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In a land as diverse and culturally rich as India, spirituality is deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. From ancient temples to revered pilgrimage sites, the country boasts a myriad of <keyword id="18506795" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="spiritual-cities" source="Orion">spiritual cities</keyword> that offer solace, enlightenment, and a profound connection to the divine. Join us as we embark on a spiritual journey through the top 10 <keyword id="18506794" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="spiritual-cities-in-India" source="Orion">spiritual cities in India</keyword>, each with its unique significance, history, and reasons to visit. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Varanasi: City of Eternal Enlightenment" comment="subhead" text="Varanasi: City of Eternal Enlightenment"><keyword id="6357203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Varanasi" source="Orion">Varanasi</keyword>: City of Eternal Enlightenment</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Varanasi" msid="102975337" hostid="261" sizebytes="78620"></div>Nestled along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world. It holds immense significance for Hindus, who believe that bathing in the holy river washes away sins and grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death. History: Varanasi has been a center of learning and spirituality for over 3,000 years. It's renowned for its ancient temples, the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, and its role as a hub of knowledge and culture. Why Visit: Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, explore the labyrinthine streets, and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of this ancient city. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Rishikesh: Gateway to the Himalayas" comment="subhead" text="Rishikesh: Gateway to the Himalayas"><keyword id="47181" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rishikesh" source="Orion">Rishikesh</keyword>: Gateway to the Himalayas</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Rishikesh" msid="102975439" hostid="261" sizebytes="74028"></div>Rishikesh, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, is renowned as a hub of yoga and meditation. It's believed that meditation in Rishikesh leads to self-realization and inner peace. History: The city has been a retreat for sages and yogis for centuries. The Beatles' visit to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram in the 1960s brought international attention to Rishikesh's spiritual essence. Why Visit: Partake in yoga and meditation retreats, witness the Ganga Aarti, and seek solace in the serene natural surroundings. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Amritsar: Abode of the Golden Temple" comment="subhead" text="Amritsar: Abode of the Golden Temple">Amritsar: Abode of the Golden Temple</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Amritsar" msid="102975542" hostid="261" sizebytes="149628"></div>The Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism. It symbolizes equality, humility, and unity, and offers a spiritual haven for people of all faiths. History: Built in the 16th century, the Golden Temple stands as a testament to Sikh resilience and devotion. Its reflective pool, known as the Amrit Sarovar, holds immense spiritual significance. Why Visit: Witness the breathtaking Golden Temple, volunteer at the langar (community kitchen), and embrace the sense of community and service. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Puri: Land of Lord Jagannath" comment="subhead" text="Puri: Land of Lord Jagannath"><keyword id="4903" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Puri" source="Orion">Puri</keyword>: Land of Lord Jagannath</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Puri" msid="102975627" hostid="261" sizebytes="172382"></div>Puri is home to the revered Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord Krishna). The annual Rath Yatra, where deities are taken out in grand chariots, is a major attraction. History: The temple's history dates back over a thousand years, and it holds a special place in Hindu mythology. The temple's kitchen, which feeds thousands daily, is also noteworthy. Why Visit: Witness the grandeur of the Rath Yatra, explore Puri's pristine beaches, and savor the local delicacies. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Madurai: The City of Temples" comment="subhead" text="Madurai: The City of Temples">Madurai: The City of Temples</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Madhurai" msid="102975700" hostid="261" sizebytes="134972"></div>Madurai is synonymous with the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Meenakshi) and Lord Shiva. History: With a history spanning more than 2,500 years, the Meenakshi Temple is a cultural and spiritual landmark. Its intricate carvings and vast complex are awe-inspiring. Why Visit: Admire the temple's intricate architecture, attend the nightly ceremony, and explore the bustling markets of Madurai. