You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Author
Published on December 16, 2023
In a significant stride towards promoting sustainable tourism, the picturesque tourist haven of Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir has become the first destination in India to embrace the Swachhta Green Leaf Rating (SGLR) system. This pioneering move aims to assess tourism infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, and home stays, based on safe sanitation practices.
The SGLR system is a collaborative effort between the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS) and the Tourism Ministry, focusing on the voluntary rating of hospitality infrastructure for hygiene and sanitation.
Pahalgam's adoption of the SGLR is a pilot initiative set to revolutionize the tourism landscape in the region. It underscores the commitment to providing visitors with not only breathtaking natural beauty but also top-notch sanitation practices.
Atal Dulloo, the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, virtually inaugurated the adoption of the SGLR in the hospitality sector by hoteliers in Pahalgam. He urged all stakeholders, including the relevant authorities, to ensure the success of this pioneering model. Dulloo emphasized that Jammu & Kashmir, as a torchbearer in this endeavor, has a unique responsibility to set an example for sustainable tourism.
"Since tourism is one of the mainstays of our economy, it has added significance for us to preserve the pristine assets of beauty and a pleasant environment in our UT," Dulloo stated. He further emphasized that responsible citizens lead to responsible practices in every sector, aligning with the three pillars of sustainable development: economy, ecology, and equity.
Dulloo unveiled the three components of Solid Waste Management (SWM), Faecal Sludge Management (FSM), and Greywater Management (GWM), highlighting their practical principles as integral to sustainable tourism.
The SGLR system comprises three themes, each carrying a total of 200 marks. The first two themes are allocated 80 marks each, while the last one holds 40 marks. Participating entities must achieve a minimum score of 50 percent in each theme to qualify for certification. Entities scoring between 100 and 130 marks receive "1-Leaf Status," those scoring 130 to 180 marks attain "3-Leaf Status," and the highest accolade of "5-Leaf Status" is awarded to those scoring between 180 and 200 marks.
This rating system is an integral part of the Travel for LiFE program in the tourism sector, under Mission LiFE. It aims to raise awareness about sustainable tourism and encourages tourists and tourism businesses to adopt practices in harmony with nature. The program strives to integrate sustainability into the tourism sector, fostering its growth as a sustainable, responsible, and resilient industry.
As Pahalgam blazes a trail with the SGLR system, it sets an inspiring example for other tourist destinations across India. This initiative not only enhances the visitor experience but also underscores the importance of preserving India's natural treasures for generations to come.
Chennais Amirta IIHM Appoints Abanindra Nath Biswal as Princ...
Chennais Amirta International Institute of Hotel Management ...
Alcobrew Distilleries Joins IMWA; Gamber Valley Indian Singl...
Alcobrew Distilleries India Limited has officially joined th...
Hyatt Regency Pune and Residences Promotes Kantilal Namdev K...
Hyatt Regency Pune and Residences has announced the promotio...
Bengaluru Restaurants Roll Out Special Father’s Day Experien...
Father’s Day is more than just another date on the calendar....
By Hariharan U
Published on June 18, 2026
As travel preferences shift towards slower, more meaningful experiences, a new mindset is reshaping the way people explore destinations. Trends such as “quietcations” and “hushpitality” are gaining momentum among Gen Z and millennial travellers, reflecting a growing desire to disconnect from digital overload and reconnect with nature. In this evolving landscape, the monsoon season offers a natural backdrop for mindful travel, and The Serai Resorts brings this philosophy to life across its properties in Chikmagalur, Kabini, and Bandipur.
At The Serai Chikmagalur, nestled within Karnataka’s Malnad region, the monsoon transforms coffee plantations into lush green expanses wrapped in mist and rain. The season enhances the estate’s natural beauty, offering guests slow mornings overlooking plantations, guided coffee estate walks, cycling trails through rain-kissed landscapes, and moments of stillness surrounded by drifting clouds. The experience encourages travellers to embrace a slower rhythm deeply connected to nature.
In Kabini, the monsoon breathes renewed life into the backwaters and surrounding forests, creating one of the most serene seasons in the region. At The Serai Kabini, guests can engage with nature through coracle rides, kayaking, speedboat excursions, and guided walks through thriving ecosystems. Family-friendly experiences such as archery and the Junior Chef programme add interactive elements, while the rains create a calming atmosphere of renewal and immersion.
Meanwhile, The Serai Bandipur offers a tranquil gateway to the wilderness on the edge of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. During the monsoon, the forests turn vibrant and alive, offering an ideal setting for unhurried nature walks, quiet wildlife observation, and reflective moments in the heart of the forest landscape. The experience is designed for travellers seeking a deeper connection with nature, supported by thoughtful hospitality and spacious accommodations.
