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India has been a center of attraction from the time immemorial for tourists across the globe. India has been visited by various nationals for various propose. It is because of the wide diversity of religion, languages, culture and cuisine. These astounding diversities are unique and unparalleled. While India houses all the major religions of the world, she is also the birth place of some of the very important religions like Buddhism and Jainism. India houses Taj Mahal which is often described as ?Immortal tear on the Cheek of eternity?, Rajasthanthe Land of Maharajas with majestic forts and palaces, Exotic wild life containing the flora and fauna like the Royal Bengal tigers, famous Asiatic lions, one horned rhinoceros etc, pristine backwaters of Kerala, world heritage sites of Karnataka, mighty hill ranges of Himalayas, seductive beaches of Goa and South India are just to name a few. Come and experience this magic called as India with Art of Travel India Holidays Why Art of Travel India Holidays Some of the key reasons to choose us as your partners A team of experts Our expertise in customizing the itineraries as per the demand of our partners Our constant endeavor is to offer the tour which is fit for every budget. As we offer wide range of services we customize the rates as per the individual budgets An extensive network of own and associate offices who have proved themselves over time and again For us travel is not just a business, but a passion which inspire us to keep inching towards the perfection Our experts have handled many VIP?s for them luxury is just a way of life.

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India’s rich tropical forests have over 1200 species of birds and 350 mammals, preserved in different regions of the country within 59 National Parks and 372 sanctuaries.

Wildlife Tours In India

Wildlife Tours In India India is home to a rich diversity of wildlife supplemented by an equally rich variety of flora and fauna. The sight and sounds of a majestic …

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• The art of travel planning: An in-depth look at how Indian travellers strategize?

Booking.com shares Travel Trends for 2024 unveiling interesting insights into the mindset and behaviour of Indian travellers when they plan their trips. Everyone plans their holidays differently. While some Indian travellers prioritise securing the perfect flight deal first, others crave the comfort of booking their accommodation before planning the rest of their travel itinerary. While 61 per cent of travellers book flights and 37 per cent book event tickets well in advance, car rentals, restaurant reservations and even taxis are either booked along with the accommodation or left until closer to the trip date.

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• Published On Apr 29, 2024 at 07:57 PM IST

Indians embrace new experiences: Solo adventures, travel hacks, & spontaneous getaways on rise

More Indians are planning on travelling alone this year (84 per cent) compared to their global counterparts (66 per cent). Further, nearly two-thirds of Indian travellers (59 per cent) say they plan on travelling for more than one solo adventure. Khanna said they are choosing to travel alone as a special treat, to reconnect with themselves, and to take a break from the chaos of daily life.

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• Updated On Apr 29, 2024 at 07:57 PM IST

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9 Art of Andhra Pradesh: Exploring India’s Beautiful Craft Capital

Explore the art of andhra pradesh, india’s art capital, where age-old traditions meet contemporary creativity, to showcase exquisite craftsmanship and vibrant heritage..

Art of Andhra Pradesh encompasses a rich tapestry of artistic expressions, spanning diverse mediums such as painting, sculpture, pottery, and textile arts like silk weaving. A hallmark of Indian art is its strong sense of design, evident in both its traditional and contemporary manifestations.

The roots of Indian art delve deep into antiquity, with evidence of artistic endeavours dating back to prehistoric settlements in the 3rd millennium BCE. Over the millennia, the Art of Andhra Pradesh has evolved, shaped by cultural, religious, and regional influences. Notably, sculpture in stone and metal, often depicting religious themes, has endured the test of time, offering glimpses into India’s rich artistic heritage.

Among the many regions renowned for their artistic prowess, Andhra Pradesh stands out as a veritable hub of creativity. Known for its delectable cuisine, including the famed biryani and haleem, Andhra Pradesh also boasts a distinctive tradition of craftsmanship, exemplified by the intricate art of Kondapalli wooden doll making and handloom weaving, among others. These crafts not only showcase the artisans’ skill and creativity but also serve as repositories of cultural heritage, preserving age-old techniques and traditions for posterity.

As we delve deeper into the artistic landscape of Andhra, we uncover a world where craftsmanship intertwines with cultural heritage, resulting in creations that captivate the senses and tell stories of a land steeped in tradition and innovation. Join us on a journey through the vibrant streets and workshops of Andhra Pradesh, where every brushstroke and weave speaks volumes about the enduring spirit of Indian artistry.

