Unlocking Japan: Your April 2024 Guide with E-Visa Ease

Unlocking Japan: Your April 2024 Guide with E-Visa Ease

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 12, 2024

April in Japan stands as an inviting canvas, painted with the soft hues of cherry blossoms and warmed by the gentle spring sun. The recent introduction of e-visas for Indian travellers has opened new doors to this mesmerising landscape, making the journey smoother and more accessible than ever.

The Charm of April:

April is arguably the most magical time to visit Japan. The cherry blossoms, or Sakura, not merely paint the towns pink but also symbolise renewal and hope. The weather, pleasantly mild, is perfect for outdoor adventures - from Sakura viewing at Hirosaki Park to exploring the historical depths of Himeji Castle.

Weather Wise:

Navigating Japan’s April weather requires a savvy packer's touch. With temperatures ranging comfortably for outdoor exploration, a layered approach to clothing is advisable. Light jackets and rain gear are essential, accommodating the spring showers that add to the Sakura’s charm.

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Embrace the Blossom Crowds:

The allure of cherry blossoms draws visitors worldwide, turning Japan into a bustling hub of cultural exchange during April. Engaging in Sakura viewing or Hanami becomes a must-do activity, where the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms can be appreciated in parks and temples across the country.

Crafting Your Journey:

The cost of exploring Japan varies, but with strategic planning and the advantage of holiday packages, experiencing its spring splendour becomes attainably luxurious. From accommodations that range from the traditional ryokans to modern hotels, choices abound to fit every budget and preference.

April’s Palette of Activities:

April's activities in Japan are as diverse as its landscapes. Engage in the traditional art of Sakura viewing, indulge in the sweetness of Sakura mochi, or find adventure in the national parks. Spring festivals and baseball games add to the seasonal excitement, offering something for every traveller.

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Savouring Spring Flavors:

The culinary landscape in April offers seasonal delights like Ume and Ikanago. Dining under the Sakura, whether at a street food stall in Osaka or a picnic in a park, presents an authentic taste of Japanese spring.

Navigating with Ease:

The introduction of e-visas for Indians simplifies the logistical aspects of travel. Coupled with Japan’s efficient public transport system and the convenience of one-day metro passes, exploring Japan becomes a seamless experience. Remember, the Koban, or police boxes, are your go-to for assistance and directions, embodying the welcoming spirit of Japan.

In conclusion, April 2024 stands as an open invitation to Indian travellers to experience Japan's unrivalled beauty and cultural richness. With the ease of e-visas, the journey to Japan is not just a travel plan but a gateway to new discoveries, connections, and memories waiting to be made. Stay connected with us, for this is merely the beginning of a beautiful adventure with Japan, where every visit unfolds new chapters of exploration and enrichment.


Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 9, 2025

As part of Operation Sindoor, commercial flights have been suspended at 27 airports across north, west, and central India. The move has led to widespread disruptions in air travel, with over 430 flights cancelled across carriers like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Air India Express.

To ensure safety, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued new advisories mandating heightened airport security across the country. All passengers are now required to undergo Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC), and visitor access to airport terminals has been suspended until further notice.

Aviation authorities have also instructed airports to ensure that all CCTV systems are fully functional and have directed the deployment of air marshals based on priority and random selection.

Airlines have issued urgent travel advisories.

  • Air India posted: Passengers are advised to arrive at airports at least 3 hours before departure. 

  • SpiceJet posted: Check-in closes 75 minutes prior to flight. and Akasa Air urging passengers early arrival and limiting cabin baggage to one handbag up to 7 kg.

  • All passengers must carry valid government-approved photo ID for airport entry.

List of Airports Closed under Operation Sindoor:

Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar (Rajkot), Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, Bhuj.

According to flight tracking services like Flightradar24, the airspace over India’s western corridor from Kashmir to Gujarat, currently shows minimal civilian air traffic, highlighting the scale of the shutdown. Airports are expected to resume commercial operations by 5:29 AM on Saturday, May 10, but travelers are urged to stay updated through airline channels.

