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The Buddhist Circuit connecting Sanchi to Bodhgaya and Sarnath is being developed
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is developing a Buddhist Circuit to attract Buddhist pilgrims around the globe. The circuit will connect Sanchi and other destinations in the state with Bodhgaya and Sarnath, two major centres of Buddhism of the country. The aim is to inform Buddhist pilgrims visiting these places about the Buddhist heritage destinations in Madhya Pradesh. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is making significant efforts to connect, develop, and promote major sites related to the life values of Gautam Buddha. Principal Secretary Culture and Tourism Department and Managing Director M.P. Tourism Board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said "Destinations associated with Lord Buddha (Buddhist Circuit) are a major center for Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. There are also some such places on the holy land of Madhya Pradesh, which are adorned with their life values. These places are of great historical, cultural and spiritual importance. Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has spent Rs. 70 crore to develop destinations like Sanchi, Mandsaur, Dhar, Satna, Rewa, Satdhara, Sonari, Murel Khurd, and Gyarsapur. Approach roads, meditation centers, interpretation centers, Buddhist theme parks, tourist facilitation centers, and route facilitation centres have been developed here for the convenience of Buddhist pilgrims and tourists." Efforts are being made to encourage pilgrims and tourists visiting religious centres like Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar to come to Sanchi and other destinations in Madhya Pradesh. Meditation hall and beautification for a serene ambiance The development of Marshall House, foothill, approach roads, the hilltop, light and sound show, tourist facilitation centre in Sanchi, landscaping around Chaitanya Giri Vihar, development and beautification of Kanak Sagar Lake situated at the foot of Sanchi, Buddhist theme park, beautification and development of Square Road Junction, development and beautification of the path from railway station to stupa foothill, meditation kiosk and complex work in Satdhara, Sonari, Murel Khurda and Gyarsapur near Sanchi are included. Efforts to establish Sanchi as a major Buddhist centre Additional Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Ms Bidisha Mukherjee said that special efforts are being made to establish Sanchi as a major Buddhist center at the national and international level. Recently, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board took the holy relics of Arhant Sariputta and Arhant Mahamoggallan, the disciples of Lord Buddha kept in the Buddhist stupa complex of Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to Bangkok, Thailand and Cambodia Vihar for darshan. A large number of Buddhist followers from different countries of the world came to see the holy relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples and were excited to come to Sanchi. Historical Buddhist circuit Buddhist followers from all over the world entered Madhya Pradesh from Deurkothar (Rewa) via Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath to Kushinagar. From here, they would reach Sanchi via Barhut Stupa Satna and then Satdhara, Sonari, Andher, and Murelkhurd to Ujjain. From here they would visit all the Dharmnar and then the Bagh Caves and cross the Narmada and Tapti rivers to reach Ajanta and Amaravati and then South India and from there they would depart for Sri Lanka.
Rediscovering Bhutan: New perspectives on the last Buddhist kingdom
Amankora reveals the heart of Bhutan with ever rarer and more awe-inspiring cultural experiences for 2023. Well-suited to those embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Amankora continues to tell the story of the Kingdom of Bhutan through unique, culturally enriching experiences across its five intimate lodges. New for 2023, several experiences reveal the very best of the Kingdom’s rugged Himalayan landscapes, discovering the once-forgotten ramparts of its central and western valleys. Built-in 1638 on a cliff at the confluence of two rivers, the defense fortress of Wangdue Dzong has finally been restored. A key experience until 2012, when an accidental flame sustained significant damage, the magnificent Wangdue Dzong is ready to welcome visitors once again to its grounds after a decade of rebuilding and careful restoration. Another piece of history restored; the Trans Bhutan Trail provides Amankora with further opportunity to discover the pristine nature that surrounds. Dating back to the 16th century, the 402-kilometre-long trading and pilgrimage route was abandoned in the 1960s following the construction of Bhutan’s first major roads. After 60 years, the trail has been reestablished, allowing the Bhutanese to walk in the steps of their ancestors, and those staying with Amankora to follow the ancient path with curated daily hikes and multi-day experiences, paired with stays in all the five lodges. Thimphu – Secrets of