Kondapalli Dolls- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Located within the enchanting landscape of the Krishna district near Vijayawada, the age-old tradition of crafting Kondapalli toys continues to thrive, echoing the rich heritage and artistic prowess of the region. For centuries, artisans in the quaint Bommala Colony, aptly named Toys Colony, have meticulously preserved and passed down this cherished art form from generation to generation.

The legacy of Kondapalli toys spans over four centuries, deeply interwoven with the cultural fabric of Telugu society. Once renowned and cherished far beyond the borders of India, these toys hold a special place in the hearts of locals, their popularity transcending time and generations.

Legend has it that the roots of Kondapalli toy-making trace back to the ancient scriptures, with skilled artisans known as Aryakhastriyas or Nakarshalu, believed to have migrated to the region from Rajasthan in the 16th century. It is said that their craft was bestowed upon them by divine intervention, as they learned the art from the sage Muktharishi, blessed with artistic talents by Lord Shiva himself.

The process of creating Kondapalli toys is a labour of love and precision. Using softwood sourced from the nearby Kondapalli Hills, artisans meticulously carve each piece by hand, paying meticulous attention to detail. These individual pieces are then expertly assembled using a paste made from tamarind seed powder and sawdust known as makku.

The finishing touches involve adding intricate designs and vibrant colours, achieved through the use of oil, watercolours, or vegetable dyes. Each toy is not just a work of art but a testament to the craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, reflecting the enduring spirit of its artisans.

Handlooms- Art of Andhra Pradesh

The art of Andhra Pradesh has been celebrated since antiquity for its exquisite hand-woven textiles, a testament to the skill and artistry of its weavers. Among its most revered creations are the handwoven sarees, known for their unparalleled elegance and intricate designs. These sarees, adorned with richly woven ‘pallous’, showcase the mastery of Andhra’s weavers in creating timeless pieces of wearable art.

The borders of these sarees are often embellished with exquisite threadwork, typically crafted from precious metals such as gold or silver, adding a touch of opulence to the fabric. Each region in Andhra Pradesh boasts its unique style of handloom weaving, with distinct patterns, motifs, and weaving techniques that reflect the cultural heritage and traditions of the area.

Traditionally, Andhra Pradesh’s handloom industry primarily focused on producing fabrics woven from natural silk and cotton fibres. However, in response to changing consumer preferences and market demands, weavers have adapted their craft to create innovative blends of silk and cotton known as ‘cotton silk’ or ‘sico’. These hybrid fabrics combine the luxurious texture of silk with the comfort and durability of cotton, offering a versatile and modern alternative to traditional handwoven textiles.

The story of Andhra Pradesh’s handloom heritage is one of diversity and excellence, with various categories showcasing the best of the region’s weaving traditions. From the intricate designs of Kalamkari to the vibrant hues of Dharmavaram silk, each category represents a unique aspect of Andhra’s rich textile legacy, perpetuating centuries-old traditions while embracing innovation for the modern era.

Dharmavaram Silk Sarees- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Dharmavaram Silk sarees, hailing from Andhra Pradesh, are renowned for their superior craftsmanship, vivid hues, and classic charm, significantly contributing to the area’s cultural legacy. These sarees, originating from the town of Dharmavaram in the Anantapur district, boast a rich history of over 120 years, distinguished early on by their innovative dual-tone appearance, setting a new standard in ethnic fashion.

Crafted on handlooms using mulberry silk and zari, they feature elaborate borders, gradient pallus, and traditional patterns that capture Andhra Pradesh’s cultural depth. Over time, they’ve seamlessly integrated modern styles while retaining their heritage aesthetic, making them a favoured choice for weddings and festive occasions.

The creation of Dharmavaram Silk sarees demonstrates the local weavers’ extraordinary talent and commitment, a craft passed down through generations, enhancing its appeal both domestically and abroad.

Mangalagiri Silk Sarees- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Named after the picturesque village of Mangalagiri, nestled near Vijayawada, Mangalagiri sarees are renowned for their vibrant hues and minimalist elegance. Unlike many traditional sarees, Mangalagiri sarees eschew embellishments on the main body, focusing instead on their distinctive features: a striped golden pallu and intricate zari border. Their enduring popularity stems from their durability, crafted from smooth cotton with a simple yet timeless design, attracting admirers worldwide.

