Introduction:
Tourism around the world is buzzing with major developments—from reopened sacred pilgrimages and new travel routes to growing concerns about over-tourism. Here’s a roundup of the most important travel and tourism news making headlines today

Pahalgam terror attack impacts tourism in Jammu

‘About 35 to 37% of bookings have been cancelled so far,’ says Rakesh Wazir, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association in Katra

Rakesh Wazir, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association in Katra, on Monday said that the deadly Pahalgam terror attack has “significantly” impacted the influx of tourists and bookings even in the Union territory of Jammu. He said that at least 35 per cent of bookings have been cancelled.

“The Pahalgam terrorist attack has had a significant impact on the entire booking. Bookings are getting cancelled continuously. According to our assessment, about 35 to 37 per cent of bookings have been cancelled so far. The number of people in the Katra has been reduced to merely 20,000 to 22,000 from 45,000,” Wazir told ANI.

Appealing to people that the situation was never disturbed in places like Katra, he said that the notion that people have about the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir needs to change. “I appeal to people that the situation in Katra, in particular, was never disturbed before, nor is it today. The place where this happened is also very far away. And if we talk about the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the entire situation here is fine. There is a need to change the notion people have,” Wazir added.

Meanwhile, a man has been arrested for allegedly impersonating a registered porter and offering services on the route of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, police officials confirmed. According to the Police Station Bhawan, located at Vaishno Devi, the accused has been identified as Mast Ali, son of Nazir Ahmed and a resident of Harot Kot village in Surjan Dhar, Reasi district. He was caught posing as a “Pithu (porter),” which the police said violated the orders issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office. Ali was operating without a valid registration or service card, which is a mandated requirement to provide any kind of service related to a porter, palki, or pony.

The country mourns the loss of 26 people, who were gunned down by terrorists at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22. The incident has intensified diplomatic responses amid heightened security concerns between the two neighbouring countries.

Source – The Hindu

How India is becoming a top destination for medical tourists

While the Health Ministry aspires to promote India as a leading medical hub, a clear strategy is still missing

Why do large private hospitals in India track global oil prices and regime changes around the world? As the preferred tertiary healthcare provider to many unwell people in oil-rich countries, it determines how many patients they treat, according to Max Hospitals’ Medical Value Tourism (MVT) team.

India issued 463,725 visas for medical travel in 2024, a number that depends on its relations with other countries, the economic conditions in those countries and the global economy, among other things.

“We haven’t issued many visas to Afghan patients since 2021, because India does not officially recognise the current Afghan regime,” said Anas Abdul Wajid, chief sales and marketing officer at Max Healthcare, New Delhi. The political upheaval in Bangladesh and the souring of ties between India and its neighbour mean that fewer Bangladeshi patients will visit India, he explained.

Medical tourism is of value not just to hospitals but also to other businesses that benefit from the inflow of patients and their families from abroad.

“Khamsa ashra [15 in Arabic],” said a baker in response to an inquiry about the price of his flatbread from a Sudanese man. The baker can count up to 20 in Arabic, Pashto and Russian, he claimed. Behind his stall in Sector 50 in Gurugram is a restaurant that sells Arabic-style roasted meats, and on either side are hotels and accommodations for patients.

Unable to speak the language and unaccustomed to the climate and crowded public spaces, patients said they are driven to India because it is the most affordable option and meets the standards of quality that they are not assured of in their home countries.

Indian tertiary care more affordable, better quality than most countries

When one-year-old Zulqarnain Ali was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a condition that would require a liver transplant, his parents had two options: get the surgery done in their home country of the Philippines or to travel to Japan, the USA or India.

The Philippines is also an emerging medical tourism destination, ranking 24th of 46 countries on the 2020 Medical Tourism Index. India ranks 10th on the index. “We ruled out the Philippines because his chances of survival would be lower there,” Ali’s mother, Cassandra, said. “Japan and the USA would be expensive, which left us with India.”

Fluent in English, they travel to their hotel from Max Super Specialty hospital in Saket (and at times around the city) using Uber. Other than having to cook food in a kitchenette in a hotel room, their stay has been comfortable, the couple told IndiaSpend.

Cassandra donated part of her liver to her son for the surgery in the first week of March, and the surgery was a success. They will stay in India for another month, when the doctors will clear their son to travel back home.

In 2023 alone, there were 18,378 organ transplant surgeries performed in India, close to a tenth of which (1,851) were performed on foreigners, according to a report from National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO). The National Capital Region (NCR) accounted for a bulk of these: 1,445 transplants among foreigners were performed in Delhi NCR.

Of the total transplants performed on foreigners, only nine involved a deceased donor. The rest were from live donors who donated their bone marrow, a kidney or a part of their liver. Organ donations in India are governed by the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act 1994. Foreign nationals can get on the registry of patients in need of organs, but they will be considered for allocation only if there is no Indian available to take the organ anywhere in India.

