CAVORE Bengaluru: A Dining-First Nightlife Destination Where the Evening Evolves Naturally

Bengaluru, India 2026: In a city known for its discerning diners and ever-evolving nightlife, CAVORE Bengaluru emerges as a space that refuses to choose between the two. Located on Residency Road, CAVORE is a transformative dining and nightlife destination where food, music, and visual design flow together, shaping nights that unfold effortlessly rather than on cue.

“CAVORE was born from the desire to create a place where food, music, and visuals don’t exist independently, but come together as one immersive experience,” says Naveen Prem, The Founder. “Bengaluru has incredible restaurants and great nightlife, but very few spaces where both worlds blend without feeling forced. We wanted to change that.”

Designed as a space that transitions with the mood of the evening, CAVORE invites guests to slow down, settle in, and let the night take its course. Early hours are marked by warm lighting, intimate conversations, and a dining-forward atmosphere, which gradually transforms into a high-energy, music-led experience as the night progresses.

At the core of CAVORE is its thoughtfully curated menu, led by Chef Shivraj, whose culinary philosophy is deeply shaped by his upbringing as an army brat travelling across India. “Food has always been a form of storytelling for us,” shares the team. “Chef Shivraj’s journey across regional kitchens shows up in the menu, through flavours, spices, and techniques that feel rooted yet contemporary.”

The menu encourages sharing and exploration, beginning with vibrant starters such as CAVORE Summer Crush, a refreshing medley of grains, greens, and citrus, alongside playful street-inspired plates like Avo Bhel Tartare and Truffle Tomato Sev Puri, which reinterpret familiar Indian flavours through a refined, modern lens.

As the evening deepens, the menu moves into comforting yet expressive mains. Dishes like Moilee Butter Sauce Prawns bring coastal warmth to the table, while Tambda Rassa Ramen blends Maharashtrian spice with global technique. Vegetarian offerings such as the Kashmiri Veg Bowl sit alongside bold, flavour-forward plates including Spicy Guntur Chili Chicken, Yakhni Dum Pulao, and the deeply satisfying Bihari Lamb Curry, each dish designed to anchor long dinners that naturally extend into the night.

Desserts continue the narrative of nostalgia reimagined. Not a Mysore Pak offers a contemporary take on the classic sweet, while Thandai Milk Cake rounds off the experience with gentle spice and festive warmth, perfect for lingering conversations well past dinner.

The bar follows the same narrative-driven approach. Cocktails are expressive yet balanced, using Indian spices, berries, and indigenous ingredients in modern formats. From the masala tea inspired Himalayan Frost to the savoury, umami-led Caperoni, the drinks are crafted to complement the pace of the evening rather than dominate it. “Our cocktails move in rhythm with the night; they're meant to enhance the experience, not overpower it,” Naveen Prem, The Founder explains.

Music is the pulse of CAVORE, with curated DJ nights and live performances forming the backbone of its identity. Known for its emerging “clubsert” culture, the venue hosts everything from dinner shows and house sets to techno, jazz, retro, and Bollywood ensuring no two nights feel the same. “We want CAVORE to be known as the place where you discover great artists, not just a loud night out,” they add.

For Bengaluru’s nightlife veterans and first-time visitors alike, CAVORE is the kind of place you arrive at casually and end up staying far longer than planned. As Naveen Prem, The Founder puts it simply: “It’s not just a high-energy club. It’s an experience where food, music, and ambience shape how the night turns.”

About CAVORE:

CAVORE is a dining-first nightlife destination on Residency Road, Bengaluru, where food, music, and visual design come together as one immersive experience. Designed to evolve through the evening, the space transitions seamlessly from relaxed, dining-led hours to high-energy nights, anchored by India-forward cuisine, narrative-driven cocktails, and curated music programming.

Address: 5, Field Marshal Cariappa Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025

Price for two(approx.): INR 3000

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cavore_blr/ | @cavore_blr 

The Serai Resorts Announces Resumption of Safaris at Bandipur and Nagarhole (Kabini)

Karnataka | March 2026: The Serai Resorts announces the official resumption of wildlife safaris for guests at The Serai Bandipur, located in Bandipur National Park and The Serai Kabini, near Nagarhole National Park effective 22 February 2026, in line with the Ministry’s circular permitting reopening under revised operational guidelines.

Safari operations have recommenced at 50 percent capacity, while timings remain unchanged. Online bookings are temporarily unavailable, with reservations being coordinated offline in consultation with safari operators and Jungle Lodges & Resorts. All safaris are being conducted in strict adherence to the Supreme Court of India’s November 2025 directive, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) guidelines, and directions issued by the Karnataka Forest Department. Drivers have been instructed to maintain appropriate distances between vehicles to minimise ecological impact within the forest.

