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.


Etihad and Vietnam Airlines Announce New Codeshare and Loyalty Partnership

Etihad and Vietnam Airlines Announce New Codeshare and Loyalty Partnership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 23, 2025

Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have taken their partnership forward with the launch of a new codeshare agreement. This move builds on Etihad’s recently introduced Abu Dhabi–Hanoi service, creating smoother travel options between the UAE and Vietnam.

With this partnership, Etihad guests can now book onward journeys to major domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as popular cities across Asia, all on a single ticket. Travellers also benefit from one check-in and automatic baggage transfer, making Abu Dhabi an easy connection point to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: "This partnership with Vietnam Airlines delivers significant value to our guests by unlocking access to some of Asia's most dynamic and popular destinations. Our new Abu Dhabi-Hanoi service has been warmly received, and this codeshare agreement transforms it into a gateway to Vietnam's most exciting cities. Combined with our frequent flyer partnership, which enables loyalty members of both airlines to earn and redeem miles across our combined global networks, this collaboration underscores our commitment to providing our guests with greater flexibility, broader reach, and superior travel experiences."

From Vietnam Airlines’ perspective, this collaboration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier. Nguyen Quang Trung, Director of Corporate Planning and Development, Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is pleased to advance our partnership with Etihad Airways through this new codeshare agreement, following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024. The collaboration offers seamless access to Etihad’s network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, while allowing more travellers to experience Vietnam Airlines’ signature warmth and hospitality. Together with our expanded frequent-flyer partnership, this agreement enhances convenience, broadens destination choices, and strengthens tourism and economic ties between Vietnam and the UAE.”

The rollout of the codeshare will take place in phases. As it expands, passengers of Vietnam Airlines will gain access to six destinations beyond Abu Dhabi, Athens, Addis Ababa, Bahrain, Muscat, Cairo, and Istanbul, opening up a wider network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through Etihad’s strong connectivity.

Etihad and Vietnam Airlines already have a frequent flyer partnership in place. Launched in July 2025, it allows Etihad Guest and Lotus Miles members to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks. This loyalty integration adds more value to the newly announced codeshare, giving travellers broader options and smoother travel experiences.


Adarsh Sweets Brings Back Its Sunday-Only Winter Undhiyu Tradition

Adarsh Sweets Brings Back Its Sunday-Only Winter Undhiyu Tradition

By Hariharan U

Published on November 23, 2025

Adarsh Sweets in Goregaon East has brought back one of its most loved seasonal offerings, the Winter Special Undhiyu. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition the family has kept alive for more than five decades, prepared with the same care and method they started with.

Undhiyu is a classic Gujarati winter dish known for its slow cooking, rich flavours, and mix of fresh seasonal vegetables. At Adarsh Sweets, the preparation stays close to its roots: premium produce, age-old techniques, and the signature spices their regulars look forward to every year.

The Sunday batch is made early in the morning and includes favourites like root vegetables, papdi, green beans, methi muthiyas, purple yam, and the family’s special masala blend. Each portion carries a warm, homely taste that feels just right for the season.

Available only on Sundays and sold until stock runs out, this winter special tends to get picked up quickly. Guests who don’t want to miss it are advised to visit early or call ahead to reserve their share.


Phulay Bay Unveils Its Reimagined Thai Restaurant and All-New Pirom Bar

Phulay Bay Unveils Its Reimagined Thai Restaurant and All-New Pirom Bar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 23, 2025

Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, has introduced two refreshed spaces that bring new energy to the region’s dining and bar scene. The resort has reimagined its signature Thai restaurant, Sri Trang, and opened Pirom Bar, a stylish gin and whiskey lounge set against the Andaman Sea.

Sri Trang now welcomes guests with a warm and contemporary look after a detailed renovation. Its new interiors blend elegant design, custom-made furniture and a homely feel that complements the restaurant’s calm atmosphere. Alongside the refreshed space, Chef Aong has curated a new Southern Thai menu shaped by the coastal character of Krabi. Her dishes take inspiration from local produce like coconuts, herbs, palm sugar, shrimp paste and sustainably sourced seafood. Each recipe reflects flavours from her childhood and highlights traditional preparations that are rarely found beyond this region.

Pirom Bar adds a contrasting mood with its intimate setting on the 2nd floor between Sri Trang and Jampoon. The bar is designed to mirror the shift from day to night, offering a relaxed space for sunset cocktails and slow evenings. Guests can enjoy gin and whiskey creations, handcrafted cocktails and fine Champagnes, many of them infused with Thai herbs and spices. True to its name, Pirom,  which means “supreme joy" , aims to spark connection, comfort and memorable conversations.

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Phulay Bay will also host an exclusive Four Hands Dinner featuring Christian Herrgesell and Syrco Bakker at Lae Lay, the resort’s seafood restaurant. The special evening will present a six-course menu inspired by Chef Syrco’s Dutch-Indonesian roots and rare ingredients, offering a unique dining moment for guests. More updates will follow from the resort.

“Southern Thailand is one of the world’s great culinary destinations – a vibrant melting pot where cultures converge and fresh produce thrives. We are delighted to invite our discerning clientele to savor the authentic flavors of Krabi and its surrounding provinces with reimagined dining experiences at Sri Trang, and innovative mixology at Pirom Bar. Our new venues will further underscore Phulay Bay’s vision of creating guest journeys that stimulate the senses and evoke the essence of this idyllic, intriguing region,” said Mr. Vidya Sagar, the resort’s General Manager.

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