Tamil Nadu Revives Exclusive Tourism Development Committees to Boost Local Tourism

Tamil Nadu Revives Exclusive Tourism Development Committees to Boost Local Tourism

By Author

Published on February 22, 2024

In an ambitious move to spur growth in the tourism sector, Tamil Nadu's Finance Minister, Thangam Thennarasu, announced in his recent budget speech the revival of exclusive tourism development committees for each district. Chaired by the district collector and co-opting representatives from key stakeholders, these committees are set to promote tourism across the state, marking a significant step towards realizing the potential of Tamil Nadu's diverse attractions.

This initiative, first introduced during the tenure of former chief minister M Karunanidhi, aims to foster destination development under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The committees are tasked with the upgradation of existing attractions, development of new ones, implementation of a comprehensive maintenance plan, and an institutionalized effort to train local youth, thereby creating ample job opportunities.

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The focus on destination development is part of the state government's broader strategy to enhance Tamil Nadu's appeal to both domestic and international travelers. With India's spiritual tourism and the charm of tier-II cities gaining traction, these efforts are expected to contribute meaningfully to the state's tourism landscape in the coming years.

V K T Balan of Madura Travels, a member of the TN tourism promotion and development committee, welcomed the move, stating that it would lead to a more effective development and promotion of tourist spots, arts, and culture unique to every district. The initiative is also seen as a pathway to job creation, with the potential to significantly impact the local economy.

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The state's emphasis on religious tourism, coupled with the push for development in pilgrim places, underscores the importance of this sector. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts' recent franchise deal to open a Ramada Encore by Wyndham property in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, highlights the growing interest in leveraging religious and spiritual tourism for economic growth.

As Tamil Nadu gears up to implement these exclusive tourism development committees, the state sets an example of proactive engagement and collaboration between the government and the private sector. This model not only aims to elevate Tamil Nadu's status as a premier tourist destination but also underscores the state's commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth in the tourism sector.

With these initiatives in place, Tamil Nadu is poised to witness a significant transformation in its tourism landscape, offering enriched experiences to visitors while fostering local development and job creation.


Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 3, 2025

As Thailand captures the world’s imagination—serving as the backdrop for the newest season of The White Lotus and the much-awaited Jurassic World Rebirth—there’s never been a better time to visit. Perched gracefully on Krabi’s stunning Andaman shoreline, Phulay Bay, a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve, gives travellers a chance to step into these cinematic stories, all while immersing in Thailand’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

Here are five unforgettable ways to experience Krabi’s soul in 2025:

Explore Krabi’s Untouched Wonders

Embark on Phulay Bay’s exclusive Discover the Jurassic Paradise adventure—a curated journey inspired by Krabi’s prehistoric charm and its starring role in the upcoming Jurassic World film. Start with a stroll on Pak Bia Island’s powdery sands, hemmed in by towering karst cliffs and turquoise seas. Then kayak across the still waters of Klong Root—also known as Mirror Lake—where lush canopies reflect so perfectly, it feels like paddling through a painting. From secret lagoons to wild forest trails, this is Krabi in its raw, magical form.

A Taste of Thailand: Cook Like a Local

Food is at the heart of Thai culture, and there’s no better way to connect than by learning to cook like a local. At Phulay Bay, join a small, hands-on Thai cooking class that starts with hand-picking fresh herbs and produce. Discover how to balance sweet, sour, and spicy notes, pick up time-honoured kitchen techniques, and prepare classic dishes. The best bit? You’ll feast on your creations in a serene nook of the resort—often at the Chomtawan Bar—paired with sunset views and a soft sea breeze.

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Reconnect with Yourself at The Spa

Begin your day with yoga by the sea, where gentle Andaman waves and rustling palms set the rhythm for breathwork and meditation. Then retreat to The Spa at Phulay Bay, an expansive haven with 11 treatment rooms, vitality pools, steam and sauna facilities. Indulge in rituals drawn from Thai and global wellness traditions—whether it’s a warm herbal compress, sound therapy with singing bowls, or a detox session with local botanicals. It’s restoration, reimagined.

Muay Thai: A Cultural Workout

Blend fitness and tradition with Phulay Bay’s Muay Thai sessions. Held in a calm indoor-outdoor studio, these workouts are led by seasoned trainers and tailored to all skill levels. You’ll learn the art of Thai boxing—mastering punches, kicks, and elbow strikes—while uncovering stories behind Thailand’s national sport. It’s as invigorating for the body as it is enlightening for the mind.

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Walk with Giants: The Elephant Sanctuary Experience

In partnership with the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary, Phulay Bay offers a respectful, deeply moving way to meet Thailand’s gentle giants. Spend your morning alongside rescued elephants: feed them, give them playful mud baths, or join them for a dip. Guided by passionate sanctuary workers and the resort’s dedicated team, this immersive experience highlights conservation efforts and forges connections that last long after you leave.

Plan the Extraordinary

At Phulay Bay, every moment is artfully crafted—where personal butlers, bespoke experiences, and Krabi’s natural splendour come together in seamless harmony. Whether you’re chasing cinematic landscapes, culinary adventures, or soulful Thai traditions, this is where you embrace the extraordinary.

Plan your journey to Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and let Krabi’s spirit become part of yours.


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.


TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 28, 2025

TV9 Network has partnered with SKIL Corporate Travel, India’s leading corporate travel and event management firm, as the Official Travel Partner for the News9 Global Summit, UAE Edition. Organised by News9 and promoted by TV9 Network, this summit marked its second international edition, bringing together a distinguished group of Indian policymakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and global thought leaders to chart India’s growing global influence.

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As the Official Travel Partner, SKIL Corporate Travel seamlessly managed end-to-end logistics for all attending delegates and speakers — covering international and domestic flights, local transportation, and comprehensive on-ground support throughout the summit.

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Elevating its engagement beyond operational support, Mr. Shylender Jindal, Managing Director, SKIL Group, also featured as a distinguished speaker at the Summit. He contributed to the headline panel titled "Delhi to Dubai: Building the Startup Corridor," offering insights on the future of mobility, cross-border innovation, and India’s dynamic role in shaping global entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Vikash Kejriwal, CEO, SKIL Group, said,

"We are honoured to partner with TV9 for this international edition of the News9 Global Summit. As India steps into its role as a global business powerhouse, we are proud to support the journeys that move those ideas forward. Our experience in handling high-stakes, cross-border corporate travel makes this a natural and meaningful collaboration."

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With decades of experience in managing CXO delegations, enterprise mobility, and large-scale international conferences, SKIL Corporate Travel continues to stand out as a trusted name in premium corporate travel services, seamlessly blending efficiency with excellence across sectors and destinations.

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