ancient incense and the arts Situated in the forested Thimphu Valley, home to Bhutan’s capital city, Amankora Thimphu is a 16-suite lodge tucked into the pine-scented woods of the Motithang area. Ideally placed for exploring Thimphu’s museums, traditional shops and numerous cultural sites, it also serves as a quiet retreat, completely removed from the city’s activities. New this year, learn more about the ancient art of incense from artisans at Nado Poi. Using a wide selection of rare, foraged or homegrown herbs, spices and ingredients from across the Himalayas, Nado Poi’s skilled local craftspeople create blends of sacred smoke, highly sought after by monastic bodies and temples all over the world. Using a 350-year-old recipe passed down through generations, Nado Poi also makes exclusive incense sticks and powder blends for the Royal Family of Bhutan. Available to those visiting Thimphu, the exclusive half-day Secrets of Ancient Incense experience takes place at the brand’s local workshop, and includes a selection of raw materials to create, roll and cut the incense, guided by a Nado Poi artisan. Another renowned artist local to Thimphu, Gyempo Wangchuk, hails from the Zurig Chusum Institute, Bhutan's most important art school focusing on 13 traditional arts and crafts. Specialising in painting, Gyempo’s work ranges from temples and sacred scrolls to present-day contemporary art. Exclusively for the new season, private painting sessions with Gyempo Wangchuk can be arranged either at Thimphu lodge or in his studio, where guests can learn traditional Bhutanese painting with a contemporary twist. Paro – Private dining in nature Sheltered within a blue-pine forest of glistening conifers, 24-suite Amankora Paro lies beneath the ruins of the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong (fortress-monastery), a 30-minute drive from Bhutan’s international airport. As with each Amankora lodge, it offers elegant dining and living rooms with panoramic views, an intimate spa, and expansive outdoor areas for relaxing in the sun or beneath the stars. Overlooking snow-capped Jhomolhari, each suite features its own bukhari, a wood-burning stove. Nestled in the foothills, where pilgrims begin their journeys in the shadows of the iconic Tiger’s Nest, Amankora’s new log cabin provides a breathtaking prelude or a cosy finale for hikes up to the legendary monastery. Accessible via a hidden path just moments from the main hiking trail, the quaint cabin is surrounded by a verdant pine forest which opens onto tranquil lawns with sweeping vistas of the cliffside monastery structures. Leave Paro lodge before the break of dawn and experience a sunrise breakfast as the Himalayan Sun slowly illuminates The Tiger’s Nest or opt for a restorative lunch with a refreshing drink and relaxing 30-minute foot massage to soothe tired limbs, followed by a sumptuous lunch in full view of the Tiger’s Nest. For a truly special culinary experience, up to 30 guests can enjoy a Forest & Fortress Lunch or Dinner during their stay at Amankora Paro. Set amidst a pine forest and overlooking the historic Drukgyel Dzong fortress, tables are set in a lush clearing where guests can choose to dine beneath the stars or under a traditional Bhutanese ceremonial tent, lit with stringed lights and flickering lanterns, accompanied by local music. A traditional dance performance or musical troupe can be arranged with Amankora signature cocktails and canapés whilst enjoying dinner prepared by the in-house chef. Adding to its already extensive experience guide, in the year ahead Paro lodge will offer an insight into one the world's rarest teas. Originating from the Camelia Sinensis trees planted by the former King of Bhutan, Thunder Dragon Tea is gifted to the villagers of Samcholing where the tea trees are grown by the community and gently nurtured by mists from the verdant gorge, Himalayan spring water and the valley’s organic, fertile soil. Guests of both Paro and Thimphu lodge are invited to discover the nuances of this unique green brew with Thunder Dragon High Tea, where its delicately aromatic flavour is paired with sweet and savoury treats created by the culinary team. With every sip, guests are transported to the Kingdom's mountains, springs and skies. Punakha - Unveiling gastronomic traditions Amankora Punakha lies east of the dramatic Dochu La Pass and just north of the resplendent Punakha Dzong that dominates the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers. Surrounded by rice paddies and fruit plantations, the lodge occupies a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse with twelve guest suites set in an orange orchard near the 30-metre infinity swimming pool. Discovering culture through cuisine is central to the Amankora experience. At Punakha the lodge provides torma making classes, offering an insight into one of the most sacred Buddhist celebration cakes. Made with butter and barley flour, torma cakes are used to adorn altars during traditional Buddhist ceremonies and created primarily by monks as offerings during holy rituals and festivals. Dyed with colourful pigments, shaped by hand, blessed and