Mahakumbh 2025, one of the largest spiritual congregations in the world, commenced on Monday with lakhs of devotees taking a dip in the holy Sangam. This grand gathering does not only hold spiritual significance but is also set to be a platform to boost global tourism. To facilitate the same, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has rolled out several initiatives aimed at increasing domestic and international tourism. Mahakumbh 2025 is taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26, 2025. This mega event, expected to attract 40-45 crore visitors from across the world, offers a unique opportunity to showcase India's cultural and spiritual heritage, and tourism potential. Incredible India Pavilion The Ministry of Tourism said it is setting up the Incredible India Pavilion, a sprawling 5000 sq ft space at Mahakumbh, which will give a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage to devotees, foreign tourists, scholars, researchers, photographers, journalists, the expat community, Indian diaspora, among others. The pavilion will also feature the Dekho Apna Desh People's Choice Poll, allowing visitors to vote for their favourite tourism destinations in India. Tourist helpline To cater to the specific needs of foreign tourists, influencers, journalists and photographers attending Mahakumbh, the Ministry of Tourism has set up a dedicated toll-free Tourist Infoline (1800111363 or 1363). Besides English and Hindi, the toll-free Infoline is operating in ten international languages and also in Indian languages including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Assamese and Marathi. The service will provide assistance, information, and guidance to make the experience seamless and more enjoyable for international visitors. Social media buzz The Ministry has launched a major social media campaign to generate buzz and create awareness about the mega event Special hashtags such as #Mahakumbh2025 and #SpiritualPrayagraj are being used to encourage people to share their experiences and moments from the event. Accommodation and transportation The Ministry of Tourism has collaborated with key tourism stakeholders like the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (UPSTDC), IRCTC and ITDC to offer a range of curated tour packages and luxury accommodation options. ITDC has set up 80 luxury accommodations at Tent City, Prayagraj, while IRCTC is also providing luxury tents to accommodate the influx of pilgrims and tourists. To ensure seamless travel for tourists attending the Mahakumbh, the Ministry of Tourism has partnered with Alliance Air to enhance air connectivity to Prayagraj from multiple cities across India. This will facilitate easier access for domestic and international visitors, allowing them to reach the event with ease and convenience. Photography The Ministry of Tourism will also undertake a large-scale photoshoot and videography project to capture the grandeur and spiritual essence of the Mahakumbh. (With inputs from ANI) Also Read: From travel to health, know all about the special provisions at Mahakumbh 2025
15 January,2025 08:29 PM IST | Prayagraj | mid-day online correspondentBookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow, has once again joined forces with the Indian Railways to launch a dedicated local train service for the Mumbai leg of Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour in India. This exclusive train will operate through Coldplay’s much-awaited shows on January 18, 19 and 21 offering fans a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to get to the venue at DY Patil Sports Stadium, Navi Mumbai. The exclusive train will connect western, central and harbour lines running between Goregaon and Nerul, stopping at key locations such as Andheri, Bandra, Chembur and Jui Nagar on both onward and return journeys. At just Rs 500 for a two-way ticket, exclusively available on BookMyShow, this service provides a hassle-free way for fans to travel while connecting with like-minded music lovers. Adding to the convenience, BookMyShow Live has also partnered with Cityflo, enabling fans to book private buses from Goregaon, South Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane, through the Cityflo app. This is the second time that BookMyShow Live and Indian Railways have come together. It was previously seen during the U2: Joshua Tree Tour at D.Y. Patil Sports Stadium in 2019. “At BookMyShow Live, we believe that the fan experience begins long before the first note is played,” said Anil Makhija, COO - Live Entertainment & Venues, BookMyShow. “This exclusive train is a reflection of our commitment to making live entertainment as accessible and memorable as possible. By partnering with Indian Railways and extending the convenience through Cityflo, we are ensuring a seamless and exciting journey for Coldplay fans. This is about much more than just getting to the concert - it’s about building connections, sharing excitement and creating memories together with like-minded fans. After the success of our 2019 partnership with the Indian Railways for U2’s The Joshua Tree tour, we’re excited to once again join hands to create an experience that’s memorable from the first mile to the last.” Making it more than just a mode of transportation, they also want to help fans jam to their favourite Coldplay tracks, connect with fellow music enthusiasts and feel the energy of the concert before even arriving at the venue. With stops that conveniently connect Mumbai’s key locations across the western, central and harbour line routes, fans can skip the stress of traffic and parking, choosing instead to start their concert journey on a note of convenience, camaraderie and sustainability.Tickets for the exclusive train are now available on BookMyShow, while Cityflo bus bookings can be made through the Cityflo app.