The reopening follows extensive coordination with forest authorities, conservation experts and local communities to facilitate a structured resumption. A technical committee constituted by the State Board for Wildlife undertook a carrying capacity audit during the closure period, resulting in defined daily visitor limits to safeguard sensitive habitats. Additional on-ground measures include strengthened boundary monitoring camps, community-led “Forest Friends” initiatives, removal of invasive Lantana camara to restore grasslands, servicing of artificial waterholes ahead of summer, and completion of fire line works to mitigate forest fire risks.

Updated visitor guidelines are in effect in accordance with the Supreme Court of India’s November 2025 directive and the Karnataka Forest Ministry’s February 2026 notification. The continued restriction on mobile phone usage during safaris aims to minimise ecological disturbance and encourage a more immersive wildlife experience.

Commenting on the resumption, Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said, “We are delighted that safaris have resumed and look forward to welcoming our guests to experience the remarkable wildlife of Bandipur and Nagarhole. We remain committed to responsible tourism that balances guest experience with conservation and community engagement. Every safari is not merely an exploration of the wilderness, but a meaningful step towards sustaining it for generations to come.”

The Serai Resorts continues to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that wildlife tourism in Karnataka evolves responsibly and sustainably.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Prachi Tandon, Group General Manager – Marketing & Communications | Prachi.tandon@theserai.in 

ABOUT THE SERAI RESORTS
The Serai Resorts, Karnataka's leading luxury boutique resort chain, offers destination inspired stays and experiences. Established close to two decades ago, the group is rooted in breath-taking destinations, The Serai unfolds across Chikmagalur’s lush coffee plantations, Kabini’s riverfront wilderness, and Bandipur’s iconic tiger reserve, offering journeys that weave nature with refined comfort. Today, The Serai Resorts embodies understated elegance, immersive storytelling, and a promise of unforgettable tranquil escapes.

The Serai Chikmagalur has been recognised as 'Best Staycation Resort in India' by Travel + Leisure.  

For more details, visit www.theserai.in , email at enquiries@theserai.in or call +91-80-48893964

Where Women’s Day Ends on a Sweet Note: Hunaaan Celebrates with a Complimentary Dessert

This Women’s Day, Hunaaan invites guests to celebrate the occasion with a relaxed, thoughtfully crafted dining experience at its Indiranagar restaurant. To mark the day, Hunaaan will be offering a complimentary dessert to all women diners, adding a small yet meaningful touch to the celebration. The gesture reflects the restaurant’s approach to Women’s Day, simple, sincere, and centred around good food and shared moments rather than spectacle.

At Hunaaan, Women’s Day is seen as an opportunity to acknowledge women in everyday spaces and routines. It’s a day that naturally lends itself to catching up with friends, stepping out with colleagues, or simply taking a moment for oneself. The restaurant’s calm, welcoming atmosphere allows guests to enjoy the day at their own pace, making it an easy choice for those looking to celebrate without formality. The complimentary dessert serves as a subtle nod to appreciation, woven seamlessly into the overall dining experience.

The food remains at the heart of the celebration, with a menu that showcases Hunaaan’s flavour-forward Pan-Asian identity. Guests can begin with the Avocado Garden Sushi, followed by favourites like Chicken Satay and BBQ Pork Spare Ribs. Mains such as the Chicken Thai Red Curry bring warmth and depth, while the signature Dragon Shrimp Hunaaan delivers bold, satisfying flavours. The meal can be rounded off with Hunaaan’s dessert offerings, which typically range from rich, chocolate-forward creations to lighter Asian-inspired finishes like crisp, golden darsaan paired with ice cream, comforting, indulgent touches that complete the experience.

Located in the heart of Indiranagar, Hunaaan is known for its contemporary take on Pan-Asian cuisine and thoughtfully designed interiors. With warm lighting, modern textures, and an inviting layout, the restaurant encourages lingering meals and easy conversations. Rooted in consistency, flavour, and atmosphere, Hunaaan continues to be a preferred dining destination for guests seeking Asian cuisine that feels both familiar and elevated.

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Unveils ‘Celebrating Her’ Limited-Period Spa Experience

This Women’s Day, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai celebrates women in a way that feels personal and thoughtful. Celebrating Her is a limited-period spa offering, available through the month of March, designed to honour the strength, warmth and resilience women bring into every space they step into.