finally offered in accordance with its specific creation - whether to represent a deity, consumed partially as part of a ritual in a feast, as a healing, medicinal symbol or even as a vessel to obstruct spirits - partake in this unique heritage practiced all over the Buddhist realms of the Himalayas. Classes are to be held during auspicious dates and festivals and hosted by a monk, with private classes available on request. Gangtey – Experience Bhutan’s wild frontiers on horseback Providing a restful base with eight suites, Amankora Gangtey is located in the seldom-visited valley of Phobjikha near the quaint village of Gangtey. From its forested knoll, the lodge boasts panoramic views across the gorge to the regal Gangtey Goemba, a 16th-century monastery, and easy access to the winter habitat of the rare, black-necked crane. A new way to explore Gangtey' s pristine corners and relive the early days of Bhutan's wild frontiers, is on Yuta horseback. A distinct Himalayan breed known for their mild temperament and impeccable sense of balance, begin the expedition from the lodge grounds, passing through scenic traditional farming villages, wooden bridges and charming farmhouses before completing the hour-long loop passing through fields littered with prayer poles gently flowing with the breeze. Bumthang – A naming ceremony in the Choekhor Valley The eastern-most lodge, 16-suite Amankora Bumthang rests adjacent to the First and Second King’s palace, Wangdichholing, in the Choekhor Valley. This region of sloping pine forests, apple orchards and fertile farmland is known for its cottage industries that produce the sought-after Bumthang butter, cheese, honey and a variety of fruit spirits and brandies. New for 2023, guests to Bumthang lodge are invited to be blessed with a new Bhutanese name from Sey Lhakhang, the valley's most important name-giving institution. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, names in Bhutan are given by Lamas and Rinpochhes from the temples, and in this special ceremony names can be given to guests through an intimate ceremony with a Lama. Taking place in the private altar room of the monastery, the ceremony begins with a declaration of date of birth before the Lama performs a Buddhist name calculation using a unique method of Buddhist astrology. Following the name presentation, explanation and blessing, guests are invited to light butter lamps for wishes of wellbeing in the weeks and months that follow.
Songtsam supports reprinting of “Murals of Gongga Qude Temple: A Milestone in the History of Tibetan Buddhist Art”
The main hall of Gongga Qude Temple Baima Duoji, Founder & Chairman of Songtsam Group, which includes the award-winning collection of boutique hotels, resorts & tours in the Tibet & Yunnan Provinces of China, announced a joint project with The Palace Museum, Gongga Qude Temple, to reprint an exquisite album called, "Murals of Gongga Qude Temple: A Milestone in the History of Tibetan Buddhist Art." Baima, in making the announcement of the reprinting of this historic album, noted that the urgency of this project was to “make the beauty of these historic murals, vivid carriers of Tibetan Buddhist art and culture, available to more people." Gongga Qude Temple stands quietly, 60 kilometers (approx. 37.2 miles) outside of Lhasa (Tibet). As an important temple of Tibetan Buddhism, this quaint temple is like a museum frozen in time. In 2015, "Murals of Gongga Qude Temple: A Milestone in the History of Tibetan Buddhist Art" was published for the first time. Limited by funds, only a few books were printed, and they were mainly donated to various temples, universities, research institutes and others who were interested in the murals. Restoration of the murals of Gongga Qude Temple The content in this new reprint is based on the digitized results of the murals of Gongga Qude Temple. In fact, Luo Wenhua, Research Librarian of The Palace Museum and Director of the Institute of Tibetan Buddhist Cultural Relics, arranged for some of the murals to be re-photographed and added to this new Album. Baima Duoji noted, "Every Songtsam guest, as they travel from Lhasa Airport to the Songtsam Linka Retreat Lhasa, pass the Gongga Qude Temple, yet few people know that there is an ancient temple on the roadside.” He added, “These murals are a splendid and rare work of art. After nearly 600 years of changes, we can still see the lines and colors left by the masters on this wall today, which is a kind of unspeakable luck.” The Gongga Qude Temple Tour has now become an important part of the Songtsam Lhasa experience, an excellent “starting” point for guests to enter the spiritual world of the locals. “Murals of Gongga Qude Temple: A Milestone in the History of Tibetan Buddhist Art” “In the land where the Songtsam properties are located, there are often treasures that are close at hand but unknown, like Gongga Qude Temple,” explained Baima. “Songtsam hopes that the reprinting of this ancient Album will support Songtsam’s efforts to preserve the culture, so that the beauty of these lands can be known, understood, even appreciated and touched by people from around the world.”
