Rajasthan Holidays to Enjoy the State’s Enthralling Culture

With rich history and culture, stunning architectural grandeurs and an array of fascinating festivals; Rajasthan is a perennial magnet for culture enthusiasts and sets them on a quest for cheap deals and packages for India holidays. Every year, a large number of keen travellers visit this erstwhile land of kings and warriors for sampling its cultural, historical and natural gems. Here are some of the most enticing attractions the eclectic state in India has to offer.

Glorious History
Needless to say, exploring the magnificent remnants of the state’s intriguing past remains the biggest reason why cheap deals of packages for Rajasthan holidays are admired by one and all. Be it the hilltop Amber Fort in Jaipur, stunning Umaid Bhawan Palace in Udaipur or the splendid temples and monuments in Chittorgarh Fort, a sojourn to this desert state is all about revelling in enchanting aura of its yesteryears.

Colourful Crafts

Traditional arts and crafts in Rajasthan are so distinct and diverse that even a week would be a short time to explore and learn about them all. Creative senses and artistic skills of the people in this part of India allure a large number of tourists from far and wide. They are efficient enough to give the most brilliant forms to stone, wood, ivory, glass, gold, textile, etc. One of the most popular crafts is Jaipur meenakari jewellery. Apart from this, ivory bangles, bajuband and gokhru are other items known for their intricate design and colours. A wide range of objects made of carved wood and stone are also quite popular, and entice keen travellers to book packages for holidays in this vibrant state of India.  The famous Rajasthani folk dances, delicious cuisines and enchanting fairs & festivals also compel culturally inclined tourists to invest on packages for India holidays.

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Top Ideas for an Unforgettable Holiday in India

Thousands of travellers from all over the world head to India in search of memorable holidays by reserving tickets on flights. Most of these holidaymakers throng the usual attractions such as the Taj Mahal, the backwaters of Kerala, culturally stimulating Rajasthan or populous urban centres like Delhi and Mumbai. But the true essence of India lies far from the maddening crowd, where unique experiences flourish amidst tranquil surroundings. Read on to find some lesser known gems on the path less travelled.

Tea tasting is an art and very few people have the taste buds to get it right, but that does not mean one shouldn’t try. For those purchasing tickets on flights terminating in India, the hill station of Darjeeling provides this unmatched opportunity and the best place by far is the Tumsong Tea Estate. At this place tourists can enjoy the warmth of a home-stay and the comfort of a boutique hotel rolled into one awesome stay experience.

There are some travellers who can adjust to the experience of a lackadaisical holiday only for a short while. For these free birds straining to take flights into the wilderness, there are numerous trekking adventures spread throughout the Nilgiris, Himalayas and the Shivalik mountain ranges. Such a trip gives holidaymakers, especially city dwellers, an unmatched opportunity to come closer with nature and cleanse themselves in the clean mountain air. Those who reserve air tickets to the country and participate in such an adventure are sure to gain much in terms of health and relaxation. Top choices for such an adventure on paths less travelled include Sandakfu in West Bengal of east India as well as numerous destinations in the north eastern India. 

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India Inaugurates Tourist Facility Centres at Ajanta, Ellora

Holiday makers hoping to board India bound flights in the peak tourist season of the country will be able to enjoy twin tourist facility centres at Aurangabad's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Ajanta and Ellora. Tourism ministry of India inaugurated the centres few days back, providing incoming tourists with a pleasant surprise.

Ajanta and Ellora are among India’s biggest tourist attractions. Many who spend money on flights tickets to unravel the many secrets of the country are often found lining up to get in here. Ajanta caves depict Buddhist teachings, while the caves at Ellora are a mix of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain.

The visitors’ centre that has been established at Ajanta is enormous. The place holds 5 museum halls with actual-sized replicas of four of the caves. This is sure to please vacationers who block air tickets on flights to the ancient country to check out its fantastic cultural offerings. Even a huge parking space is available, with room for 300 cars, 20 buses and 200 two-wheelers. Holiday makers making an investment in airline tickets with the intention of enjoying India’s best can also take advantage of the centre’s restaurants, an auditorium and an amphitheatre.

The Ellora centre is similarly huge with multiple museums to delight culturally- inclined heading for the caves. There is a Kailash Temple replica at the place. Parking space is also there. It also offers three restaurants, an auditorium and an amphitheatre to entertain tourists who are booking tickets on flights and landing in the region.

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Top Three Off-Beat Attractions in Chennai

An exotic cocktail of old-world charms and modern-day marvels, Gateway to South India, Chennai casts its spell even upon the most jaded of travellers booking travel packages for holidays to the country and looking to tread city’s roads less travelled. So if you have grown blasé of the usual attractions in the metropolis, take a quick peek into the slightly less frequented charms of the city. 

Dakshina Chitra

Dakshin Chitra is a heritage village that delights its visitors with an extravagant dose of arts, crafts and architecture of southern India. Be it feasting eyes on the interesting shadow puppet shows; trying hands at the potter’s wheel; learning the art of traditional basket-weaving; or getting one’s portrait done by the village artists, Dakshin Chitra has absolutely no dearth of action for those who book travel packages for fun-filled holidays to Chennai. 

