900% Growth in e-Tourist Visa During Jan-July | Awesome News for Travel Industry

During January-July, 2015, a total of 1,47,690 tourists arrived on e-Tourist Visa as compared to 14,415 during January-July, 2014, registering a growth of 924.6 per cent. 

A total of 21,476 tourist arrived on eTV during July 2015 alone as compared to 2,462 during July 2014 registering a growth of 772.3 per cent. This high growth may be attributed to introduction of eTV for 113 countries as against coverage of earlier TVoA scheme for 12 countries. 

The percentage shares of top 10 source countries availing eTV facility during July 2015 were as follows: USA (33.67%), Australia (7.74%), France (7.13%), Germany (6.80%), UAE (6.71%), Canada (6.30%), Republic of Korea (5.57%), Mexico (2.80%), Japan (2.38%) and Russian Federation (2.29%). Government of India launched eTV on November 27, 2014.

Wow!!! ITDC earns Rs 27 million profit in First Quarter 2015

India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the public sector undertaking under the aegis of the Ministry of Tourism, posted a stable performance for first quarter of the current financial year 2015-16. The total turnover in quarter ending June 2015 stood at Rs.105.96 Cr as compared to Rs 103.63 Cr in the corresponding quarter last year. The company registered Net Profit Before Tax (PBT) at Rs.2.77 Cr and Net Sales at Rs 96.95 Cr as compared to Rs 0.30 Cr and Rs 96.19 Cr respectively in the corresponding quarter last year. In Q 1, 2015-16 the momentum generated in the last financial year seem to have continued posting profit yet again. Also, The Ashok group of hotels has been in the forefront of innovative marketing initiatives ensuring consistency in sales and occupancy. The company has registered an occupancy rate of 47 percent compared to 45 percent in the corresponding quarter last year.

Good News :) e-Tourist Visa Scheme to China, Hong Kong and Macau from Today, the 30th July 2015

Extension of e-Tourist Visa scheme to the nationals of China, Hong Kong and Macau from today, the 30^th July 2015

As you are aware, we have been pleading with the Government to include China for the e-Tourist Visa Scheme along with other major tourists generating countries.  

You will be pleased to know that China along with Hong Kong and Macau have been included in the list and this facility has been extended to these three countries w.e.f. today the 30^th July 2015.  Now the total number of countries/territories covered under the e-Tourist Visa scheme has gone up from 74 to 77, with the inclusion of these 3 countries. We hope,  soon Government will announce extension of this scheme to more countries. The list of 77 countries and all other details are available on the link

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

A copy of the Press Release issued by Press Information Bureau (PIB) dated 29^th July 2015 is enclosed for your reference.

Our sincere thanks to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Hon’ble Tourism Minister and the team in the Ministry of Tourism for making our dreams come true. We are sure all the 150 countries as announced by the government will be covered under this scheme very soon.

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Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Home Affairs
29-July-2015 20:30 IST

Extension of e-Tourist Visa scheme to China, Hong Kong and Macau from tomorrow

The Government has finalised arrangements to extend and implement the e-Tourist Visa facility to the passport holders of People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong Administrative Region and Macau Special Administrative Region with effect from the July 30, 2015, as announced by the Prime Minister during his recent visit to China. The total number of countries/territories covered under the e-Tourist Visa scheme will go up from 74 to 77, with the inclusion of these countries/territories.

The 74 countries already included are Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Island, Chile, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Myanmar, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niue Island, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Republic of Macedonia, Russia, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, Tuvalu, UAE, Ukraine, USA, Vanuatu, Vatican City-Holy See and Vietnam.

The e-Tourist Visa scheme launched by the Government of India on the November 27, 2015 has been extended to 77 countries/territories so far. The scheme will be extended to more countries/ territories in a phased manner. Under this scheme, tourists with e-Tourist Visas can arrive at nine designated airports (Bengaluru, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai & Trivandrum). Since the launch of the scheme, about 2,00,000 (Two lakh) e-TVs have been issued to nationals of different countries.

During the last three years, a total of 1,79,873 (one lakh seventy nine thousand eight hundred seventy three) tourist visas have been issued to nationals of Republic of China, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. It is expected that extending the e-Tourist Visa facility to the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR will boost the tourist arrival from these regions and strengthen bilateral ties among people of these territories. 

A Thrilling Adventure in the Wild

A haven for wild life enthusiasts, India attracts globetrotters from across the world to spend their holidays in exotic wild locales and dense forests which were immortalized by Rudyard Kipling.

With around 99 National parks in India and more than 450 sanctuaries, choosing the best place to soak in the natural heritage, can be quite a daunting task.

Given the vastness, the diverse topography, spectacular landscapes and varied climate, it's quite an assignment to choose from the many wildlife travel options, but having said that, most globe-trotters would agree that the holy grail of any safari is spotting the big cat-the elusive tiger. India is estimated to be home to around 70 percent of the world's tiger's. The dwindling population of tigers is now steadily rising thanks to the number of government initiatives to streamline tiger conservation through the National Tiger Conservation Authority Act and Project Tiger. Tiger population in India is now estimated to be 2,226 in 2014, according to the latest report.