IndiGo to start 12 regional flights on Buddhist circuit
IndiGo will introduce 12 regional flights on the Buddhist circuit, which would include daily non-stop flights between Kolkata, Gaya and Varanasi. Starting 8 August, IndiGo will commence flight operations on Kolkata – Gaya, Kolkata – Patna, Kolkata – Varanasi and Gaya – Varanasi routes along with additional frequency on Kolkata – Varanasi route. Bookings are already open for these routes, with fares starting at INR 1499 (USD 21.4). William Boulter, chief commercial officer, IndiGo said: “As a part of our endeavour to enhance domestic connectivity, our regional (ATR or Regional Transport Airplanes) fleet helps us serve regional operations efficiently. These flights on the Buddhist circuit will not only provide more travel options to customers but also enable people to come closer to Indian history and spirituality.” These flights will also help attract new tourist arrivals from around South East Asia, where IndiGo is adding a number of new routes into Kolkata over the next few months, including services from Vietnam, Hong Kong and China. With the introduction of these flights, IndiGo will continue to provide the flexibility of choice to customers with a consistent on-time, affordable, courteous and hassle-free flying experience, he added.
Have faith, will travel: A trip to Buddhist hotspots in Maharahstra
Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is offering its land bank to Buddhist countries for developing Buddhist theme parks and monasteries. Promoting the Buddhist Circuit by conserving the cultural inheritance of Aurangabad, the MTDC, in association with Ministry of Tourism, organised an International Buddhist Conclave in Aurangabad on 24 August 2018 with an aim to enlighten the people on various destinations associated with the Buddhist culture in the state. The idea is to highlight and promote Ajanta and Ellora as a tourist hotspot on the international Buddhist Tourism map. MTDC is working to create new avenues in the state for Buddhist Tourism by strengthening their ties with Buddhist nations around the globe. To propel this mission it is also planning to offer its landbank to Buddhist countries for developing Buddhist theme park and monasteries near the Ajanta Caves, the UNESCO heritage site in Aurangabad. It will tie up with KJ Somaiya Centre for Buddhist Studies to introduce new tour packages to promote Buddhist Tourism in the state. The Ministry of Tourism has selected Ajanta and Ellora, UNESCO heritage sites under the Iconic Destination Project, to offer world-class amenities to the tourists. The Ministry of Tourism is also joining hands with the Ministry of Highways to develop the roads in Aurangabad for better connectivity of the iconic caves with the airport so that it becomes convenient for tourists coming in from other locations in the country. Land of Buddhism Ajanta Caves Maharashtra has rich Buddhist heritage and culture and the MTDC is now encouraging local bodies to build Buddhist Circuits in the state of Maharashtra. Some of the Buddhist Circuits include Stupa in Nalasopara, Global Vipassana Pagoda in Gorai, Mandapeshwar Caves in Borivali, Chaityabhoomi in Dadar, Elephanta Caves and Kanheri Caves in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Karla and Bhaja Caves in Pune, Pandavleni Caves in Nashik, Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur, along with the UNESCO heritage sites at Ajanta and Ellora in Aurangabad. "The significant locations where Lord Buddha preached" Commenting on the occasion, Jaykumar Rawal, minister of tourism in Maharashtra said: “It's a privilege to be part of the International Buddhist Conclave in Aurangabad which offers an excellent opportunity for us to come together with all Buddhist countries under one roof and discuss mutual prospects and develop new opportunities. "The main aim is to highlight the significant locations where Lord Buddha preached, taught and attained enlightenment or nirvana in the state.” "Help in attracting visitors from other Buddhist nations" Suhas Diwase, managing director, MTDC, added: “Our objective is to widen the potential of Buddhist Tourism across the globe by encouraging tourists from Buddhist nations to experience its rich legacy through Buddhist monuments and centres in the state. "I am certain that this step will prove to be of great interest to the tourists who wish to explore more about Lord Buddha’s journey and self-discovery and help in attracting visitors from other Buddhist nations like Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand among others.”