Across all three destinations, The Serai Resorts positions monsoon not as a season to avoid but as an opportunity to rediscover travel in its most authentic form. In a world increasingly drawn to wellness, mindfulness, and experiential luxury, these retreats offer an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and embrace the beauty of nature at its most expressive.
Father’s Day in India is increasingly being redefined by experiences rather than material gifts, as families choose to celebrate through travel, shared adventures, and meaningful time together. Insights from travel companies such as Thomas Cook India Limited and SOTC Travel highlight a clear shift toward experiential getaways that bring fathers and families closer through curated journeys.
Adventure travel continues to be a strong favourite, with families heading outdoors for trekking experiences that combine physical activity with bonding moments. Destinations like the Valley of Flowers, Kashmir’s alpine meadows, Coorg’s coffee trails, and Meghalaya’s living root bridges are among the most sought-after choices, alongside international hiking routes in Switzerland, New Zealand, and Japan.
Road trips remain equally popular, driven by nostalgia and spontaneity. From Ladakh’s high-altitude highways to Rajasthan’s heritage circuits and coastal drives through Karnataka, families are embracing the journey as much as the destination. International scenic routes across Australia, Portugal, and New Zealand are also gaining traction for Father’s Day getaways.
Sporting experiences are emerging as a key travel driver, with families planning trips around live events such as cricket matches, Formula 1 races in Singapore and Abu Dhabi, and football fixtures across Europe. These experiences are increasingly seen as bucket-list moments shared across generations.
Wildlife safaris continue to attract families seeking immersive, nature-driven holidays. Parks such as Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, Kabini, Gir, and Kaziranga remain top domestic choices, while Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius are popular international alternatives offering rich biodiversity and unique wildlife encounters.
Multi-generational travel is another growing trend, with families choosing destinations that cater to all age groups. From Kerala’s backwaters and Rajasthan’s heritage stays to international favourites like Thailand, Singapore, and Switzerland, these trips are designed to bring grandparents, parents, and children together in shared celebration.
Wellness-focused travel is also gaining momentum, with families opting for slower, restorative breaks in destinations like Kerala, Goa, and Bali. Ayurveda retreats, spa resorts, and forest escapes are becoming preferred ways to help fathers unwind and reset.
Short-haul international escapes continue to appeal to families seeking quick but enriching holidays, with destinations like Singapore, Thailand, Japan, and Mauritius offering a balance of accessibility and experience.
A growing trend within Father’s Day travel is passion-led holidays, where trips are designed around a father’s interests from golf and photography to culinary trails, cycling expeditions, and heritage journeys.
Overall, Father’s Day travel reflects a broader cultural shift: experiences are replacing gifts as families prioritise connection, shared memories, and meaningful time together over traditional celebrations
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on June 15, 2026
Wildlife enthusiasts have received more time to explore Uttar Pradesh's Amangarh Tiger Reserve, with the eco-tourism season being extended by 15 days. Visitors can now enjoy jungle safaris and wildlife experiences at the reserve until June 30.
The fourth eco-tourism season at the reserve was originally scheduled to end on June 15. However, the extension was approved by Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Anuradha Vemuri, providing additional opportunities for tourists to experience the reserve's rich biodiversity and observe tigers in their natural surroundings.
Confirming the development, Bijnor Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Jai Singh Kushwaha said the reserve would remain open until the end of June before closing for the monsoon season.
"The tiger reserve will be closed after June 30 for the monsoon season as movement becomes difficult due to waterlogging and other challenges during the rains," Kushwaha said.
He added that the extension would benefit wildlife lovers by offering extra time to visit the reserve and witness its diverse flora and fauna, including tiger sightings.
Located next to the renowned Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, Amangarh Tiger Reserve has steadily gained popularity among nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Spread across the Terai region of western Uttar Pradesh, the reserve shares a landscape with the Corbett tiger habitat, making it an important wildlife corridor and tourism destination.
Forest department data highlights the growing interest in the reserve. During its first eco-tourism season in 2022-23, the reserve welcomed 3,068 visitors. The second season saw a significant rise, attracting 6,500 tourists. In the third season of 2024-25, 3,104 visitors participated in jungle safari experiences.
Officials said that across the three tourism seasons, the reserve generated more than ₹17 lakh in revenue, reflecting its increasing appeal among domestic travellers seeking nature and wildlife experiences.
With the season now extended until June 30, Amangarh Tiger Reserve is expected to attract more visitors before operations pause for the annual monsoon closure.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.