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India has recently introduced a visa-on-arrival program for travellers from Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. The program is applicable for tourism, business, conferences, and medical purposes and is currently available at six airports in India: Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai. It's important to note that only nationals of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE who had previously obtained an e-Visa or regular paper visa for India are eligible for the on-arrival visas. The visa will be valid for 60 days, and travellers can make up to two trips to trips to India during that period.   There are specific rules for UAE nationals, and certain regulations apply to all eligible travellers, including the restriction on individuals with ties to Pakistan, the ineligibility of holders of Diplomatic/Official passports, and the non-extendable and non-convertible nature of the visa-on-arrival.   Japanese, South Korean, and UAE nationals are required to fill out an application form (Annexure I) to avail of the visa-on-arrival and are advised to download, print, and fill out the form before presenting it to the Visa Officer on arrival. Additionally, the physical form will be available on board the flight with the airline.   For UAE nationals, the Visa-on-Arrival Scheme applies to those who had previously obtained an e-visa or regular/paper visa for India. First-time visitors and Pakistan- Origin UAE nationals are advised to apply for e-visa or regular/paper visa and may not be eligible for the Visa-on-Arrival Scheme.   It's important to be aware of these terms and conditions if you are planning to travel to India under this new visa program.

In September, India offers a range of captivating natural experiences, from the breathtaking blooms in the Valley of Flowers to the scenic Ziro Festival of Music. September marks the tail-end of monsoon in some regions and the onset of colder weather in others, making it a perfect time for travellers to explore the diverse landscapes of India. The coolest destination to visit in September is Ladakh, particularly for those seeking a memorable road trip. The road to Leh from Manali takes travellers through stunning landscapes , including the majestic Rohtang Pass, small local villages, and monasteries. Additionally, the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is a must-visit for its picturesque blooms including orchids, poppies, and daisies. This enchanting location is situated in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is explored via moderate hiking routes and offers guesthouse and camping options. Finally, the Ziro Festival of Music in Arunachal Pradesh is a unique outdoor music event celebrated in India's independent music scene. Set amidst lush valleys, the festival features a diverse lineup of musicians and offers workshops on various art forms such as yoga, meditation, and indigenous instruments. This year's festival is scheduled from September 26th to 29th and promises a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.

Uttarakhand and Sikkim issue new tourism mandates to ensure sustainability and cleanliness. If your next trip to the mountains, it's important to remember to bring a new travel essential - a garbage bag. Many popular tourist destinations in India are implementing new regulations to maintain and promote environmental sustainability. Here are some of the Indian states that have introduced new mandates to ensure ecotourism. Sikkim The government of Sikkim has mandated that all tourist vehicles entering the state must carry large garbage bags to promote environmental sustainability. Tour operators, travel agencies, and vehicle drivers must inform tourists of these new rules, and random vehicle checks will be held to ensure compliance.   Uttarakhand This place has mandated the presence of dustbins and garbage bags in all vehicles entering the state. Vehicle owners must also present necessary documents when obtaining a car online or at a state entry point to help eliminate curbside littering.   Himachal Pradesh The Himachal Pradesh High Court has recommended that tourists carry dustbins or garbage bags while travelling and aims to implement a waste management charge for non-compliance. Additionally, the state plans to create dry waste storage facilities and conduct training programs for local bodies on waste segregation and material recovery.

