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This summer, where and how are people travelling?

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Travelling to a new place in the summer (Tuscan) sun is really alluring, whether it’s for a picturesque burnout getaway or a leisurely stroll down European cobblestone walkways while sipping gelato. As we enter the height of summer, the majority of tourists are either already fleeing the oppressive heat for a more comfortable destination or are enjoying the wonderful excitement of booking their next trip when the weather starts to cool down. Regarding the latter, we have compiled some fascinating information from massive online travel agencies, forecasting some of the hottest trends that will be prevalent this summer.

Lodging: High-end homestays are becoming more popular

Homestays saw a significant increase in 2023, although an average price of between Rs. 2,500 and Rs. 7,000 per night still accounts for around 45% of all bookings, as to MakeMyTrip’s Summer Travel Trends 2024 study. While inexpensive accommodations are still popular in this category, homestays and villas that offer guests a more immersive cultural experience are growing at the fastest rate for Indian tourists, with rates starting at ₹20,000 per night.

Since the biggest rise is being reported in the tariff category for nights tariffed between Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 15,000, this suggestive premiumization tendency is further reinforced.

Travel abroad: South Asian locations outperform some newcomers

Cities in Southeast Asia are drawing the greatest number of Indian visitors, with nations like Thailand and Sri Lanka offering visa-free entrance and more likely to follow. In a tribute to their dominance, Phuket, Singapore, Bali, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur topped MakeMyTrip’s “Top 10” (international) search and booking trend category. Search inquiries for newcomers are significantly increasing in Baku (Azerbaijan), Almaty (Kazakhstan), and Nagoya (Japan), which may be able to take some of the traffic away from more established towns.

Wellness: The popularity of Trantra retreats, Vedic psychology, and water-themed travel is growing

Significantly, 83% of travellers concur that being near water immediately promotes relaxation, and 38% of Indian travellers indicate a strong desire for water-themed travel experiences. One may readily foresee a spike in activities such as floating yoga, water sound baths, and snow meditation as travellers enjoy these water-centric experiences.

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Domestic destination: Srinagar and Udaipur trail behind Goa, which continues to wow both local and foreign tourists.

With the launch of MakeMyTrip, Goa’s standing as the top domestic travel destination in previous years is expected to hold steady. In terms of the biggest rise in searches between March and April 2023 and March and April 2024, Srinagar and Udaipur came in second and third, respectively. Goa meets all the requirements for a perfect summer vacation for Indian tourists, but its popularity with sundowners abroad was made clear by Pinterest’s summer travel report 2024, which showed a 270% increase in searches for “Goa nightlife.”

Highlighting Generation Z: Saving up their first salary for a vacation abroad and low-cost road trips with pals

Many members of the Gen Z generation are saving their first income for a trip overseas, even though cost has historically been a deciding issue for young travellers. According to Skyscanner, 81% of people decide to book their first international trip after accepting their first job offer or starting their first salary. Gen-Zers’ propensity “to forge deeper connections with friends through intimate, budget-friendly road trips” is another positive trend that Pinterest has identified. Searches for topics like “What do bring on a road trip” (+66%), “Places to go with friends list” (+50%), “Nature with friends” (+50%), and more are increasing.

Keeping Europe in mind: The EU entices Indian tourists by offering the chance to secure a two- to five-year visa.

EU countries are dominating summer plans, especially with the new possibility to secure a multi-entry Schenegan visa. Over 40% of Indian Gen Z tourists rank Europe’s dynamic cultures and ancient sites as their favourite vacation destination, according to Skyscanner. “Europe is a very desirable travel destination, and at Thomas Cook, we’ve seen a robust 30% increase in demand for summer 2024 travel.” The appeal of a multi-country journey is difficult to resist for Indians, who are traditional value seekers with just one Schengen visa, according to Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited.

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Check out Diljit Dosanjh’s extravagant outfit on his birthday, which includes a 1.2 crore diamond watch and a 10 lakh Balenciaga jacket.

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Diljit Dosanjh’s refined sartorial taste is reflected in his exlcusive pieces, from clothing to accessories.

As Diljit Dosanjh turns 41, let’s take a look at his stylish wardrobe. The singer captures the hearts with his melodious, toe-tapping tunes but he also enthralls the hearts of fashion enthusiasts with his high-end wardrobe. Diljit is not only a music sensation but also a sartorial icon. While he dominates the music charts, his luxuriously dapper style firmly places him on the fashion radar as well.

He sets himself apart with a wardrobe that’s nothing short of exclusive. Here’s a glimpse into some unique pieces that showcase his lavish style, offering a sneak peek into the world of high-end fashion he effortlessly dominates.

Diljit owns an exclusive jacket from Balenciaga. The limited-edition racer jacket is available exclusively, with only 3 pieces worldwide. The jacket costs $12,300, which is approximately Rs.10,44,915. The uber-cool oversized neon yellow-back leather jacket amps up his style game.