Set within the tranquil surroundings of the hotel’s spa, the 150-minute experience is designed as dedicated time for herself. The journey begins with a gentle foot cleanse to settle the senses, followed by a 60-minute customised massage that focuses on easing tension and restoring balance. A personalised 60-minute facial follows, tailored to refresh the skin and enhance its natural glow. Mindful breathing and light stretches are incorporated through the treatment, ending with a nourishing ritual that leaves her feeling calm, restored and truly cared for.

“Women give so much of themselves every single day. This month is about recognising that and creating a space where they can simply pause, feel appreciated and focus on their own wellbeing”, says Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

Duration: 150 minutes
Price: INR 15,900 plus taxes per person
Reservations: +91 (22) 6982 8000

*Available all month long in March

Gurgaon Welcomes a New Luxury Wellness Address with 7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club

7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club opens in Gurgaon this February as a new destination for holistic wellness, bringing together fitness, recovery, and mindful living within a refined, luxury-led environment. Designed as a one-stop space for modern wellbeing, the club moves beyond the traditional gym format to offer a more considered experience - one shaped by community, intention, and elevated design.

Founded in 2022, 7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club was created for individuals who view fitness as a lifestyle rather than a routine. Conceived as a refined wellness destination, the club delivers a lush, immersive environment designed to encourage consistency, discipline, and long-term commitment to health.

The vision for the club belongs to Founder Mr. Ajeet Singh, a lifelong fitness enthusiast who recognised a shift in modern lifestyles — where luxury and experiential spaces increasingly influence everyday choices, while fitness often remains deprioritised. Believing that ambience inspires action, he envisioned a space that seamlessly blends world-class fitness with luxury aesthetics: a place people enjoy visiting, feel inspired by, and naturally return to, transforming fitness from an obligation into an experience.

The club has been conceived as an exclusive sanctuary for a close-knit community of like-minded individuals who view wellness as a shared lifestyle rather than an individual pursuit. Every element of the space has been thoughtfully curated to support a balanced approach to fitness and wellbeing, allowing members to pursue their personal journeys in an environment crafted with precision and care. Gurgaon was selected for its evolving lifestyle culture and infrastructure that supports a seamless, all-under-one-roof experience, bringing together fitness, wellness, café, parking, and essential amenities within a single destination.

Spanning 20,000 sq. ft., the club is organised around two complementary pillars - fitness and wellness, each offering a unique yet interconnected experience. One section is energised by movement, intensity, and motivation, while the other is designed for calm, restoration, and mindful recovery. This deliberate zoning allows members to move effortlessly between training and recovery, creating a natural rhythm that supports both performance and balance.

The fitness experience is powered by Technogym, the globally recognised Italian brand known for its technologically advanced equipment and its ‘Wellness Lifestyle’ philosophy. The club features a connected ecosystem of smart machines, digital platforms, and apps, supporting immersive, guided workouts across strength training, cardio, functional training, and a dedicated spinning studio equipped with Technogym bikes. BioStrength machines guide movement safely and efficiently, supporting full-range motion aligned with correct biomechanics and making training effective across different fitness levels.

Personalisation is supported through the Technogym Body Composition Analyzer, an advanced AI-driven assessment tool that delivers a holistic body check in seconds. The system analyses strength, posture, mobility, metabolism, cognition, and wellness age, and integrates with the Technogym App to enable real-time adjustments to individual training programmes.

The club integrates physical fitness with mental wellbeing, mindfulness, and recovery through a wide range of offerings. Group classes, including Dance, CrossFit, Kickboxing, Sculpt, and more, encourage motivation and community engagement, while yoga flow sessions and breath-focused practices support mental clarity and stress reduction. Recovery facilities include infrared red light therapy saunas, rock salt hammam steam rooms, and chilled showers designed to reduce inflammation and support physical rejuvenation.

Each member begins with a comprehensive individual assessment conducted by certified trainers, focusing on fitness levels, goals, and specific body requirements. Based on these insights, personalised programmes are created that integrate training, nutrition, and recovery for balanced and sustainable results. All trainers hold globally recognised certifications in exercise science, nutrition, and physical therapy, with equal emphasis placed on personalised service, motivation, and member-centric care.

Café 7 serves as the club’s in-house wellness café and lounge, designed as a calm, inviting space where nutrition and lifestyle come together. The café extends the wellness journey beyond training and recovery, reinforcing the idea that fitness, nutrition, and mindset function best as part of everyday life rather than isolated routines.

7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club is exclusively accessible to members and will operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, and from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays. 