When travelling to Europe from India, there are several essential items you may want to consider bringing along to ensure a comfortable and convenient trip. These items can help you navigate different cultural practices, maintain personal comfort, and be prepared for various situations. Here are some essential items to consider bringing from India on your next trip to Europe: 1 Hajmola: This digestive aid can be handy when adjusting to different types of cuisine, particularly in places where heavy meals may be prevalent. 2. Samahan: This Ayurvedic tea sachet can help soothe a sore throat or congestion, which can be particularly useful during long flights or when exposed to new environments. 3. Spice: Pocket-sized hot sauce or trial packs of pickles and chutneys can help add a familiar flavor to your meals in regions where the cuisine may be less spicy than what you're accustomed to. 4. Snacks: Packing familiar snacks from India can be helpful, especially when traveling to areas with limited dining options or during times when many establishments may be closed. 5. Neck fans: Staying cool can be important, especially during hot summer days. Consider bringing a portable neck fan for personal comfort in warm weather. 6. Ayurvedic sunscreens and moisturizers: Natural skincare products from India can provide sun protection and hydration while being gentle on the skin. 7. Breathable clothing: Lightweight and breathable fabrics from India can be comfortable choices for hot and humid weather in Europe. 8. Fanny packs: Using a fanny pack can help keep your belongings secure and easily accessible, especially in areas known for pickpocketing incidents. 9. Gamcha: This versatile towel from Assam can be used for various purposes, such as drying off at the beach or as a makeshift picnic blanket. By considering these essential items, you can better prepare for your travels in Europe and have a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Discover some of  Italy 's most breathtaking road trip routes that offer much more than just a way to get from one place to another. Image source Medium Start with a journey from Palermo to Sicil y , passing through Trapani, Agrigento, Ragusa, Modica, Noto, and Taormina, before exploring the Aeolian islands . Another enticing drive takes you from Lausanne to Milan , winding through the Alps and the charming villages of Chexbres and Stresa. Finally, embark on a scenic tour around  Franciscan monasteries , Etruscan castles, and medieval hamlets in Tuscany, with opportunities to explore the countryside and sample local delicacies.

While many travellers use Chandigarh as a transit point on their way to the Himalayas, the city boasts many remarkable restaurants that deserve attention. Chandigarh's food scene has evolved dramatically, moving beyond classic Indian and Chinese eateries to include a variety of cuisines, dining formats, and unique aesthetics. Here’s a guide to some of the best restaurants in Chandigarh, offering everything from pan-Asian and Italian dishes to vegan options and Mughlai delights. How We Choose the Best Restaurants in Chandigarh These restaurants have been independently chosen by the writer and the editors at CNT, who are familiar with the area and have personally dined at these establishments. The list includes a mix of fine dining and iconic affordable restaurants that offer excellent food, good service, and memorable experiences. This list will be updated regularly as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve. Back To Source Back To Source features brutalist yet warm interiors inspired by Chandigarh's mid-century origins. This restaurant prides itself on using consciously sourced ingredients and offers a twist on classic Indian fare, along with a boulangerie that bakes sourdough, focaccia, and gluten-free keto buns. It’s a great place for brunch, where you can start with a classic margarita or an artisanal coffee. Popular dishes include gucchi pulao and mutton beetroot kosha, as well as lighter options like grilled fish and chicken pepper fry with appam. Located in Sector-17's main shopping arcade, it’s perfect for a meal during the winter months when you can sit on the balcony and enjoy the view of Chandigarh’s distinctive architecture. Cottage Cottage, with its stone, slate, glass, and wood exteriors, replicates the feel of a country chalet. The warm, cosy nooks, colonial-inspired design, and excellent food make it a favorite among locals. The menu offers a mix of Middle Eastern, English, French, and Indian dishes. Some popular choices are the kaffir lime chicken and lamb hummus. The restaurant's open backyard, with limited outdoor seating and a stone-clad fireplace, is perfect for a winter evening meal. Virgin Courtyard Virgin Courtyard, with its Mediterranean-style, all-white Grecian interiors, has been a popular spot in Chandigarh for over a decade. Known for its focus on Italian cuisine and easygoing ambi e nce, it’s a reliable choice for comfort food like Margherita pizzas, pasta, and appetizing starters paired with wine. It’s a favourite for date nights and family meals, offering tasty yet familiar dishes in a cosy, candlelit setting.

