Tamil Nadu Shines at WTM London 2024: Showcasing Culture, Nature, and Tourism Excellence

Tamil Nadu Shines at WTM London 2024: Showcasing Culture, Nature, and Tourism Excellence

By Nishang Narayan

Published on November 10, 2024

Tamil Nadu, the southernmost state of India, stole the spotlight at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024, presenting its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and innovative tourism initiatives. Recognized globally for its history, architecture, and vibrant traditions, Tamil Nadu captivated industry leaders and travel enthusiasts alike.

A Grand Showcase of Tamil Nadu Tourism

At the dedicated Tamil Nadu Tourism pavilion, attendees were introduced to the state’s diverse offerings, from heritage tourism and eco-tourism to adventure travel and cultural experiences. Inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Vikram K. Doraiswami, IFS, High Commissioner of India to the UK, the pavilion served as a hub for fostering connections and driving investments. B2B meetings facilitated partnerships with tour operators, travel agents, and hoteliers, strengthening Tamil Nadu’s global appeal as a premier travel destination.

The Tamil Nadu delegation was led by Dr. Chandra Mohan B, I.A.S., Principal Secretary for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Endowments, and Thiru C. Samayamoorthy, I.A.S., Commissioner of Tourism and Managing Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, along with other officials.

Celebrating Culture and Nature

Tamil Nadu boasts an impressive lineup of cultural and natural attractions:

  • Iconic Temples: Renowned for their intricate architecture and millennia-old heritage.
  • Festivals: The Indian Dance Festival, Margazhi Utsav, and Karthigai Deepam showcase Tamil Nadu’s artistic vibrancy.
  • Natural Wonders: Biosphere reserves, hill stations like Yercaud and Kolli Hills, and pristine coastlines offer unmatched adventure and serenity.

Upcoming events such as the Tamil Nadu Travel Mart in February and the Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival in January promise to further enhance the state's tourism calendar, drawing global visitors to its shores.

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Tourism Innovations for 2025

Tamil Nadu's forward-thinking tourism strategy includes:

  • Adventure Tourism: Water sports along the 1,076 km coastline and trekking trails in lush hill stations.
  • Niche Experiences: Cruise tourism, photo walks, and glamping opportunities.
  • Modern Infrastructure: A new 16-acre Jallikattu arena in Madurai, blending ancient traditions with contemporary facilities.

Commitment to Sustainability

Aligning with global trends, Tamil Nadu Tourism emphasized its commitment to environmentally and culturally sustainable practices, ensuring that tourism growth benefits local communities while preserving the region’s natural and cultural treasures.

A Destination for Every Traveller

Whether it's exploring the majestic Thiruvalluvar Statue in Kanniyakumari, diving into traditional Tamil festivals, or embarking on eco-adventures in lush landscapes, Tamil Nadu offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all. With 58 GI-tagged products, including handcrafted sarees, jewellery, and pottery, the state provides an authentic cultural immersion like no other.

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Positioning Tamil Nadu on the Global Map

By showcasing its diverse tourism portfolio at WTM London 2024, Tamil Nadu solidified its position as a world-class destination. With a harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements, the state invites global travellers to discover its unparalleled beauty and heritage.

For more details, visit Tamil Nadu Tourism's official website.


Akasa Air Enters Rajasthan with Daily Direct Flights to Udaipur

Akasa Air Enters Rajasthan with Daily Direct Flights to Udaipur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 29, 2026

Akasa Air has announced its entry into Rajasthan with the launch of daily direct flights connecting Udaipur with Mumbai and Bengaluru from October 15, 2026. The new services strengthen the airline's domestic network while enhancing connectivity to one of India's most popular leisure and hospitality destinations.

Bookings for the new routes are now open through Akasa Air's website, mobile application and authorised travel partners. The airline said the expansion reflects growing demand for leisure travel, destination weddings and premium tourism from key metropolitan markets.

Commenting on the launch, Anand Srinivasan, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air, said, "We are delighted to launch services to Udaipur, a city that represents India's rich cultural heritage and continues to see strong demand across leisure and hospitality travel. With direct connectivity from Mumbai and Bengaluru, customers will now have more convenient access to one of the country's most iconic destinations."

"As we continue to strengthen our domestic footprint, our focus remains on building a network that is relevant, customer-centric, and aligned with evolving travel demand. Udaipur is an important addition to our portfolio, and we look forward to offering travellers Akasa Air's warm, dependable, and efficient flying experience."

The airline said Udaipur's growing popularity as a destination for leisure holidays, weddings and experiential travel made it a strategic addition to its expanding network. The new routes are expected to improve access for both domestic tourists and business travellers while supporting the city's tourism and hospitality sectors.

Akasa Air added that the launch aligns with its strategy of building a demand-driven domestic network and improving connectivity to emerging tourism markets across India. The airline continues to expand its footprint by adding destinations with strong leisure and business travel potential.

