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.


Tivoli Hospitality Group Officially Launches Omnia Convention by Tivoli in Gurugram

Tivoli Hospitality Group Officially Launches Omnia Convention by Tivoli in Gurugram

By Hariharan U

Published on February 8, 2026

Tivoli Hospitality Group has officially opened Omnia Convention by Tivoli in Bhondsi–Badshahpur, Gurugram, marking a significant addition to the region’s growing hospitality and events landscape. The grand unveiling event brought together hospitality professionals, event planners, industry experts and prominent guests from Delhi and NCR, offering a first look at the group’s newest luxury convention-led hotel.

Speaking at the launch, Akshay Gupta, Executive Director, Tivoli Hospitality Group, said, "Omnia Convention by Tivoli in Bhondsi–Badshahpur, Gurugram, was envisioned as a destination that goes beyond luxury, serving a wide spectrum of needs across leisure, MICE, weddings, and corporate events. While weddings remain an important focus, the property has been designed to cater equally to business requirements and premium staycations. After announcing the project last year, we are pleased to officially open the property and showcase it to the industry." He further highlighted the strategic location of the hotel, noting that it addresses the rising demand for purpose-built, large-scale venues in the Gurugram market.

The property features two expansive banquet halls of approximately 16,000 sq. ft. each, designed to host weddings, conferences, exhibitions and large corporate gatherings. The flexible layout allows seamless adaptation for both formal business events and social celebrations.

Commenting on the operational vision, Amit Sood, CEO, Tivoli Hospitality Group, said, "Omnia Convention by Tivoli in Bhondsi–Badshahpur has been developed as a complete ecosystem for events and stays. The combination of high-capacity banqueting, comfortable accommodation, and strong dining offerings makes it ideal for residential conferences, destination-style weddings, and MICE programs. Our focus has been on scale, convenience, and consistent service delivery."

Beyond events, Omnia Convention by Tivoli positions itself as a preferred destination for short leisure stays and staycations for guests from Delhi-NCR and nearby cities such as Jaipur and Chandigarh. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms focused on comfort and functionality, complemented by a spacious on-site restaurant serving multi-cuisine dining for resident guests and event attendees alike.

With Bhondsi–Badshahpur emerging as a key growth corridor within Gurugram, supported by improving infrastructure, strong connectivity, and a large corporate ecosystem, Omnia Convention by Tivoli is well placed to serve corporates, travellers, MICE clients, event planners and leisure guests,” added Akshay Gupta.

The launch event showcased the property’s scale and versatility through multiple décor styles, curated event setups and an extensive culinary presentation. Founder and Chairman Rohit Gupta, along with Executive Directors Ishan Gupta and Aryaman Gupta, were present at the unveiling, underlining the group’s leadership involvement in this milestone


Hyatt Regency Delhi Unveils The Art of Intimacy for Valentine’s Day

Hyatt Regency Delhi Unveils The Art of Intimacy for Valentine’s Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 8, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, Hyatt Regency Delhi reimagines romance with The Art of Intimacy, a thoughtfully curated celebration where heritage blends seamlessly with modern expressions of love. Designed to honour connection and togetherness, the hotel transforms into a romantic sanctuary filled with immersive dining experiences, personalised mixology, and carefully crafted ambience.

Going beyond a single dining experience, each restaurant at Hyatt Regency Delhi presents its own interpretation of romance. Every space is styled to feel intimate and immersive, drawing inspiration from global culinary traditions. From the comforting warmth of Italian flavours to the soulful tastes of the Levant and the lively energy of Teppanyaki, each venue tells a distinct love story through food and atmosphere.

On 14th February 2026, guests can explore exclusive Valentine’s menus across the hotel’s signature restaurants. La Piazza offers authentic Italian multi-course set menus, featuring wood-fired heart-shaped pizzas and artisanal pastas. Syrah sets a relaxed yet romantic tone with a Levantine dining experience of mezze and smoky grills under the stars. The China Kitchen hosts an intimate Dining in the Kitchen experience with signature Peking Duck and celebratory dumplings, while TK’S Oriental Grill brings high-energy Teppanyaki dining with live grills, personalised chef interactions, and a special Flambé of Love moment. Café completes the celebration with a lavish global buffet for couples who enjoy discovering flavours from around the world.