Mangalagiri sarees are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, typically woven using fine 80s combed cotton yarn for both warp and weft, with an additional warp design in the border, famously known as the “Nizam Border.” This unique design incorporates a blend of twill, rib, and diamond weaves, seamlessly arranged from the edge of the selvedge without interruption. Zari threads are intricately woven into the extra warp design, adding a touch of opulence to the saree.

Available in a plethora of resplendent colours and vibrant shot combinations, Mangalagiri sarees exude a timeless charm that transcends trends, making them a cherished addition to any wardrobe.

Venkatgiri Sarees- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Venkatagiri sarees, renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, are predominantly fashioned from a blend of cotton and silk or pure silk, meticulously woven on traditional pit looms. This art of weaving, deeply rooted in the heritage of Venkatagiri, traces its origins back approximately 14 generations, believed to have commenced during the reign of the Venkatagiri Raja. Today, this timeless art of Andhra Pradesh engages approximately 70,000 individuals from the village, a testament to its enduring legacy.

To identify an authentic Venkatagiri saree, observe the unique zari embellishments along its borders and pallu. These sarees are crafted from high-quality cotton, known for their high thread count, which imparts a luxuriously soft and silky feel to the fabric.

Traditionally, members of the Padmashali community were primarily involved in this artisanal work, but over time, artisans from diverse backgrounds have embraced the craft. Spanning five generations, craftsmen have dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of Venkatagiri saree-making.

Situated in the quaint village of Venkatagiri within the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, the preference for raw materials has evolved over time. While cotton was previously favoured to suit climatic conditions, contemporary preferences lean towards pure silk, tailored to meet customer demands.

The production process involves sourcing raw materials from various regions across India, with cotton yarns procured from Coimbatore, silk yarns from Bangalore, zari from Surat, and dyestuffs from Chennai and Vijayawada. This amalgamation of materials from different corners of the country contributes to the unique charm and quality of Venkatagiri sarees.

Uppada Pattu Sarees- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Uppada Pattu Sarees, renowned for their distinctive craftsmanship, originate from Uppada, situated in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, near Kakinada. These sarees have their roots in the ancient art of Jamdani weaving, which dates back approximately 300 years in Bangladesh. However, with the decline of Jamdani weaving post the Industrial Revolution, artisans in Andhra Pradesh adapted these techniques to local designs and aesthetics, giving rise to the unique creation known as Uppada Pattu sarees.

In the creation of authentic Uppada sarees, silver zari is first immersed in liquid gold before being woven into the fabric. To recognize a genuine Uppada saree, one should examine the motifs on the reverse side, which should be as meticulously detailed as those on the front. The Uppada technique allows for an endless variety of patterns and designs, showcasing the versatility and skill of the weavers.

The intricate patterns and labour-intensive process are synonymous with woven textiles across the country, and Uppada Pattu Sarees are no exception. Each saree requires meticulous attention and can take anywhere from 10 to 60 days to complete, with artisans dedicating around 10 hours of labour each day to the weaving process.

The journey of creating a Uppada Pattu Saree begins with the meticulous planning of the weave on graph paper, followed by the weaving process where threads are meticulously arranged in a 100-count pattern. Working in pairs, two weavers collaborate on a single loom to intricately weave ornate patterns, often incorporating zari for added richness and elegance.

Tholu Bommalata (Leather Puppets)- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Tholu Bommalata, the leather puppet theatre originating from Andhra Pradesh, stands as a distinctive embodiment of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage within the art of Andhra Pradesh. Crafted from translucent goatskin, these puppets are notable for their grand size and vibrant hues.

Each puppet is a masterpiece of intricate detailing, adorned with vibrant colours and delicate perforations, capturing the eye with its vivid presence. Locally known as Tholu Bommalata, this traditional art form traces its roots back to the 16th century, flourishing under the patronage of Vijayanagara rulers.