15 January,2025 02:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKyoto authorities announced Tuesday plans to hike lodging taxes, as Japan's ancient capital seeks to assuage grumbles from locals about too many tourists. Lured by its myriad sights and a weak yen, Japan has seen foreign tourism numbers explode in recent years, with arrivals in 2024 expected to have hit a record of more than 35 million. But like other hotspots worldwide such as Venice in Italy or Maya Bay in Thailand, this is not universally welcome, particularly in tradition-steeped Kyoto. The city, which is a modest bullet train ride away from Tokyo -- with a view of Mount Fuji on the way -- is famed for its kimono-clad geisha performers and Buddhist temples. Residents have complained of disrespectful tourists harassing the geisha like paparazzi in their frenzy for photos, as well as causing traffic congestion and littering. For rooms costing between 20,000 and 50,000 yen ($127-317) per night, visitors will now see their tax double to 1,000 yen ($6.35) per person per night, under the new plans. For accommodation over 100,000 yen per night it will soar tenfold to 10,000 yen. The new levies will take effect next year, subject to approval from the city assembly. "We intend to hike accommodation tax to realise 'sustainable tourism' with a high level of satisfaction for citizens, tourists and businesses," a statement said. - Cigarette butts - Tensions are highest in the Gion district, home to teahouses where "geiko" -- the local name for geisha -- and their "maiko" apprentices perform traditional dances and play instruments. Last year authorities moved to ban visitors from entering certain narrow private alleys in Gion after pressure from a council of local residents. One council member told local media about an instance of a maiko's kimono being torn and another who had a cigarette butt put in her collar. In 2019, the Gion district council put up signs saying "no photography on private roads" warning of fines of up to 10,000 yen. "I appreciate tourists visiting the city, but there are also some downsides like the impact on the environment," resident Daichi Hayase told AFP, welcoming the new taxes. "But it doesn't mean the city should impose excessive taxes. Tourists are coming despite painful inflation," the 38-year-old photographer said. "If there's a burden on the infrastructure, I do think taxing tourists is a good idea," said Australian tourist Larry Cooke, 21. But he said that the city had to find the "right balance" - Fuji blocked - Tourism has been booming for over a decade in Japan, with foreign arrivals rising five-fold between 2012 and when the Covid pandemic torpedoed foreign travel in 2020. Since restrictions were lifted, and the government is hoping to welcome 60 million tourists per year by 2030, almost double last year's expected total. Authorities have also taken steps beyond Kyoto, including introducing an entry fee and a daily cap on the number of hikers climbing Mount Fuji. Last year a barrier was briefly erected outside a convenience store with a spectacular view of the famous snow-capped volcano that had become a magnet for photo-hungry visitors. And in December Ginzan Onsen, a Japanese hot spring town with made-for-Instagram snowy scenes began stopping anyone arriving after 8:00 pm if they don't have a hotel booked. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
14 January,2025 05:41 PM IST | Kyoto, Japan | AFP2024 was the year of reimagining travel, with explorers seeking more immersive and meaningful experiences that not only fulfill their travel bucket list experiences but also help them connect more deeply with their surroundings and local communities. Continuing this deviation from popular travel beliefs, explorers are seeking to explore uncharted territories in 2025. The Travel Predictions 2025 report by Booking.com reveals how Indian travellers will be re-thinking how they travel and defying convention to discover less crowded destinations (83 per cent) with the help of technology, embark on luxurious longevity retreats (83 per cent) or opt for more nocturnal activities in evenings or early mornings to beat rising temperatures (79 per cent). Trending international destinations for Indian travellers in 2025 Indian travellers are preferring offbeat destinations this year. These locations offer a wide range of experiences, from serene beach getaways to cultural hubs and adventure-filled landscapes. Here’s a look at the top trending destinations according to the report that are set to become vacation hotspots in 2025 for Indian travellers. 1. Gudauri, Georgia: Located in the Caucasus Mountains, this winter destination offers excellent slopes and scenic landscapes for adventure sports enthusiasts. 2. Gabala, Azerbaijan: This is a picturesque town which is home to ancient ruins, but also has avenues for leisure. It is popular for winter activities. 3. Cruis, France: This charming village in Provence, known for its lavender fields, offers travellers an ideal French countryside retreat. 4. Almaty, Kazakhstan: This destination is appealing for travellers who want to enjoy a vibrant city blending Soviet-era architecture with modern amenities, surrounded by the stunning Trans-Ili Alatau. 5. Baku, Azerbaijan: Famous for its modern skyline and historic Old City, this low-lying city with coastline along the Caspian Sea is ideal for adding to your 2025 travel list. Also Read: Goa to Baku, destinations that caught travellers' attention in 2024 6. Ahangama, Sri Lanka: This laid-back coastal town famous for its scenic beaches, traditional fishing and wellness retreat options is perfect for an authentic Sri Lankan experience. 