Crocodile Farm

The Crocodile farm in Chennai is a place unlike any other! This superb reptile zoo is home to more than 2500 reptiles including one of the world’s largest salt water crocodiles. For a more thrilling experience, visitors who are booking flights and accommodation packages for holidays to the metropolis in southern India may plan to hop on night safaris to see territorial disputes, breeding activity and general high excitement around the ponds filled with deadly crocs! 

Madras High Court

It would be no exaggeration to say that no holidays to the metropolis in South India are rendered complete without a trip to the High Court building, world’s second largest judicial complex! Each and every corner of this complex done in Indo-Saracenic architecture seems to have been designed to keep the rovers gasping in awe. Quite expectedly, this red sand stone building adorned with stained glass windows and minarets tempts visitors booking travel packages to the city to give a miss to other attractions and spend quite some time here.

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India a dream destination for every Backpacker!

India is such a riot of colours, cultures and diversity that there can be no other way of exploring it except through backpacking.  The country observes the coming together of varied cuisines, many cultures, vibrant festivities, ancient structures, huge mountains, deep ravines, golden deserts and verdant forests which together have the capacity to leave most pilgrims enthralled. Countless backpackers book flight tickets to the country every year and create unforgettable memories. Here is a smattering of some simple tips that go in to make the monies spent on India flights and holidays all the more worthwhile for a backpacker.

• Most backpackers travel on a budget. Saving on flights to India and accommodation options is the best way to enjoy other outdoor activities at the countless destinations here. Tickets on cheap flights to the country can be bagged with the Indian airlines – Air India and Jet Airways.

• Flights are not available in all parts of the country; you may have to avail the services of buses, trains and taxis. Avoid touts while booking any means of transport as you might be duped.

• Cheap flights tickets are ok, but while booking a cheap hotel in India do ensure factors like personal safety and hygiene.

• Your backpack should carry all essentials items and you should always have a local map and a guide book handy.

• All times be protected against the deadly insect populace.

• Be aware of the local laws and customs, and be ready with the contact details of all useful local agencies.

• Know the destination you are headed towards in advance.

• Avail ATMs but do not carry excessive cash.

• Avoid isolated areas.

• Be well informed about the prevailing weather conditions of the area you are headed towards and carry sufficient gear to arm you against adverse natural elements.

With above tips in mind, book your tickets on the flights headed to this enchanting land of the ancient sciences of Yoga and Ayurveda and let the magic weave around you!

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Sheraton’s New Plush Hotel to Open Soon in Bangalore

Holiday makers planning to book travel packages for holidays to India in the near future have yet another reason to rejoice as they can now savour five-star hospitality at Sheraton’ latest luxury offering in the city of Bangalore. The popular hospitality brand is all set to launch Sheraton Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Centre on August 1, 2014.

Beautifully set in the heart of India’s Mecca of IT – Bangalore and located within close proximity to multinational IT and Fortune 500 companies, the new property will feature 325 elegantly-decorated guest rooms and suites. The rooms have been thoughtfully designed with an intention to offer utmost comfort to luxury seekers booking travel packages for holidays to India. 

All the rooms will feature contemporary amenities, including WIFI internet access, LCD televisions, spacious bathrooms, Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds and other thoughtful amenities to tender extremely comfortable and elegant stays to luxury seekers spending on travel packages for holidays to South India’s popular city of Bangalore.

Intricately designed and incepted to appeal to both the leisure and business travellers booking all-inclusive packages on India holidays, the hotel will feature almost 1,500 square metres of total function space, including the 980-square-metre Banquet Hall. The adjoining convention centre spans nearly 5,000 square metres.

Additionally, the property will also feature a pool, a fully-equipped gym, spa, five restaurants, coffee shop, bar, and nightclub to please its guests who painstakingly book luxury packages for holidays to India and look for leisure activity options available right at the doorsteps.

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The Best of Warm and Friendly Ladakh, India

Perched in the north eastern region of India, cradling between two magnificent mountains of Karakoram and the Himalayas, sits the picturesque and serene Ladakh. Tourists from around the world book packages to spend their holidays in Ladakh to live in its unspoilt and unparalleled beauty and to breathe in the rich Buddhist and rural charms. Apart from the cultural highlights, this beautiful district in the State of Jammu and Kashmir also lures outdoor activity seekers to seek vacation packages and spend their holidays here to keep the adrenaline rush running.

The best of warm and friendly Ladakh is in its cultural significance, its monasteries and Buddhist teaching and philosophies. It is also reflected in its terrain, one of the finest in India for biking, cycling, trekking and various other excursions. The best also reflects when a traveller spending his holidays here is invited by local villagers to come and visit their houses and taste their local dishes. Holiday packages for the region gives travellers a well rounded experience combined with warm hospitality of the locals, sightseeing options, religious festivals of the famous monasteries and a good time at various trek trails and valley passes. With little western influence, the place abounds with serene charm which reflects on the inviting faces of its people and picturesque beauty of the place. Witness the prayers and chanting of the monks at the monasteries of Sankar, Spituk, Shey, Thiksey, Stakna, Matho, Lamayuru, Phing, Mangu, Wanla, Hemis Gompa and Sumda. Take on the challenging treks of Markha Vallery, Gandala Pass, Khardungla Pass and Nubra Valley or just sit back and relax at your local village hotel mingling with the locals now and then. The place, with its moon like terrain and Tibet like feel invites tourists from around the world to look for travel packages for holidays in this heavenly abode of India.