Air India announces Delhi-Gaya flights from September
Air India announced daily flights between Delhi and Gaya, starting 01 September 2025. The daily service on this route will be operated by Air India’s A320 aircraft, bringing the only full-service flying experience to customers travelling to and from Gaya. The opening of this new route adds Gaya as the 46th destination in Air India’s domestic route network. The connectivity to Gaya supports religious tourism and enables seamless one-stop access for travellers from other Asian countries to the gateway to Bodh Gaya, one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Air India’s flights to Gaya are timed to enable convenient connections to/from Kathmandu, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Phuket, and Singapore, Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul-Incheon, and Tokyo-Haneda, SCHEDULE OF FLIGHTS BETWEEN DELHI AND GAYA Flight # Frequency Sector Departure Arrival AI429 Daily Delhi-Gaya 1430 Hrs 1605 Hrs AI430 Daily Gaya-Delhi 1640 Hrs 1800 Hrs
Emerald Season: Rediscover Sri Lanka in a New Light
April 2025 sees the arrival of Emerald Season, a transformative concept by Resplendent Ceylon, celebrating what was once Sri Lanka’s ‘off-season’. Running from April to November, this period reimagines travel as a tranquil, immersive escape into lush landscapes, thriving wildlife, and vibrant cultural festivities. With monsoons gently refreshing the countryside, Sri Lanka transforms into a vivid, verdant paradise during the Emerald Season. Visitors can enjoy serene game drives, secluded beach retreats, and cooling highland getaways, while also savouring cultural events such as Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Vesak, and Diwali. Seasonal Highlights Across Five Luxury Properties Resplendent Ceylon’s five exceptional properties open a gateway to Sri Lanka’s diverse natural and cultural wonders. The Ceylon Tea Trails in the central highlands, Wild Coast Tented Lodge in the south-east, and Cape Weligama on the southern riviera are proud members of Relais & Châteaux. Adding to the mix are the two enchanting Reverie Collection retreats: Kayaam House, along the south coast, and Ahu Bay, located on the southern Ahungalla Point coastline. Each destination offers unique experiences tailored to the Emerald Season, including: May: Celebrate the luminous Vesak Festival, as Sri Lanka’s communities come alive with glowing lanterns, a vibrant tribute to Buddhist traditions. July–September: Witness Asia’s largest gathering of elephants, with expert-led excursions from Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama. November: Delight in migratory birdwatching, a spectacle best observed from Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge, and Cape Weligama. Family-Friendly Adventures Emerald Season caters brilliantly to families, with immersive programs designed to ignite curiosity and encourage exploration: Cape Forest Camp: A five-day nature adventure that takes kids on activities like bug hotel crafting, jungle exploration, and marine life discovery, capped off with stargazing and bonfire options. Junior Ranger Program: A three-day wilderness experience at Wild Coast Lodge, where kids learn tracking, animal identification, and engage with night-time lodge cameras. Junior Tea Planter Experience: A chance to explore the art of tea cultivation at Ceylon Tea Trails, complete with tea plucking and tasting, where participants earn their Junior Tea Planter certificate. Exclusive Offers for Emerald Season 2025 To celebrate the launch of Emerald Season, Resplendent Ceylon is offering enticing packages for stays between 25 April – 23 December 2025, including: 30% savings at Cape Weligama (25 April – 19 December 2025). 30% savings at Ceylon Tea Trails (25 April – 30 September 2025, excluding August). 20% savings at Wild Coast Tented Lodge (25 April – 30 September 2025). Complimentary stays for one child (ages 2–16) at Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge, and Cape Weligama. These offers include family experiences such as summer camps, kids’ cooking classes, and the educational Junior Explorer programs, inviting families to share unforgettable moments together. Why Emerald Season? With fewer crowds and blooming landscapes, Emerald Season is a time of serenity and discovery. From vibrant festivals to breathtaking wildlife encounters, this period redefines Sri Lankan travel. The tranquillity, paired with exclusive opportunities to connect with the land, creates an unparalleled holiday experience. Bookings for the Emerald Season packages are open until 30 April 2025. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of Sri Lanka at its most enchanting. To find out more or to reserve your stay, visit www.resplendentceylon.com.
