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.


Conrad Pune Brings Authentic Sichuan Flavours to Koji with The Mala Market

Conrad Pune Brings Authentic Sichuan Flavours to Koji with The Mala Market

By Hariharan U

Published on August 16, 2026

Conrad Pune is bringing the bold flavours of southwestern China to the city with The Mala Market, a limited-time Sichuan cuisine festival at Koji from August 7 to 16, 2026.

Available during both lunch and dinner, the culinary promotion features a specially curated menu by Chef Gopal, showcasing authentic Sichuan preparations and traditional cooking techniques.

Sichuan cuisine is known for its distinctive balance of heat, aroma and depth, with the celebrated málà sensation at its heart. The characteristic combination of fiery chillies, fragrant Sichuan peppercorns and fermented broad bean paste creates the layered flavour profile associated with the region's cuisine.

The Mala Market brings together a selection of Sichuan classics, including Hot Pot, Mapo Tofu, Dan Dan Noodles, Stir-fried Green Beans and Roasted Pork. Each preparation has been crafted to highlight the bold flavours, aromatic spices and cooking techniques that define Sichuan's culinary heritage.

The specially curated à la carte menu allows diners to explore the diversity of Sichuan cuisine while experiencing its distinctive balance of spice, fragrance and umami.

Set within the contemporary Asian-inspired ambience of Koji at Conrad Pune, The Mala Market offers diners an opportunity to discover the culinary traditions of southwestern China through a focused regional menu.

Whether enjoyed over a leisurely lunch or an evening meal, the limited-time promotion brings together authentic flavours and contemporary dining in an experience designed for Sichuan food enthusiasts.

Event Details

Promotion: The Mala Market
Cuisine: Sichuan Cuisine
Venue: Koji, Conrad Pune
Dates: August 7–16, 2026
Timings: Lunch & Dinner
Reservations: +91 91686 03648 | 020 6745 6745


Sofitel Mumbai BKC Brings Authentic Parsi Flavours to Navroz Brunch

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Brings Authentic Parsi Flavours to Navroz Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2026

This Parsi New Year, Sofitel Mumbai BKC is bringing the flavours of Parsi culinary heritage to the table with a special Navroz Brunch at Pondichéry Café on Sunday, 16th August 2026.

The curated brunch brings together the richness of traditional Parsi cuisine with the contemporary setting of Sofitel Mumbai BKC. Guests can explore heritage recipes, nostalgic street-side favourites, global dishes and interactive live stations as part of the festive spread.

The culinary highlights include much-loved Parsi preparations such as Patra Ni Machhi, Salli Boti, Berry Pulao, Dhansak, Jardaloo Salli Murgh, Mutton Cutlets, Kolmi No Patio, Kheema Pav, Lagan Nu Achar, and freshly baked brun pav.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the celebration, familiar favourites including Bun Maska, Akuri, Kejriwal Toast, Mawa Cakes, Pattice, and savoury bakes will be prepared live, allowing guests to enjoy these treats fresh from the stations.

The Navroz Brunch is designed as a celebration of Parsi food traditions, bringing together recipes and flavours that have been part of the community's culinary heritage, while adding the hospitality and dining experience of Sofitel Mumbai BKC.

Event Details:

  • Venue: Pondichéry Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC
  • Event: Navroz Brunch
  • Date: Sunday, 16th August 2026
  • Time: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM.


Lemon Tree Hotels Signs 110-Key Lemon Tree Premier in Visakhapatnam

Lemon Tree Hotels Signs 110-Key Lemon Tree Premier in Visakhapatnam

By Hariharan U

Published on August 16, 2026

Lemon Tree Hotels has announced the signing of Lemon Tree Premier, Visakhapatnam, a new 110-key upscale hotel that will expand the group's presence in Andhra Pradesh.

The property will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited. The signing takes the group's Andhra Pradesh portfolio to six operational hotels and seven upcoming properties.

The new hotel will complement Lemon Tree Hotels' existing presence in Visakhapatnam, which currently includes Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels in Daba Gardens and Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels in Gajuwaka.

Located in Visakhapatnam, a major commercial, industrial and leisure destination in Andhra Pradesh, Lemon Tree Premier will feature 110 well-appointed rooms along with a restaurant, banquet hall and meeting/conference room.

The property will also offer a fitness centre, swimming pool and spa, positioning it to cater to both business and leisure travellers as well as meetings, events and MICE demand.

Commenting on the signing, Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, President, Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd., said that Visakhapatnam is an important economic and tourism centre, generating demand across corporate, leisure and MICE segments.

He added that the group's existing hotels in the city operate in the midscale and economy segments under the KEYS portfolio, while the new Lemon Tree Premier will allow the company to address a broader range of demand and strengthen its presence in the market.

The hotel is expected to benefit from connectivity to key transportation infrastructure. Visakhapatnam International Airport is approximately 39 km from the property, with the journey taking around one hour and 25 minutes. The destination is also connected by road with major cities across India through public and private transportation.

The signing forms part of Lemon Tree Hotels' continued expansion across emerging Indian markets, with the company strengthening its portfolio across different hospitality segments.

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