“The patient brings a donor with them, and usually it is a blood relative. We do DNA tests to ensure that there are no commercial interests involved. This is at the hospital level,” explained Abdul Wajid. NOTTO requires the donor and recipient to provide proof of relationship.

Limited food options for the sick; safety concerns

Spicy food and crowded public places are what struck Serdar Niyazov as the most different from his home country Turkmenistan. With a population of 7 million, the Central Asian country has fewer people than Delhi (16.8 million) or Mumbai (12.8 million).

“My wife and I don’t mind the spicy food as much as my daughter. Every restaurant I go to, I ask them not to add any spice to my food but they don’t listen. My daughter tastes the food, and after one bite, puts it down saying that it’s too spicy for her,” said the former engineer from Turkmenistan, whose name has been changed here to protect his privacy. Niyazov added that his daughter is slowly getting used to the food.

This is his family’s second trip to India. His seven-year-old daughter, who was operated on for epilepsy last month, first came here when she was one. “The doctor says that she has made considerable recovery and they can take her off her medication gradually and stop it eventually.”

While there are several small hotels and restaurants that cater to international patients in and around Max Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi, where the Alis and the Niyazovs are staying, Gurugram has transformed to meet the needs of foreign patients, and has more facilities for them, we found.

Source – News Laundry

India’s Emerging Travel Hotspots for 2025 Showcase a Surge in Popularity for Culture, Heritage, and Scenic Escapes Across the Country’s Diverse Destinations

Agoda’s 2025 “New Horizons List” highlights India’s top emerging destinations, showing a surge in traveler interest for cultural experiences and scenic beauty.

As 2025 unfolds, the digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its much-anticipated “New Horizons List,” showcasing the top five emerging destinations in India that have seen the most significant growth in traveler interest. Based on year-on-year search data, the list highlights cities that have experienced a surge in tourism, offering unique insights into the evolving preferences of Indian travelers. The list is topped by Ahmedabad, followed by Kodaikanal, Mahabaleshwar, Ooty, and Kochi—destinations that reflect a growing appetite for local culture, heritage, and picturesque landscapes.

Ahmedabad: A Rising Star in Tourism

Leading the pack is Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s thriving financial hub, which has surged ahead with a remarkable 44% year-on-year increase in searches. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, Ahmedabad has long been a city of historical significance and innovation, but it has recently emerged as an increasingly popular tourist destination. A primary reason for its rise is the iconic Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, which draws visitors from all corners of the country. Additionally, Ahmedabad’s rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage, from the bustling markets of Manek Chowk to the architectural grandeur of the Sabarmati Ashram, make it an ideal spot for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.

Moreover, Ahmedabad’s growing appeal can be linked to the city’s role as a key host for major national events. Notably, the city gained global attention during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, which not only showcased its modern infrastructure but also its capacity to host large-scale events. The combination of historical landmarks, cultural festivals, and emerging international attention has solidified Ahmedabad’s place at the forefront of India’s travel destinations.

Kodaikanal: The Charm of Hill Stations

Kodaikanal, a serene hill station nestled in Tamil Nadu, ranks second on Agoda’s list, experiencing a 35% rise in searches. This picturesque town, with its mist-covered hills, tranquil lakes, and lush green landscapes, has captivated the hearts of nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its cool climate and peaceful surroundings, Kodaikanal is an escape for those looking to retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors flock to Kodaikanal not only for its natural beauty but also for its wide array of outdoor activities, including trekking, boating, and visiting famous spots like Coaker’s Walk, the Bryant Park, and the lush pine forests. As more travelers seek peaceful retreats surrounded by nature, Kodaikanal’s unspoiled charm continues to captivate a growing audience, earning its spot as one of India’s most beloved hill stations.

Mahabaleshwar: Where Nature Meets Heritage

In third place is Mahabaleshwar, a celebrated hill station in Maharashtra that has enjoyed a 22% increase in search interest. Famed for its breathtaking hill views, sprawling valleys, and refreshing climate, Mahabaleshwar offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The town is famous for its numerous viewpoints, including Arthur’s Seat and Wilson Point, which provide sweeping panoramas of the Western Ghats.

Mahabaleshwar’s historic temples, like the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple, add a spiritual dimension to its allure, attracting those seeking both peace and adventure. With its rich colonial heritage and delightful strawberry farms, Mahabaleshwar has something for every traveler—from nature enthusiasts to history buffs—making it a top pick for those wanting to experience a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Ooty: A Colonial Legacy in the Nilgiris

Ooty, another quintessential hill station in Tamil Nadu, takes fourth place with a 21% rise in searches. Often referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Ooty boasts colonial-era charm, tea plantations, and lush landscapes that have long attracted visitors seeking a break from the heat of the plains. As one of the oldest hill stations in India, Ooty is steeped in British colonial history, with charming cottages, scenic gardens, and the famous Ooty Lake that draws thousands each year.

