Dwarika’s Sanctuary in Nepal has opened a new chapter in Himalayan wellness with its renewed vision and all-inclusive retreat experience. Formerly known as Dwarika’s Resort, the property has been renamed to reflect a deeper commitment to wellbeing inspired by the philosophies of the Himalayas. This transformation has already earned the prestigious 2025 Michelin Key, recognising its excellence, authenticity, and distinct identity in hospitality. The Sanctuary will introduce its minimum three-night, all-inclusive concept from January 2026, bringing a richer, more immersive approach to holistic living.

The retreat’s new direction is rooted in the ancient wisdom of Buddhist and Vedic medicine, offering guests an experience that is personal, exclusive, and focused on profound renewal. Every aspect is designed to bring balance to the body, mind, and spirit, making it ideal for travellers seeking a meaningful and restorative escape. Nestled in the peaceful Dhulikhel hills, the Sanctuary spans 22 acres of natural beauty with panoramic Himalayan views. Its 40 residential suites reflect traditional Nepali village life, blending woodland trails, terraced farms, and serene glades into a harmonious landscape. Each suite features natural materials, soft textures, and unobstructed views that help guests feel connected to nature throughout their stay.

Guests begin their journey with a personalised Ayurvedic consultation with the resident doctor to understand their unique constitution. Daily activities include breathwork at the Himalayan Rock Salt House, guided meditation at the Himalayan Rock Crystal Chamber, Shiva linga maze meditation walks, open-air yoga, nine planet balancing sessions, singing bowl therapy, and a spiritual blessing ceremony. The Pancha Kosha Spa further supports holistic healing with treatments inspired by the five layers of being, including one signature massage per three nights of stay. Nourishing cuisine made from local, organic produce grown on the Sanctuary’s farms is served along with wellness-focused beverages to support inner balance.

For guests interested in cultural exploration and the outdoors, the Sanctuary offers curated experiences such as monastery visits and guided hikes to Dwarika’s Organic Farm, ending with a farm-fresh meal prepared by local farmers. Each element is thoughtfully designed to help guests reconnect with themselves, nature, and the spiritual traditions of the region.

“Dwarika’s Sanctuary is more than a destination, it is an inward journey for travellers seeking not just rest, but a profound renewal of body, mind, and spirit,” shares René Vijay Shrestha, CEO of Dwarika’s Collection. “Rooted in the ancient philosophies of the Himalayas, our immersive wellbeing experiences are both exclusive and deeply personal, inviting each guest to reconnect with themselves and with nature in a truly transformative way.”

Easily accessible with a 45-minute road journey from Kathmandu airport and no visa requirements for Indian travellers, Dwarika’s Sanctuary offers a convenient yet deeply rejuvenating getaway for anyone seeking a quick detox and reset.

Banyan Tree Krabi, which was recently named the “Finest Hotel in Thailand” by Fodor’s and awarded Two Keys by MICHELIN in its annual Thailand hotel guide, is gearing up for a spectacular festive season. The resort sits in a peaceful corner of Tubkaek Beach, surrounded by lush greenery and blue waters, about 40km from Krabi International Airport. All 72 suites and villas come with private pools, while the property also offers wellbeing programmes, a kids’ club, and views that feel truly picture-perfect.

The resort has now unveiled its special menus for the upcoming celebrations, starting with an indulgent Christmas Eve Gala Dinner. Hosted at The Naga Kitchen, the evening will feature an international buffet, live music, and a fire show. Guests will be welcomed with a drink before exploring a wide variety of gourmet selections. From a salad bar and cheese & charcuterie spread to truffle risotto and a chef’s carving station, the dinner brings plenty of festive choices. Seafood lovers can enjoy seabass and prawn ceviche with coconut, lobster bisque with cognac, and a live ice station offering sushi & sashimi, smoked salmon, Fine de Claire oysters, rock lobster, clams, mussels, crab and local scallops. The dessert counter completes the feast with classics such as Christmas fruit stollen, croquembouche Christmas tree, Christmas fruit cake, American baked cheesecake and Christmas log cake.

On Christmas Day, The Naga Kitchen will serve a refined 6-course dinner that blends festive warmth with elegant flavours. The line-up includes Fine de Claire oysters, oscietra caviar, baked camembert, duck terrine with pistachios, and beetroot-cured salmon. A Christmas carvery will also be available with a choice of turkey or ham, paired with favourites like Brussels sprouts, chestnut purée, cranberry gel and turkey gravy.

The celebrations continue with the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner set on the resort’s beachfront lawn. Guests can welcome the New Year under the night sky with live entertainment, a lavish buffet, and selected free-flow beverages. The spread will include international dishes and the popular live cooking stations featured during the Christmas dinners, along with a Southern Thai cuisine station serving tom yam and massaman curry. The night will flow into live performances and a beachside countdown, ending with fireworks lighting up the shoreline.

For more information or reservations, email krabi@banyantree.com 

Buffalo Trace Distillery, known worldwide for crafting some of the most awarded bourbons, made a memorable entry into India with a three-day pop-up experience in Mumbai. The event, held at Palladium Mumbai - Courtyard, offered an immersive way for spirits enthusiasts, industry leaders, and whiskey fans to explore the legacy that defines Buffalo Trace’s craftsmanship. Guests got a closer look at the brand’s 200-year journey while enjoying tastings from its portfolio available in India, including Benchmark Bourbon, Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Weller Wheated Bourbon.

The pop-up recreated the spirit of Kentucky through curated sessions that blended storytelling, education, and multi-sensory engagement. Visitors could move through different experience zones that highlighted the depth and character of Buffalo Trace’s bourbons. From guided tastings to stations such as a scent bar, a leather workshop, and a chocolate corner, each setup showcased the care and detail that go into every bottle. Guests also took home personalised keepsakes, adding a warm and memorable touch to the experience.

The event saw attendance from several well-known names across industries, including Lara Balsara Vajifdar, Executive Director at Madison World; Tanuj Garg, Film Producer; Jayesh Yagnik, CEO of MOMS Outdoor; Pradeep Diwedi, Group CEO of Eros International; Esha Amin, Celebrity Fashion Stylist; Mini Sood Banerjee, Director of Marketing at Amorepacific; Pravir Sethi; and A.D. Singh, Founder & MD of the Olive Group of Restaurants.

Sharing his thoughts on the successful showcase, Diego Bianchi, VP, Global Hubs, Sazerac said, “Buffalo Trace Distillery’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, aging, and quality distilling has earned it fans across the globe, and we’re thrilled to finally share that experience with consumers in India. The energy and enthusiasm we witnessed in Mumbai was really encouraging, and we’re excited to bring similar immersive experiences to more cities across the country. Through these initiatives, we hope to deepen awareness and appreciation for our bourbon and the rich heritage of Buffalo Trace Distillery.”

As Buffalo Trace expands its presence in India, the distillery plans to bring more curated events to new cities, strengthening its connection with the growing whiskey community in the country. With its mix of heritage, craft, and warm hospitality, the pop-up offered a memorable introduction to Buffalo Trace for Indian audiences.