Diamond encrusted watch

Diljit approaches his accessories game with king-like style, as he is the proud owner of a gold, diamond-encrusted piece, and the cost is sure to leave everyone dizzy in disbelief. The custom-made Audemars Piguet costs Rs.1.2 crore. He wore this watch to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon where he was the guest.

Continuing with his high-end style, Diljit effortlessly masters the accessory game. His collection is not just about bling and glam, but also features suave statement-making chunky pieces that elevate his overall look. Gucci’s chunky pendant chain, priced at Rs.2,40,000, is a perfect example of his bold and refined style. He carries this pendant with a fierce aplomb.

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When will the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela begin? View Shahi Snan’s dates, background, importance, and more.

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Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, from January 13 to February 26, invites pilgrims for purification and spiritual growth at the sacred Triveni Sangam.

Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest and most sacred gatherings in Hinduism, occurs once every twelve years. In 2025, millions of devotees will converge in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to partake in this auspicious event. Pilgrims will have the opportunity to cleanse themselves spiritually by taking a ritual bath at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythological Saraswati rivers. Here’s everything you need to know, from the event’s dates to its rich history.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Key dates for holy baths
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is set to begin on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan, and will conclude on February 26, 2025, aligning with Maha Shivratri.

Important bathing dates:

Important Bathing Dates Occasion
January 13, 2025 Paush Purnima Snan (Opening Day)
January 15, 2025 Makar Sankranti Snan
January 29, 2025 Mauni Amavasya Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan)
February 3, 2025 Basant Panchami Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan)
February 12, 2025 Maghi Purnima Snan
February 26, 2025 Maha Shivratri Snan (Concluding Day)
These sacred bathing rituals, or Shahi Snans, are believed to purify the soul and wash away sins, making them the spiritual highlights of the event.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 history
The origins of the Kumbh Mela trace back to Hindu mythology, specifically the legend of Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the ocean. According to ancient scriptures, this celestial event was a collaborative effort between the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) to retrieve Amrit, the nectar of immortality.

During the process, a Kumbh (pot) filled with sacred nectar emerged. To safeguard it from the demons, Lord Vishnu, disguised as Mohini, seized the pot and fled. Along his journey, a few drops of the nectar spilt at four places: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik, making them holy sites for the Kumbh Mela. These four sites became sacred, hosting the Kumbh Mela on a rotating basis.

Significance of Maha Kumbh Mela
Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) holds immense spiritual significance due to its mythological roots and geography. It is home to the Triveni Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—revered as one of Hinduism’s holiest sites. The Kumbh Mela follows a 12-year cycle based on the celestial positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter.

The 2025 Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj is especially rare, occurring once every 144 years. This unique alignment is believed to make it an exceptionally auspicious time for prayers and rituals. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the rivers, seeking purification and moksha (liberation). Beyond its religious significance, the Kumbh Mela reflects India’s rich cultural heritage, uniting millions in a grand celebration of faith, devotion, and harmony.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 key riruals
Shahi snan (royal bath): A sacred dip performed by saints, including Naga sadhus and spiritual leaders, in the holy rivers. It is believed to cleanse sins and bestow divine blessings.

Sankirtan and bhajans: Devotees sing hymns, chants, and bhajans, filling the atmosphere with spiritual energy and devotion.

Yoga and meditation: Pilgrims participate in yoga and meditation sessions to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Spiritual discourses: Renowned scholars and spiritual leaders deliver sermons and philosophical talks, offering insights into religion, spirituality, and life.

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At the Delhi station, NRI charged ₹10,000 for a “free” wheelchair: In response, the railways revoke the licence of the porter.

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An NRI filed a complaint with the GRP after she learned that a Delhi porter had charged her money for the wheelchair service provided for free at stations.

Indian Railways cancelled the license of a porter after it was found that he charged ₹10,000 for wheelchair assistance and carrying the luggage of a non-resident Indian (NRI) family. The issue reportedly came to light after the man’s daughter filed a complaint with the railways after learning about the free wheelchair service at the stations.

Originally from Gujarat but now residing in London, an NRI named Payel arrived at Hazrat Nizamuddin station in Delhi on December 21, reported Moneycontrol. She booked a porter to carry the luggage and assist her dad, who is in a wheelchair. The porter demanded ₹10,000 for his services.

The family then travelled to Agra from Delhi, where, during the tour, Payel reportedly told the secretary of the Prepaid Auto Taxi Drivers’ Union, Anil Sharma, about the charges. That’s when she learned that wheelchair assistance at railway stations is free. Further, porters are not allowed to charge exuberant amounts for their services.

She then approached the Government Railway Police (GRP) at Agra Cantt station. The GRP coordinated with their counterpart in Delhi and launched the investigation. The authorities identified the porter and ordered him to return ₹9,000 to the family. The railways also expressed that the organization has a “zero-tolerance policy” for such incidents.

Does Indian Railways provide wheelchair service for free?
According to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website, “The wheelchair is provided free of charge, depending on the availability on first come first service with booking voucher.”

However, the passenger/attendant needs to deposit ₹500 in cash, along with a valid government-issued identification card. The deposit will be “returned on return of wheelchair.”

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