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.


Rumour Opens in Delhi, Bringing Speakeasy Vibes to Vasant Vihar

Rumour Opens in Delhi, Bringing Speakeasy Vibes to Vasant Vihar

By Hariharan U

Published on March 29, 2026

Delhi’s nightlife scene welcomes a new entrant with the opening of Rumour in Vasant Vihar, a speakeasy-style lounge designed to blend curated drinks with an intimate, high-energy atmosphere. Inspired by New York’s after-work wine and cocktail culture, the space aims to offer a relaxed yet vibrant social escape.

Conceptualised by founders Rhea Parekh Jain and Nishchay Jain, the bar is built around spontaneity and connection. The founders describe it as a place where guests can drop in without planning and still expect an engaging, memorable evening driven by good drinks and lively energy.

Designed by The Charcoal Project, led by Sussanne Khan, the space brings together quirky luxury and rustic loft aesthetics. A hidden entrance, layered textures, warm lighting, and compact seating for around 45 guests create a setting that feels both exclusive and social, with options ranging from intimate corners to group lounges and a balcony view.

Wine forms the core of the beverage program, supported by curated tastings and a cocktail menu where nearly half the offerings are wine-based. This is complemented by a selection of refined, shareable plates designed to enhance the overall experience.

Positioned for urban professionals and experience-driven diners, Rumour aims to deliver a balance of design, energy, and thoughtfully curated hospitality. Operating from Wednesday to Monday between 6 PM and 1 AM, the lounge caters to after-work gatherings, date nights, and late-evening social sessions.

With its focus on immersive atmosphere and guest-centric experiences, Rumour signals a growing demand for intimate, design-led nightlife formats in the capital.


Malai Marke New York Launches Summer Mocktail Collection

Malai Marke New York Launches Summer Mocktail Collection

By Hariharan U

Published on March 29, 2026

Malai Marke has unveiled a refreshing new lineup of signature mocktails, bringing a seasonal, flavour-forward twist to its modern Indian culinary experience. Known for its innovative approach to Indian cuisine, the restaurant continues to expand its beverage program with a thoughtfully curated, alcohol-free collection designed for summer.

Crafted by Himanshu Joshi, the new mocktail menu focuses on combining fruits, herbs, and citrus elements to create drinks that are both visually engaging and layered in flavour. The collection reflects a balance of traditional inspiration and contemporary creativity, appealing to a wide range of palates.

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The menu features a variety of refreshing options, each highlighting seasonal freshness. Standout offerings include Strawberry, Lemon, Orange Blossom, a citrus-forward blend with a subtle watermelon twist, and Watermelon Mint Cooler, which combines juicy watermelon with fresh mint and a hint of chilli for added depth. Cranberry, Lime Honey Suckle delivers a tart, sparkling profile, while Summer Blossom brings together citrus, berries, and pineapple for a tropical burst.

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For those seeking lighter, cooling options, Cucumber Mint Soda offers a crisp, clean finish, while the Summer Heat Drink blends strawberry, citrus, and soda into a refreshing cooler. The collection is rounded off with Blossom Tea, a black tea-based beverage enhanced with citrus notes for a refined finish.

Speaking about the launch, Joshi said, “This collection is inspired by the essence of summer—fresh, vibrant, and full of life. We wanted to create drinks that not only complement our cuisine but also stand out as memorable experiences on their own.”

With this new offering, Malai Marke continues to push boundaries by reimagining traditional flavours through a modern lens, reinforcing its focus on innovation, seasonality, and elevated guest experiences.


Vivanta Debuts in Vrindavan, Strengthening IHCL’s Spiritual Tourism Portfolio

Vivanta Debuts in Vrindavan, Strengthening IHCL’s Spiritual Tourism Portfolio

By Hariharan U

Published on March 29, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has announced the opening of Vivanta Vrindavan, marking the brand’s debut in one of India’s most revered spiritual hubs, Vrindavan. The launch reinforces IHCL’s continued focus on expanding its presence across key pilgrimage and spiritual destinations in the country.

Strategically located close to major temples and cultural landmarks, the 135-key property has been designed to offer a calm and immersive stay experience, reflecting the spiritual essence of the destination while maintaining Vivanta’s contemporary hospitality approach.

Speaking on the launch, Deepika Rao noted that spiritual destinations in India continue to witness sustained and diverse travel demand, with Vrindavan remaining central to this journey. She added that the hotel aims to deliver a stay experience rooted in the ethos of the destination.

The property features multiple dining and lifestyle offerings including Mynt, an all-day vegetarian restaurant with global and regional influences; Swirl, a lobby café; Wink, a poolside bar; and Tease, an alfresco dining space. Guests can also access wellness facilities such as a spa, fitness centre, and an open-to-sky infinity pool.

Highlighting the operational vision, Saurabh Mitra shared that the hotel has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the vibrant character of Vrindavan, with a focus on delivering meaningful and personalised guest experiences.

The opening aligns with IHCL’s broader strategy of tapping into India’s growing spiritual tourism segment, where destinations like Shri Banke Bihari Mandir and Prem Mandir continue to attract both domestic and international travellers.

With this addition, IHCL further strengthens its position in the experiential hospitality space, blending cultural authenticity with modern comfort to cater to evolving traveller preferences.

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