Travel
H2 of FY2026 should be better than H1: Mahesh Iyer, MD and CEO, Thomas Cook (India)
Thomas Cook (India) faced challenges in Q1 due to geopolitical issues and visa restrictions, impacting forex revenue. Despite this, the company remains optimistic, anticipating a stronger second half driven by travel aspirations and economic factors. They are focusing on customized holidays and expanding in Tier II and III markets, while also growing their leisure hospitality portfolio.
Looking to maintain double-digit consolidated profit growth in FY26: Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India CEO
Mahindra Holidays & Resorts aims to maintain double-digit profit growth this fiscal, following an 18% rise in Q1 consolidated profit. The company plans to add 1,000 rooms by FY26, with most additions expected in H2. Indian operations remain strong, while European business stays stable amid economic uncertainties. MHRIL added 3,000 members in Q1 and currently operates 126 resorts globally.
7 Indian cities and what to buy from each – A traveller's guide
What to Buy: Bandhani Dupattas, Leather Juttis, Handcrafted MojrisThe city is known for its vivid Bandhani tie-dye textiles and traditional leather footwear. Visit local artisans for handmade mojris and camel leather bags with intricate embossing.
MakeMyTrip Launches Global Tours & Attractions Booking Platform
MakeMyTrip introduced a new platform for booking tours and attractions. This platform offers access to over 200,000 activities in 130 countries. Indian travellers can now easily book experiences like city tours and adventure sports. The platform addresses challenges faced by Indian tourists in planning overseas activities. Travellers can book in Indian currency and manage bookings in one place.
MakeMyTrip forays into global experiences space with tours, attractions booking platform
MakeMyTrip has launched a global tours and attractions booking platform, providing Indian travelers access to over 2 lakh activities in 1,100 cities across 130 countries. This initiative aims to simplify the discovery and booking of experiences, addressing challenges like scattered information and foreign currency pricing. The platform allows users to browse and book activities in Indian rupees, enhancing convenience.
Radisson Hotel Group introduces Radisson Flights in India
Radisson Hotel Group has launched Radisson Flights in India, partnering with Etraveli Group to offer integrated flight and hotel booking services. This move aims to simplify travel planning for Indian consumers, providing access to a wide range of flights with exclusive savings on hotel stays. The initiative is part of Radisson's digital transformation and expansion across India.
A glimmer of hope as tourism trickles back into Kashmir, three months after Pahalgam attack
After a terror attack, Kashmir's tourism is slowly reviving. Hotels in Srinagar and Sonamarg are seeing some occupancy. Corporate groups are cautiously returning for meetings and retreats. A life insurance company and a bank have booked rooms and events. Tourist arrivals fell significantly this year. Authorities are working to reopen destinations after security audits.
Over 54 lakh tourists visit Goa from Jan to June 2025
As per data shared by Goa's tourism department, from January to June 2024, 5031179 tourists visited Goa. The numbers went up to 5455091 between January to June 2025.
When do we sail? Cruise ships are turning Indian ports into destinations
Cruise tourism in India is quietly transforming. What was once an elite escape is now pulling in middle-class families, retirees, and first-time travellers. With domestic liners expanding routes and international giants docking more frequently, India is aiming for a million cruise passengers a year by 2029. But it’s not just about numbers. The success hinges on pricing, tailored experiences, and whether Indian ports can shift from cargo hubs to cruise terminals that actually feel like destinations worth docking at.
With growing disposable income, middle class is embracing cruise: Sarbananda Sonowal
India's cruise tourism is experiencing a significant boom, with passenger numbers surging nearly 500% in the last 11 years. This growth is fueled by rising disposable incomes and a desire for premium travel. The government is actively supporting this expansion through policy changes, infrastructure development, and the creation of new cruise terminals, aiming to double passenger numbers by 2029.
Cox & Kings accelerates expansion, launches new franchises across markets
Cox & Kings has inaugurated five new franchise outlets across Faridabad, Gurgaon, Dharamshala, Agra, and Ahmedabad, aiming to establish 200 franchises in the next two years. This expansion targets the growing demand for curated travel experiences in Tier 2 cities and urban centers. The new outlets will offer diverse services, including group tours, luxury vacations, and travel assistance.
Must Watch
NCLT clears Yatra Online’s amalgamation scheme involving six subsidiaries
The NCLT Mumbai has approved Yatra Online's merger scheme involving six subsidiaries, aiming to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Regulatory bodies have 30 days to submit objections. This restructuring consolidates services, reduces redundancies, and positions Yatra for long-term growth in the competitive digital travel market.
Love lost or not, they're off to find themselves: Travel cos' unique itineraries for Gen Z & millennials
Travel companies are crafting unique itineraries for Gen Z and millennials, moving beyond traditional sightseeing to offer experiences like 'break-up holidays' and themed trips inspired by pop culture. These young travelers, who constitute a significant portion of India's population, seek stories and shareable moments, influencing the hospitality industry to adapt with personalized and tech-integrated services.
8 hidden hill getaways near Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore & more
Tired of crowded tourist spots? These offbeat hill stations near major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore & more are perfect for a serene, refreshing escape on a short leave.Bhandardara – Hidden gem near Mumbai: A calm village tucked in the Sahyadris, Bhandardara offers waterfalls, lush greenery, Arthur Lake, and the famous Randha Falls. Ideal for monsoon and post-monsoon weekend breaks. Unlike Lonavala or Matheran, Bhandardara stays quiet. Trek to Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s highest peak, or camp by the lakeside under starry skies.
7 stunning waterfalls in India to explore this monsoon
Explore 7 of the most stunning waterfalls in India, from the majestic Jog Falls to the misty Nohkalikai. These natural wonders promise breathtaking views and unforgettable travel experiences.Jog Falls, KarnatakaHeight: 830 ftOne of India’s tallest waterfalls, Jog Falls is a seasonal beauty that comes alive during the monsoon, cascading down in four separate streams—Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket—creating a thunderous spectacle.
Future 'very strong and bright' as India's consumption boosts travel: Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran
Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran anticipates a robust future for India's travel sector. Growing consumption will fuel this expansion. Indian Hotels Company Limited aims for 700 hotels globally by 2030. They also target doubling revenues to over Rs 15,000 crore. Chandrasekaran acknowledged Ratan Tata's passing and India's resilience post-pandemic. IHCL's portfolio has expanded significantly.