The celebration continues at the bar, where love is served in a glass. Hyatt Regency Delhi’s mixologists introduce Valentine’s-themed cocktails and mocktails, blending craft pours with guest mixology experiences. The evenings are elevated with live band performances and curated deep-house romantic sets, creating a chic and inviting mood.

Dessert lovers can indulge in a special Valentine’s collection at Sidewalk, the hotel’s gourmet delicatessen, available from 9th to 15th February 2026. The selection includes rich chocolate mousses, layered cakes, and handcrafted sweet and savoury treats, all prepared with premium ingredients and designed to be as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Throughout the hotel, the focus remains on atmosphere and emotion. Soft candlelight, curated soundscapes, soulful acoustic performances, and intimate cabana moments near Aangan come together to create a romantic escape. Every detail, from table settings to lighting and music, is carefully planned to enhance the overall experience.

For couples wishing to extend the celebration, Hyatt Regency Delhi also offers a Valentine’s Staycation package, a private cabana dinner by the pool, and a 90-minute couples’ massage at Club Olympus Spa. Together, these experiences form a refined and intimate celebration of love, flavour, and finesse.

Dining Restaurants & Culinary Venues:
Café
TK’S Oriental Grill
La Piazza
The China Kitchen
Syrah
Sidewalk

Details & Timing:
Date: 14th February 2026
Lunch: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM.


k-o-j-i at Conrad Pune Brings Elements of Kin Khao With an Authentic Thai Dining Experience

k-o-j-i at Conrad Pune Brings Elements of Kin Khao With an Authentic Thai Dining Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 8, 2026

Starting 2026 on a note of reconnection, k-o-j-i, Conrad Pune’s award-winning modern Asian dining restaurant, invites guests to slow down and rediscover meaningful moments with loved ones through Elements of Kin Khao. This thoughtfully curated Thai dining experience will be available for dinner from 13th to 22nd February, offering a soulful journey into the heart of Thai food traditions.

In Thailand, the phrase Kin Khao means much more than simply “to eat rice.” It is a gentle expression of care, a way of checking in, sharing time, and building connection. Deeply rooted in warmth and togetherness, this philosophy reflects the essence of Thai culture, where food is meant to be shared and flavours are carefully balanced. Elements of Kin Khao brings this spirit to life through an experience that celebrates authentic Thai cooking and the joy of eating together.

Curated by Chef Gopal Subba, Chef De Cuisine, the menu takes diners through a rich journey of Thai flavours, from delicate herbs and fragrant curries to bold umami notes. Each dish reflects harmony and tradition, staying true to the roots of Thai cuisine while offering a refined dining experience.

Guests can begin with soups and salads, followed by a selection of appetisers such as Tod Khao Pod – Thai ground sweet corn cake with lime leaf & lemongrass, Tung Tong – deep fried money bag stuffed with vegetables, Tod Mun Pla – ground fish cake with herbs & red curry, Kratong Tong – coconut based spicy ground prawns served in a crispy basket, and Gae Phad Prik Gaeng – curry based, stir fried lamb.

The main course continues the journey with traditional favourites including Gaeng Phanaeng, Pad Krapow Kai, Pla Neung Manao, and Gaeng Phanaeng Lamb, highlighting classic Thai techniques and regional influences. The experience ends on a comforting note with the iconic Mango sticky rice – Khao Niaow Muang, offering a sweet and satisfying finish.

Set within the contemporary elegance of k-o-j-i, Elements of Kin Khao encourages diners to share plates, slow down, and reconnect. It is an experience where food becomes a conversation and every meal feels warm, familiar, and welcoming.

Event Details:

What: Elements of Kin Khao

When: 13th - 22nd February

Where: k-o-j-i, Conrad Pune

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