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Haridwar: Gateway to Salvation" comment="subhead" text="Haridwar: Gateway to Salvation"><keyword id="6355106" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Haridwar" source="Orion">Haridwar</keyword>: Gateway to Salvation</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Haridwar" msid="102975861" hostid="261" sizebytes="200688"></div>Haridwar is another gateway to the Ganges and is believed to be the place where the river leaves the mountains to flow into the plains. The Kumbh Mela, a massive spiritual gathering, is held here. History: Haridwar's history is intertwined with Hindu mythology and legends. The city's ghats and temples attract pilgrims and seekers alike. Why Visit: Take part in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, visit the temples, and experience the profound spirituality of the Kumbh Mela. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bodh Gaya: Attaining Enlightenment" comment="subhead" text="Bodh Gaya: Attaining Enlightenment">Bodh Gaya: Attaining Enlightenment</cmsannotation><div type="image" title="Bodh Gaya" msid="102975924" hostid="261" sizebytes="90520"></div>Bodh Gaya is where Siddhartha Gautama, later known as Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple complex stands as a tribute to this event. History: The birthplace of Buddhism, Bodh Gaya has been a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. The serene atmosphere and historic significance attract seekers of inner wisdom. Why Visit: Meditate under the Bodhi Tree, explore the Mahabodhi Temple complex, and embrace the teachings of compassion and mindfulness. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pushkar: Mystical Desert Gem" comment="subhead" text="Pushkar: Mystical Desert Gem">Pushkar: Mystical Desert Gem</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Pushkar" msid="102975995" hostid="261" sizebytes="120904"></div>Pushkar is famed for its holy lake and the Brahma Temple, dedicated to Lord Brahma. The city holds a special place in Hindu mythology. History: Pushkar's origins are shrouded in myth, and it's considered one of the most ancient cities in India. The annual Pushkar Camel Fair adds vibrant cultural allure to the town. Why Visit: Witness the ethereal beauty of the Pushkar Lake, explore the bustling bazaars, and participate in the unique Camel Fair. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tiruvannamalai: Mount of the Divine" comment="subhead" text="Tiruvannamalai: Mount of the Divine">Tiruvannamalai: Mount of the Divine</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Tiruvannamalai" msid="102976073" hostid="261" sizebytes="133968"></div>Tiruvannamalai is home to the sacred Arunachaleshwarar Temple and the revered Arunachala Hill, believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva. History: The town's spiritual roots date back centuries, attracting seekers and devotees to its ancient temples and the serene presence of Arunachala Hill. Why Visit: Embark on a circumambulation of Arunachala Hill, visit the Arunachaleshwarar Temple, and engage in introspective meditation. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Dharamshala: Abode of the Dalai Lama" comment="subhead" text="Dharamshala: Abode of the Dalai Lama">Dharamshala: Abode of the Dalai Lama</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Dharamshala" msid="102976184" hostid="261" sizebytes="92600"></div>Dharamshala, especially McLeod Ganj, is the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama and a hub of Tibetan Buddhism. It exudes a unique blend of spirituality and cultural diversity. History: Following the Tibetan diaspora, Dharamshala became a sanctuary for Tibetans in exile. The Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Complex are central to the spiritual atmosphere. Why Visit: Attend teachings by the Dalai Lama, explore Tibetan culture, and find solace in the picturesque landscapes of the Himalayas. India's spiritual cities are more than just destinations; they are gateways to profound introspection, cultural immersion, and a deeper understanding of the self and the universe. From the ancient rituals along the Ganges to the tranquil abode of the Dalai Lama, each city offers a unique spiritual experience that resonates with seekers from all walks of life. Whether you're a pilgrim or a yogi you must visit these cities for spiritual awakening. <h3>SEE ALSO:</h3><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/8-indian-bridges-showcasing-beauty-and-architectural-excellence/articleshow/102951028.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">8 Indian bridges showcasing beauty and architectural excellence</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/taste-the-best-indian-cities-known-for-their-irresistible-food/articleshow/102950307.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Taste the best: Indian cities known for their irresistible food</a>

Divine destinations: 10 spiritual cities in India you must visit