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Residency Sarovar Portico Launches in Mumbai

Holiday makers planning to book travel packages for holidays to India in the near future have yet another reason to rejoice as they can now savour five-star hospitality at Sarovar Hotels & Resorts’ fifth property located in the city of Mumbai. The popular hospitality brand recently launched Residency Sarovar Portico in Mumbai.

Beautifully set in the heart of North Mumbai within close proximity to the Mind Space, Bombay Exhibition Centre and Film City and some of the biggest malls in the city. The new property will feature 71 guestrooms. The rooms have been thoughtfully designed with an intention to offer utmost comfort to luxury seekers booking travel packages for holidays to India. 

Almost all the rooms will feature contemporary fittings and furnishings including WIFI internet access, LCD televisions with satellite channels, tea/coffee maker and mini bar to tender extremely comfortable and elegant stays to luxury seekers spending on travel packages for holidays to India’s popular city of Mumbai.

Intricately designed and incepted to appeal to both the leisure and business travellers booking all-inclusive packages on India holidays, the hotel will feature 2,800 square feet of meetings, 24 hour business centre and events space.

Intricately designed to tempt both the leisure and business traveller booking all-inclusive packages for India holidays or business trips, the estate features meeting and banquet facilities for up to 250 guests. The estate will also features a Tea Lounge that will cater to in-house guests and offers Indian and Continental cuisines to please gourmands booking luxury packages for holidays to India and opting to stay in the hotel.

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Summer Holidays in India’s Top Tourist Hill Stations

The hill stations of India are known to provide a perfect summer retreat to those looking for pleasant weather, picturesque surroundings as well as thrilling outdoor activities.

The British were the first to discover the true essence and wonders of hill stations in India. They developed the northern Indian marvel, Shimla as their winter capital to escape the much dreaded Indian summers. Over the years, Shimla has transformed into a perfect getaway for escaping the blistering weather, beguiling hordes of tourists to consider making bookings for tickets aboard India flights. From taking a toy train ride with the family to going for an excursion and from hiking in the hills to just fishing in the river, foreign tourists procuring tickets on cheap India flights will never run out of activities to do in Shimla! Rich with outdoor activities and picture-pretty surrounding, holidays to Shimla is never going to tire you out.

Tourists also seem to love tickets on flights that take them to Kashmir, India’s northern most scenic paradise. Kashmir is a beautiful city of lakes and snow capped mountains. Famous for its gardens, snow-clad valleys, pretty shikaras (houseboats) on glittering lakes, and snow sport activities; holidays in Kashmir is another good idea to beat the heat after getting hold of tickets on flights for Indian travel.

Darjeeling is another very popular place in India that shoots up the demand for airline tickets during the hot weather. Home to Mount Kanchenjunga and rows of tea plantations the place enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year and is perfect for spending holidays after disembarking from India bound flights.

Coorg, in the south India, treats with natural beauty and is another good choice for enjoying vacations in India. 

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Taj All Set To Launch Its 100th Hotel in India

Fans of Taj hospitality and luxury seekers planning to book tickets on flights arriving in India in the near future have yet another reason to rejoice as they can now savour five-star holiday stays at group’s 100^th property close to Indian capital city of Delhi. The Global hospitality brand recently announced to launch its new Vivanta by Taj – Gurgaon on 7 March 2013.

Beautifully perched in the heart of the fast growing business district of Gurgaon, the newest Vivanta by Taj property features 189 guestrooms with city and pool views, 18 thoughtfully designed suites and one opulent presidential suite to offer extremely comfortable and elegant stays to luxury seekers spending on tickets for international flights and heading to the popular business centre located in close vicinity of the Indian capital.

Furthermore, the property features 10,000 square-feet of slick conferencing facilities and fully-equipped banquet halls, which can host business meetings and conferences to please corporate flyers flights tickets to the country.

The dining options of the hotel include Tease - cocktail bar, Latitude - 24/7 international restaurant and a deli that would offer both local and international cuisines. Furthermore, the group’s most talked about dining extravaganza - The Thai Pavilion - will also make its debut in India at the new hotel. The eclectic dining options at the estate are sure to make gourmands booking tickets on flights arriving in India a happy lot.  

The estate will also feature brand’s signature Jiva Spa to offer its guests a dose of relaxation and rejuvenation. Age old massages and therapies offered at the spa are sure to make it a hit with weary travellers booking flights tickets for holidays to India.

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Tune Hotel Group to Launch Around 100 Hotels in India

India bound travellers planning to book flights tickets in the near future will have yet another value for money accommodation option at their disposal. Tune Hotel Group is all geared up to launch nothing less than 100 properties in India in the coming future.

