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.


The World Café at Sheraton Grand Bangalore Unveils New All-Day Menu

The World Café at Sheraton Grand Bangalore Unveils New All-Day Menu

By Hariharan U

Published on February 22, 2026

The World Café at Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway has unveiled a refreshed all-day dining experience, bringing together comfort food and wholesome choices under one roof.

Built to match different moments of the day, the new menu blends global flavours with a playful twist. Inspired by the idea of a comic strip, each dish is presented as part of a larger story, adding colour and creativity to everyday dining. The concept is especially suited for busy professionals looking for quick yet enjoyable meals in a relaxed setting.

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Breakfast begins with freshly brewed coffees and familiar classics such as Eggs Your Way, The Big English, and the Vegan Jogger's Breakfast. For those with a sweet tooth, options include Maple French Toast, Coconut Pancakes, and a range of freshly baked croissants, muffins, cookies and pastries.

The lighter section of the menu offers dishes like the Acai Bowl, Mixed Quinoa Bowl, and Feta & Zhoug Fattoush. Guests can also opt for quick bites such as samosas and puffs.

For lunch, café favourites such as the Caprese Panini, Bombay Sandwich, and Vegan Burger are available, along with hearty mains like Truffle & Mushroom Penne and Chilli & Garlic Linguine.

The beverage selection features fresh fruit juices, smoothies, cold coffees, and signature cold brews. As the day winds down, guests can enjoy wine by the glass and handcrafted sangrias in a relaxed evening setting.

With this refreshed menu and a contemporary ambience, The World Café at Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway continues to be a convenient choice for casual breakfasts, business lunches, and easy evening meet-ups in the city.


Cygnett Hotels Signs Cozzet Amritsar, Expands Footprint in Punjab

Cygnett Hotels Signs Cozzet Amritsar, Expands Footprint in Punjab

By Hariharan U

Published on February 22, 2026

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Cozzet Amritsar, marking a strategic expansion of its value-driven brand in Punjab’s thriving hospitality market.

The upcoming 54-key property will strengthen the group’s presence in one of North India’s most resilient tourism and commercial hubs, Amritsar.

Cozzet Amritsar will feature 54 well-appointed rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and a banquet facility equipped with modern technology, capable of hosting up to 500 guests.

The hotel is located approximately 20 minutes from the iconic Golden Temple and about 30 minutes from Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport. Its proximity to religious landmarks, retail districts and commercial zones positions it to cater to a balanced mix of pilgrimage, leisure, wedding and corporate demand.

Amritsar continues to record strong year-round footfall, driven by domestic and international visitors. Improved road infrastructure and enhanced airport connectivity have further strengthened demand across the midscale and upper-midscale hotel segments.

Cozzet Hotels are designed around a simple promise, clean rooms, quality food, reliable service and essential comforts such as Wi-Fi, gym access and hot showers, all at smart price points. Each property reflects a distinct local identity while maintaining consistent service standards.

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Cozzet Amritsar will target value-conscious travellers seeking comfort, efficiency and dependable hospitality without compromising on experience.

Commenting on the signing, Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder and Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, “Amritsar is a high-performing hospitality market with strong year-round demand across pilgrimage, leisure and social events. With Cozzet Amritsar, we are strengthening our presence in Punjab by offering a product that balances comfort, efficiency and value. The city's improving infrastructure and expanding commercial activity make it a compelling long-term market for organised hospitality brands.”

The addition of Cozzet Amritsar aligns with Cygnett’s asset-light expansion strategy focused on high-growth secondary cities with strong demand fundamentals and limited organised supply.

Beyond the Golden Temple, the hotel’s location also offers convenient access to the Wagah Border, the War & Partition Museum and Amritsar’s bustling shopping streets, making it an attractive base for both business and leisure travellers.

With this signing, Cygnett continues to deepen its presence in North India, tapping into markets where tourism, weddings and corporate travel converge to drive sustained hospitality growth.


The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at Tiga

The Leela Hyderabad Appoints Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at Tiga

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 22, 2026

The Leela Hyderabad has announced the appointment of Krishna Rana as Chef de Cuisine at its signature dining destination, Tiga, further reinforcing the hotel’s focus on culinary excellence and leadership.

With close to three decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Rana brings with him a strong professional foundation shaped by his tenure across several renowned hotel brands. His career includes stints at Park Hyatt Hotels, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Grand InterContinental, Le Royal Meridien, and The St. Regis. Over the years, his work has been defined by a disciplined approach to global cuisines, with a sharp focus on authenticity, precision, and guest satisfaction.

Speaking on his appointment, Rana said, “cooking, for me, is a continuous journey of learning and refinement. i believe in respecting ingredients, techniques, and authentic recipes while evolving with guest expectations. at the leela hyderabad, i look forward to creating dining experiences that balance global influences with flavours that resonate with the local palate.”

At Tiga, Rana aims to curate menus that blend international culinary trends with regional sensibilities. A key highlight of his vision is a strong emphasis on Sichuan-style cuisine, known for its bold spices, layered aromas, and balanced heat, while ensuring the offerings remain approachable for local diners.

Welcoming him to the team, Rajesh Gopalakrishnan, General Manager of The Leela Hyderabad, said, “chef rana’s extensive experience across some of the world’s most respected hospitality brands, combined with his commitment to consistency and quality, makes him a valuable addition to our culinary team. his leadership will play a key role in further elevating the dining experience at the leela hyderabad.”

With this appointment, The Leela Hyderabad continues to strengthen its culinary portfolio, positioning Tiga as a destination for refined global flavours delivered with consistency and care.

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