Known for its botanical gardens and the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty continues to captivate travelers who enjoy both scenic beauty and historical heritage. The town’s cool climate and sprawling tea estates, which offer tours and tastings, also make it a hotspot for travelers interested in exploring the local culture and craftsmanship of tea production.

Kochi: A Blend of History and Modernity

Completing the top five is Kochi, a vibrant port city in Kerala, which saw a 19% increase in traveler searches. Kochi has long been a cultural melting pot, where Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese influences intertwine to create a unique blend of history and modernity. Visitors to Kochi can stroll through the narrow lanes of Fort Kochi, where colonial architecture sits alongside colorful street art, bustling markets, and lively cafes.

The city’s rich history is on display at sites such as the Mattancherry Palace, the St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets, which continue to fascinate both locals and visitors. Kochi’s food scene, with its variety of fresh seafood and spice markets, is another major draw. The city’s thriving art scene, exemplified by the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, further solidifies its position as a cultural and creative hub, attracting travelers interested in both heritage and contemporary experiences.

Conclusion: A Shift Towards Culture and Heritage

The emerging destinations on Agoda’s “New Horizons List” reflect a clear shift in travel preferences among Indian tourists. As travelers increasingly seek to connect with local culture and heritage, cities like Ahmedabad, Kodaikanal, Mahabaleshwar, Ooty, and Kochi stand out for their ability to offer a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. Whether exploring the architectural marvels of Gujarat, the cool hills of Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, or the historical charm of Kerala, these destinations offer something for every traveler, making them key hotspots to watch in 2025. As the trend for more authentic, culturally immersive travel experiences continues to grow, these emerging destinations will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping India’s tourism landscape in the years to come.

Source – Travel & Tour World

Red, ripe & ready: Meghalaya Strawberry Festival returns on May 2 The event will take place across three main locations: Sohliya (Ri-Bhoi), Syntung (East Khasi Hills), and Darechikgre (West Garo Hills).

Meghalaya is gearing up once again for the much-anticipated annual Meghalaya Strawberry Festival, celebrating rural entrepreneurship, local produce, and scenic rural landscapes. The festival is being organised by Meghalayan Age Limited (MAL) in collaboration with the Departments of Tourism and Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
Meghalaya is gearing up once again for the much-anticipated annual Meghalaya Strawberry Festival, celebrating rural entrepreneurship, local produce, and scenic rural landscapes. The festival is being organised by Meghalayan Age Limited (MAL) in collaboration with the Departments of Tourism and Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.

The vibrant and much-awaited Meghalaya Strawberry Festival is all set to return this summer, promising two days of fruit-filled excitement, cultural activities, and adventure across three picturesque locations. Scheduled for May 2–3, 2025, the festival will unfold in Sohliya (Ri-Bhoi district), Syntung (East Khasi Hills district), and Darechikgre (West Garo Hills district), from 10 AM onwards.

Organized by Meghalayan Age Limited (MAL) in collaboration with the Departments of Tourism and Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the festival is a celebration of Meghalaya’s thriving strawberry farming sector and aims to highlight the state’s rich agri-tourism potential.

Festival Attractions:
Visitors can immerse themselves in a host of activities:

• Strawberry picking experiences at lush farms

• Traditional beverage workshops

• Children’s entertainment zones

• Live music and cultural performances

• Culinary demonstrations featuring local delicacies

• Adventure activities like cycling tours, farm treks, and glamping experiences

This year’s event builds on the massive success of the first Strawberry Festival held in 2024, which attracted tourists from across India, boosting local tourism and rural economy.

Meghalaya’s Strawberry Growth:
With its cool climate and fertile soil, Meghalaya has become a hub for strawberry farming. In 2024, the state produced an impressive 1,220 metric tonnes of strawberries. The government now aims to expand cultivation from the current 100 acres to 500 acres, creating more opportunities for local farmers and entrepreneurs.

A Blend of Agriculture and Adventure:
By combining fruit farming with travel and adventure tourism, the Meghalaya Strawberry Festival stands as a model of sustainable rural development. It not only showcases the state’s agricultural prowess but also offers tourists a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Tourists, nature lovers, and adventure seekers are warmly invited to be part of this colorful and juicy celebration in the heart of Meghalaya!

Source – The Assam Tribune

Get Daily Updates on Tourism ! 📞🛶

For bookings and inquiries, contact us:
📲 Call/WhatsApp: +91 7044073097 / 9435733097
📧 Email: enquiry@holidayeyes.co.in
🌐 Website: www.holidayeyes.co.in