The maiden Indian venture of the renowned brand will be opened in Ahmadabad, sometime in April 2013. Besides, the company plans to open around five to six more pads over the next three years to offer extremely comfortable and elegant stays to the huge influx of vacationers spending on cheap flights tickets for holidays to India’s thriving state of Gujarat.

Following Gujarat, the group plans to launch a 120-room property in Bhiwadi, Haryana, by end-2013 and a 200-room property near the New Delhi Railway Station in early 2014, to offer shade and shelter to budget vacationers making bookings for tickets on international flights and arriving in this part of the country.

Besides, the company also plans to foray into other metropolitans like Mumbai, Calcutta, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai as well as cities like Neemrana and Jaipur in Rajasthan, Chandigarh, Punjab and Bhavnagar, Gujarat.

The new estates will feature 100 to 200 guestrooms and the average room rate would be between INR 2,000 and INR 2,500. Tune brand properties are sure to become the choice for discerning visitors who book cheap flights tickets to the country and look for value for money proposition when it comes to accommodations.

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Escape the Chill – Popular Winter Sun Destinations in Asia

Most Britons ensure that they have their winter sun holidays in place and cheap flights and hotels booked, long before the shivery winter deals a harsh blow to the country. Many of these holidaymakers prefer several Asian destinations that make for a perfect winter sun escape and ensure an unforgettable holiday break amid packet full of sunshine! Have a look at two most popular charms that remain the star attraction of Asia and are well worth a tour.

India

November to February is the best time to hop on cheap flights to India for relishing its unparalleled splendour. The dulcet weather and rejuvenating aura of country are highly conducive for indulging in great deal of activities like sightseeing, sunbathing and water sports. Planning a holiday break during this time undoubtedly provides a maximum bang for money spent on airline tickets for flights to India.

Goa is a one tropical destination that remains a big hit among millions of Britons booking airline tickets for cheap flights to India. It overwhelms one with ample of sunshine and flurry of exciting activities including sunbathing, sightseeing, surfing, skydiving and much more. Alternatively Kerala, Mumbai, Rajasthan and Delhi are some other winter sun destinations to travel after taking flights to India.

Thailand

Thailand is another popular Asian gem that lures travel buffs to book holiday deals for winter sun holidays. Its prized possessions, the magnificent islands dotted with palm trees, iridescent sand and lavish resorts will leave you gloating over your decision of taking cheap flights to the country.

Phuket, Phi Phi, Samui, Koh Phangan, Pattaya and Koh Chang are the top islands to tour in Thailand. Pleasant winds and sunny weather during the months of February to March add zing to sunbathing and open door for array of thrilling activities.

Tiger Sighting in India: Where to Go!

Wildlife enthusiasts taking flights to India to catch a glimpse of the terrific tiger have a number of options at their disposal. Jim Corbett National Park and Sunderban National Park are couple of such options for the animal lovers.

The unnerving growl, the fierce eyes, the fascinating aura…! There are very few natives of the wild that create a kind of awe that are manufactured by a tiger sighting! It is not everyday that a man gets to see the royalty of the wildlife! Watching the wild beast on Discovery or National Geographic in the comfort of your living room is a different thing but to experience the majesty of this unrivalled creature sure is something else!

India is right up there when it comes to tiger sightings. There are multiple places where big cat lovers can get up close and personal with animal after booking flights to India. Check them out!

Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and promises to offer the travel buffs taking flights to India an enthralling experience! The park is known to house a population of around 200 tigers, and almost guarantees a peek at the majestic animal. Jim Corbett National Park’s topography is equally impressive with hilly ridges and rolling grasslands.

Where to stay

Jim Corbett National Park is a big holiday destination both among locals and international visitors taking airline tickets to the country. There is simply no dearth of accommodation options in the region, with a wide variety of hotels available. They can choose to stay in hotels, camps, eco lodges and cottages. Some of the popular hotels in and around the park are Hotel Tarika Resort, Hotel Country Inn Resort, Hotel Camp Riverwild Resort and Dhikala Forest Lodge.

The best time to catch cheap flights to India to visit the national park is from October till June when the forest zones stay open for the visitors.

Bandhavgarh National Park

Located in central India, the erstwhile hunting ground of the Maharaja of Rewa, Bandhavgarh National Park is another address of the big cats in India. The place is believed to be home of the white tigers. Travel buffs who were lucky enough to grab tickets on cheap flights to India must give their luck another try by embarking on pursuit of a white tiger in Bandhavgarh National Park!

Apart from enjoying close encounters with tigers, the park allows the visitor to check out 600 species of flowering plants, 50 species of aquatic and 18 species of rare plants. Safari drives and elephant rides are couple of options available to wildlife enthusiasts.

Where to stay

Bandhavgarh National Park has no dearth of accommodation options. People booking airline tickets to India will find the region inundated with hotels and resorts, ranging from luxury accommodation to economical options for budget holiday makers taking cheap flights to India. Tiger Lagoon Resort, Infinity Bandhavgarh Wilderness, Salvan Resort and Syna Tiger Resort are some of the accommodation options for rovers in search of the big cat.

