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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.”
Now fly IndiGo direct to Abu Dhabi from Bhubaneshwar and Visakhapatnam
IndiGo announces new direct flights connecting Abu Dhabi to India’s culturally rich cities - Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar. The new routes are set to enhance international connectivity for Indian travellers, making global travel more accessible and affordable. The flights on Bhubaneshwar–Abu Dhabi routes will operate three times a week w.e.f. June 12, 2025, and between Visakhapatnam - Abu Dhabi four times a week starting June 13th, 2025. By introducing these direct flights, IndiGo is enhancing travel convenience for passengers, expanding international access to regional markets, and catering to the growing demand from both business and leisure travellers. Our new routes connecting Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar to Abu Dhabi will provide easier access to the UAE, facilitating smoother travel for business, education, and tourism purposes. Abu Dhabi's emergence as a hub for technical and vocational training, as well as its appeal as a themed holiday destination, will attract more visitors, fostering cultural exchange and economic growth between the regions. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo: “We are pleased to announce direct flights from Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam to Abu Dhabi, further growing our international network. With the additions of these flights, IndiGo now operates over 100 weekly flights to Abu Dhabi from 15 cities in India. This also increases our frequencies to the UAE to 275 flights a week from 18 cities in India. As demand for direct international travel grows, we're committed to connecting India with global economic centres, ensuring on-time, affordable, and seamless travel across our expanding network.” Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its elegant fusion of tradition and modernity, featuring UNESCO-listed Cultural Sites of Al Ain, including ancient tombs and forts. Iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi add to its global cultural appeal. As the UAE's financial hub, it hosts major energy firms while growing in tourism, aviation, and technology. Known for its luxury resorts, pristine coastline, and Formula 1 Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi offers both economic opportunities and world-class leisure experiences. Visakhapatnam, or Vizag, is a thriving port city on India’s east coast, known for its natural beauty and industrial significance. It is near UNESCO’s tentative site of Thotlakonda, which includes ancient Buddhist monuments. The city is a major naval base and houses one of India’s busiest ports, contributing significantly to trade. Its growing IT sector and tourism, with attractions like Araku Valley and Kailasagiri, make it a unique blend of industrial growth and scenic charm. Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is globally recognized for its historical and architectural legacy. Known as the "Temple City," is famed for its historical significance, especially the Kalingan-style temples such as the Lingaraj Temple. It forms part of the cultural heart of Odisha, along with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konark Sun Temple. Today, Bhubaneswar is evolving into a key IT and educational hub, with institutions like IIT Bhubaneswar. The city’s blend of ancient monuments and modern infrastructure makes it a growing economic and cultural centre in eastern India. Flight Schedule: Flight No. Origin Destination Frequency Effective Departure Arrival 6E 1441 Abu Dhabi Bhubaneswar Tue, Thu, Sat June 12, 2025 2:35 8:35 6E 1442 Bhubaneswar Abu Dhabi Tue, Thu, Sat June 12, 2025 9:35 12:35 6E 1443 Abu Dhabi Vishakhapatnam Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun June 13, 2025 2:35 8:20 6E 1444 Vishakhapatnam Abu Dhabi Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun June 13, 2025 9:45 12:30
La Résidence Phou Vao reveals the secrets of Luang Prabang with a bespoke new experience
La Résidence Phou Vao invites guests to experience the mystique of the Laotian capital with its new experience Unlocking the Secrets of Luang Prabang. This uniquely curated offer runs for three days and offers up the secrets of the fabled UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang through the city’s foremost heritage hotel. From culture, cuisine and French colonial architectural heritage to sacred Buddhist rites that still shape daily life, the former Royal Guest House reveals intriguing insights into the ancient capital’s past and present. All are arranged by the hotel and can be tailor-made to your own preferences, as an all-inclusive three-night experience. French charm, Laotian tradition Revived in five-star style, La Résidence Phou Vao oozes elegance and serenity in a hilltop sanctuary of French colonial charm. Guests embrace the spirit of the immersive package from the moment of arrival, with elegant sundown cocktails and a Chef’s Table dinner at signature restaurant Tam Nan, renowned for classic Laotian cuisine featuring a menu of slow-cooking and clay-pot artistry anchored in local customs. Day Two begins at the crack of dawn, capturing breathtaking views of sunrise over the Mekong valley from a hill atop the resort’s tropical gardens, where guests of the palace once stayed. A morning market tour is guided by a local chef, discovering exotic local produce and tasting traditional street food favourites. Lunch is a Lao cooking experience, with ingredients freshly harvested from the resort’s own organic garden. After a private sunset cruise on the mighty Mekong aboard La Residence’s own luxury river boat, the tour delves into a mystery tasting dinner celebrating the abundance of Laos through stories, and contemporary Luang Prabang cuisine at the stylish Little Lao Culture Bar which is at the centre of Laos’ up and coming contemporary food scene. A stroll through the night market and nightcap at an artisan tea shop ends at a “secret bar” tucked down a small alley in the heart of the historic town for handcrafted cocktails. Where the worldly and the ethereal meet Day Three is likewise packed with enriching experiences, focused on Luang Prabang’s heritage and architecture. Spiritual insight begins with a morning ‘Alms Giving Experience’, preparing sticky rice and joining an enlightening sunrise ceremony known as Tak Bat where hundreds of Buddhist monks receive alms offerings from the local community. For deeper understanding, guests meet Madam Laa, who has dedicated over 40 years to her daily merit-making. A ‘City & Architecture Tour’ with a local historian explores the unique charm of the remarkably well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage gem, celebrated for its fusion of traditional Lao urban architecture with the French colonial era of the 19th and 20th centuries. A relaxing afternoon back at La Résidence is soothed by a signature bamboo massage at the hotel’s award-winning Mekong Spa. The oasis of serenity is renowned for ancient Laotian therapies once reserved for royalty, including Mai Xiaung massage applying warm oil of healing local botanicals to tired muscles with steamed bamboo. The final evening of the unforgettable experience starts with sunset cocktails at Ok Pop Tok Living Craft Centre on the banks of the Mekong, learning about the fascinating world of Lao textiles, from silkworm to natural dyes, weaving techniques and the finished product. The final dinner takes place at Governor’s Grill in the lush gardens of Sofitel Luang Prabang, where guests will savour an Epicurean Exploration dinner against a botanical backdrop, followed by late-night drinks and dessert back at La Résidence. For those departing late or staying on for another day, an optional sunrise breakfast picnic and swim can be incorporated in the turquoise pools of the spectacular, three-tiered Kuang Si Waterfalls. A “secret little late lunch” follows, hosted by a local personality at their home, thus offering a unique opportunity to enjoy an authentic home-cooked meal while engaging in meaningful conversation about local culture, traditions and personal stories.
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.
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