Membership enquiries can be directed to +91 76007-00002.

Top 5 destinations in Delhi for the ultimate Holi food experience

Delhi is filled with colourful sights, sound and smell during Holi! The city truly represents an amazing culinary melting pot and has so many different types of festival foods celebrating cooking traditions from all over India including traditional gujiya and thandai-style sweets and drinks, and many more indulgent regional delicacies. You’ll want to celebrate your colour-filled day with a fantastic meal after spending time outside in the spring sun. Check these out: Here are the five best places in Delhi for the best Holi food experience!

Haldiram’s:  Haldiram's 2026 theme "Holi Ab Hui Na: Iconic Gulal Aur Gujiya Jodi" - is the ultimate food experience for Holi in Delhi. The celebration is about togetherness and indulgence with a variety of curated products & hampers, as well as their signature GUJIYA line which includes the Kesar Gujiya (flavoured with saffron), and the Coconut Dry Fruit Gujiya (filled with coconut and dry fruit). All of the Gujiya products feature premium ingredients and traditional methods of preparation in order to provide the true Holi experience through the use of vibrant colours and nostalgic images. When served with chilled Thandai, this will complete your Holi experience.

Location: Haldiram's Restaurant Outlets Across North Delhi 

Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners: Chaina Ram Sindhi Halawai, an essential destination for indulging in generous quantities of sweets during the Holi festival is located in Delhi. Having been established in 1901, this legendary sweet maker has developed their expertise to create traditional mithai using ghee only. One of their most popular items is the Karachi Halwa, which has a chewy texture and glossy finish with bits of dry fruit that have made it a holiday favourite for many years. All the items they create are Balu Shahi, Doda Barfi, Pateesa, Motipak, and large laddoos, which will put you into an ecstatic mood. Be sure to be first in line to sample one of their hearty breakfasts of Halwa-Puri-Aloo; and don't forget to take home some Sindhi Gheyar, Mitha Samosa, or Gujiya to enjoy while celebrating Holi.

Location: 6499, Katra Bariyan, Fatehpuri, Chandni Chowk, Delhi

Bikanervala: Bikanervala is the place in Delhi to search out a fabulous Holi feast! This well-known Indian sweets shop assembles colourful Holi baskets of traditional sweetmeats, including gujia, aromatic thandai and different kinds of sweets, and can usually include festive gulal also. Their most popular Holi baskets are the Gujia Thal, Saffron Splash, and Thandai Tradition that make wonderful gifts for family and friends. In addition to the Holi baskets, their display cases are filled with traditional laddoos, barfis, rasgullas, savoury namkeens, and bhaji boxes which can be used for entertaining at home or simply to spoil yourself during the holiday!

Location: Rajiv Gandhi Handicraft Bhawan, Baba Kharak Singh Rd, opposite Hanuman Mandir, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

Giani’s Di Hatti: Every Holi food trail in the capital city of Delhi is incomplete without visiting Giani’s Di Hatti (Chandni Chowk), an institution that has served up some of the best traditional North Indian sweets for decades. After your vibrant colour explosion, enjoy a refreshing bowl of their world-famous Rabri Falooda or a cold glass of sweet Badam Milk. All of these delectable dishes are extremely rich, creamy, nostalgic and festive and represent the old-world charm that goes along with the celebration of Holi in our nation’s capital.

Location: Bagh Deewar, Katra Ghel, Fatehpuri, Chandni Chowk, Delhi, 110006

OM sweets: Om's Sweets has long been a leading supplier of sweet dishes for the festival of Holi. This year an exceptional selection is available for you, featuring traditional favourites such as crunchy coconut gujiya, golden jalebi right from the frying pan and a variety of colourful namkeen mixtures. The drinkable, refreshing, and flavourful syrup selected by Om's will give you everything you need to share the colours of the festival with your family and friends. All of our products are sure to bring out the spirit of Holi through their combination of old-fashioned and new flavours. For ease and completeness, you can purchase all of Om's sweets in a variety of packaged container options, making it easy for you to bring the colours, sweetness, and joy of this year's festival into your house.

Location: GL - 23, SHAHEED BHAGAT SINGH MARG, Jail Rd, Hari Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 

Make your Holi celebrations in Delhi complete with out-of-this-world culinary experiences! You'll find a variety of sweet treats and regional dishes from around the country that will bring together all the delightful tastes of your favourite festival. 