Legend has it that Tholu Bommalata has its origins in the ancient theatrical form known as “Chhaya Nataka” or shadow drama, believed to have originated in Gujarat around a millennium ago before spreading to Maharashtra. Over time, it migrated across different regions of India, evolving and flourishing along the way. Today, the tradition of shadow puppet theatre thrives in states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Odisha, each region adding its own unique cultural nuances to this age-old art form.

Budithi Brassware- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh boasts the distinctive Budithi art, a renowned form of metal handicrafts in India, originating from the Budithi village in the Srikakulam district. This art form is celebrated for its exquisite metalwork, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles to produce stunning creations. The primary metal used in Budithi art is brass, known for its versatility and lustrous finish, which adds a timeless charm to the handicrafts.

What was once a cherished tradition in the village has now evolved into a thriving profession for the locals, thanks to the patronage of the state government and increased recognition. The repertoire of Budithi art includes a variety of items such as Bindelu (water containers), flower vases, utensils, and more. Moreover, brass is also utilized for crafting statues of deities, household utensils, and decorative pieces, further diversifying the range of products.

The popularity of Budithi art continues to soar, with its products sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The price of these exquisite creations varies depending on factors like quality and design intricacy, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers while ensuring that each piece remains a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of Andhra Pradesh.

Bobbili Veena- Art of Andhra Pradesh

Renowned as the ‘Bobbili Veena’, the traditional ‘Saraswati Veena’ hailing from Bobbili is celebrated for its melodious tunes and unique resonance. Crafted with meticulous care, these veenas are fashioned from logs of jackwood sourced from Gollapalli, a town in Bobbili. The process of transforming a mute wood log into a finely tuned musical instrument spans nearly a month. Jackwood, prized for its lightweight nature and distinct grain, is preferred for its ability to produce quality tones.

The selection of wood is crucial, considering factors like thickness and strength, which contribute to the instrument’s overall quality. Known as ‘Ekandi Veena’, each instrument is carved from a single piece of wood, ensuring unity and resonance in sound production. These Veenas also stand out for their intricate designs adorning the body, adding to their exclusivity.

Dating back to the Seventeenth Century, Bobbili Veenas are played in a distinctive style, giving rise to the ‘Bobbili Veena Sampradayam’. Additionally, miniature versions of these Veenas, crafted with the same materials and attention to detail as their larger counterparts, serve as excellent options for gifts and collector’s items.

Udayagiri wooden cutlery- Art of Andhra Pradesh

The exquisite Udayagiri wooden cutlery stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, elevating the ordinary into objects of beauty and functionality. Crafted with precision, this collection from the Art of Andhra Pradesh includes finely carved spoons, forks, knives, and bowls, merging utility with ornamental allure. It’s a testimony to the notion that even the simplest tools of everyday life can be turned into regal pieces that enhance dining experiences.

Udayagiri, situated in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, has a rich history dating back to the 14th century when it was ruled by the Gajapatis of Odisha. The tradition of Udayagiri wooden cutlery emerged from the skilled hands of local artisans, nurtured under the patronage of royal families in the region.

Adorned with Persian-inspired motifs, the wooden cutlery reflects a blend of cultural influences and artistic ingenuity. This craft, spanning over 150 years, has been carefully passed down from one generation of artisans to the next. While traditionally a male-dominated craft, in recent years, more females have become involved in the design and development of these elegant creations, further enriching the legacy of Udayagiri wooden cutlery.

From vibrant textiles to detailed paintings and unique pottery, these crafts are not just products, but stories woven into the very fabric of Andhra’s culture. Let the art of Andhra Pradesh inspire you to explore further, appreciate the beauty in craftsmanship, and recognize the incredible diversity of India’s artistic heritage.

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• MONTHLY MUSING
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Monthly Musing

Monsoon in wayanad.

Here are 4 compelling reasons to visit Kerala during the Monsoon – Ayurveda because the body pores are the most receptive to the therapies, the Harvest Festival of Onam for its sheer culinary delight, the Boat Races, the Water Olympics of God’s Own Country and Wayanad for its authentic local experiences.

THE LANDSCAPE AND PEOPLE

The drive to Wayanad from the coastal plains of Kozhikode past the little towns is uneventful till the lofty mountains make a sudden appearance, with their forbidding slopes rearing up into the clouds. And soon you start climbing on the road that snakes around many hairpin bends and over undulating slopes carpeted by verdant forest. This drive can be quite an adventure by itself if you get caught in a thunder storm. The sheets of rain defeat the most powerful windshield wipers and the mist swallows up the brightest of high beams. But then you pass the spectacular view point at Lakkidi and cross over into Wayanad and the landscape changes into neat tea gardens, and you realise that an idyllic and soothing paradise lies protected behind a ring of mountains.

