Shimla Winter Carnival: A Historic Celebration Boosting Himachal's Tourism

Shimla Winter Carnival: A Historic Celebration Boosting Himachal's Tourism

By Author

Published on December 29, 2023

In a significant move to rejuvenate the tourism sector, the Himachal Pradesh government kicked off the inaugural Shimla Winter Carnival, a 12-day celebration aimed at uplifting the spirits of the hill state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the event at the historic Ridge, marking a historic moment for the city.

The winter carnival holds special significance as it comes on the heels of a challenging period for Himachal Pradesh's tourism industry, severely impacted by the recent monsoon disruptions. Chief Minister Sukhu, during the inauguration, acknowledged the adverse effects of the monsoon fury but expressed optimism about the state's recovery. He highlighted the influx of 30,000 tourist vehicles in the past days as a promising sign of the tourism industry's revival.

Emphasizing the government's commitment to promoting tourism, Chief Minister Sukhu announced a substantial increase in the budget for the tourism sector, reaching Rs. 3,000 crores from the previous Rs. 50 crores. This financial boost aims to support the recovery efforts and further elevate Himachal Pradesh as a preferred tourist destination.

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To facilitate a seamless experience for visitors, the state government has permitted all restaurants, dhabas, and food shops to remain open 24 hours from December 20, 2023, to January 5, 2024. This move is aligned with the government's focus on providing a warm welcome to tourists and enhancing their overall experience in the state.

The Winter Carnival promises an array of attractions, including cultural parades, folk dance performances like Mahanati, and exhibitions featuring local dishes and cultural programs. The carnival, set to conclude on January 5, 2024, is strategically timed during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere in Shimla.

Apart from being a delightful experience for tourists, the carnival aims to celebrate Himachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage. Cultural programs such as Kullavi Nati and Singtu of Sirmaur district were presented, contributing to the vibrant celebration. The event, graced by dignitaries, including Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh and Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, is expected to have a positive economic impact on the state.

The Shimla Winter Carnival signifies a turning point for Himachal Pradesh's tourism, ushering in hope, festive cheer, and a promising outlook for the future.


West Asia Crisis Begins Affecting India’s Daily Costs

West Asia Crisis Begins Affecting India’s Daily Costs

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 28, 2026

India is beginning to feel the ripple effects of the ongoing tensions in West Asia, with changes visible across fuel pricing, food trends, and delivery costs.

In a key development, Nayara Energy has increased the price of petrol and diesel at its outlets by ₹5 and ₹3 per litre respectively. While the company did not directly highlight the price hike, it pointed to the growing challenges in the industry, stating that the situation in West Asia has created “unprecedented challenges in the industry, impacting several aspects of fuel disruption and availability”.

The rising tensions in the Middle East are also expected to push operating costs higher, especially in sectors like aviation, where increasing fuel expenses could lead to a rise in airfares and impact travel demand across India.

Interestingly, while fuel prices are seeing an upward trend, egg prices have dropped for the first time in a year. In Namakkal, often referred to as India’s egg hub, prices have come down to around ₹3.85 per egg. This shift is being linked to reduced export opportunities to the Middle East and temporary closures of restaurants in parts of the country due to LPG shortages.

The food delivery space is also witnessing changes. Swiggy has increased its platform fee to ₹17.58 per order, inclusive of GST. This comes shortly after Zomato revised its charges, with a platform fee of ₹14.90 on a pre-GST basis. Swiggy had last updated its fee in September last year, and the latest revision is expected to make ordering food slightly more expensive for users. Rising fuel costs are likely playing a role here, as delivery operations become more expensive.

On the energy front, the government is encouraging households to shift from LPG to piped natural gas (PNG) in areas where infrastructure is already available. This move is aimed at easing pressure on LPG supplies, which have been affected due to disruptions in imports linked to the West Asia situation. To support this transition, some city gas companies are offering incentives such as free gas volumes and waived connection charges, while states have been urged to speed up PNG network expansion.

In a positive update, Iran has indicated that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open for India despite the ongoing conflict. This is a crucial route for India’s LPG and petroleum imports and offers some relief in an otherwise uncertain scenario.

Overall, these developments reflect how global tensions are slowly influencing everyday costs and consumption patterns in India, from fuel and food to household energy and delivery services.


Courtyard Pune Chakan Enhances Stay with Focus on Comfort and Well-being

Courtyard Pune Chakan Enhances Stay with Focus on Comfort and Well-being

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan has introduced a property-wide upgrade aimed at improving guest comfort and overall well-being, with a clear focus on enhancing the stay experience.

As part of this initiative, the hotel has installed new mattresses across all rooms, addressing the growing importance of quality sleep for travellers. The move reflects a shift in hospitality priorities, where rest and relaxation are becoming key parts of the guest journey.

The upgrade has been designed keeping both business and leisure travellers in mind, offering a space that supports better sleep, reduces travel fatigue, and creates a more relaxed environment throughout the stay.

Commenting on the development, Amol More said, “At Courtyard By Marriott Pune Chakan, we believe that true hospitality goes beyond service, it’s about how our guests feel during and after their stay. This upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring every guest experiences superior comfort, relaxation, and peace of mind.”

The refreshed room experience is part of the hotel’s continued effort to align its offerings with wellness-focused travel trends, where guests increasingly look for stays that help them unwind and recharge.

With this update, the property continues to strengthen its approach to guest-centric hospitality, focusing on simple yet impactful changes that make a noticeable difference to the overall stay.


Mirth Cocktail Bar Celebrates International Whisky Day with Signature Experiences

Mirth Cocktail Bar Celebrates International Whisky Day with Signature Experiences

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

Mirth Cocktail Bar is marking International Whisky Day with a curated experience that brings together classic pours and creative cocktails for whisky lovers in the city.

Known for its thoughtful approach to mixology, the bar is offering something for both purists and experimental drinkers. Guests can choose from a strong back-bar selection featuring labels like Royal Salute 21 Year Old, The Macallan 12 Year Old, and The Dalmore 15 Year Old. Options such as Aberfeldy and Woodford Reserve add to the range for those who enjoy different whisky styles.

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Beyond straight pours, the spotlight is also on the bar’s “Liquid Signatures” menu, where whisky is reimagined through creative combinations. Cocktails like Old Flame blend Maker's Mark with spiced coconut and jaggery syrup, while Mango Reverie pairs Johnnie Walker Black Label with raw mango cordial and a hint of chilli salt, giving it a local twist.

For those looking to try something different, Pour Me A Slice brings together Dewar's 12 Year Old with sake and cheese notes, while Ground Control uses Camikara 3 Year Old with a nutty orgeat base to create a textured drink.

The experience is designed to go beyond just drinking, offering a relaxed space where guests can explore flavours, discover new combinations, and celebrate the craft behind whisky.

With its focus on both tradition and innovation, Mirth continues to position itself as a go-to destination for cocktail enthusiasts in Bengaluru, especially on occasions that celebrate iconic spirits

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