Sunderban National Park

To not to talk about Sunderban National Park while talking about tigers in India is like committing blasphemy! The kingdom of the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sunderban National Park charms the visitors with dense mangrove forest. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sunderbans is home to more than 250 tigers. The park is also renowned among wildlife enthusiasts for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle.

Where to stay

There is a whole spectrum of hotels, nature resorts, wildlife jungle lodges and forest camps both inside and outside the region of the Sunderban Wildlife Sanctuary. Tourists will find both luxury hotels as well as budget hotels in this part of the world, catering to both ends of tourist sort.

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Tips for Those Taking Connecting Flights to India

Are you taking connecting flights to India and feeling insecure about various concerns related to it? Well, now with few easy measures you can make your travel with connecting flights pleasurable and hassle free. Read below to know how!

Due to long-haul journey between India and the UK, the necessity of changing flights partway has become a basic need of many Britons. However, with jam-packed airports, travelling stress and lack of knowledge about the rules and regulations, connecting flights often make travellers wretched and jaded. Have a look at some tips that can relieve you from the connecting flight issues and let you enjoy pleasing air travel.

Pre-check Gate Change Number

To avoid last minute rush and misunderstandings, you must check the gate number of the connecting airport beforehand. Many a times, airlines change the gate number at the very last moment, which creates a baffling situation for the flyers booking tickets for cheap flights to India.  Confirm it from the airport reception as soon as you reach the connecting airport.

Rule for Duty Free Items

If you have booked tickets for connecting flights to India, you are advised to pack duty free items including liquor, wine, perfume and body sprays, facial cleansers and creams, body or hand lotions, etc in your baggage if going under security checkpoints again - usually after customs. For instance, if you are travelling LHR – Dubai - India, you can put it in your checked luggage after customs in Dubai.

Bad Weather Conditions

Some times connecting flights are delayed or even cancelled due to severe weather issues. However, you must understand that weather syndrome is an uncontrollable issue and the airline with which you have booked your flights to India is usually not liable to cover your expanses for problems related to bad weather. However, if your connecting flight has been delayed by hours due to unpleasant weather, all you can do is to wait at the connecting airport and kill time.

Luggage Issues

Many a times, travellers taking cheap flights to India with several stopovers forget to ask the airport authority whether they need to pick up luggage while taking the connecting flight or not. This question can be asked at the time you check in your luggage for the first time to save time spent in clearing customs for your connecting flight.

Ask for Terminal

Many times people even miss their flights due to long distance between terminals and gates which leave their dream holiday tour to India in jeopardy. Confirm the terminal for your flight from the travel agent or the airline in advance. If in doubt, simply ask the airport help desk about the terminal and directions from where you have to board the connecting flight.

Reach the Gate Hassle Free

The sight of travellers jolting with their heavy luggage at the airports is very common.  Therefore, to reach the gate of your connecting flight faster and effortlessly, you must check-in as much luggage as you can to avoid being a beast of burden among the puzzling crowds of the airport.

Need a Stroller

Stroller is a ‘must have’ item that helps you in moving easily and comfortably around the airport premises.  So, if you are using a stroller, you must get it checked by the gate agent at the airport gate. The gate agent will give you a tag and a claim ticket for your stroller, which you need to submit later before boarding your connecting flight.  

Change of Airport

If you need to board your connecting flight from some other airport, do keep enough time on hand to reach the desired airport on time. Sometimes, you might also need to hire a cab to travel to other airport. So, book your cab well in advance to avoid wasting time and chances of missing your connecting flight.

Connecting flights, no doubt, add a stroke of twist to your travel experience. However, at times they become a complete nightmare for the flyers. So act smart and make your travel with connecting flight memorable and pleasant.

Indian Tourism Boom – Millions Take Flights to India Every Year

The Indian Ministry of Tourism compiles monthly estimates of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) and Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEE) from tourism. These estimates are compiled on the basis of data received from major airports.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) 2011

It is reported foreign tourist taking flights to India (FTA) during 2011 were 6.29 million with a growth of 8.9%, as compared to the FTAs of 5.78 million with a growth of 11.8% during the year 2010 over 2009.

The estimates indicate that FTAs have seen a growth of 5.2% in December 2011 over December 2010 as compared to a growth of 10.4% registered in December 2010 over December 2009.

Foreign Exchange Earning From Tourism (FEE) 2011

FEE from tourism showed a growth of 16.7%, as compared to a growth of 24.6% during the year 2010 over 2009.

The growth rate in FEE in December 2011 over December 2010 was 8.3 %, as compared to the growth of 3.2% in December 2010 over December 2009.

Year 2012 January Performance

2012 is also considered as a booming time for the country. As per the press release on the website of the Indian Ministry of Tourism, FTAs during the Month of January, 2012 was 6,81,000 as compared to FTAs of 6,24,000 during the month of January, 2011.

The figures seem quite encouraging for the overall travel and tourism Industry and in particular the airline industry.