Centara brings the traditions of Songkran to its global properties
Leading Thai hospitality company Centara Hotels & Resorts brings the traditional charm and splendour of Songkran to its different properties in both Thailand and the rest of the world. With a variety of promotions, activities, and special amenities, it isn’t surprising that Centara is The Place to Be for the Thai New Year. Whether one is vacationing anywhere in Thailand or at any of the gracious Centara properties in the Maldives, Osaka, Dubai, and Vientiane, there are plenty of reasons to get seriously into the holiday spirit. According to Centara chief executive Thirayuth Chirathivath: “Thailand's most iconic festival, Songkran truly represents the country's rich heritage – from the gentle grace of Buddhist water cleansing rituals, to the fun-filled water parties that highlight the country’s ‘sanook’ spirit. As a proud Thai company with a commitment to delivering warm, heartfelt hospitality, we are delighted to bring our country’s rich traditions to life around the world, and to let all our discerning guests find their perfect ‘Place to Be’ with Centara this Songkran.” Home for Songkran Centara will offer plenty of opportunities for international visitors to celebrate Songkran in Thailand, with vibrant festivities all across the “Land of Smiles”. At Centara Reserve Samui, the sophisticated storytelling retreat, guests can learn the rich cultural narrative of Thai New Year on 13th April with a morning alms-giving ceremony with local Buddhist monks, a traditional long drum parade, and a variety of authentic dishes at the Songkran Brunch. Then on 14th April, the Songkran Market Feast will present a feast of heritage-infused Southern Thai flavours, such as sea bass wrapped in banana leaves, tom yum seafood soup and more, all accompanied with live Thai music and traditional dances to evoke the spirit of Songkran. Meanwhile, Centara’s smart and affordable lifestyle brand COSI Hotels captures the upbeat, social vibe of Songkran. Savvy travellers who stay at these hip neighbourhood hotels in Thailand and Laos during Songkran will be able to connect with like-minded explorers and get the party started with plenty of water splashing fun, DJ pool parties, and cool refreshments. Magnificence in the Maldives Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, the underwater themed resort centred around a world-class water park, is the perfect place to feel the splash of Songkran. Kids and parents can enjoy endless days of Thai New Year festivities from 13th to 15th April, including races along the Maldives’ longest lazy river, pool parties, inflatable ball games, and a Colour Fun marathon. Guests can also discover Thai street food, cultural dances, live shows, a silent disco and more, creating unforgettable escapes for all ages. Across the bridge at Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, the newly-opened neighbouring resort, revellers can get the party started with a mixology class featuring Thai-inspired cocktails, tropical pool parties with a live DJ and saxophonist, and a Thai street food barbecue. In the social spirit of Songkran, visitors at both resorts can mix, mingle and celebrate together. Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives is an aquatic paradise that inspires individuality and invites active travellers to explore the beauty of the South Ari Atoll, including its award-winning house reef. This natural paradise will be transformed into a Thai-centric oasis on 13th April, Songkran itself, with a vibrant parade and fun-filled beach games, culminating with a special Thai buffet dinner showcasing the kingdom’s timeless flavours. At Centara Ras Fushi Resort, the adults-only private island retreat, couples and friends can capture the essence of Thai New Year with a colourful parade and beach races by day, followed by a Thai street food festival and thrilling DJ party after dark. Songkran comes to Japan Soaring 33-storeys above the dynamic city streets, Centara Grand Hotel Osaka seamlessly blends Japan’s ultra-modern style with heartfelt Thai hospitality. On 13th April, the hotel will become a haven of Thai heritage as it honours Songkran with a full day of festivities. Following a traditional Buddhist water ceremony to open the festival, visitors’ senses will be transported to the “Land of Smiles” with Thai street food, refreshing floral drinks, dance performances from the four regions of Thailand, and a long drum performance. Invitation cards in the rooms and suites will give each guest a personal connection to the celebrations. Bringing Thai traditions to the Gulf Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai will soak all ages in the fun and excitement of Songkran. Little ones can enjoy a full day of inspiring activities on 14th April, including arts & crafts classes at Camp Safari, the resort’s colourful kids’ club, plus water basketball games in the pool, and a wet and wild Thai-inspired water festival at the beach. Then after dark, children can enjoy a kids’ disco, loved ones can unwind together with a movie at the beachfront cinema, and a traditional belly dancing show will immerse guests in Middle Eastern culture.