Introducing Sweeney - Where Home Recipes Meet Modern Craft A Home for Thai & European Cuisine, Rediscovered & Reimagined

Born out of extensive research, return visits, and time spent in kitchens that rarely call themselves restaurants, Sweeney brings together home-style Thai and European cooking in a way that feels both deeply familiar and newly alive. This food is shaped by memory, repetition and care - recipes rediscovered from homes, preserved with respect, and reimagined for the table today.

At Sweeney, “home” is not a concept; it is the starting point. From Southern and Northern Thai households, where meals revolve around shared pots, rice, and instinctive balance, to Italian kitchens of nonnas, where food is cooked slowly, generously, and without performance, every dish begins with how food is truly lived with. The menu reflects months of immersion into domestic kitchens — not as nostalgia, but as living practice.

Sharing her vision, Malaika Arora says, “Sweeney is the taste of comfort - the flavours I return to wherever I am in the world. It’s a second home that feels warm, instinctive and lived-in — where you arrive hungry, stay longer than planned, and leave feeling quietly looked after.”

Dhaval Udeshi adds, “Sweeney was built through research and return — understanding how food is actually cooked at home, and how craft is learned at the bar. It preserves what deserves protection, while actively building the next generation of talent.”

The kitchen is rooted in domestic Thai traditions - bold, coconut-rich Southern flavours layered with turmeric and fermented pastes, alongside the gentler, herb-forward warmth of Northern Lanna cuisine. Complementing this is an intimate European narrative, beginning with Italian home cooking - olive-oil-rich preparations, slow-simmered sauces, handmade pastas - gently extended with subtle French refinement and Mexican warmth. The result is a menu of curries built for sharing, herb-laced grills, rice-led plates, slow-cooked meats, and pastas that comfort rather than perform - dishes that impress as a consequence, not an intention.

Chef Ravraj Singh Chandok shares, “The focus is on preservation and reinvention — carrying these home-style dishes forward with care, technique, and intention.”
If the kitchen looks to inheritance, the bar looks to the future. Designed as a women-led platform and exchange programme, the bar functions as an incubator for bartenders of tomorrow. Led by Beverage Director Fay Barretto, the drinks programme is anchored in modern classics, precision, balance, and discipline - where learning happens during service, under pressure, behind the counter. Each cycle, one drink is quietly entrusted to a bartender in becoming, held to the same uncompromising standard as the rest.

The space mirrors this philosophy — a slow reveal of sage green interiors, layered natural textures, warm shifting light, intimate dining pockets, and a seamless alfresco extension. It is calm yet alive, refined yet welcoming.Sweeney does not rush you. It offers consistency, quiet confidence, and food that tastes as it should.

The kitchen remembers.
The bar becomes.

Sweeney is where home cooking is honoured and craft is built for the future.

Hunaaan Marks Lunar New Year with a Festive Menu Inspired by Tradition and Togetherness

Hunaaan, a contemporary Pan-Asian dining destination known for its flavour-led approach, welcomes the Lunar New Year with a thoughtfully curated menu that reflects the essence of tradition, renewal, and shared celebration. Available from 17th February to 3rd March, the special menu marks a time-honoured festival observed across Asia as the beginning of the lunar calendar, Rocsymbolising fresh beginnings, prosperity, and meaningful gatherings around food. Embracing this spirit, Hunaaan presents a festive menu designed for communal dining, where time-honoured symbolism meets modern Pan-Asian craftsmanship.

For the season, Hunaaan reimagines Lunar New Year dining through a carefully curated spread that balances comfort, cultural significance, and contemporary flair. The menu draws inspiration from dishes traditionally associated with luck and abundance, interpreted through Hunaaan’s signature lens of bold flavours, premium ingredients, and refined presentation. The result is a celebratory offering that feels indulgent yet familiar, crafted for families and friends coming together to mark the occasion.

The Lunar New Year menu features highlights such as Edamame Truffle Dumplings, Chicken Pouch Dumplings, and soft, flavour-packed baos like the Kung Pao Tofu Open Bao. The feast is anchored by celebratory mains including Blue Truffle Edamame & Corn Fried Rice and Fried Whole White Pomfret with Thai Basil Chilli Sauce, with the whole fish traditionally symbolising abundance and prosperity. A classic Daarsan with Salted Caramel Ice Cream rounds off the experience on a sweet, festive note.