7. Tbilisi City, Georgia: With cobblestone architecture and a mix of ancient and modern landmarks, this is an ideal destination for travellers seeking culturally enriching experience. 8. Tromso, Norway: As one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, adventurous travellers of all ages can enjoy activities like ice fishing, wildlife tours and reindeer sledging. 9. Batumi, Georgia: A seaside city with a scenic coastline, 19th-century architecture and vibrant nightlife, this destination is ideal for a beach vacation. 10. Mui Ne, Vietnam: A coastal destination on the southwest coast of Vietnam, Mui Ne offers stunning beaches and red and white sand dunes, just a few hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. Sharing more about these destinations, Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com said, “In 2025, travel goes beyond ticking destinations off a list. It's about transformative experiences that ignite personal growth. Whether it's an adrenaline rush in Gudauri or a rejuvenating retreat in Ahangama, there's a growing desire for journeys that leave a lasting impact."
13 January,2025 04:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe fog was thick, the cold intense and the waters freezing as the Maha Kumbh, the world's largest gathering, began on Monday with tens of lakhs of people taking a dip in the Sangam in their quest for 'moksha' and the belief it will cleanse their sins. Spirituality and faith, culture and religion, tradition and modern-day technology it all fused into one in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati in Prayagraj. More than 40 crore people are expected over 45 days in the mela, being held after 12 years. Besides, seers claim the celestial permutations and combinations for the event are taking place after 144 years, making the occasion even more auspicious for the faithful. And as the famed mela formally began on the occasion of 'Paush Purnima' to the sound of conch shells and bhajans, the excitement was palpable in the sprawling Sangam area as devotees -- mostly in groups -- walked towards the waters chanting 'Jai Ganga Maiyya'. "Till 9.30 am, around 60 lakh pilgrims had taken a dip," the Uttar Pradesh government said in a statement. "A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture! Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion and culture. The Maha Kumbh embodies India's timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X. Ash smeared sadhus from their abode in the Himalayas, the religious from across the country and abroad and those just curious to take in the sights and sounds of the biggest religious spectacle of all the 45-day Maha Kumbh beckoned them all. Thirteen Akharas of seers from different sects are participating in the Maha Kumbh. "I practise yoga in Brazil, I have come here for 'moksha'. This one is very special, once in 144 years. I am very lucky to be here. India is like spiritual heights of the world. I have four days to get 'moksha' (laughs). Sanatan Dharma is my mission of life and it changed my life, it changed the way I see the world, my family¿ Jai Shri Ram,¿ a devotee from Brazil said. "It is very special for me to be with you all Indians here. I am feeling grateful for this opportunity to dive into the sacred river here at the sacred point. I am fulfilled with bliss at this moment, " added Julie from Spain. Chants of 'Jai Shri Ram', 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Jai Ganga Maiyya' chants could be heard as the pilgrims moved towards the bathing area in groups.A group of women from Uttar Pradesh's Siddharth Nagar was busy singing folk songs. And there was a team of YouTubers from South Korea capturing various shots of the Maha Kumbh as was a team from Japan. Contingents from states across India were seen too at various ghats of Prayagraj. Appreciating the arrangements made for the devotees, Kailash Narayan Shukla from Hamirpur in Himachal said, Good arrangements were made for the pilgrims and we had no problems in taking the holy dip". "Where there is a confluence of cultures, there is also a confluence of faith and harmony. Maha Kumbh-2025 is giving the message of 'unity in diversity', Prayagraj is providing an encounter with Sanatan along with the welfare of humanity," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on X. It is a massive logistical exercise for the government. "Spanning 10,000 acres, the event will set an exemplary standard for cleanliness, security, and modernity. To enhance the convenience of devotees, a digital tourist map will facilitate monitoring the cleanliness of toilets, while an AI-powered security system integrated with smartphones will ensure safety," the chief minister said earlier. Mahakumbh Nagar is the world's world's largest temporary city, accommodating 50 lakh to 1 crore devotees at any given time, Adityanath said. According to Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, more than 55 police stations have been set up along with 45,000 police personnel being deployed for the fair. Projects have also been sanctioned to monitor social media continuously to guard against any mischief, he said. As many as 30 pontoon bridges, both in the Sangam area and Phaphamau, have also been readied to facilitate the movement of people from one end of the confluence to the other. Huge gates have also been installed at some of the entry points to welcome the devotees into the holy city. In the digital era, Maha Kumbh is also trending on social media, with devotees sharing their experiences by posting videos and pictures, with many offering their families virtual 'darshan' of Ganga via video call. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
