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.


Ramee Group of Hotels Unveils Special Independence Day Stay Package

Ramee Group of Hotels Unveils Special Independence Day Stay Package

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 6, 2026

Ramee Group of Hotels has announced a specially curated Independence Day stay package, available from 1 to 17 August 2026 across its properties, except Udaipur. Designed for leisure travellers and families, the limited-period offer combines festive touches with signature hospitality to create a memorable holiday experience.

Guests booking the package will be welcomed with a signature tricolour beverage on arrival, along with an exclusive Independence Day amenity. The stay also includes complimentary early check-in and late check-out, as well as a complimentary upgrade to the next room category, all subject to availability.

To make the celebration even more enjoyable, guests can savour a chef-curated three-course meal once during their stay, along with complimentary evening snacks. They can also enjoy 20% savings on food and beverages across participating hotel outlets.

Families travelling together will benefit from the offer, with up to two children below 12 years staying complimentary when sharing the existing bedding.

Available for a limited period, the Independence Day package reflects Ramee Group of Hotels' commitment to creating thoughtful and comfortable guest experiences, bringing together festive celebrations, dining, and family-friendly benefits under one offering.


Sterling Holiday Resorts Delivers Best-Ever Quarter with Record Q1 FY27 Performance

Sterling Holiday Resorts Delivers Best-Ever Quarter with Record Q1 FY27 Performance

By Hariharan U

Published on August 6, 2026

Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (SHRL) has announced its strongest-ever quarterly performance for Q1 FY27, marking a significant milestone in the company’s transformation into a scalable, profitable, and resilient hospitality platform.

The company reported record performance across key financial and operational indicators, with total revenue reaching ₹1.7 billion, representing a 21% year-on-year growth. EBITDA increased 21% to over ₹620 million, maintaining a strong 37% EBITDA margin, among the highest in the hospitality sector. Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew 30% year-on-year, while Operating Free Cash Flow also increased by 30%.

Sterling’s financial position remained robust, with the company continuing to operate as a debt-free organisation and holding cash reserves exceeding ₹3.7 billion, providing flexibility for future expansion, technology investments, and enhancing guest experiences.

The company’s operating performance also witnessed strong improvement during the quarter. Occupancy increased by 700 basis points to 77%, despite growth in available inventory. Average Room Rate (ARR) reached a record ₹7,809, while RevPAR grew by 20%, supported by effective revenue management, commercial execution, and increasing brand strength.

Room revenue grew 29% during the quarter, while Food & Beverage revenue increased 15%, highlighting continued demand across Sterling’s resort portfolio.

Currently, Sterling operates 78 resorts with nearly 3,800 rooms across more than 65 destinations, positioning itself as one of India’s fastest-growing listed hospitality companies. The company has a visible development pipeline of 35+ resorts and over 2,000 additional rooms, supported by its asset-right strategy combining owned, leased, and managed properties.

Customer recognition continued to strengthen Sterling’s brand positioning. Sterling Kanha received Tripadvisor’s prestigious “Best of the Best” Award for the fourth consecutive year, placing it among the top 1% of resorts globally. The achievement also makes Sterling one of the few resort brands worldwide to receive this recognition four years in succession.

Additionally, 28 Sterling resorts received Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, with 12 resorts earning the recognition for three consecutive years.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, said that Q1 FY27 represents a defining milestone in Sterling’s journey, reflecting the company’s transformation into a high-quality hospitality platform.

He highlighted that the company’s growth engines, strong balance sheet, development pipeline, technology investments, artificial intelligence initiatives, and leadership capabilities will support its next phase of expansion and long-term value creation.

With continued focus on operational excellence, innovation, and destination-led growth, Sterling aims to strengthen its position as one of India’s leading leisure hospitality companies while creating enhanced experiences for travellers across the country.

About Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited

Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited is one of India’s leading hospitality companies with a portfolio of 78 resorts, hotels, and retreats across more than 65 destinations. The company offers leisure experiences across beaches, hills, jungles, heritage destinations, pilgrimage circuits, and waterfront locations.

Sterling caters to leisure travellers, MICE groups, destination weddings, reunions, and group travel segments through its extensive network of resorts across India.


Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse Elevates Chef Pankaj Sah as Executive Chef

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse Elevates Chef Pankaj Sah as Executive Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 6, 2026

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse has announced the elevation of Chef Pankaj Sah as its Executive Chef, recognising his culinary expertise, leadership, and dedication to delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Chef Pankaj has built a strong career through years of passion, commitment, and continuous growth. Over the years, he has successfully handled both culinary and administrative responsibilities, managing day-to-day kitchen operations, leading large-scale events, and creating memorable dining experiences for guests.

Since joining Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse, Chef Pankaj has played an important role in strengthening the hotel's culinary offerings. His focus on quality, innovation, and consistency has helped elevate the guest dining experience while inspiring the culinary team to maintain high standards across every aspect of the kitchen.

In his new role as Executive Chef, he will lead all culinary operations at the hotel, mentor and develop the culinary team, and continue to drive operational excellence through creative and guest-focused dining experiences.

Speaking on the appointment, the General Manager of Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse said:

"Chef Pankaj's elevation from Executive Sous Chef to Executive Chef is a reflection of his remarkable talent. His passion and ability to create exceptional dining experiences have significantly contributed to our success. We are confident that under his leadership, we will scale new heights in culinary fiefdom."

Holiday Inn Bengaluru Racecourse congratulated Chef Pankaj Sah on his promotion and expressed confidence that his leadership will continue to strengthen the hotel's culinary reputation and contribute to its future success.

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