<ul><li>Railway authorities said 14 pairs of special trains will remain suspended from September 24 till 26. </li><li>The decision has been taken keeping in mind the safety of passengers and protection of railway property from any damage, officials said. </li></ul> Farmers in Punjab on Thursday began their three-day 'rail roko' agitation to protest against the three farm bills while the <keyword id="1041753" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ferozepur-railway-division">Ferozepur Railway division</keyword> suspended the operation of special trains due to the stir. Railway authorities said 14 pairs of special trains will remain suspended from September 24 till 26. The decision has been taken keeping in mind the safety of passengers and protection of railway property from any damage, officials said. Among the trains which will remain suspended are Golden Temple Mail (Amritsar-Mumbai Central), <keyword id="6619534" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="jan-shatabdi-express">Jan Shatabdi Express</keyword> (<keyword id="9991549" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="haridwar-amritsar">Haridwar-Amritsar</keyword>), New Delhi-Jammu Tawi, <keyword id="9991736" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="karambhoomi">Karambhoomi</keyword> (Amritsar-New Jalpaiguri), Sachkhand Express (<keyword id="9280901" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="nanded-amritsar">Nanded-Amritsar</keyword>) and Shaheed Express (Amritsar-Jaynagar), officials said. At present, routine passenger train service remains suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The call for 'rail roko' agitation was given by <keyword id="9950235" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="the-kisan-mazdoor-sangharsh-committee">the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee</keyword> and later, different farmers' outfits also extended their support. Activists of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan) squatted on rail tracks in Barnala and Sangrur on Thursday morning. Farmers under the banner of Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee have decided to squat on rail tracks near Devidaspur village in Amritsar and Basti Tanka wala in Ferozepur. The representatives of the committee said they were getting support from several sections including government employees and labourers. Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee president Satnam Singh Pannu said that they have appealed to representatives of political parties, ministers, MPs and MLAs not to take part in the farmers' agitation. They vowed to gherao BJP leaders and socially boycott those who voted in favour of the farm bills. As many as 31 farmers' outfits have given a call for the complete shutdown of Punjab on September 25 to protest against the bills. Farmers in Punjab have expressed apprehension that the bills would pave way for dismantling the minimum support price system, leaving them at the "mercy" of big corporates. The Rajya Sabha has passed the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020, the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020 and the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/indian-defence-minister-to-inaugurate-43-bridges-across-seven-states-amid-border-tensions-with-china/articleshow/78290789.cms">Indian Defence Minister to inaugurate 43 bridges across seven states amid border tensions with China</a>

Farmers hold 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, train services suspended

<ul><li>Northern India witnessed the highest demand for spiritual travel followed by South, West and East. </li><li>The top five cities for <keyword id="390235" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="spiritual-tourism" source="Orion">spiritual tourism</keyword> in the country include <keyword id="6357203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Varanasi" source="Orion">Varanasi</keyword>, <keyword id="48458" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tirupati" source="Orion">Tirupati</keyword>, <keyword id="4903" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Puri" source="Orion">Puri</keyword>, <keyword id="11917951" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="amritsar" source="Orion">Amritsar</keyword> and Haridwar. </li><li>24% Indians took at least one vacation every month in 2022 alone, revealed a Travel Style Network survey.