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

Amulya Baruah, the visionary designer behind Assam Tourism’s iconic single-horned rhino logo, passed away at the age of 75 on Saturday, May 3, 2025

at his residence in London.Originally from Digboi, Assam, Baruah had been residing in the UK since the late 1970s, where he established his design firm, Plus One Design, in central London.Despite being miles away from his homeland, he remained deeply connected to Assam through his early contributions, most notably the tourism logo that continues to represent the state’s identity today.

Baruah’s academic journey began with a science degree from Cotton College in Guwahati, followed by studies in Commercial Art at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai. It was during this period that he designed the Assam Tourism logo, a symbol that has become synonymous with the state’s official travel promotions and branding.

His design prowess was not confined to a single region or era; over the years, Baruah’s work gained international recognition, and his London-based studio became a respected name in the global design community. He is survived by his wife and son, and his passing has been widely mourned, especially within artistic circles.

Mount Abu To Be Renamed? Tourism Industry Opposes New Name, Proposal To Ban Meat & Liquor

According to the tourism industry, the name change lacks public consent. They claim a local MLA, backed by a minister, is pushing meat and alcohol bans over religion

Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station, is at the centre of a fresh controversy amid reports of a proposed name change and possible restrictions on alcohol and non-vegetarian food. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma is expected to visit the town in early May, raising speculation that a formal decision on the renaming could soon follow.

Local organizations, especially the Hotel Union, have strongly protested and voiced concerns that these changes could discourage tourists, leading to higher unemployment and other related issues.

According to a report by The Times of India, the Rajasthan government intends to rename Mount Abu to ‘Abu Raj Teerth’. In response, 23 local organisations gathered on Monday to protest the proposal, which they claim lacks public support and could shift Mount Abu’s identity from a vibrant tourist destination to a religious pilgrimage site.

The controversy began with an April 25 letter from the Department of Local Self Government to the Mount Abu Municipal Body, seeking input on the proposed name change. This move follows earlier communications from the Chief Minister’s Office, with discussions dating back to October 2024.

The significant impact on tourism in Kashmir following a deadly attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists

In response to the incident and the ensuing tensions between India and Pakistan, hotels and houseboats in Indian-administered Kashmir have begun offering discounts of up to 70% to attract visitors. Despite these efforts, the region is experiencing a sharp decline in tourist activity, with many accommodations reporting cancellations and empty rooms. The situation is further exacerbated by the closure of popular tourist destinations and increased security measures. On the Pakistani side, areas like Neelum Valley have been sealed off, and businesses are anticipating significant financial losses. Local workers, including hoteliers, taxi drivers, and shopkeepers, are expressing concerns over their livelihoods and are calling for peace to restore economic stability in the region.

Muzhappilangad beach project a milestone in tourism development: CM

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday (May 4) inaugurated the first phase of the Muzhappilangad-Dharmadam Comprehensive Beach Tourism Project, terming it a milestone in Kerala’s tourism development and a transformative initiative for the Malabar region.

Addressing a gathering at Muzhappilangad beach, the Chief Minister said the project would strengthen Kerala’s position as a premier tourist destination, both nationally and internationally.

The Muzhappilangad Beach Tourism Project is a milestone not only for Kannur but for the entire State. It is the longest drive-in beach in the country and one of the most noted in Asia. Driving along the beach is a unique attraction that holds immense tourism potential,” he said.

he ₹233-crore comprehensive beach tourism development plan, conceptualised in four character zones- Muzhappilangad South, Muzhappilangad North, Dharmadam beach and Dharmadam Island- aims to offer a blend of adventure, eco-tourism and cultural experiences. Of this, the first phase has been completed with ₹62 crore worth of development works.

As part of the initial phase, facilities such as walkways, refreshment centres and vehicle parking have been set up on the northern side of Muzhappilangad beach, while the southern stretch has been equipped with seating areas, toilets and kiosk parking. At Dharmadam beach, upcoming works include jogging and cycling tracks, an underwater sculpture garden and an elevated nature walk. A detailed plan is also being prepared to improve access to the island. “While advancing infrastructure for tourism, we are committed to preserving the ecological balance,” Mr. Vijayan said.

“The aim is to ensure that Kerala’s tourism growth is sustainable and eco-friendly. The sector makes a significant contribution to the State’s economy, and we are determined to take Malabar’s tourism potential to the world,” he said.

Tourists Flock to Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal for a Winter Wonderland in May

On Tuesday morning, the high peaks of Lahaul-Spiti district were blanketed with fresh snowfall, while the lower areas continued to enjoy a spell of rain. The picturesque Kullu region also saw cloudy skies. This unexpected snowfall has brought a chill back to the valley, attracting thousands of tourists from Manali eager to experience this unique May weather.

The areas around Manali are bustling with tourists, boosting the local tourism industry. Visitors are traveling through the scenic Atal Tunnel from Solang Nala in Manali to explore the various parts of Lahaul Valley. Tourists are now permitted to visit Darcha as well, adding to the vibrancy of Lahaul Valley’s tourist spots and benefiting local businesses. While the rest of the country is sweltering in summer heat, tourists in Lahaul-Spiti are relishing the cold weather even in May.

Local tourism entrepreneurs, Prem Kumar and Ratan Lal, shared their excitement, saying, “Lahaul Valley is teeming with tourists this May, and the influx into hotels and homestays is on the rise. The tourism season will fully kick off after May 15, bringing significant benefits to the valley’s tourism industry.” Roshan Thakur, the outgoing vice president of the Manali Hotel Association, added, “Tourists from other states have started arriving in Manali, and hotel bookings are picking up for the coming days. We expect May to be a great month for tourism.”

According to the weather department, a strengthening western disturbance from May 6 is expected to bring heavy rain until May 10. An orange alert for rain has been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla on May 6 and 7, while a yellow alert is in place for other districts. During this period, strong winds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour and lightning are also expected. The weather is likely to be unfavorable in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Kinnaur on May 6 and 7, but it will clear up on May 8.

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