At its core, Hunaaan is a modern Pan-Asian dining space that champions regional Asian flavours through a contemporary, lifestyle-driven lens. With its vibrant ambience, thoughtfully designed interiors, and a menu built around shared experiences, the restaurant has positioned itself as a destination for celebratory dining. This Lunar New Year, Hunaaan offers guests a setting that seamlessly blends culture, flavour, and modern hospitality, making it a natural choice for ringing in the season with style and substance

Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Awareness Session to Reinforce Readiness and Strengthen India Market Engagement

Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Awareness Session in New Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai To Reinforce Readiness and Strengthen India Market Engagement

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) successfully conducted a Sri Lanka Tourism Awareness Session in New Delhi on 7 January, Mumbai on the 8 January and Chennai on the 9th January 2026, aimed at reaffirming Sri Lanka’s readiness to welcome visitors and strengthening tourism ties with the Indian travel trade and media.

An Awareness Session on Sri Lanka Tourism was successfully conducted in New Delhi, aimed at informing the Indian travel trade and media on Sri Lanka’s readiness to welcome visitors. The session was represented by Her Excellency Mahishini Colonne, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to New Delhi, Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman, and Ms. Shirani Herath, Assistant Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), Mr. Nalin Jayasundera, the President of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), Mr. Anura Lokuhetty, the Past President of The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL), and Mr. Fawzan Fareid, the Regional Manager – India, Bangladesh & Nepal of SriLankan Airlines. Ms. Priyanga Wickremasinghe, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, while the Chennai session was attended by H.E. Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Chennai.

The distinguished panel shared valuable insights on destination readiness, connectivity, accommodation capacity, and collaborative opportunities between Sri Lanka and the Indian travel trade. The discussion reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to the Indian market, highlighting enhanced air connectivity, diverse tourism offerings, and close public–private sector collaboration. The interactive Q&A session further addressed trade and media queries, reinforcing confidence and strengthening partnerships to drive tourist arrivals from India.

Darjeeling Tops Agoda's List of Most Searched Domestic Destinations in North-East for Oct-Dec 2025

Cherrapunji, Pelling, and Kalimpong are also enjoying increased domestic interest
 

National,December 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed its latest insights into domestic travel interest to India’s North-East. Darjeeling (West Bengal) emerging as the most searched destination in the region on Agoda for the period of October to December 2025. The picturesque hill station, Gangtok (Sikkim) in second, and Shillong (Meghalaya) in third, together form the top trio of destinations in the region, drawing travellers with their scenic beauty and unique cultural experiences.  

The data, based on accommodation searches made on Agoda by Indians between July and September 2025, underscores the appeal of these hill stations as quintessential retreats for domestic travelers in the holiday season. 

Following the top 3 closely are Guwahati (Assam) and Siliguri (West Bengal) in the fourth and fifth spot, respectively. Guwahati's lively city life and Siliguri's strategic location as a gateway to the region make them integral parts of many travel itineraries.  

To underline the growing popularity of India’s North-East, smaller towns like Cherrapunji (Meghalaya), Pelling (Sikkim), and Kalimpong (West Bengal) are also drawing increased attention from domestic travelers. Cherrapunji offers lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls, Pelling provides breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, and Kalimpong delights with vibrant flower markets and colonial architecture. These hidden gems are also enriching the North-East travel experience with their quaint offerings. 

Commenting on the trend, Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, “It's great to witness travellers embracing the diverse landscapes of India, in this case the North-East. The region's natural beauty and serenity captivate those seeking both popular and quaint experiences. In recent years, many accommodation providers, including hotels, hostels, and non-hotel accommodations like villas, serviced apartments, and homestays, have partnered with Agoda to capture the growing interest from domestic and inbound travelers alike. I would encourage any hotelier or other accommodation provider, big or small, that isn’t listed on Agoda yet to take advantage of our easy 30-minute onboarding program to ensure they aren’t missing out.” 

With over 130,000 flight routes, more than 6 million holiday properties, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers flexible options and deals to help travelers discover destinations that suit their plans and preferences. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app and visit Agoda.com to plan the perfect year-end trips.   

Gen Z lead the travel wave in 2025 with 650% growth in travel bookings

Gen Z lead the travel wave in 2025 with 650% growth in travel bookings - enough to crowd every café, co-working space, and sunset spot across India

National, December 2025: If there’s one thing that defined travel in 2025, it was the shift towards smarter, value-led choices without compromising on fun. Cleartrip Unpacked 2025* year-end travel report reveals that travellers leaned heavily into affordable stays, mobile-first bookings, and flexible plans.