</li></ul>Northern India has emerged as the most favoured spiritual travel destination followed by Southern, Western and Eastern regions in the country, reveals <keyword id="2808667" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="oyo" source="Orion">OYO</keyword> Cultural Travel 2022 Roundup Report by global hospitality chain OYO. Regarded as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, which is also one of the oldest cities in the world, emerged as the top religious destination for bookers across India. This was followed by Tirupati, Puri, Amritsar and Haridwar, as per the report. In the North zone, Varanasi emerged as the most popular destination due to its favored status among Hindus and Buddhists. This was followed by <keyword id="3481192" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="prayagraj" source="Orion">Prayagraj</keyword>, Amritsar, Haridwar, Katra, and Rishikesh. The cultural cities of Vijayawada, Mysore, Tirupati, Madurai and Vellore were most favored in South India. In the West zone, Shirdi received the maximum traction from travellers followed by Mahabaleshwar, Nashik, Ujjain, and <keyword id="56942" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="pushkar" source="Orion">Pushkar</keyword>. Goa, which has always been a popular tourist spot, was the most favoured destinations in East India, along with Puri. While Varanasi may be the most popular destination, Shirdi, Rishikesh, Mathura, Mahabaleshwar and Madurai witnessed the maximum growth in bookings over the past year, reveals the report. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;" class="redcator-table-advance"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Top 10 spiritual tourism destinations in India </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Growth in 2022 VS 2021 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Varanasi </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">56% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Tirupati </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">233% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Puri </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">117% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Amritsar </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">81% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Haridwar </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">78% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Shirdi </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">483% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Rishikesh </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">78% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Mathura </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">81% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Mahabaleshwar </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">149% </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Madurai </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">127% </td></tr></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody></table>Source: OYO Cultural Travel 2022 Roundup Report Rising interest in spiritual tourism among GenZ and millennials Factors like availability of hotels, good connectivity to reach destinations and pent-up demand for travel has supported the desire for spiritual and religious travels, revealed OYO. OYO also revealed that as per its booking data insights, August received the maximum demand for pilgrimage destinations. And Prayagraj recorded the longest stay by one user - of 61 days. Moreover, spiritual travel is no longer restricted to a particular age group. “Earlier, travel was bound by summer holidays, winter trips, post-exam trips but now it is way more diverse. With the need for spiritual connection taking priority, millennials and GenZ are setting new trends for the industry. With every passing day, spiritual and self-care travel are catching pace, and the demand is growing,” OYO stated in the report. An estimated 24% Indians took at least one vacation every month in the year 2022 alone, greater than the global average of 11%, revealed a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/travel-trends-in-2023-digital-detox-regenerative-travel-and-inner-peace/articleshow/96281360.cms">Travel Style Network</a> survey. The rising optimism around travel has also led to the company’s monthly revenue per hotel (GBV) per month clocking a 69% increase year-on-year, stated OYO. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/news/is-covid-19-making-a-comeback-china-us-japan-witness-an-increase-in-cases/slidelist/96392747.cms">Is Covid-19 making a comeback? China, US &amp; Japan witness an increase in cases</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/upcoming-mobile-games-to-watch-out-for-in-2023/articleshow/96390215.cms">Upcoming mobile games to watch out for in 2023</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/ecommerce/news/quick-personal-live-and-immersive-this-is-how-e-commerce-will-be-in-2023/articleshow/96369527.cms">Quick, personal, live and immersive – this is how e-commerce will be in 2023</a>

Varanasi, Tirupati, Puri are top travel destinations, as spiritual tourism gains favour -OYO