And it is this ring of high mountains set so close to the Malabar Coast that shunts the mighty monsoon clouds into Wayanad to sustain a green paradise. The typical Wayanad rain starts with a thunderous assault but then quickly settles into a steady shower that keeps up for hours. This is just perfect, for the life giving water has the time to sink deep into the soil, as against a sudden thundershower that simply floods the valleys and erodes precious topsoil from the slopes. It is no wonder that through the years when Lakkidi recorded the heaviest annual rainfall in the country land slips on the steep slopes were rare.

By end of summer the trees shed their foliage and sprout new leaves and anxiously await the onset of rain. Intermittent showers start in May and build up into monsoon by mid-June, and the lush Wayanad landscape bursts to life. The skies turn from shades of sparkling blue to ominous slate-grey in the course of a few hours. Streams that spring up on every mountain slope turn into roaring demons and spectacular waterfalls while the placid central Wayanad rivers morph into frothing brown torrents. The rampart of mountains around Wayanad transforms into an amphitheatre where cloud and mist and the occasional sun beam throw into sharp relief the forested crags and clefts. The best spots to watch the show are the oft visited Lakkidi pass or the little known but more spectacular Palchuram pass or the charming road that leads off to Chooralmala.

For the agrarian culture of old Wayanad monsoon is the time to wrest with the earth and produce a large part of food to last the year. The traditional ways persist in the tribal lands of North Wayanad, where cattle harnessed to wooden ploughs are still preferred to more modern implements. Sowing and planting by the tribes are still ritualised, accompanied by age-old dances and songs. Soon the fields of mud brown turn into fields of emerald that stretch as far as the eye can see turn even the most taciturn into poets.

The rains also bring changes in the cuisine. The gushing waters flooding the low lying paddy fields are rich with fattened river fish, like the famous Panamaram Mushi, and succulent crabs,

and these are source of culinary delight during the season. The methods employed for of catching these are equally delightful. One waits with a sickle or machete and hack at metre-long fish that flit across the flood waters. The expert crab catchers, typically womenfolk, deftly entice crabs from their tunnels and grab them with bare hands, and sometimes with a palm leaf snare.

MUD FOOTBALL

For sheer fun and novelty, nothing can beat the unique Wayanad pastime of mud football. Take a muddy paddy field, throw in a bunch of soccer crazed youth and a host of supporters on a lazy afternoon – and an exciting new sport is born. Mud football is as exciting for the participants as it is entertaining for the audience. Mud football tournaments during the monsoon are crowd pullers. The players wallow in shin deep mud, where every step takes enormous effort. They chase a soggy, heavy ball made even more so by the sticky mud. It is complete chaos and complete fun – for instance a powerful kick can land the attacker butt deep in mud and spray mud into the face of the defenders while the ball reluctantly hops all of six inches in any which direction. Participating in one of these is an experience that you will recount and chuckle about for a long time.

FOR TRAVELLERS

For the traveller seeking authentic local experiences, the season offers rich options. One can help a traditional farmer in ploughing, sowing and planting the paddy fields or perhaps, just watch him go about it. One can participate in a mud football match, or try your hand at fishing and crab-catching. One can explore the seasonal cuisines which range from river fish, crab or chicken smeared with jungle herbs, to bamboo shoot curry and delicious preparations based on tubers. One can also indulge at an occasional festival of jack fruit or bamboo delicacies conducted by local communities. Or one can simply curl up with a book with a mug of tea and a bowl of hot jackfruit chips at hand and watch the rains.

For the traveller seeking communion with nature or adventure there are a number of absolutely irresistible cycling and walking trails that wind through villages, fields, streams, temples, and wildlife areas and extend from a few hours to a few days. While the deep forest trails are closed for the monsoons the mountain trails are open, and they lead above the clouds to offer stunning views of fog covered plains.