Tourism in India - Future

According to the industry experts, Indian tourism will soar above the sky level! It is decidedly an utterly versatile country that caters to the needs of almost every sort of traveller who books tickets on cheap flights to India.

With millions of holiday makers looking for airlines and travel agents offering cheap deals and tickets to India, it comes as no surprise that India is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world.

Most popular destinations among holiday makers booking tickets on cheap flights to India include cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Bangalore, Chennai, Amritsar to name only a few. Kerala holidays and deals undoubtedly remain among the hot favourites.

States of Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh are among the top holiday destinations visited by most travellers taking cheap flights to India.

The country boasts the state-of-the-art airports, cheap yet brilliant educational and medical tourism avenues, lavish as well as cheap budget hotels and convention centres and attracts a number of leisure as well as business tours.

Maximise your Compensation during Flight Cancellations

India remains a dream destination for many Britons! But what when the dream turns into a nightmare as traveller faces the annoying issue of flight cancellation!

Flight cancellation, though a common issue, can seriously spoil your holiday mood and ruin all the efforts you made in browsing cheap flights to India. However, having knowledge about the various compensation rules can help you in getting over the insurmountable travel inconvenience caused due to flight cancellation.

Go for Travel Insurance

To gain the maximum compensation on flight cancellation by the airlines, you should opt for travel insurance well in advance either with the airline or with some reliable travel agent. Travel insurance can ensure you full compensation for the cancellation of your flight to India due to various issues including weather conditions or some technical problems. For example, the comprehensive travel insurance offered by British Airways cover trip cancellation or delays, lost or delayed baggage, medical cover, repatriation, and 24 hour support to ensure peace of mind and safety to the travellers. BA is a popular choice for flights to India travellers can get a quote and book travel insurance on the airline’s website.

Stand For Yourself

If you do not have a travel insurance, you do not need to feel like a deprived passenger.   With travel insurance or without it, you are liable to get airline compensation for a cancelled flight. However to get the maximum compensation from the airline, the first thing you need to have is the correct ticket confirmation. Moreover, you must also book for the compensation as soon as possible to gain utmost benefits.  

Airline's Responsibility

Once you have completed all the formalities after your flight gets cancelled, the airline will definitely offer you compensation. However, compensation policies depends from airlines to airlines. For instance, holiday makers booking cheap flights to India with British Airways are liable to get rebooking of flights and may even ask for complete refund of the ticket fare if their flight is delayed for five hours or more. The airline also offers complementary meals, refreshments, accommodation option near the airport and means to contact two persons outside the airport premises.

However, if you do not get any such compensation from the airline you are flying with, you must go through the fine print in the airline's policy and ask for compensation by writing a formal letter, if needed.

Tips For Snapping Up Last-Minute Airfare Deals to India

Booking tickets for a leisurely break to India well in advance can help you make enormous savings! However, if you are an impulsive, last-minute traveller, a little research and smart work can get you the real good last minute deals to enjoy those enchanting  holidays to enigmatic India without spending an arm and a leg!

So if you still haven’t booked your tickets to India in advance, don’t disappoint.  Use the following tips to snap up a lucrative last minute ticket deal on cheap flights to India.

Have a Flexible Approach

Being flexible with travel preferences helps a lot in netting last minute deals. Often airlines operating flights to India at odd hours come out with cheap last minute deals. Flexibility with choice of departure and arrival airport also increases chances of booking cheap last minute deal.

Go for Popular Websites

It has often been noticed that a search for lucrative last minute deals for cheap tickets on flights to India remains incomplete without browsing through prominent airfare listing and flight comparison websites. These websites offer loads of information on last minute deals available both with airlines and travel agencies. However, do check out airline and tour operators’ websites separately to compare the quoted airfares.

Contact Airline

Just because you have found the airfares on the website billed as last minute doesn’t mean it is the best possible discounts! To enhance your savings you need to know the original airfare. Contact airlines to find out which cheap flight to India has vacant seats and last minute tickets available on it. You might grab a better one!

Go For All-Inclusive Holiday Packages

Besides cheap airfares, one also requires affordable accommodation and car rental deals for a gratifying break. It is sensible to look for a last minute all-inclusive holiday package as it enhances savings and avoids individual expenditures made on airfares, accommodation and possibly a car rental from the airport. Furthermore, many tour operators offer deep discounts on all-inclusive holiday packages.

Don’t Forget Travel Consolidators and Ticket Auctions

Check with travel consolidators as they often sell air tickets for prices less than the airline's advertised prices. Airline ticket auction websites are also great places to snap up lucrative last minute flights’ tickets.

Shoulder Season Holidays to India offer Good value

Being a land of diverse cultures and traditions, India puzzles the verdicts of holidaymakers at times. However, with few easy tips, the Britons booking flights to India may enrich their holiday experience by netting the best deals possible.

Mystifying, enthralling, wild, maddening, squalid, overwhelming, irresistible; India is all these things, and more. With endless number of attractions, picturesque valleys, spectacular beaches, thrilling and captivating outdoors, India seems like embracing a whole world in itself.