<ul><li>Varanasi in India, was one of the favourite leisure destinations in 2022, according to <keyword id="2808667" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="oyo" source="Orion">OYO</keyword>. Other destinations were Jaipur, Goa, Kochi and Visakhapatnam. </li><li>India witnessed a 44% increase in booking demand during Christmas week (25th December - 31st December) compared to 2021. </li><li>About 1 million last-minute bookings were made in Malaysia on OYO. </li></ul>The year 2022 was marked by a renewed vigour for travel, with people finally fulfilling the travel dreams that the pandemic put on hold. And this sentiment is accurately reflected in OYO’s Travelopedia 2022- the hospitality technology platform’s year-end annual global travel trends index. As per OYO, Hyderabad in India, Luxembourg in Europe, Bandung in Indonesia, Johor Bahru in Malaysia, Texas in the US, and London were the year’s most-booked destinations. “Remote working offered flexibility to consumers to use their time and explore domestic destinations to make up for their lost vacations. Globally, leisure destinations are leading the travel recovery curve, while in India, we’re seeing business travel also significantly contribute to the sector,” said Shreerang Godbole, global chief service officer, OYO. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Spiritual travel and business trips trend in India" comment="subhead2" text="Spiritual travel and business trips trend in India">Spiritual travel and business trips trend in India</cmsannotation> India’s fourth largest and most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, was the most visited state in 2022. Apart from it, Hyderabad, Delhi, Bangalore, <keyword id="6354925" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="kolkata" source="Orion">Kolkata</keyword> and Chennai were the most-booked cities for business travel, while Jaipur, Goa, Kochi, Varanasi and Visakhapatnam topped the charts as favourite leisure destinations in 2022, according to OYO. Varanasi's ranking in the list of top leisure destinations aligns with the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/varanasi-tirupati-puri-amritsar-are-the-top-travel-spiritual-destinations-in-india-as-per-oyo/articleshow/96394438.cms">rise in spiritual travel </a>this year. After Varanasi, Tirupati, Puri, Amritsar and Haridwar were the most-booked destinations for pilgrimage on OYO. Interestingly, smaller towns and cities such as Hathras, Srinagar in Uttarakhand, Sasaram, Karaikudi and <keyword id="136826" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="tenali" source="Orion">Tenali</keyword> saw the highest increase in bookings in 2022 vs 2021, it added. The festive spirit of Christmas also translated into travel plans, with India witnessing a 44% increase in booking demand during Christmas week (25th December - 31st December) compared to 2021. Destinations such as Goa, Hyderabad, Puri, Manali, and Kolkata emerged as top choices for travellers during this time, stated OYO. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Longs weekend trips and leisure travel dominate globally" comment="subhead2" text="Longs weekend trips and leisure travel dominate globally">Longs weekend trips and leisure travel dominate globally</cmsannotation> OYO also analysed the trends across Europe, the US, the UK, Malaysia and Indonesia, and long weekend trips were common across regions. The Independence Day (July 1-3) weekend in the US, Queen Elizabeth’s platinum jubilee (June 2-4) in the UK and the Eid-Ul-Fitr weekend (May 7-8) in Indonesia were the most-booked weekends in 2022, as per OYO. Moreover, between January and December 2022, Europeans booked more vacation homes outside their own country compared to previous years. Christmas also continued to be a high season across Europe and the UK. This year, the UK observed a 34% uptick in booking demand for Christmas and upcoming New Year's Eve in comparison to 2021, according to OYO. Though Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu witnessed the highest bookings in Malaysia in 2022, Penang Island and Malacca witnessed the highest YoY growth compared to 2021. Malaysia also saw approximately 1 million last-minute bookings on OYO in 2022. As per OYO’s booking trends, in Indonesia, Bandung, Bali, Yogyakarta, Malang and Lampung emerged as the top five leisure destinations in 2022. Jakarta, Tangerang, Surabaya, Bekasi and Medan were the top five business destinations in 2022 in Indonesia. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/10-places-in-india-where-you-can-experience-snowfall/articleshow/96584102.cms">From Auli to Zuluk, 10 places in India where you can experience snowfall</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/delhi-ncr-and-bengaluru-are-indias-biggest-office-markets-in-2022-jll-report/articleshow/96573976.cms">Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru are India’s biggest office markets in 2022: JLL report</a>

Hyderabad, Texas, Bandung and London among most-booked destinations in 2022, as per OYO

New Delhi, Dec 10 () For the second week in a row, onion prices on Tuesday stayed above the Rs 100 per kg mark, as government efforts to cool the rates seem to be taking more time than expected.
 The rates were as high as Rs 165 a kg in Panaji, while the average of 114 major cities in the country came to over Rs 100, according to official data available here.
 Onion prices started to climb from September and have averaged over Rs 100 per kg since November 25.
