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.


Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Presence with New Properties in Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Presence with New Properties in Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

By Hariharan U

Published on December 12, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of two new properties, Lemon Tree Resort, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, and Lemon Tree Hotel, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh. Both properties will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited, and mark a strategic expansion in the South and Central Indian markets.

Lemon Tree Resort, Bapatla is located in the serene coastal town of Bapatla, renowned for the tranquil Suryalanka Beach. The resort features 90 rooms, a restaurant and bar, banquet and meeting facilities, a swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre, offering guests a refreshing escape by the sea.

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Lemon Tree Hotel, Bhilai, situated in the industrial yet green city of Bhilai, home to the iconic Bhilai Steel Plant, blends urban convenience with calm surroundings. The hotel offers 72 keys, a restaurant, banquet and meeting spaces, swimming pool, and spa, catering to both business travellers and leisure guests seeking a value-driven experience.

Commenting on the expansion, Vilas Pawar, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, "With these signings, we are pleased to extend our footprint to two unique locations. From thriving commercial hubs to serene, nature-led destinations, both states offer immense potential for quality hospitality. Andhra Pradesh already has six operational and three upcoming hotels, while this will be our first property in Chhattisgarh."

These new additions reaffirm Lemon Tree Hotels’ commitment to offering vibrant, contemporary hospitality experiences across India, combining comfort, convenience, and a warm guest-first ethos.


2025 F&B and Real Estate Insights: Industry Leaders Reflect on Challenges and Opportunities

2025 F&B and Real Estate Insights: Industry Leaders Reflect on Challenges and Opportunities

By Hariharan U

Published on December 12, 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, industry leaders are reflecting on a year that tested resilience, discipline, and innovation across the food & beverage (F&B) and real estate sectors.

According to Pulkit Arora, Director, CYK Hospitalities, “2025 has been a defining year for the F&B sector. Consumers pushed the industry toward more specific menus, higher food hygiene standards, and greater transparency in kitchen operations. It was a year that highlighted how trust is built through discipline rather than decoration.”

Simranjeet Singh, Director, CYK Hospitalities, adds, “The year 2025 proved that resilience and intelligent systems were the main sources of sustainable growth. Rising costs and changing consumer preferences meant that only those brands survived which remained consistent and had clear, efficient processes. This wasn't a year of aggressive expansion; it was a year of strengthening foundations.”

Together, they concluded, “Real progress in F&B isn't about scale; it's about the confidence you serve on every plate.”

In real estate and integrated hospitality developments, Vishal Vincent Tony, Managing Director, Aratt Developers & Ayatana Hospitality Pvt Ltd, highlights the evolving landscape: “The real estate sector is entering a cycle where integrated residential, commercial, and hospitality-led developments are emerging as the strongest contributors to long-term value creation. Across major markets, large-scale townships and mixed-use masterplans are witnessing renewed investor confidence, with developments that seamlessly integrate premium housing, modern office spaces, and quality hospitality assets.”

He further explains, “Rising homeownership sentiment, sustained office absorption, and consistent growth in domestic tourism continue to reinforce this shift. As we move into 2026, the most resilient and future-ready developments will be those that prioritise sustainability, intelligent design, and seamless integration across residential and commercial uses. With lifestyle preferences evolving rapidly, developments that offer both liveability and economic productivity are set to define the next phase of India’s real estate growth.”

The reflections from F&B and real estate leaders underscore a common theme for 2026: steady growth through operational excellence, sustainable practices, and intelligent integration, setting the stage for a more resilient and dynamic business landscape.


Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Expands Luxury Footprint with Two New Anamore Registry Collection Resorts in Rajasthan

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Expands Luxury Footprint with Two New Anamore Registry Collection Resorts in Rajasthan

By Hariharan U

Published on December 12, 2025

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts today announced the signing of two landmark luxury resorts under the Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham brand, marking a major step in its expansion into the luxury segment. This collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts aims to combine Cygnett's expertise in contemporary Indian design with Wyndham’s global reach and commercial support.

The first property, Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham Pushkar, will span 18 acres and feature 288 rooms, making it one of Rajasthan’s largest luxury resorts for destination weddings and events. The resort will include 20,000 sq. ft. of banquet space, multiple dining venues, wellness facilities at Blum Mudra by Ayurvyaas, recreation zones, and more. Its opening is planned for the end of 2026.

The second project, Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham Kukas Jaipur, will cover 25 acres and offer 150 rooms, 30,000 sq. ft. of banquet space, curated dining options, wellness amenities, and outdoor event areas. Located in one of Jaipur’s prime hospitality corridors, the resort is designed to cater to both domestic and international luxury travelers, with an expected opening in early 2029.

Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, “These two resorts mark an important milestone in our journey into luxury hospitality. The Anamore brand blends contemporary design, cultural richness, and soulful experiences. Our partnership with Wyndham ensures these destinations meet global standards while celebrating Indian artistry.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added, “These projects strengthen Wyndham’s Registry Collection in India. Together with Cygnett, we are bringing luxury resorts that combine world-class operations with culturally immersive experiences to Rajasthan.”

The resorts aim to position Rajasthan as a top destination for high-end travel, weddings, and celebrations. Both developments are being built by M/S Turban Landmarks LLP and STurban Resorts Private Limited.

About Cygnett Hotels & Resorts

Founded in 2014, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts is one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality companies, operating upscale and midscale hotels. With 45 hotels and 3,671 keys across India, the company plans to add over 1,000 keys annually, targeting more than 100 hotels and 9,000 keys by 2030. The portfolio includes Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham®, Anamore Select Registry Collection by Wyndham®, Ayurvyaas®, La Quinta by Wyndham®, Cygnett Park™, Cygnett Hotels™, Cygnett Inn™, Cozzet™, and Cygnotel™ Collection.

About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 8,300 hotels in 100 countries. Its portfolio includes 25 brands, including Registry Collection Hotels®, La Quinta®, Ramada®, Super 8®, Days Inn® and more. Wyndham Rewards offers over 121 million members access to stays and vacation experiences worldwide.

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