However, planning holiday tours to this mesmerizing country can a big big challenge for the travellers, especially those who are cost conscious budget travellers. There are a number factors affect the cost of airline tickets and accommodation at any destination. Seasonality is one of the most significant factors that governs many other factors and determines if travellers will be able to book cheap flights and hotels at the destination. Read on to know how seasonality for India holidays affects its high and low seasons and the related availability of cheap flights to India and accommodation.

How Seasonality Works

Tropical India experiences different weathers throughout the year. While favourable climatic conditions during part of the year boost the influx of travellers into the country, extreme conditions do exactly opposite. High season is the time when majority of travellers head to a destination and features a high demand and low supply flights and hotels. Conversely, low season is marked by low demand and high supply of these elements of holidays due to reduced influx of travellers. Unquestionably, these demand and supply pressures directly affect the availability of cheap flights to India as well as hotels in Indian destinations.

High Season – Favourable Weather, High Prices

September is when rains taper off in most parts of India and is the time when holidays to India are much in demand. The pleasant October weather make outdoors in most Indian destinations highly entertaining and enjoyable. The favourable weather until December causes many holiday makers to plan their holidays to India at the same time. This is also the time when India celebrates most of its popular festivals. This time in any tourist destination of India features exceeding tourist activity with long queues at airports, hotels and tourists attractions, and crowded beaches, malls and market places.

The high demand and less supply of flight tickets and hotel rooms during these times invariably makes cheap tickets on flights to India and cheap hotel rooms in Indian cities a rare commodity for travellers.

Low Season – Unfavourable Weather, Low Prices

Low season anywhere means less demand of flights and hotels. Flights operate with less number of holidaymakers and hotel occupancy is at its lowest. Undoubtedly, airlines, hotels, tour operators and travel agents roll out discount deals to lure travellers. Low season in India features scorching heat and humidity during peak summers (May to early July) or bitterly chilly cold wave and dense fog in peak winters (December end until January) at many tourist destinations. While holiday makers can save on flights to India and reduce the cost of their holidays, the extreme weather conditions impair the holiday fun.

The above facts may suggest that travellers looking for cheap flights to India compromise on enjoyment and those aiming to get the true holiday fun pay a bomb for flights and hotels. However, smart travellers who would like to get the best of both worlds pick shoulder season to tour to India.

Shoulder Season – Best of Both Worlds

Shoulder months or seasons are the times between the high and the low seasons of destinations. Travellers who want to save by booking cheap flights to India and also not compromise on sightseeing and other exciting outdoor activities can benefit by booking during these months which offer a combination of desirable prices and fairly favourable climatic conditions. This is the time when the pressures of demand and supply only start to build up slowly and eventually lead to either a high or low season with regard to prices and weather.

Shoulder Months for India Holidays

There are the times of the year when travellers, especially on shoestring travel, can get the best out of their holidays to India. Spring time (February to March) that transitions winters into summers; and Autumn (September to October) that transforms summers into winter season are the shoulder months for travel to India without compromising on holiday fun or burning a hole in the pocket.

These shoulder months are characterised by either a period of withdrawing tourists (start of low season) from tourist destinations or beginning of an influx (start of high season) from across the borders.

The term Shoulder Season may sound less familiar, but the concept works very well for those on budget holidays to India. Choosing one’s travel time to India during these times indicate that the holiday has been planned with due care for two important aspects of a holiday – Cost and Enjoyment.

Best winter holiday Destinations in India

As compared to the frosty weather in European nations, India witnesses pleasant climate during winters. Apparently, hordes of tourists take flights to India during December and January to enjoy awesome holidays complemented by balmy Indian weather.

India truly is a land of wonders that offers a unique experience with multitudes of panoramic sights, diverse sounds and unique smells. The snow capped mountains, teeming forests, lip-smacking cuisines, revered hospitality and diverse cultures - India surely is no ordinary holiday destination.

Winters are, unquestionably, the best time to experience the true Indian delights. While scorching heat and downpour ruins the fun of holidays in summers and monsoons, winter beguiles with soothing and rain-free clime. Unsurprisingly, throngs of tourists take flights to India during winter months of December and January for a perfect vacation to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul. Read on to know about 5 best destinations to travel during your India holidays in winters.

Munnar

A heavenly hill station located in Kerala, Munnar offers a perfect escapade from city’s hurly-burly. With picturesque mountains, leafy valleys, interminable sweep of tea and spice plantations and soothing climate, Munnar is one of the best Indian winter destinations to immerse in the pleasant climate and soak in the unceasing fun. Dotted with tea estates and lovely cottage villas, this quaint hill town remains incessantly covered with misty clouds. The cloud kissing mountain peaks here tempt adventurers to take cheap flights to India to partake in venturesome activities like paragliding and trekking expeditions.

Corbett National Park

Royal, statuesque and magnificent - Corbett National Park is one of the most sought after wildlife reserves in India. Known as tiger country, Corbett National park lures wildlife enthusiast with memorable adventure trips to explore the rich biodiversity and atypical flora and fauna of this national park that abounds tigers, elephants, hog deers and many other rare and exotic wildlife species. This amazing national park becomes hedonistically alive during winters teeming full with tourists.