Flavour of the Year: Affordability, Gen Z and Value

At the heart of this year’s shift was Gen Z. With a staggering 650% growth in travel bookings, they didn’t just travel more but travelled differently. Their trips were spontaneous, vibe-driven, and unapologetically experience-first. From skyline selfies in Dubai to street food crawls in Kuala Lumpur and late nights in Bangkok, these destinations emerged as the most “bussin’” spots of the year. Millennials, meanwhile, weren’t far behind. Borrowing cues from Gen Z’s mobile habits 65% of bookings this year were made on the Cleartrip phone app. Also, over 65% of the bookings were made for budget and mid range hotels from a wide catalogue of affordable and value stays on Cleartrip.

A Dive into How India Travelled

2025 was also the year Indians expanded their travel map. Vietnam emerged as the breakout international destination, clocking a 133% jump in traffic. Closer home, spiritual and nature-led travel continued to rise, with Varanasi and the Andaman Islands seeing a steady 20% growth in interest.

Uttar Pradesh** was the most visited in 2025, with a rise in stay searches for Prayagraj (3x) and Bareilly (4x). Solo travel gained serious momentum, with Delhi and Bengaluru leading the pack. Delhi saw strong movement towards Himachal Pradesh, Jaipur and Agra, while Bengaluru saw Coorg, Ooty and Kodaikanal. The two work hubs anchored by tech parks and business travel, also doubled as leisure gateways.

Phuket, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok stood out as the most popular international destinations. A major driver of international confidence was Cleartrip’s Visa Rejection Cover. At the same time, niche travel trends quietly picked up steam. When travellers wanted ‘Calm over Kaam,’ they chose Calmcations in Rishikesh, Coorg and Alleppey. Those blending work with wanderlust headed to Goa, Pondicherry and Darjeeling for Workations. And for anyone craving a break from screens, Spiti, the Andamans and Ladakh became go-to digital detox escapes. Adventure Junkies, meanwhile, flocked to Bir Billing, Lakshadweep and Auli.

Quirky, Unhinged Travellers and the Chaos They Packed Along the Way

If the numbers from 2025 prove anything, it’s that Indian travellers truly did things their own way. Some planned nearly a year in advance by booking stays 361 days ahead in Chikkamagaluru and 350 days ahead in Ribandar, Goa. Others preferred the thrill of the moment, with 38 lakh flight bookings made within 48 hours of departure.

Late-night planners were out in full force too. Around 3 lakh people booked flights between 3 and 4 AM - enough to fill 353 Airbus A380s, the world’s largest commercial aircraft. Long stays became a thing, with one traveller booking a 30-day hotel stay in Bengaluru and another spending 29 days straight in Kolkata.

Then came the extremes. The cheapest flight of the year cost ₹0, while the most affordable hotel night was just ₹48. This is proof that deal-hunting is an art form. On the other end, travellers weren’t shy about splurging either; ₹2.4 lakh for a Delhi–Guwahati flight, ₹4.43 lakh for Paris–Mumbai, and a ₹4.41 lakh hotel stay in the Maldives (we’re guessing a forgotten anniversary was involved). Someone even spent ₹65,000 just on excess baggage flying from Ghaziabad to Bengaluru.

Taken together, 2025 was a year where India travelled with personality. They were spontaneous yet thoughtful, budget-aware yet indulgent, and always ready to chase the next experience. 2026 is going to be challenging and exciting, and we cannot wait!

“Where Christmas Looks Like a Hallmark Movie—Snow Included’’ (A Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Special)

There’s Christmas and then there’s a white Christmas.
The kind the movies promised us: snowflakes swirling like confetti, storybook markets glowing under fairy lights, the smell of mulled wine drifting across cobbled squares. And this year, Indians aren’t just dreaming of it, they're booking it.

Pickyourtrail data shows a rising appetite for winter-wonderland escapes (7-8%), with travellers trading beach breaks for hot chocolate weather, twinkling town squares, and the world’s most iconic Christmas markets.

So, if your festive spirit loves drama, reindeer energy, and the kind of cold that makes every photograph editorial, these five Pickyourtrail-approved white-Christmas escapes are your golden ticket to the season’s most magical corner of the world.

1. Vienna, Austria — A Christmas Waltz in Real Time

Vienna doesn’t just celebrate Christmas, it curates it. Think imperial architecture dusted with snow, orchestras tuning up for holiday season concerts, and the kind of Christmas markets that feel lifted straight out of folklore.

Don’t Miss:
• Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt — oversized ornaments, gingerbread stalls, and Europe’s prettiest skating rink.
• Schönbrunn Palace Market — handmade crafts worthy of heirloom status.
• Hot Kaiserschmarrn (Austrian shredded pancakes) by lantern light.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:
Easy connections via Dubai/Doha, a calendar full of winter concerts, and markets that stay open till New Year’s week. Add Vienna’s polished charm and it becomes the “Paris of winter”  minus the chaos.