As the monsoon is arriving in many countries, all tourists driving into the hills of the Nilgiris and  Kodaikanal require an e-pass to enter for the next few months travelling to Kodaikanal or Ooty  soon for a rainy gateway. Don't forget to carry this important document. Early in May, the Tamil Nadu government announced that tourists looking to drive into the state's hill stations between 7 May and 30 June would require an e-pass to enter. The official portal to apply for these e-passes was launched at 6 am on 6 May, allowing interested tourists to prepare for their trips in advance. The Madras High Court has now extended the e-pass requirement in hill stations like Kodaikanal and Ooty until 30 September. Here's what you need to know about the new e-pass: This order was initially issued by a division bench of the Madras High Court to regulate the entry of vehicles to hill stations like Ooty in the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal, given the large entry of tourists these areas see during peak seasons. The rule is valid from 6 May to 30 September 2024. To regulate the entry of vehicles to popular hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, an e-pass system has been implemented. This system aims to collect data on the number of vehicles and tourists entering these areas, as well as the duration of their stay. The information gathered will be used for future infrastructural planning and to determine the carrying capacity of the ghat roads leading to these hill stations. E-passes are mandatory for tourists driving into the Nilgiris, including Ooty, and Kodaikanal during the designated period. Local residents and tourists arriving via government buses are exempt from this requirement. The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to March, with December and January offering slightly cooler temperatures. During the summer months from April to June, visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities. From July to September, the hill station is lush and green due to the rainy season, adding a romantic touch to the surroundings. Travellers planning to visit Kodaikanal or Ooty between May 6 and September 30 can apply for an e-pass on the official website epass.tnega.org . The e-pass will require information such as the number of passengers, vehicle and fuel type, date of entry and exit, purpose of visit, and address. The e-pass will feature a QR code that will be checked at entry points in Kodaikanal and Ooty.

August in India is a time of dramatic skies and frequent downpours. While many prefer to stay cosy indoors, there's a whole world of adventure waiting for those willing to brave the rain. From trekking lush mountains to experiencing unique monsoon delicacies, here are seven fantastic places to visit in India during August. Goa Monsoon season is in full swing in Goa during July and August, transforming the state into a lush, green paradise. With cheaper flight and hotel rates, it's the perfect time for a budget-friendly getaway. Maharashtra For those seeking a rainy trek, Maharashtra’s Western Ghats offer several exciting options. The Devkund Waterfall trek starts at Bhira Dam and takes you through dense forests and rocky paths, culminating in a stunning 80-foot waterfall. The trek lasts three to four hours and is best enjoyed in August. For a more challenging hike, try the Kalsubai peak trek in Igatpuri. This six-hour trek involves traversing farmlands and a steep ascent with steel railings and ladders. Many trekkers camp at the peak to enjoy stargazing and a breathtaking sunrise. Jaipur, Rajasthan Monsoon cools down Jaipur, making it the perfect time to explore the majestic Amer Fort and enjoy views of Maota Lake. The city celebrates Teej on August 7th, with vibrant fairs, traditional songs, and people dressed in embroidered clothes and jewellery, praying to goddess Parvati. The Galtaji Temple, located in the Aravalli hills, offers another serene spot to explore during the rains.

Discover the most exclusive dining experiences in Delhi where rooftop restaurants offer breathtaking views of the city's stunning monuments and lush urban forests. Imagine enjoying a romantic meal or wining and dining your guests with the best European fare, all while taking in a fantastic aerial view. Check out our curated list of the best rooftop restaurants in Delhi: Cirrus9, The Oberoi Cirrus9 boasts an unbeatable location in the heart of the capital city, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Delhi Golf Club and offering views of the magnificent 16th-century Humayun’s Tomb and other iconic monuments. Indulge in fine dining with an unbeatable view and savor their specially curated menu of light bites spanning Asian, Indian, and European cuisines. Don't miss their signature cocktails and unique sharing cocktails – Emperor Yao’s Pleasure and Punch Number 9. Bo Tai, Mehrauli Experience culinary magnate Zorawar Kalra’s Thai bar and grill with views of the 12th-century Qutub Minar. Don't miss their preserved raw mango and avocado salad, chicken dim sum in Thai chili oil, crispy lotus stem, pad Thai noodles, and Thai curries with a modern twist. Be sure to top it all off with a coconut creme brulee. Ottimo at The West View, ITC Maurya Indulge in traditional Italian dishes including antipasti, live grills, wood-fired pizzas, and pastas at Ottimo. The stunning outdoor section, with a water body and beautiful views of the verdant Delhi ridge, sets this fine-dining restaurant apart. Don't miss their Milanese-style braised lamb shank and Burrata with sour cherries and toasted almonds during the popular Sunday brunch with live music.