Manali

With lush green hillsides, bubbling streams, cloud-kissing mountains and the majestic snow capped peaks - Manali offers the perfect winter holiday getaway. The beautiful hill town is one of the most important gateways to the snow caped mighty Himalayas. No wonder, the soaring peaks and leafy terrains of Manali tempt adventurers to take cheap flights to India to indulge in activities like skiing, hiking, mountaineering and river rafting. A walking tour to the Mall Road and the State Museum also remains on top of the wish list of those planning holidays here.

Delhi

One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is an ethnical conundrum. This vibrant Indian capital offers a rare encounter of modernity fused with antiquity at every nook and cranny. Delhi is known for its vibrant and colourful cultures and the best way to experience the rich culture of the city during winters is through its colourful festivals and events celebrated in winters. Many tourists on a shoe string budget browse through websites to find budget hotels and cheap flights to India during winters to partake in the gala celebrations of Indian Republic day observed on 26th January. The amazing acts and exhibits performed by the different units of the armed forces during the Republic Day Parade offers a fair idea about the rich history and the culture of the country.

Jodhpur

With numerous ancient monuments, architectural buildings, palaces, museums, gardens and temples – Jodhpur attracts a large number of tourists to book flights to India every year. This Blue City of Rajasthan is located in close proximity to Thar Desert, which massively lends a romantic aura to Jodhpur. The summers are generally scorching and extreme here. However, autumn through winter months are the most suitable time to visit this majestic city. The quaint antiquity morphed with the picture perfect setting of a vast desert coupled with the exquisite handicrafts, folk dances and folk music immensely add to the popularity of cheap tickets to Jodhpur.

Haunted places for Paranormal holidays in India

India is an ancient land full of interesting and thrilling stories. A land full of myths, mysteries and enigmas, India lures ghost hunters and enthusiasts from around the globe to book flights to India.


India, with its rich and long history, is full of mysteries. Flight ticket to India offers a sneak peek into cryptic secrets that are yet to be unfolded. This wonderful country offers ample opportunities to ghost hunters as well as regular thrill-seeking travellers who love chasing down the paranormal on their holidays.

Let’s take a quick tour of some haunted places to visit in India that invoke a sense of mystery and enigma, and entice people to book flights to India

Forts of Bhangarh, Rajasthan

Mighty forts of Bhangarh arouse a strange sceptical feeling in the atmosphere and cause restlessness and anxiety among visitors on their tour to this fort. If rumours are to be taken seriously then people here have even went missing! These folklores have added immensely to the popularity of cheap flights to India with many wanting to check out the most haunted place in India. With an utmost enigma to be unfolded, Bhangarh Forts promise to thrill tourists who travel to this haunted destination.

Brij Raj Bhavan Heritage Hotel, Kota

The 178-year-old Brij Raj Bhavan Palace in Kota, Rajasthan, which was converted into a heritage hotel in the 1980s, has a resident ghost! The gentleman ghost of Major Burton is said to be harmless.

Delhi Cantt, New Delhi

India’s capital city of New Delhi has its own share of ghosts and ghost stories! Most leisure travellers taking flights to India land up in this city as Delhi is well connected with other parts of the country via road-links, rail networks and airways. Therefore travellers do not face many hassles in an effort to meet Delhi’s most famous ghost or more appropriately ‘ghostess’! The area around Delhi Cantt is said to be haunted by a vengeful spirit of a lady, clad in white dress, who asks motorists for lift and then suddenly disappears!

Dumas Beach, Gujarat

The Dumas in Gujarat is a haunted cremation site where many locals have complained to have heard weird voices. Especially at night people have heard strange whispers warning of the danger around the proximity of this beach. It is believed that this Hindu crematorium is lurking full with spirits of dead people!

Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad

A big ticket draw for ghost hunters and ‘ghost lovers’, Ramoji Film City is said to be haunted by notorious ghosts of dead soldiers. This film city is built on the war grounds of Nizams and if locals are to be believed then this place is haunted big time!

Rajeev Gandhi International airport

The rumour that has been doing rounds is that Rajeev Gandhi International Airport located in Hyderabad is haunted by the spirits of those who were killed during the airport’s construction. No wonder, anyone with even a mild interest in the paranormal can be seen haggling hard for cheap flights to India that land up in Hyderabad.

Taj Mahal Hotel, Mumbai

This top Indian hotel has welcomed almost every major global celebrity who has taken flights to India. But the luxurious environ and top of the line services do not devoid the hotel of its spookiness! The hotel is said to be haunted by the ghost of its architect.

Shaniwarwada Fort, Pune

A mighty fort built by the rulers of Peshwa Dynasty contains many bone-chilling stories within its walls. None is as heartbreaking as what happened hundreds of years back at this mighty fort. A prince, heir to the royal throne, was killed on his close relative’s orders. It is said that visitors taking a trip to the fort after nightfall can still hear his cries for help.

The Savoy, Mussoorie

This holiday hotel dates back to 1902. It is said that the corridors of this hotel are haunted by the ghost of Lady Garnet Orme, who was found dead in mysterious circumstances.