skyscanner travel and destinations expert

Maharashtra is establishing six Destination Management Organisations to boost its global tourism competitiveness. This initiative, part of the World Bank-funded MahaSTRIDE program, aims to professionally manage and sustain the state's diverse tourism potential, from heritage to wildlife. The focus is on creating experience-driven ecosystems that benefit local communities and enhance visitor experiences, marking a significant step in coordinated tourism development.

Amid the push to cut non-essential foreign travel, domestic destinations offering similar scenic escapes and leisurely stays, are seeing renewed interest

Discover Okunevo, Siberia's coldest Hindu village, where Sanskrit chants and yoga are practiced in sub-zero temperatures. This remote hamlet, influenced by Hindu movements, hosts ashrams and temples, attracting spiritual seekers globally. Travelers can experience a unique cultural contrast, especially during the milder summer months.

Venezuela's Canaima National Park offers a journey to a land time forgot, with towering tepuis inspiring 'The Lost World' and 'Up'. These isolated table-top mountains harbor unique ecosystems, acting as living laboratories for evolution. Below, vast savannas teem with giants like jaguars and harpy eagles, while Angel Falls, the world's tallest waterfall, provides a breathtaking spectacle.

Summer Vacations

India braces for extreme weather as IMD forecasts severe heatwaves in the north and central regions, while southern and northeastern states anticipate heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Tourist hotspots face disruptions from flooding, landslides, and rough seas, urging travelers to remain flexible and monitor advisories closely.

The India Meteorological Department has issued orange alerts for severe heatwaves across several states, with conditions expected to persist in central India until month-end. Temperatures are forecast to remain significantly above normal, with some regions exceeding 45°C, posing risks of heat illness. Travelers are advised to take precautions and avoid peak afternoon exposure.

Social media has transformed travel from personal journeys to content-driven experiences, leading to 'over-tourism' and the loss of authentic charm in once-quiet destinations. While viral trends offer new opportunities for local economies, they also create chaos and environmental strain. The challenge now is to balance digital inspiration with genuine exploration.

Klook India's summer initiative shines a spotlight on filmmaker Farah Khan and chef Dilip as they embark on an exploratory adventure through Singapore. Their journey encourages Indian travelers to discover the hidden gems and real local culture that lie just off the beaten path.

Indian tourists face a challenging week with extreme weather predicted nationwide. Northeast and South India will see heavy rainfall and potential flooding, while North and Central India grapple with severe heatwaves. Travelers are advised to remain flexible, monitor local forecasts, and adjust plans accordingly.

IRCTC launches its first Bharat Gaurav tourist train to Nepal, connecting India to iconic destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park. This 9-night, 10-day "Pashupatinath Nepal Darshan Yatra" from Indore offers an all-inclusive cultural and spiritual experience, boosting tourism ties. Bookings are now open for this unique cross-border journey.

Fuel prices in India have surged by approximately ₹3 per litre, impacting travellers with rising costs for road trips and daily commutes. This hike is attributed to global crude oil price increases driven by West Asian geopolitical tensions. Travellers are advised to plan smarter by opting for trains, metros, EVs, carpooling, and shorter trips to mitigate increased fuel expenses.