(We have seen a high rise on Vienna bookings 5-7% from India)

2. Lucerne, Switzerland  Snow. Scenery. Swiss Perfection.

If there’s a place that makes winter feel cinematic, it’s Lucerne. The Chapel Bridge framed by snowy rooftops, Lake Lucerne mirroring alpine peaks, and Christmas markets glowing against the crisp Swiss air it’s the holiday fantasy done right.

Between snowy day trips up Pilatus or Rigi, Lucerne turns into a real-life snow globe  with powdery slopes, panoramic Alpine views, and Christmas concerts at KKL that feel almost cinematic. And when you drift through Old Town with a molten raclette plate in hand, the whole place feels like Switzerland’s answer to a holiday fairy tale.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:
Switzerland is India’s winter obsession. Pickyourtrail sees high demand for Lucerne + Interlaken combos every December. Trains run like clockwork, snow is guaranteed, and the experience is pure-feeling luxury.

3. Prague, Czech Republic  -Where Fairytales Freeze Over Beautifully

Prague in December is a mood: gothic towers, cobblestone streets, and a Christmas market that’s regularly ranked among the world’s best. Add powdery snow and you get Europe’s most photogenic holiday city.

Prague’s winter spell is strongest in Old Town Square, where the Christmas market fills the air with mulled wine, chimney cakes, and live carols drifting between glowing wooden stalls. Sunrise on Charles Bridge light snow settling over statues and spires feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting, while nightfall turns the castle district molten gold. It’s the kind of winter magic that disappears the moment January arrives, which is exactly why travellers rush to catch Prague at its frost-kissed best.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:

Prague delivers luxury-on-a-budget, making it a favourite for families and first-time Europe trips. 

4. Helsinki, Finland — A Shortcut to Santa’s Home

Finland is for travellers who want their Christmas with a dash of Nordic whimsy. Helsinki glitters under its winter coat, and Lapland’s Santa Village is just a flight away.

Helsinki’s festive charm starts at the iconic Tuomaan Markkinat, the city’s beloved Christmas Market where wooden stalls brim with Nordic crafts, spiced glögi, and winter-warm delicacies. Many travellers use the city as a stylish launchpad for a day trip to Rovaniemi, home of Santa Claus Village, a place where snow-dusted pines, reindeer trails, and childhood nostalgia come together effortlessly. And then there’s the Finnish sauna tradition, the ultimate winter reset; stepping from a steaming cedar room into crisp Arctic air feels like the kind of ritual only December can justify.

 Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:

December is peak Northern Lights season  Pickyourtrail travellers increasingly pair Helsinki with Lapland (30 % growth in aurora packages). It’s an Arctic fantasy but surprisingly accessible via overnight hops.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark — Christmas, But Make It Hygge

Copenhagen is cosy like no other city on the planet. Tivoli Gardens turns into a glittering wonderland, cafés serve hot chocolate that feels like a weighted blanket for the soul, and the entire city glows in amber tones.

Copenhagen wears Christmas like couture. Tivoli Gardens turns into a glitter-drenched fantasy world, where every corner feels like a scene you’ll want to save forever. Down by the harbour, Nyhavn glows under strings of fairy lights, making even a simple stroll feel festive. And when the cold begins to nip, nothing beats warming up with hot æbleskiver and a cup of gløgg from a traditional stall comfort disguised as dessert. 

It’s the kind of December magic that refuses to be recreated anywhere else.

Why It’s a Pickyourtrail White-Christmas Pick:
Scandinavia is trending with affluent urban travellers Pickyourtrail data shows a spike in Nordic winter requests (8%). Copenhagen blends accessibility with a refined winter aesthetic that feels fashion editorial-worthy.

Some holidays come and go.

A white Christmas stays  in photographs, in retellings, in that strange shimmer of nostalgia only snow can create.

And this year, those snow-drenched squares and fairy-lit markets aren’t just for movie sets. They’re within reach and Indians are claiming them in record numbers which is 30%. Of them wanting to experience a white christmas. 

With Pickyourtrail curating the season’s most magical itineraries from Vienna’s orchestral glow to Finland’s aurora nights, travellers aren’t just flying out; they’re stepping into the December they’ve always wanted.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to trade noisy parties for snowflakes, to swap mall lights for Christmas markets, to say “this year, I did something different”  this is it. Because snowfall waits for no one, and the best December stories are the ones you don’t postpone.