Monsoon visitors to Wayanad have another favourite indulgence – entrusting their body and soul to one of the renowned Ayurveda treatment centres. The monsoon month of Karkkidakam, starting mid-July, is traditionally the best time to have Ayurveda treatments with the body at its most supple for massages and the skin at its most receptive to medicinal oils. Wayanad forests have been the favoured source of medicinal herbs from ancient times, and have spawned many excellent no frills Ayurveda centres and wellness resorts. Full Ayurveda courses lasts a week to a fortnight and are designed to relax, de-stress, and detox your body through daily therapies. For those without the luxury of time, a massage or two over a relaxed weekend can also work wonders.

What’s New

Stories from the road, by soma paul, product manager, destination knowledge centre.

The Tale of Two Capitals

Tomes have been written about Jaipur, considered the first planned city of India but very little about Amber which served as the seat of power before Jaipur. The quaint town in the foothills of Amber Fort is full of beautiful temples, stepwells, and ruins of havelis. During my recent trip to Jaipur, I stayed at a 300-year-old Haveli with 6 lovingly restored rooms, cosy with all modern comforts and packed with plenty of Rajasthani colour and character. It was fascinating to wake up in the morning to observe Amber come to life, take a leisurely stroll to visit the temples, explore the magnificent Amber fort, spend time at the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing – a textile museum dedicated to the art of block printing and to take a 4x 4 jeep ride through what was once an ancient trade route for a delicious home-cooked meal in a private farm. I absolutely loved the kite-making workshop with a master kite flyer at the terrace of the haveli. I strongly recommend dividing your time between the two capitals by spending one night in the historic town of Amber and two nights in the Pink City during a tour of Rajasthan.

Water Stories

Despite its tropical desert climate, I was surprised to know about the rich and diversified water culture of Rajasthan from some of the tours I experienced firsthand. It was fascinating to hear the stories of Rajasthan’s ancient water wisdom set against the backdrop of some of its famous historical landmarks. A tour of Rajasthan is a fantastic opportunity to understand the relationship between water and the history, culture, and creative spirit of the people of this state. A must do!

During my time in Jaipur, I discovered a place where one can savour some unusual tea flavours including a saffron tea brewed with full milk and saffron strands. Highly recommended during the sightseeing of Jaipur. Have a chai, take a break, and continue with the city tour.

From the Desert to the Kitchen

Despite its primarily arid climate and limited resources, the smorgasbord of gastronomic pleasures, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, is a testimony to how inventive the people of Rajasthan are with their food. An age-old tradition amongst the women in the Rajput community of Rajasthan had led to a fine culinary practice in the region – the art of cooking meat outdoors by Rajput men. In the kitchen of every Rajput household there would be a shrine of the Goddess and a newly married woman spends a lot of time in the kitchen and is expected to do the daily rituals. It was because of this, Rajput women traditionally gave up eating meat once they got married. It’s not that meat isn’t cooked. When there are guests and meat needs to be cooked it is done

in an annexe close to the kitchen where separate utensils are provided. And you guessed it right; it was the menfolk of the family who would do the cooking. And the Banas, as Rajput men are lovingly called, are some of the finest cooks I have ever seen when it comes to meaty affairs. In fact, I am yet to meet a Rajput man who is a bad cook. Talk about cooking and particularly meat and their eyes light up just like my host in Jaipur who is into reviving the culinary tradition of game meat from the days of the yore when Rajput men went out for a hunt. Hunting is banned in Rajasthan and elsewhere in India, but the style of cooking that is centuries old is a treat to observe and so is the food. A great way to spend the evening in Jaipur and he is an expert in vegetarian delicacies too.

Deep Diving into the Culture of Jaipur

Due to the abundance of forts, palaces, and neighbourhood bazaars in Jaipur, one can still witness remnants of the splendour and allure of the past. I realised that the best way to experience that is to get off the vehicle and hop on an e-rickshaw or pedal through the narrow alleys, or on foot. These carefully crafted tours that I experienced firsthand are a great way to know more about Jaipur’s traditional way of life, its people, and much more. There are some hidden gems too that can be easily incorporated into the Jaipur city tour.

The Unsung Heroes of Jaipur’s Traditional Art

And I thought Jaipur was only about block printing. The hands-on workshops that I did in Jaipur were an eye-opener of sorts about a handful of artists who continue to execute ancient techniques to infuse life into a piece of fabric, a block of wood, or anything you can possibly imagine. Highly recommended and a must do!