 Onion, which is an essential ingredient in many food preparations, is a politically sensitive item and its high prices have been a cause of defeat for many governments in the past.
 According to the data, onion prices are ruling at Rs 96 per kg in the national capital, Rs 102 per kg in Mumbai, Rs 100 in Chennai and Rs 140 per kg in Kolkata.
 Onions are being sold at Rs 160 per kg in Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Mayabunder, and at Rs 150 per kg in Tirupati, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad.
 In Bengaluru, Wayanad, Ramanathapuram and Port Blair, the rates stood at Rs 140 per kg.
 Onion prices prevailed at Rs 120 per kg in Gurugram, Jagdalpur, Behrampur, Purulia, Maldah, Itanagar, Agartala, Puducherry, Dindigul, Tirunelveli and Dharmapuri.
 In Amritsar, Surat, Jabalpur, Darbhanga, Sambalpur, Balasore and Gangtok, onion prices were Rs 110 per kg.
 Onion rates are Rs 100 per kg in Chandigarh, Shimla, Mandi, Srinagar, Jammu, Ludhiana, Gorakhpur, Haridwar, Ahmedabad, Patna, Cuttack, Jeypore, Kharagpur, Raiganj, Shillong and Tiruchirappalli.
 Last month, Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister attributed the rise in prices to a 26 per cent decline in domestic production during kharif and late-kharif seasons because of late monsoon followed by excess rains in major producing states such as Maharashtra and Karnataka.
 The minister has been maintaining that the government has taken all possible steps to rein in prices such as imposing a ban on exports and allowing imports of 1.2 lakh tonnes to boost supply.
 The Centre has also put restrictions on quantities of onions to be stocked by retailers and wholesalers.
 On Monday, the Centre further reduced the stock holding limit for onion to 2 tonnes from 5 tonnes for retail traders.
 Last week, the ministry had reduced the stock holding limit on wholesalers to 25 tonnes from 50 tonnes.
 State-owned MMTC has already contracted over 21,000 tonnes and the shipment is expected to arrive from this week.
 Experts are of the view that onion prices will remain firm till the first week of January when the late-kharif onions will start hitting the market. LUX MJH ANZ HRS

Onion prices remain high across major cities; Avg rate Rs 100/kg, highest Rs 165/kg at Panaji

<ul><li>Fabelle launched its first chocolate boutique in Bengaluru and has today expanded to 15 boutiques across top 6 metros.</li><li>Its aim is now to grow its reach further in both the luxury and the <keyword id="6037459" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="mass-premium-segment">mass premium segment</keyword>. It is ensuring it is available at all touchpoints to ensure a great experience for its consumers.</li><li> In a market where well-established players are also putting their best foot forward to woo consumers with their mass premium segment offerings, <keyword id="8251479" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Anuj-Rustagi">Anuj Rustagi</keyword>, Chief Operating Officer, Chocolate, Coffee, Confectionery and New Category Development - Foods, <keyword id="186707" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="ITC-Limited">ITC Limited</keyword>, tells us Fabelle's strategy to bite a bigger piece of the Indian market. </li></ul>It was back in 2016 that ITC ventured into the premium chocolates segment with the launch of Fabelle. The brand had been in the making for close to 10 years. To provide an ‘immersive, participative and engaging chocolate experience to consumers’, the brand launched its first chocolate boutique, a global format to retail chocolates in the country in the same year, starting with Bengaluru. The brand now has expanded to 15 boutiques across top 6 metros. Within the next two years, Fabelle extended its offerings to the mass premium segment. This move was in line with the brand’s endeavour to take its offerings to a wider audience. It was then that it made itself available at premium retailers like Nature’s Basket, Foodhall, Spencer’s etc. To further expand its reach, the brand has invested Rs 100 crore on a manufacturing facility. The brand is now on a mission, to bite a bigger piece of the country’s chocolate market that has well-established players like Mondelez, Nestle, and now even Amul putting their best foot forward with the launch of their premium chocolate ranges. Over the past few years, the brand has been using the power of digital to its advantage, to reach out to its target audience. <keyword id="441877" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="direct-marketing">Direct marketing</keyword> and word-of-mouth have helped it create a loyal base. We recently caught up with Anuj Rustagi, Chief