Indian airlines, particularly IndiGo and Air India, are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence-based tools to improve customer care operations. These tools are designed to handle a significant portion of customer queries efficiently, minimizing the workload on human agents while maintaining the quality of interactions. IndiGo, India's largest domestic carrier, introduced its AI chatbot named 6Eskai in November 2023, developed in collaboration with Microsoft and powered by OpenAI's large multimodal language model, GPT-4. Since its implementation, 6Eskai has significantly reduced the workload of customer service agents by 75%. It has processed over 6,000 bookings and issued more than 39,000 boarding passes through its website and mobile application. The chatbot now transfers only 2-9% of chats to human experts, compared to 14-19% previously, thereby boosting efficiency by about 5%. Air India, backed by the Tata group and the largest international operator in India, has also leveraged generative AI with its virtual agent 'AI.g', deployed in 2023. AI.g has handled over two million customer queries, achieving a containment ratio of 93%, with only 7% of queries requiring escalation to human agents. This virtual agent covers over 1,300 topics and provides human-like responses, improving the customer service experience. Both airlines are focusing on enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency through AI. In summary, Indian airlines are embracing AI-based tools to streamline customer care operations, improve service efficiency, and enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport can now expect faster immigration clearance. On June 23, Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Fast Track Immigration (FTI) program at Terminal 3. This initiative aims to provide Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders with quicker and safer immigration processes through the use of e-gates or automated border gates. How to Sign Up for Fast Track Immigration: Register Online: Fill in the necessary details on the official website. Registration is valid for five years or until the passport expires. Submit for Verification: After submitting details schedule an appointment for biometric data submission. Provide Biometrics: Submit biometrics at designated international airports in India or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). This step is mandatory. Ensure Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months when applying for the FTI. Membership will be linked to the passport's validity. Phase Implementation: Phase 1: Targets Indian citizens and OCI cardholders. Phase 2: Will include foreign travellers. The FTI program will be introduced at 21 major airports across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Ahmedabad. Terminal 3 at Delhi Airport currently has eight electronic gates (four for arrivals and four for departures) to reduce overcrowding. The goal is to facilitate easy and secure international travel with world-class immigration facilities and an accelerated immigration pathway for travellers.

India's domestic aviation market is becoming increasingly attractive to international airlines. With tier-2 and tier-3 cities are playing a crucial role in expanding India's International aviation footprint. Image source Simple Flying Recently, Etihad launched four weekly flights to Jaipur, and Saudi carrier Riyadh Air, ready to begin operations in 2025, plans to start flights to India by 2026. Riyadh Air has already ordered 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with an option for 33 more. India's aviation market is booming, driven by strong air travel sentiment and a fast-growing economy. Since 2023, IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa have ordered more than 1,600 aircraft, signalling further expansion of India's International impression. India is in our top three target markets globally; it's a massive opportunity. We see potential in secondary cities and increasing wealth. People have more money to travel. Gatwick Airport, which serves 24 Air India flights weekly, is in talks with IndiGo, which ordered 30 wide-body aircraft in May and is also engaging with Air India to explore more flight capacity to Gatwick. Aviation Sector Growth Post-Covid India's international aviation market has seen significant growth post-Covid. The number of international airports in the country increased from 35 in March 2019 to 40 by March 2024. International traffic at Indian airports rose 22% year-on-year to 69.64 million passengers in FY24, while domestic traffic grew nearly 14% to 306.8 million. Image source Indian Aerospace and Defence Bulletin Riyadh Air's CFO, Adam Boukadida, emphasized the importance of the Indian market. “We will use both wide-body and narrow-body aircraft for this market and partner with Indian carriers for a deeper network. We aim to connect India within 12 months of our launch, so it should happen during 2025-26.” Chai Eamsiri, CEO of Thai Airways International, highlighted that India is their biggest market in terms of the number of cities served. They plan to operate in secondary cities once they receive new narrow-body aircraft. General Willie Walsh, director of the International Air Transport Association, expressed optimism about India's aviation potential. He noted that the Indian domestic market has grown significantly, from 0.4% of global aviation in 2000 to 1.8% last year. He believes this potential will be fully unlocked with the right government policies.