Here’s the download link to the detailed PPT of WHAT’S NEW with the latest updates from India.

It includes properties and experiences that are new on the shelf – some experienced and some yet to be explored. It also includes a suggested itinerary by the Destination Knowledge Centre and itineraries based on new trains and flights.

Furthermore, we have introduced 2 new sections in this edition, one on Sustainability and the other on our Podcast named “Art of Travel”.

What’s New 2023 – Q2

Stories from India

From Rajasthan to Spain – The Romani Roots of Flamenco

Did you know that anthropologists and historians believe that the origins of Flamenco, the energetic and sensuous dance of the Spaniards lay in the far away deserts of Rajasthan? It is believed that Flamenco music and dance came with the migrating Romani peoples from the deserts of Rajasthan who travelled through Spain on their way to Hungary in the 15th century CE. Similarities between the folk dances of Rajasthan such as Kaalbelia, the classical dance of Kathak, and Flamenco are undeniable even to the untrained eyes!

Historically speaking, the Romani people are believed to have originated in India and they then migrated to Europe through Spain, crossing Andalusia, Germany, and Hungary. They took with them their rich and colourful culture, heritage, songs, and dances, one of which evolved into what we know today as Flamenco. There are also striking similarities in the pirouettes and feet and hand movements of Kathak, the Indian classical dance and Flamenco. The flare of the costumes, the sheer energy of both dance forms, and so much more binds the Indian subcontinent culturally with the distant shores of Europe since centuries.

Write to your relationship manager for our Kaalbelia Dance Workshop in Rajasthan

Sustainability and Us

Travel Corporation India Ltd collaborates with RARE India

We are very happy to collaborate with RARE India to give away the RARE Conscious Travel Award – Hotel to Sarai at Toria for the concept, destination focus and sustainable initiatives. It was very interesting for us to contribute in evaluating the sustainability quotient of the shortlisted hotel partners based on our sustainability parameters.

From where they located themselves on the Ken to what they set out as design for The Sarai at Toria, Dr. Raghu Chundawat and Joanna Van Gruisen – owners of The Sarai at Toria never wavered from their focus of what they wanted to achieve with this eight-room boutique hotel near Khajuraho, close to Panna National Park. Community inclusive, treading softly on the environment around, building and healing, adopting renewable energy, earth friendly architecture, continuing to do business in the winter months to avoid air-conditioners and resorting to traditional methods for heating, and also being one of the first hotels to strongly work against pet-bottled water by insisting to a bewildered industry that the only serve RO water. In 2010, the year they opened – it was unheard of and was met with great resistance. Joanna and Raghu to this day are our early responders to a ‘sustainability’ solution challenge – advising the community on products and services that place planet before people. Every activity at The Sarai at Toria is an effortless inclusion of nature and the heritage around telling a compelling destination story – to bring focus back to places like Ajaygarh and Kalinjar – from birding on the silken Ken River on a country made hand-rowed boat to walking through nearby villages.

Stay Tuned for our yearlong showcase of The Sarai at Toria’s incredible journey setting the blue print of what a responsible business in hospitality should look like.

Art of Travel Podcast

We are excited to announce the launch of our podcast – Art of Travel. Available on Spotify, the podcast is dedicated to the Indian sub-continent and will feature interviews with industry experts, discussions on the latest travel trends, destination news and insights. Through this podcast we aim to bring valuable information and knowledge to our business partners and help them stay up to date with the latest and more.

Festivals to Look Out For

Teej, jaipur, 19th to 20th august, 2023.

Also known as Haryali Teej, this festival welcomes the monsoon season to North Western India. Teej is celebrated by married women who keep a fast during the festival for the well-being of the spouse and children. As part of the celebrations, women dress up in traditional attires and put henna on their hands and feet, bright green bangles are also worn on their wrists. Even unmarried women keep the fast during Teej, praying for a blissful marriage.