13 January,2025 01:50 PM IST | Mahakumbh Nagar (Uttar Pradesh) | PTIWith only one week left for the Maha Kumbh Mela, thousands of devotees along with sadhus and saints from across India and the world have started arriving in Prayagraj. In this grand spiritual gathering, Naga sadhus have been captivating people with their special attire and Hatha yoga practice. Among them, Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri Maharaj has become a topic of discussion at the Mahakumbh Mela. He performs a remarkable ritual every morning at 4 am, bathing with 61 pots of cold water despite the biting cold when most people prefer to stay indoors during such freezing early hours. Pramod Giri Maharaj follows this by applying ash to his body and sitting by the sacred fire for meditation. The notable aspect is that the number of pots he uses increases daily. Speaking to ANI, Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri Maharaj of Atal Akhara said that he undertakes this practice for the welfare of humanity and society, with no selfish motive behind it. "We undertake this practice for the welfare of humanity and society, with no selfish motive behind it. With a mala in one hand and a bhala in the other, we are ready to stand for Sanatan Dharma whenever necessary. This is my ninth year of performing this Hatha Yoga practice, and as long as the grace of Guru Maharaj is with us, we will continue doing it," Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri said. He added that as naga sanyasi performing tapasya has been their main purpose for ages. "We are naga sanyasi, and performing tapasya has been our purpose for ages. Our gurus have followed this path, and we are continuing this tradition. The ritual bath with pots typically lasts for 41 days, but due to space and time constraints at the Mahakumbh Mela, we have reduced it to 21 days. From the very first day, the ritual began with water from 51 pots, as you have seen. I sit in one place, and people pour water over me from these pots. The number of pots increases day by day--three on some days, two on others. Today, there were 61 pots. When the 21 days are complete, we will perform the ritual bath with water from 108 pots," Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri said. "On the 14th, we Nagas will have our first Shahi Snan. On that day, this ritual will be the most challenging for me, as I will perform this ritual here first and then proceed for the Shahi Snan. After bathing, we apply ash to our bodies while still wet, and it remains on us throughout the day," he added. The Mahakumbh held once every 12 years, is scheduled to begin on January 13 and conclude on February 26 in Prayagraj. Over 45 crore devotees are expected to attend the event. During the Mahakumbh, devotees will gather at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation). #WATCH | Mahakumbh 2025 | Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri Maharaj performs 'Hatha Yoga' in the Mahakumbh Mela by bathing with 61 pots of water. He performs this remarkable ritual every morning at 4:00 AM. pic.twitter.com/AWIPwthx9O — ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025
13 January,2025 11:14 AM IST | Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) | ANIIn anticipation of the massive influx of devotees for the Mahakumbh 2025, Western Railway has launched special trains to ensure smooth and safe travel. Ajay Solanki, PRO of Ahmedabad Division Railway, announced that 98 special trains have been introduced, with a focus on passenger convenience, hygiene, and the proper functioning of electric appliances. RPF teams have also been deployed at stations for guidance and security. "... For the convenience of passengers, Western Railway is running Kumbh special trains and denoting them through flex painting... Hygiene and the working of electric appliances are being taken care of... Up till now, 98 special trains have been started... RPF teams have been deployed at stations to guide passengers and security..." said Ajay Solanki. Notably, Indian Railways has announced robust arrangements to ensure the safe and efficient travel of millions of devotees to and from the holy city. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information and Publicity at the Railway Board, shared details of the comprehensive plan to handle the unprecedented rush. The official said that the Indian Railways will operate more than 10,000 trains, including 3,300 special trains, to cater to the large number of passengers travelling for the Sangam Snan, one of the most significant events of the Maha Kumbh. Kumar said that special measures have been put in place to manage crowds, including colour-coded waiting and holding areas at stations for unreserved passengers. To ensure order and safety, Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) officers have been deployed to escort travellers in a systematic manner from designated areas to their trains. The Mahakumbh is being celebrated after 12 years, and over 45 crore devotees are expected for the event. During the Mahakumbh, devotees will gather at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation). The main bathing rituals (Shahi Snan) of the Kumbh will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).