Celebrate the experience of “Maha Songkran World Water Festival” with Marriott Bonvoy
Revel Thai New Year with upbeat activities all across the kingdom, including Bangkok’s spectacular Maha Songkran World Water Festival, and an exclusive members-only discount. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of hotels in Thailand is inviting the world’s explorers to come together and make a splash this April, as the country celebrates Songkran, the iconic and enchanting Thai New Year festival. Held every April – the hottest month of the year in Thailand – this immersive summer celebration is a wonderful way to cool off, reconnect with loved ones, and soak up the spirit of Thai culture. Families and friends gather at temples to take part in gentle water pouring rituals, while the streets of Thai towns and villages burst with life and color as residents enjoy lively water-drenched parties. From April 11th to 15th, visitors to Bangkok can embrace the essence of Thai New Year at the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, a cultural extravaganza that highlights the timeless traditions of Songkran, from its ancient origins to the present day. Staged at Sanam Luang, the verdant park overlooked by the golden spires of the Grand Palace, this fun-filled event will transport guests to the five regions of Thailand through a series of distinct zones and a marketplace featuring regional products and delicacies, plus temple fair activities, classical performances, sand pagoda building, and merit-making activities including almsgiving, water-pouring ceremonies, and Buddhist bathing rituals. The upbeat, modern vibe of Songkran will come to life with water play zones, live music by renowned artists & top DJs, and dramatic drone shows! On April 12th & 13th, this majestic festival will take to the streets surrounding Sanam Luang with grand parades that blend Thailand’s rich heritage with contemporary creativity. Guests who want to experience this exhilarating celebration can stay at a choice of exceptional hotels in the Thai capital, including the art-inspired Le Méridien Bangkok, heritage-rich Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, vibrant and playful Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, uniquely inspired W Bangkok, design-led Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, and Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok, the waterfront icon. Alternatively, nature lovers can head up to Thailand’s northern hills, where the Chiang Saen Songkran Festival will blend nature and culture overlooking the Mekong River, and Chiang Mai’s iconic celebrations at Tha Phae Gate will bring the spirit of the Lanna kingdom to life. Soothing stays can be enjoyed amid the lush mountains at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, or in the heart of the ancient city at Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. Hua Hin’s Phon King Phet Park is a great place to soak up the history and culture of Songkran, and immersive escapes can be enjoyed at a choice of beachfront hotels – Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa and Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Across the glistening gulf on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard, Pattaya’s Wan Lai Festival is an extended Songkran celebration with parades, parties and processions. Revelers can stay in the heart of the city at Courtyard by Marriott North Pattaya and Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, or in a stunning seafront setting at Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa. In Phuket, Patong Beach is a vibrant hub of thrilling water adventures, where visitors can enjoy endless days of fun then unwind in style at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort, Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort, Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, or Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach. For those who prefer staying in town, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town offers a perfect retreat. And finally in Koh Samui, the soft sands of Chaweng Beach transform into a New Year party paradise, and guests can enjoy unforgettable escapes at Sheraton Samui Resort or Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui.
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu wins accolades
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu has been awarded the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating for the fourth consecutive year, reaffirming its reputation for exceptional hospitality. With 48 elegantly designed rooms, the hotel first earned a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star award in 2022. Originally built as Kiyomizu Elementary School in 1933, the building was transformed into a boutique hotel while preserving its historical charm. Situated in Kyoto’s Higashiyama ward, the hotel offers easy access to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Guests can explore the nearby Kiyomizudera Temple, which means "Pure Water Temple," the historic Gion district, renowned for its geisha culture, and the traditional streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with wooden townhouses, shops, and teahouses. Yasaka Shrine and the scenic Maruyama Park are also within walking distance, offering an authentic immersion into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. A new landmark in Tokyo’s urban landscape, Takanawa Gateway City, measuring 1.6 km long, will hold a shopping center, public garden, offices, a cultural facility and more. One of the highlights is 53 Playable Park, and JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo within the complex, equipped with 200 guest rooms, restaurant and bar, and more. The site is also set to become a premier MICE destination, featuring the Takanawa Gateway Convention Center featuring 1,640 m² hall capable of hosting up to 2,000 attendees. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Haneda Airport, Takanawa Gateway City provides seamless access to some of Tokyo’s most iconic attractions. Visitors can easily reach Tokyo Tower, an emblematic symbol of the city offering panoramic views, as well as the vibrant shopping districts of Ginza and Shibuya, known for their high-end fashion, and bustling nightlife. History and culture enthusiasts can explore Zojoji Temple, a historic Buddhist site nestled near Tokyo Tower, and Shiba Park, one of the oldest parks in the city, providing a serene retreat amid the urban landscape. Additionally, the nearby Roppongi district offers a dynamic mix of art galleries, entertainment, and fine dining, making Takanawa Gateway City an ideal base for travellers experiencing both traditional and contemporary Tokyo
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