Stay at Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Originally built in 1835, Rambagh Palace, has stepped gracefully through many royal transitions—from the home of the queen’s favourite handmaiden, to royal guesthouse and hunting lodge, and later as the residence of the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and his queen, Maharani Gayatri Devi. Today, Rambagh Palace offers 78 stunningly restored grand luxury rooms and suites in Jaipur which were the chambers of the former Maharaja. The palace retains its elaborate splendour, extravagantly decorated with hand-carved marble ‘jalis’ or latticework, sandstone balustrades, cupolas and ‘chattris’ or cenotaphs, and elaborate Mughal Gardens.

https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/rambagh-palace-jaipur/

Picture Gallery

Celebrated annually in July or August, the festival of Teej is a celebration of the monsoon season and marital bliss in Northwest India and Nepal

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How Indians Are Traveling Now: Takeaways From MakeMyTrip’s First Trend Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

April 22nd, 2024 at 10:09 AM EDT

MakeMyTrip shares insights into changing preferences of Indian travelers as the Indian tourism industry is poised for significant growth in 2024.

Bulbul Dhawan

Indian travelers have an increased interest in weekend getaways and spiritual tourism, according to online travel agency MakeMyTrip’s first-ever travel trends report . Searches for destinations with or around religious spots increased by 97% in the last two years, the platform stated in the report, which was released on Monday.

Spiritual tourism is also leading the growth of tourism in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. MakeMyTrip recorded a 585% increase in searches for Ayodhya in 2023. Gains were 343% for Badrinath, and 359% for Ujjain. 

In the domestic hotels category, weekend getaways have seen the highest growth. Popular travel destination Jim Corbett has seen an year-on-year increase of 131% in terms of search volumes, followed by Ooty and Munnar. “A large number of travelers are driving to these destinations from nearby metros,” MakeMyTrip stated in the report. 

Skift’s earlier report had mentioned how the Indian tourism industry is poised for significant growth, with estimates projecting a revenue of $24 billion in 2024 .

Increased Discretionary Spend on Travel

The number of travelers taking more than three trips a year in 2023 has grown by 25% as compared to 2019. Indians are also spending more discretionary income on travel, MakeMyTrip said. There has also been an increased interest in domestic travel and travel to unexplored destinations in the country, especially because of the country’s improved infrastructure. 

Staycations and experience travel increased in 2023. Family travel bookings witnessed a 64% year-on-year increase, while solo travel bookings increased by 23%. Two people traveling together accounted for 50% of all bookings, MakeMyTrip shared. It also recorded December and May as the most preferred months for travel. 

Spontaneous Domestic Trips, But Planned International Travels

According to the report, Indians are spontaneous travelers when it comes to domestic bookings. As much as 46% of domestic flight bookings were done in less than a week before the date of travel, it stated. 

International bookings, however, witnessed a longer planning period, with 51% of the international flight bookings having been done at least 15 days before departure. One-third of all international bookings were made more than a month in advance. 

MakeMyTrip observed the same pattern in hotel bookings. More than 50% of the domestic hotel bookings for leisure were made less than a week before travel. One-third of international hotel bookings were made at least 30 days in advance. 

Preferences of Indian Travelers

As much as 30% of all international travel searches from India were for Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore. “London, Toronto, and New York were the most searched long-haul destinations,” MakeMyTrip stated in the report. There has also been an interest in international travel during long weekends, as the platform recorded a surge in searches for Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, and Singapore. 

When it comes to domestic travel, two-thirds of the travelers prefer to pre-select their flight seats. During international travel, this figure drops to 40%, the platform shared. Additionally, indigenously developed unified payments interface (UPI) is the most preferred mode of payment for Indian travelers and accounts for 36% of all transactions. 

India is also witnessing an increase in the popularity of travel gift cards. Half of the travel gift cards are gifted on the occasion of weddings, while the other 50% are gifted on occasions such as birthdays and festivals.

Hotels continue to be the most popular type of accommodation, with searches for hotels increasing by 39% year-on-year in 2023. Couples and family travelers formed the majority of the guests booking for hotels. 

Alternate accommodations witnessed a 24% increase in searches. Friends and larger groups preferred to book homestays, apartments, and villas, while more solo travelers favored hostels. 

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Tags: flight bookings , flight search , hotels , india , india outbound , india travel , international travel , makemytrip , middle class , online travel agencies , online travel companies , religious travel , skift india report , tourism , travel spending , Travel Trends

Photo credit: Weekend getaways have seen the highest growth in the domestic hotels category. Uriel Mont / Pexels