To have a personal encounter with this majestic animal, travel to Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh or Kanha. The Southern region in India has the top elephant safaris, while the north eastern states offer a more off-beaten path experience. Most parks are closed during the monsoon season (June-Oct) and spring (Feb-May) is the best time for a Wild Life Tour in India.

We offers an array of choices and bespoke experiences for the discerning traveller looking for a thrilling adventure in the wild. "Whether it is tracking a tiger in the jungle at Ranthambore or the deep dense forests of Bandhavgarh or Kanha.


Delhi, the starting point of this journey is a remarkable blend of the past and the present. The city features architectural brilliance of the British and Mughal buildings such as the Rashtrapati Bhawan and Red Fort to the contemporary brilliance of several amusement parks, shopping malls, and party hubs.


Head to Ranthambore National Park, the former hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Stay at Aman-i-Khas, perhaps the most luxurious and stylish safari lodge in Asia. Known for its tiger population, Ranthambore is among the biggest national parks of northern India that sprawls over an area of 392 sq. km. Go on a tiger safari; explore the fort and the abundant flora and fauna of this sprawling park. Ranthambore was among one of the very first sanctuaries to come under the aegis of Project Tiger and from a few dozens the number of tigers have increased to a little over a hundred. Most of the big cats are so secure and protected that they can be seen hunting during the day particularly around the two lakes.


From here travel to Agra visiting the walled city of Fatehpur Sikri en-route to the pristine white embodiment of eternal love the magnificent Taj Mahal. No words can aptly describe the visual experience of witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunset with the marble monument changing shades from orange to rose red –a scenario so pure, intense and spiritual that it leaves you in a hypnotic trance.

Back on the tiger track; arrive at Bandhavgarh, a major hit with visitors. Snuggled between the hilly Vidhyan areas and the Satpura ranges and blessed with some of the best of nature's bounty. Great rocky hills, lush deciduous forests, marshes and meadows make Bandhavgarh one of India's most scenic areas. This park has still an enviable number of Royal Bengal Tigers, so be sure to go on every possible safari trip, especially the elephant safari.

The last leg of this trip brings the animal lovers to Kanha National Park, the nucleus of tiger preservation in the country.

Take an open-jeep safari in the wild and experience the electrifying adventure of locating animals in their element to truly discover nature and wildlife at its glorious best. Kanha is the setting of Kipling's 'Jungle Book', a beautiful area of lush sal and bamboo forests with grassy meadows, streams and ravines. It is the home of a variety of animals including Barasingha (Swamp Deer), tiger, panther, and many species of deer, wild pig, bison, a variety of monkeys besides some 200 species of birds.

Home to the most exotic and fascinating flora and flora, the Indian wilderness leaves all travellers bedazzled. Capture these moments and cherish these beguiling memories forever.

Temple Tour to the South of India

India's Dravidian heartland –the South of India offers an experience which is quite different from the rest of India. A major hub for culture, education, soaked in deep rooted traditions and rituals this is also the country's richest pilgrimage center.

The Southern Peninsula is a fascinating melting pot of magnificent architecture, exquisitely carved temples and a rich, vibrant cultural heritage. Its diverse and gorgeous landscape with dramatic coastlines, stunning beaches, verdant forests, spice plantations and game reserves attracts visitors from all over the globe. 

We are leading luxury travel management company, dedicated to showcasing the myriad treasures of this incredible land to its clients in a bespoke fashion with tailor made and personalized itineraries. The discerning travelers can choose from a bouquet of popular tours like the 21 day South India cultural and backwater tour, the 7 day Kerala backwater tour, the sights and sounds of Carnatic for the classical music lovers, the Spice tour amongst the others.

For the temple and architecture lovers the recently launched 12 day Temple tour of South India is a perfect introduction to the ancient towering temples and religious edifices built by the skilled craftsmen during the Chola, Pandya and Vijayanagar dynasties- the flourishing Hindu empires of the period. These Dravidian masterpieces, with brightly painted sculptures on their gopuram (towers) display India's greatest temple architecture.

"This tour is not just a sacred journey but also an insight into the engineering and architectural excellence that has withstood the test of time. Great temples at Thanjavur, Madurai and Rameswaram are superb examples of the distinctive design, structure and superlative artistry of this region. It is also a discovery of the riches of the culture of this exotic country.

This captivating Temple tour begins in Chennai, South India's commercial and cultural capital and the fourth largest metropolis in India. With an enthralling past, it is a window to the culture and art forms of south India. The alluring temple of Kapileshwar and the grand St. Thomas Basilica provide an insight into age-old traditions and beliefs. After exploring the city's many interesting sights your tour moves ahead to the mythical city of Thirupati. Being one of the most ancient and holy cities of India, the city bustles with pilgrims all throughout the year. Thirupati boasts of being the location of one of the most affluent temples of India, the Venkateswara Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. The Tirumala Venkateswara temple showcases Dravidian styles of architecture, with exquisitely-carved doorways, mandapams and shrines.