13 January,2025 11:13 AM IST | Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) | ANIIn times when international or inter-country travel has become the cornerstone of the global tourism industry, the advantages that different passports offer help in ensuring seamless travel for citizens. According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, Singapore has retained its spot as the world’s most powerful passport, with the country’s citizens having visa-free access to 195 countries. Closely following is the Japanese passport, with visa-free access to 193 countries. The strength of a country's passport is dependent on how many countries allow visa-free access to its holder. The index includes 199 passports and 227 travel destinations. The passports of Finland, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea and Spain all allow access to 192 countries without prior visa, occupying the third spot together. Seven countries – Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden – were placed jointly on the fourth position, with these passport holders enjoying visa-free entry into 191 countries. The UAE is one of the biggest climbers on the index over the past decade, having secured access to an additional 72 destinations since 2015, enabling it to climb 32 places to the 10th spot with visa-free access to 185 destinations worldwide. Where does India rank? The Indian passport slipped five places to occupy the 85th spot in the list, alongside Equatorial Guinea and Niger. It was placed on the 80th position in 2024. Indian citizens can enjoy visa-free access to 57 countries, including Bhutan, Nepal, Mauritius, Barbados, among others. Also Read: Thailand to implement e-Visa system for Indian nationals from January 1, check details Top 10 most powerful passports in the world 1. Singapore (195 countries) 2. Japan (193 countries) 3. Finland, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, Spain (192 countries) 4. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden (191 countries) 5. Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom (190 countries) 6. Australia, Greece (189 countries) 7. Canada, Malta, Poland (188 countries) 8. Czechia, Hungary (187 countries) 9. Estonia, United States (186 countries) 10. Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates (185 countries)
10 January,2025 05:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the state's winter pilgrimage initiative has been extended to a year-round event.Taking to X, CM Dhami wrote, "Under the guidance of the respected Prime Minister @narendramodi ji, our double engine government has started the winter pilgrimage. Now the pilgrimage in Uttarakhand is being conducted for the entire 12 months instead of 6 months."The move comes as part of a broader strategy to increase the state's tourism and promote spiritual travel throughout the year. The winter pilgrimage, which was previously limited to the colder months, now allows devotees to visit the Char Dham temples in all seasons."Devotees are getting spiritual experience by visiting the winter seat of Char Dham and at the same time, in view of the winter season, the number of tourists is also increasing at various tourist places in the state," Dhami said.He further wrote that the initiative would not only benefit religious tourism but also create significant local employment opportunities."Through this visionary initiative of the Prime Minister, on the one hand, travel is being conducted throughout the year in the state and on the other hand, local people are also getting new employment opportunities," Dhami added. Also Read: Taj Mahal clears of fog as Varanasi records surge in winter tourists This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
09 January,2025 01:05 PM IST | Uttarakhand | ANIGlobal travel app, Skyscanner today has released its ‘Wanderlost’ report, revealing that 94 per cent of Indian travellers tend to overthink their holiday plans, making it harder for them to commit to a trip. The report offers a closer look at how Indian travellers plan for the year ahead, with nearly half (49 per cent) already planning their next getaway. It further highlights the key factors that shape their travel decisions and what often holds them back from booking their next adventure. January is all about fresh beginnings and the perfect time to map out 2025 adventures, with 89 per cent of Indians using this month to make important decisions for the year ahead. However, for 75 per cent of Indian travellers, the process of planning a trip can feel overwhelming - almost as much as figuring out their relationship goals. Key stressors like the fear of making a less-than-perfect choice (96 per cent), cost concerns (95 per cent), and overthinking (94 per cent) hold many back from booking their holidays. Travellers also tend to be extra cautious about their travel plans, revisiting their options multiple times—whether it's flights (41 per cent), hotels (35 per cent), or activities (30 per cent) — to make sure everything is perfect before they hit 'book'. The travel application's 'Wanderlost' report uncovers this growing travel planning stress experienced by Indian travellers. Mohit Joshi, travel and destinations expert shares, “Planning a trip should be exciting, but for many, it can feel like a daunting task. Our Wanderlost report highlights that over 1 in 5 (22 per cent) Indian travellers take up to a month to finalise their holiday plans – a timeframe akin to deciding on higher education! Despite this, nearly half (45 per cent) Indians ended up taking more holidays than they originally planned in 