Passengers travelling on Akasa Air can also benefit from the airline's customer-focused offerings, including its young fleet, onboard dining through Café Akasa, digital services and a range of ancillary products designed to enhance the overall travel experience.


Beyond the Forecast: Discovering Monsoon Travel at The Serai Resorts

Beyond the Forecast: Discovering Monsoon Travel at The Serai Resorts

By Hariharan U

Published on June 18, 2026

As travel preferences shift towards slower, more meaningful experiences, a new mindset is reshaping the way people explore destinations. Trends such as “quietcations” and “hushpitality” are gaining momentum among Gen Z and millennial travellers, reflecting a growing desire to disconnect from digital overload and reconnect with nature. In this evolving landscape, the monsoon season offers a natural backdrop for mindful travel, and The Serai Resorts brings this philosophy to life across its properties in Chikmagalur, Kabini, and Bandipur.

At The Serai Chikmagalur, nestled within Karnataka’s Malnad region, the monsoon transforms coffee plantations into lush green expanses wrapped in mist and rain. The season enhances the estate’s natural beauty, offering guests slow mornings overlooking plantations, guided coffee estate walks, cycling trails through rain-kissed landscapes, and moments of stillness surrounded by drifting clouds. The experience encourages travellers to embrace a slower rhythm deeply connected to nature.

In Kabini, the monsoon breathes renewed life into the backwaters and surrounding forests, creating one of the most serene seasons in the region. At The Serai Kabini, guests can engage with nature through coracle rides, kayaking, speedboat excursions, and guided walks through thriving ecosystems. Family-friendly experiences such as archery and the Junior Chef programme add interactive elements, while the rains create a calming atmosphere of renewal and immersion.

Meanwhile, The Serai Bandipur offers a tranquil gateway to the wilderness on the edge of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. During the monsoon, the forests turn vibrant and alive, offering an ideal setting for unhurried nature walks, quiet wildlife observation, and reflective moments in the heart of the forest landscape. The experience is designed for travellers seeking a deeper connection with nature, supported by thoughtful hospitality and spacious accommodations.

Across all three destinations, The Serai Resorts positions monsoon not as a season to avoid but as an opportunity to rediscover travel in its most authentic form. In a world increasingly drawn to wellness, mindfulness, and experiential luxury, these retreats offer an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and embrace the beauty of nature at its most expressive.


From Summit Selfies to Stadium Seats: Father’s Day Travel Trends Redefining Family Getaways

From Summit Selfies to Stadium Seats: Father’s Day Travel Trends Redefining Family Getaways

By Hariharan U

Published on June 18, 2026

Father’s Day in India is increasingly being redefined by experiences rather than material gifts, as families choose to celebrate through travel, shared adventures, and meaningful time together. Insights from travel companies such as Thomas Cook India Limited and SOTC Travel highlight a clear shift toward experiential getaways that bring fathers and families closer through curated journeys.

Adventure travel continues to be a strong favourite, with families heading outdoors for trekking experiences that combine physical activity with bonding moments. Destinations like the Valley of Flowers, Kashmir’s alpine meadows, Coorg’s coffee trails, and Meghalaya’s living root bridges are among the most sought-after choices, alongside international hiking routes in Switzerland, New Zealand, and Japan.

Road trips remain equally popular, driven by nostalgia and spontaneity. From Ladakh’s high-altitude highways to Rajasthan’s heritage circuits and coastal drives through Karnataka, families are embracing the journey as much as the destination. International scenic routes across Australia, Portugal, and New Zealand are also gaining traction for Father’s Day getaways.

Sporting experiences are emerging as a key travel driver, with families planning trips around live events such as cricket matches, Formula 1 races in Singapore and Abu Dhabi, and football fixtures across Europe. These experiences are increasingly seen as bucket-list moments shared across generations.

Wildlife safaris continue to attract families seeking immersive, nature-driven holidays. Parks such as Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, Kabini, Gir, and Kaziranga remain top domestic choices, while Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius are popular international alternatives offering rich biodiversity and unique wildlife encounters.

Multi-generational travel is another growing trend, with families choosing destinations that cater to all age groups. From Kerala’s backwaters and Rajasthan’s heritage stays to international favourites like Thailand, Singapore, and Switzerland, these trips are designed to bring grandparents, parents, and children together in shared celebration.

Wellness-focused travel is also gaining momentum, with families opting for slower, restorative breaks in destinations like Kerala, Goa, and Bali. Ayurveda retreats, spa resorts, and forest escapes are becoming preferred ways to help fathers unwind and reset.

Short-haul international escapes continue to appeal to families seeking quick but enriching holidays, with destinations like Singapore, Thailand, Japan, and Mauritius offering a balance of accessibility and experience.

A growing trend within Father’s Day travel is passion-led holidays, where trips are designed around a father’s interests from golf and photography to culinary trails, cycling expeditions, and heritage journeys.

Overall, Father’s Day travel reflects a broader cultural shift: experiences are replacing gifts as families prioritise connection, shared memories, and meaningful time together over traditional celebrations

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