Proceed to Kanchipuram to continue on this enriching tour to discover South India's rich heritage and history. Visit three of the best temples—Kailasanatha and Ekambareshwara (dedicated to Lord Shiva) and Vaikuntaperum al (dedicated to Lord Vishnu).Do take some out for shopping for the famous Kanchipuram silk, renowned for their luster and vibrant colors. Take a tour to Mammalapuram (Mahabalipuram) and visit the seventh century rock hewn monuments. The shore temple, the only surviving one of seven, is a unique example of a temple built of rock quarried elsewhere and carried to shore.

Drive to Pondicherry stopping en-route at the holy city of Tiruvannamalai. One of the most sacred cities of Tamil Nadu this pilgrim town is home to the grand Arunachaleshwara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Arrive at the French provincial town of Pondicherry, a beautiful little seaside Union Territory which is a merry blend of Eastern and Western influences. The charm of Pondicherry lies in its incredibly leisurely approach to life, food and commerce. Continue your sojourn to Thanjavur and immerse yourself in the culture, history and fine arts of India. Visit the Brahadeeswara Temple, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the many ancient temples, forts and opulent palaces of this immensely cultural town.

The next three stops on this temple tour Trichy, Madurai and Rameswaram are important pilgrimage sites with beautiful and exquisitely carved temples exemplifying the brilliance of Dravidian architecture. The spectacular Meenakshi Temple complex in Madurai is a must visit due to its sheer size and architectural skillsmanship. Gaze at the 14 rainbow colored gopurams or towers, the tallest one standing 52 m high and covered in sculptures depicting stories, myths and legends from the scriptures.
 

Located at the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari is the meeting point of the three seas surrounding India: the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Watch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets and soak in the breath-taking beauty of this serene place.

The last leg of this transformative journey brings the guests to Trivandrum, a beautiful seaside city built on seven hills. The place is also home to the sinfully opulent Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple, which is said to be the richest temple in the world. Go for an unforgettable backwater cruise, watch marvelous sunsets and indulge in fun and frolic at the Kovalam beach.

Enjoy the immense beauty of the South India temples on this 12 day specially designed tour and explore the amazing diversity of peninsular India. This visually stunning journey encapsulates the essence of the spiritual and religious ethos of the South of India, with a sneak peek into its Dravidian roots, imperial past and bucolic charms.

Rajasthan aims to become an all-important tourism hub this year

Mega desert circuit to develop @ Rs 50 cr

Rajasthan aims to become an all-important tourism hub this year. Principal Secretary, Tourism, Rajasthan Government, S K Agarwal said, the state is looking into various ways to develop tourism, these include – developing new circuits, infrastructure development, increase in night tourism, creation of more rooms and the launch of the revised Tourism Unit Policy. The state is also looking for improved air connectivity in cities like Kota, Udaipur and Jodhpur. Agarwal said “The state is developing a mega desert circuit (Jaisalmer-Jodhpur-Bikaner-Sambhar-Pali-Mount Abu) at the cost of Rs 50 crore. The state is also planning new circuits on ‘handicrafts’, ‘birding’ and ‘spirituality’. The Government is aware of the need to promote lesser popular regions of the state so that the benefits of tourism also percolate to the people of these areas. There has been an increase of 9% on the arrival of tourists in the financial year 2014-15. With concerted efforts both in marketing as well as development of infrastructure and new circuits – it is hoped that increasingly more tourists will visit Rajasthan.”

India’s first private airport to be operational by April 14

India’s first private greenfield airport at Durgapur, promoted by Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Ltd (BAPL), is likely to be operational by April 14. “The final calibration of navigational aids at the airport by Airport Authority is done. Now, we expect to get final DGCA licence in a month,” the state Transport Secretary Alapan Bandopadhyay in Durgapur was quoted as saying. The airport, christened Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, will be operational from April 14, in all probability, BAPL officials said.

Bandyopadhyay said Pinnacle Air, a non-scheduled airline, will begin its operations from here four days a week connecting Bagdogra, Coochbehar, Durgapur and Kolkata soon after getting license from DGCA.

BAPL Managing Director Partha Ghosh said the company is in negotiations with IndiGo and GoAir for scheduled flights for connecting Delhi-Durgapur including Air India and non-schedule airline Air Coasta for connecting southern cities such as Hyderabad and Bangalore. Air Costa may connect these two south Indian cities for four days a week. However, the final agreement will depend on concessions the Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport offers. The major concessions demanded by the scheduled airlines are waiver of landing and takeoff fees, underwriting minimum of seats and 30 per cent surcharge waiver for ATF for a greater time frame.