2024. He adds, "At Skyscanner, we want to fuel this passion for travel and make the planning experience hassle-free. Whether seeking great deals or new destinations, our money-saving tools and features are designed to simplify every step of the trip planning process. When flexible with dates, our Cheapest Month feature reveals the most budget-friendly time to fly and helps you discover the most cost-effective month to visit any destination. Meanwhile, our Explore Everywhere search inspires travellers to uncover incredible destinations within their budget, all ranked by price. With a wealth of travel hacks and tips available, we want to ensure 2025 is the year when travel dreams take flight.” To further explore the mental strain behind this phenomenon, Skyscanner collaborated with neurology doctor and neuroscientist Dr. Faye Begeti, neurology doctor and neuroscientist who explains, ‘Wanderlost,’ a state of indecision during travel planning, stems from mental fatigue. Planning a holiday can feel overwhelming, especially when each decision - whether it’s choosing a destination or booking flights, hotels, and activities - requires significant mental effort. When a choice is difficult to make, it’s often because we need to shift our attention between various options, compare them and analyse the pros and cons. The constant mental juggling of information, particularly when it’s scattered across multiple online sources, relies heavily on our prefrontal cortex and can drain our cognitive resources, further amplified by the pressure to make the ‘perfect’ choice. This can turn the usual excitement of ‘wanderlust’ into the exhaustion of ‘wanderlost.’ I’m glad to be working with Skyscanner to help travellers overcome this challenge.” Brain hacks to overcome the 'Wanderlost' feeling Tackle 'Wanderlost' with these five neuroscience-backed exercises, developed with Dr. Faye Begeti, to help travellers simplify decisions and plan confidently for 2025 1. Combat decision fatigue: Decision fatigue can overwhelm your brain, making even simple choices feel exhausting. Narrowing down your options is key. 2. Prioritise key decisions early: Tackle the big decisions - like selecting flights or accommodation - when your mental energy is highest. For less important choices, adopt a "good enough" approach. If a choice meets your criteria, select it and move on to avoid overthinking and decision fatigue. 3. Balance mental energy with the right holiday: Choose a holiday that aligns with your mental state. If you're feeling mentally overloaded, opt for a nature-focused retreat to reduce sensory input and recharge. If you’re under-stimulated, consider a city break or an adventure holiday for a burst of novelty and excitement. 4. Leverage anticipatory dopamine: Our brain thrives on anticipation, making the build-up to a holiday feel as exciting as the trip itself so use it to your advantage. Bookmark your dream destinations in a saved list and revisit them as you refine your plans, making the planning a less stressful and more exciting experience. 5. Break free from routine: As we get older, time can feel like it’s moving faster, often because we get stuck in familiar routines. Overcome the status quo bias that keeps you locked into these patterns. Try stepping out of your comfort zone when planning your holiday and explore unexpected destinations; this can lead to more memorable experiences.
08 January,2025 07:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEvery year, Indians set their travel goals for the next six to 12 months. While that comes from everything they have heard, it is also influenceed by the amount of money need to save up to travel to the destinatons. While some spend lavishly, there are others who look at affordable options to see more places. According to Skycscanner's latest report, one in three Indian travellers (31 per cent) are inspired by affordable travel destinations, while almost one in four (23 per cent) are motivated by knowing the cheapest places to visit. In 2024, high costs were a key barrier for Indian travellers, with 32 per cent citing it as the reason for taking fewer holidays. Global travel app Skyscanner has curated a list of the best value-for-money locations for 2025 that Indian travellers can look forward to, with prices as low as Rs 8,390. Cheapest Destinations for 2025 Flight prices in 2025 1 Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh From Rs 8,390 2 Kochi, Kerala From Rs 9,898 3 Jaisalmer, Rajasthan From Rs 9,898 4 New Delhi, India From Rs 10,220 5 Phnom Penh, Cambodia From Rs 12,262 6 Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir From Rs 12,370 7 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia From Rs 17,425 8 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates From Rs 22,588 9 Muscat, Oman From Rs 22,588 10 Davao, Philippines From Rs 23,557 While one may think about the basis of cheapest destinations, the application has said that the methodology includes "analysis of millions of flight bookings and calculated the median return economy seat price for all departure cities within each market. The analysis covers all departure and return dates in 2025, based on data available as of November 2024. It includes both direct and connecting flights, while excluding promotional fares and sales to focus on standard economy pricing. The top 10 destinations were then carefully curated by considering additional factors such as traveller suitability ensuring the list is both data-driven and highly relevant for travellers."
08 January,2025 03:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