Operating Officer, Chocolate, Coffee, Confectionery and New Category Development - Foods, ITC Limited, to understand how the brand is navigating a segment that has some strong players already and to understand its strategy to growing its footprint in the market. Excerpts: Q) Walk us through brand Fabelle’s journey from 2016 till today. What kind of growth have you witnessed and how do you plan to reach out to more consumers? Considering the scope and potential to grow the Indian chocolate market, we launched Fabelle in 2016. We launched our first chocolate boutique, a global format to retail chocolates in the country in 2016, starting with Bengaluru and has expanded to 15 boutiques across top 6 metros. After building credibility and consumer trust in the premium luxury chocolates segment, we extended our offerings to the mass premium segment in 2018 by taking our offerings to premium retailers in the country like Nature’s Basket, Foodhall, Spencer’s et al. We also invested Rs 100 crore to set up a greenfield state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Haridwar with a capacity of 5,000 tonnes per annum. Further to this, we had also set up a cold chain in our warehouses, redistribution centers and also at retail touch points, to deliver our chocolates in the most pristine condition to our consumers. The company invested in the latest global cooling technologies and real-time digital monitoring systems to ensure that the cold chain is efficient and always functioning, so that there’s no product quality deterioration. Once the required logistics were in place, we leveraged ITC’s strong distribution network to expand our retails touch points and are currently available via 10000+ retailers in India. Currently, we are also amplifying our reach via the digital ecosystem through food delivery service apps like Swiggy, Zomato, ITC eStore, Amazon. Our business has grown much ahead of the category and our internal forecast. Q) Do you plan to come up with more 'massy' products with lower price points? We entered the mass premium/FMCG segment in 2018 with two unique formats – Fabelle Choco Deck and Fabelle Soft Centres. Earlier this year, riding at the back of encouraging consumer response which we received after launching Ruby Gianduja in the luxury segment, we extended the experience of Ruby Chocolate to the larger consumer base by launching Fabelle Choco Deck Milk &amp; Ruby Chocolate Our products are already available in 10 SKUs at popular price points, ranging between Rs 25 to Rs 350. Going forward, Fabelle will continue to focus on creating one-of-a-kind chocolate experiences in India that are highly aspirational and in line with global brands and possibly better. We will focus on expanding the presence of luxury segment across all relevant touchpoints with the right range and also build a portfolio of products that span not only in the luxury segment but also in premium mass retail segments under Fabelle. Q) Fabelle has a website but it's more of a discovery platform. Are there plans to start selling on fabelle.in too or will you continue only selling on other ecommerce platforms? Indeed Fabelle’s website is a discovery platform but I our offerings across the luxury and mass premium range are already being retailed through our own D2C ecosystem, which consists of a takeaway menu, ITC eStore, ITC Hotels App or ITC Store on Wheels for purchase. We're also utilizing the traditional e-commerce channels like Amazon, Big Basket, Flipkart to make the luxury range available and delivered to consumers. Emerging channels like EasyDiner, Dunzo etc are also being explored to enable people to buy chocolates. Q) You launched your first brand campaign earlier this year, almost 4 years after launching the brand. What kept you away from traditional advertising till now? Our media choices have been to sharp target our consumers in key geographies using digital as a key medium which also enables consumers to get more information and engage with brands directly, especially in the luxury segments. Besides digital, positive word-of-mouth has been a key part of our marketing communication mix in building the brand’s familiarity amongst the larger audience, alongside our new, trend setting launches like Ruby Gianduja, Trinity Truffles, Independence Day and work with chocolatiers like Billie Mckay, Sarah Todd etc which has given Fabelle the desired visibility. Direct marketing is also a key lever to engage with UHNI and HNI consumers and creating customised experiences in gifting and for self-consumption. As our brand presence extended across segments, across price points, we felt it was an appropriate time to include TV in marketing mix