Passengers are strongly advised to recheck flight schedules, plan ahead, and cooperate with the enhanced security procedures to ensure smooth transit during this sensitive period.


A Royal Wedding in the Tropics: How Indian Couples Are Making Thailand Their Celebration Hub

A Royal Wedding in the Tropics: How Indian Couples Are Making Thailand Their Celebration Hub

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 7, 2025

In a time where celebrations are becoming more meaningful and curated, Indian couples are making a clear choice: Destination weddings. Through the lens of Mr. Dilbir Sahni—affectionately known in the industry as Bob—this evolving trend comes to life. As the founder of IndoBangkok, a company at the forefront of luxury events and weddings in Thailand, Bob shares insights shaped by two decades of experience creating unforgettable moments for Indian families.

Once considered aspirational, destination weddings are now a conscious decision. The trend is catching on fast—up from 18% in 2022 to 26% in 2024. And leading this dreamy escape? Thailand.

Gone are the days of crowded banquet halls and logistical juggling. Today’s couples are opting for intimate beachfront vows, hilltop pheras, and royal-themed parties at luxury resorts. Thailand, with its postcard-perfect landscapes, warm hospitality, and ease of planning, offers a spectacular stage for love stories to unfold.

Why More Couples Are Choosing Destination Weddings

So what’s fueling this shift? It’s about simplifying the complex. Destination weddings allow couples to focus on what really matters: spending meaningful time with loved ones. With everyone gathered in one location, the chaos of multiple venues fades away, replaced by a relaxed, immersive vibe.

And it’s not just better for the couple—it’s a win for guests too. Think of it as a wedding with built-in vacation vibes. Guests enjoy quality time, beautiful settings, and great food—all while creating memories that go far beyond the ceremony.

The impact is showing in travel numbers. In 2024, Thailand welcomed over 2.1 million Indian tourists, many attending weddings. The message is clear: this is not just a trend—it’s a movement.

Why Thailand?

Thailand has become the ultimate canvas for Indian weddings. Whether it’s a sunset beach affair, a jungle-meets-ceremony celebration in Chiang Mai, or a royal-style event in a palace-like resort, Thailand offers variety without overwhelming complexity.

Short flights, simple visa processes, and English-speaking staff ease the journey. Add to that a robust network of Indian planners, chefs who know their dal makhani from their dal tadka, and venues that are nothing short of magical—and you’ve got a celebration that feels both familiar and fresh.

Best of all? The country offers five-star luxury at surprisingly affordable prices, making premium experiences accessible for a broader range of families.

Weddings as a New Form of Travel

Weddings are no longer just personal milestones. They’re catalysts for economic and cultural exchange. Each wedding brings life to a destination—boosting tourism, creating local jobs, and reviving small businesses. In many ways, these celebrations are a new kind of travel, one rooted in love, community, and shared joy.

Final Thoughts

Thailand isn’t just a backdrop—it’s becoming an integral part of Indian wedding stories. With its blend of beauty, accessibility, and cultural understanding, it’s no surprise that Thailand is emerging as India’s favourite wedding playground.

Because at the heart of every great wedding is a story worth travelling for.


Air Travel Impacted as India Conducts Operation Sindoor

Air Travel Impacted as India Conducts Operation Sindoor

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 7, 2025

Several airports across northern India were temporarily shut down this morning as India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, conducting targeted military strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Srinagar airport was among the first to suspend operations, confirmed airport officials. Alongside Srinagar, other impacted airports included Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, and Dharamshala, as mentioned in a post by SpiceJet on X.

Air India announced that all its flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot would remain cancelled until 12 p.m. on Wednesday. Meanwhile, IndiGo stated that its Bikaner operations were also affected by the disruptions.

Airlines took to social media to alert passengers about potential delays and cancellations, urging them to check their flight status and plan their travel accordingly.

Flight tracking platforms showed no commercial flights operating north of New Delhi, reflecting the scale of the airspace shutdown. This situation will affect domestic air traffic in the northern part of India.

Further updates are expected in the coming hours.

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