India and Germany have agreed to provide gratis visas for short-term school and college visits, aiming to boost student exchanges and strengthen educational ties between the two nations. This announcement coincides with discussions on trade, investment, defense, technology, and regional issues during the visit of German Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, to India.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that both nations also plan to establish a new bilateral consultation mechanism focused on the Indo-Pacific region. The discussions reviewed the comprehensive Strategic Partnership, highlighting progress in trade and investment, defense and security, technology, science and innovation, green and sustainable development, education, and people-to-people connections.

“EAM and Foreign Minister Wadephul reviewed the entire gamut of our multifaceted Strategic Partnership and expressed satisfaction at the progress in diverse sectors…The two sides agreed on gratis visas for short-term school and college visits between our countries to further promote student exchanges and education ties,” the MEA stated.

The discussions also covered regional and global concerns, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and developments in the Middle East. India expressed appreciation for Germany’s solidarity and support in combating terrorism.

During his visit, Wadephul met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, alongside a high-level German business delegation. The delegation’s Bengaluru visit included engagements with German companies, innovation hubs, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Discussions emphasized collaboration in green technology, digital transformation, AI, space cooperation, and sustainable urban development.

This engagement also marks the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, reflecting decades of mutual trust, shared democratic values, and commitment to global stability and sustainable development.

 The Hari Hong Kong has unveiled a new after-dark experience that casts the historic and eclectic district of Wan Chai in a fresh light. Located on lively Lockhart Road, the 30-storey hotel has partnered with licensed guide and travel content creator @explore_hongkong to launch the private “Best of Wan Chai at Night Tour- Explore Hong Kong like a Local”.

The roughly 2.5-hour tour, starting at 5pm, immerses guests in the history and stories of Wan Chai and neighbouring Causeway Bay, while offering fascinating insights into Hong Kong’s Feng Shui. Highlights include participating in ‘Villain Hitting’, a traditional folk ritual, visiting wet and street markets, exploring a 140-year-old tea shop, sampling local snacks, riding the 100-year-old Ding Ding Tram, and enjoying panoramic views of Kowloon and Hong Kong.

Edward E. Snoeks, General Manager of The Hari Hong Kong, said, “Edgy, dynamic and diverse, we love our neighbourhood and community, and this remarkable new experience reveals why. Each attraction on our tour peels back Wan Chai’s layers, connecting guests with its rich past and exciting present”.

Once a small fishing village, Wan Chai developed into a bustling urban hub following British colonisation in 1841. Today, it is known for its historical landmarks, vibrant street markets, skyscrapers, and a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.

The hotel itself, designed by acclaimed British interior designer Tara Bernerd, features 210 guest rooms, including three signature rooftop suites, offering sweeping views of Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak, and Victoria Harbour. Dining options include the Italian ristorante Lucciola, contemporary Japanese restaurant Zoku, alfresco terrace bar The Terrace, and The Lounge, an all-day sitting area showcasing curated art and books.

A sister property of The Hari London, The Hari Hong Kong is committed to art, culture, and community initiatives such as The Hari Art Prize and The Hari Chronicles. The hotel has also been recognised with EarthCheck Benchmarked Bronze status for its sustainability measures.

For more information, visit thehari.com/hong-kong, 

Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu and its sister property, Dwarika’s Resort in Dhulikhel, are set to host a grand cultural celebration on 6th September 2025, bringing to life Nepal’s most revered festival, Indra Jatra. This exclusive experience allows guests to immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions in a luxurious, crowd-free setting, making it an ideal cultural escape, especially for Indian travellers who can visit Nepal without a visa.

Indra Jatra, celebrated in the Kathmandu Valley, the spiritual heart of the Himalayan Kingdom, marks the transition from monsoon to harvest season and honours Lord Indra, the rain god. The eight-day festival is famed for its vibrant rituals, masked dances, and the chariot procession of the Living Goddess Kumari, drawing devotees and visitors alike.

At Dwarika’s Hotel, the festival will be recreated within its historic courtyard, offering guests an intimate glimpse into Nepal’s spiritual and artistic heritage. The evening will feature mesmerising folk dances, including Devi and Aarati performances and the iconic Lakhey masked dances, accompanied by traditional music from instruments such as Khain, Paschima, Bhusya, and Madal. Guests will also have the rare chance to take part in the pulling of the sacred chariot of the Living Goddess Kumari.

A lavish Newari feast will be the centrepiece of the evening, with Samaybaji, locally brewed drinks, and a spread of traditional dishes that showcase the region’s culinary legacy. The celebrations extend to Dwarika’s Resort in Dhulikhel, a wellness sanctuary inspired by Buddhist medicine and Himalayan Vedic traditions, located just 45 minutes from Kathmandu Airport. Guests here will experience the symbolic festival recreated in a serene hillside setting.

“Indra Jatra is more than a festival; it is a profound expression of Nepal’s spiritual soul and exemplifies Newar’s living heritage, celebrated with reverence, artistry, and joy, an experience we are proud to share with the world,” said René Vijay Shrestha Einhaus, Chief Operating Officer, The Dwarika’s.

Hosting and reimagining Indra Jatra aligns with Dwarika’s vision of preserving Nepal’s living heritage while offering travellers refined, culturally rich experiences. With direct flights from major Indian cities and no visa requirements for Indian passport holders, the event is a perfect opportunity for those seeking an authentic cultural journey in luxury.

For more details or to plan your visit, guests may contact sales@dwarikas.com.