for our mass premium range while continuing focus on digital and earned media. Q) Other players are also strengthening their offerings in the premium <keyword id="6110187" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="chocolate-segment">chocolate segment</keyword>. How have you been able to create a niche for yourself? Earlier, Indian consumers purchased imported brands that were available via alternate channels in a range of retail outlets across key metro cities as no major global premium chocolate brand operated officially in India. Erratic supplies, lack of product quality, authenticity, product range suited to Indian consumers, variety for self-consumption and gifting were some of the major concerns of Indian consumers with regards to the global brands available in India via alternate channels. International travel (prior to the pandemic), exposure to global food trends via social media, food blogs and sites, food programs (Masterchef) and an increase in purchasing power are redefining lifestyle choices of the upper middle class and elite consumers. Hence, India has become a key market for major luxury brands leading to a rapid rise in demand for gourmet food and the same is also seen in the chocolates category. Gourmet experiences in chocolates are defined as handcrafted, using finest ingredients, crafted by experts and those that engage all senses. Brand imagery has also become important as increasingly prosperous Indians are choosing brands that are in line with their aspirations of consuming premium global products/offerings while gifting has also emerged as an important trend in premium chocolates segment. With all of the above, consumers were also seeking an immersive experience. To address these need-based gaps, we launched our first chocolate boutique in 2016 which has now expanded to 15 boutiques. We are now looking at attractive markets like Amritsar to further extend our presence. The overall experience in the Chocolate Boutique led by Fabelle Master chocolatiers and boutique associates is aimed to create an engaging experience that not only makes a range of chocolate products available to consumers but also an experience that helps consumer know more about chocolates like the origins, chocolate processing techniques and appreciating the nuances of a luxury chocolate experience. Furthermore, we are the only chocolatier to offer 60+ diverse range of chocolate experiences through 5 varieties of globally popular hand-crafted creations. We are the only brand to retail all 5 types’ chocolates in the world - White, Milk, Dark, Ruby and a new type ‘Dark Milk’. Q) The premium chocolate segment is still a very small part of the chocolates business. How are you wooing more consumers, and increasing your market share? In the luxury segment, during the pandemic, we shifted our presence from physical to digital platforms to take luxury closer to consumers to wish to indulge within the safe confines of their homes. We enabled that shift through presence across digital mediums, e-commerce channels, food delivery sites like Swiggy and Zomato, enabled take-aways from our boutiques and tele-ordering. Our unique Fabelle on Wheels also visits residential societies for consumers to make direct purchase. Besides this, we have also focused on gifting during Diwali for Corporates and individuals alike with launch of innovative products like Continents Desserts Collection, Indian Desserts Collection etc. As normalcy gradually resumes, we have also opened operations at our boutiques while ensuring 100% adherence to safety and hygiene standards. In the FMCG space, we are expanding our distribution reach to all key touchpoints and ensure that the right price product is placed at the right channel. Product offerings which are at price points of Rs 25, Rs 40 and Rs 45 are available in small format outlets as well whereas in the large format outlets we operate in the price points of Rs 70 to Rs 350. As our brand presence extended across segments, across price points, we felt it was an appropriate time to include TV in marketing mix for our mass premium range while continuing focus on digital and earned media. Q) What is your growth strategy going ahead? Do you plan to take your brand to smaller cities? At the moment, we retail out of six major cities in India including Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Chennai in the luxury and the mass premium segment. Currently, our efforts are focused towards making our chocolates more accessible to consumers based out of these markets and we also plan to expand our presence in other Tier 1, Tier 2 &amp; rural markets.

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