamp combines stunning panoramic views with exceptional amenities that focus on environmental conservation and minimal ecological footprint. With cozy rooms, hot tubs, private patios, and delicious food, each Luxeglamp site ensures a one-of-a-kind experience. The company is dedicated to harmoniously blending nature with hospitality, allowing guests to indulge in luxury while embracing the natural world. For more information, visit www.luxeglamp.com.

Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Showcases Unmatched Beauty at IITM Kolkata

By Author

Published on February 17, 2025

In a significant effort to boost tourism through a nationwide promotional campaign, the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir, participated in the India International Travel Mart (IITM) Kolkata.

On the sidelines of IITM Kolkata, a team from J&K Tourism, led by Additional Secretary Owais Mushtaq, engaged extensively with the media fraternity of Kolkata and held meetings with leading travel trade operators from the eastern region. The team showcased the immense tourism potential of Jammu & Kashmir, a region blessed with unparalleled natural beauty—ranging from vast meadows and lush forests to snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and breathtaking valleys.

The delegation included Mr. Owais Mushtaq (Additional Secretary, Tourism), Ms. Savita Chouhan (Deputy Director, Tourism Jammu), Mr. Nasir Mehmood (Deputy Director, Tourism Kashmir), and Dr. Ahsan Ul Haq (Officer-In-Charge, J&K Tourism Office, Kolkata). During IITM, they provided insights into the diverse tourism offerings of the Union Territory, highlighting Pilgrim Tourism for devotees visiting Vaishno Devi and Amarnath, as well as Adventure Tourism, which includes trekking, white-water rafting, skiing, mountaineering, and paragliding. Additionally, they emphasized the rich heritage of Leisure Tourism, which has been a hallmark of J&K for centuries.

During the event, Mr. Owais Mushtaq delivered a detailed presentation outlining the extensive range of tourism products and services available in Jammu & Kashmir. He also highlighted the department’s continuous efforts to enhance visitor experiences and promote responsible tourism.

The delegation extended a warm invitation to media representatives to visit Jammu & Kashmir and experience firsthand its diverse tourism offerings. They assured attendees that J&K is one of the safest destinations for tourists, boasting a zero-crime rate against visitors and being recognized as one of the safest places for women travelers globally.

Furthermore, the team emphasized that Jammu & Kashmir offers distinct scenic beauty across all seasons, with each destination transforming uniquely throughout the year—whether in the vibrant bloom of spring, the golden hues of autumn, or the snow-covered landscapes of winter.

The team also highlighted the remarkable surge in tourist arrivals in recent years, reflecting Jammu & Kashmir’s growing prominence as a premier travel destination. In 2022, the Union Territory welcomed 1.88 crore tourists, followed by 2.11 crore in 2023, and an impressive 2.37 crore in 2024. This consistent increase in footfall underscores the region’s unmatched natural beauty, enhanced tourism infrastructure, and the successful efforts of the J&K Tourism Department in promoting the destination.

With its strong presence and impactful promotional campaigns, Jammu & Kashmir Tourism continues to lead the way in India's tourism sector, emerging as a frontrunner at the IITM Kolkata event.

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