Theluxecafe

Marche Retail launches Le Gourmet at The Chanakya, a concept by DS Group that marks India’s first luxury grocery destination.

The store brings the world’s finest epicurean treasures to India—blending the sophistication of international gourmet markets with the warmth of a neighbourhood café.

Every product is meticulously selected to inspire. Iconic global brands like Harrods, Swiss Tea brand Sirocco, Bacha Coffee, and Maestrani Swiss Chocolates share the stage with exclusive debuts—including 24K Gold Coffee for the first time in Delhi NCR, Le Gourmet’s 24K Gold dusted Tea, gold coated dates and a wide curation of Caviar from across the globe. From Japanese snacks and Korean condiments to Mediterranean oils, and Oriental pantry staples, the selection reflects a rich tapestry of global culinary innovation.

The extensive grocery range caters to a variety of lifestyles—featuring organic produce, seasonal fruits, and dietary-specific offerings for vegan, keto, and gluten-free patrons. Expect rare finds like Japanese melons, white strawberries, hydroponic greens, and exotic herbs like kaffir lime and bird’s eye chili. Clean-label options—Khapli and millet flours, cold-pressed oils, cage-free eggs, and organic spices—offer health without compromise.

An Elevated Culinary Showcase

The Le Gourmet deli delights with handcrafted pastas, fresh pesto, and truffle cheeses, while the butchery and seafood counters feature ethically sourced premium meats, including Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, fresh prawns, duck, turkey, and gourmet sausages. For the discerning palate, the store sells rare caviar selections from Oscietra and Kaluga to Russian Beluga and Labeyrie—alongside world-class truffles.

Bakery, Café & Beyond

A French-inspired in-house bakery and cafe with an all-day menu—from truffle eggs and classic French omelettes to seasonal salads and made-to-order pastas.

A French-inspired in-house bakery tempts with warm, crusty loaves and patisserie classics, while curated gifting options offer refined expressions of taste. Shoppers can indulge in unique treats like ice cream macarons, gelato burgers, and Middle Eastern delicacies including stuffed dates and baklava.

The in-house café completes the experience with an all-day menu—from truffle eggs and classic French omelettes to seasonal salads and made-to-order pastas. The signature beverage bar features rare tea infusions such as Royal Earl, Velvet Lotus Mist, and Jasmine Blue Reverie, alongside exotic brews like Turkish sand coffee and the opulent 24K Gold Cappuccino.

A Destination, Not Just a Store

Thoughtfully designed for discovery and delight, Le Gourmet features live tastings, rotating international stations, and chef-curated food counters, making each visit dynamic and memorable. Ambient lighting, curated music, and intuitive service create a mood that feels both exclusive and welcoming—ideal for everything from a luxurious brunch to a midday indulgence.

Convenience Meets Luxury

For those who prefer the indulgence at home, Le Gourmet offers two-hour express delivery, ensuring that the world’s finest ingredients are always within reach. From the layout to packaging, every detail is crafted to perfection—offering personalised recommendations, seasonal pairings, and chef interactions that inspire at every turn.

Open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM at The Chanakya, New Delhi.

Tags #organicfood, Caviar, Harrods, internationalgourmet, legourmet, Luxury, luxuryfoods, luxurygrocery, luxurygrocerystore, luxuryretail, swisstea, thechanakya, trufflecheese

Tucked away on the southern fringe of the Maldives, where the map fades into mystery, lies a sanctuary that feels personally crafted just for you from the moment you arrive.

The Residence Maldives Dhigurah isn’t just another luxury resort.

Unlike the typical one-island Maldivian retreats, this resort offers seamless two-island experience, connected by a picturesque one-kilometer bridge to its sister property, The Residence Falhumaafushi.

Set in the remote Gaafu Alifu Atoll—one of the world’s largest and deepest atolls—The Residence Dhigurah redefines privacy, even by Maldivian standards.

What truly sets this resort apart from other Maldivian retreats is its pristine beaches and coral reefs, which are remarkably untouched. The Residence Maldives Dhigurah offers one of the largest resort experiences in the country, with guests enjoying access to two stunning islands, doubling the dining, activities, and exploration opportunities.

The Rooms

Fusing traditional Maldivian aesthetics with modern motifs, the resort offers 173 sun-kissed beachfront and overwater villas, each with a private pool, a spacious outdoor deck, and direct access to the beach.

Maldives-Pic-1 — The two bedroom beach pool villa at the Residence Maldives, Dhigurah.

Detailed with thatched roof and organic furnishings, the interiors reflect soothing natural tones with open living spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the outdoors in, while the sound of waves provides a constant soundtrack of tranquility.

Food and Drink

The Residence Maldives Dhigurah offers diverse culinary offerings spread across multiple restaurants and bars. Guests enjoy the added advantage of dining at both Dhigurah and neighboring Falhumaafushi, with seamless access to all venues.

Dining at Cantonese cuisine inspired restaurant Li Bai.

While ‘The Dining Room’ serves Asian and Indian Ocean flavours all day, at ‘Li Bai’ you can enjoy the authentic Cantonese cuisine inspired by the famed Singaporean restaurant.

For a romantic fine dining experience, Falhumaa at the Falhumaafushi is a must visit. The fine dining over water restaurant serves authentic French flavors with the breathtaking views of the ocean.

However, if you are looking for bespoke experiences, the resort organises private dinners on the beach, sandbank picnics, and breakfast served on a floating tray in the villa’s pool as the sun rises.

Activities and Experiences

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, The Residence Maldives Dhigurah offers an array of activities designed to immerse you in the beauty of the Maldives.

Marine Adventures:

The atoll’s untouched coral reefs and diverse marine life make it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. The resort organises snorkeling excursions to vibrant house reefs, scuba diving trips exploring the marine life and dolphin cruises for the wandering soul.

The Spa:

The Residence Dhigurah is a haven for holistic wellness. The resort houses The Spa by Clarins

— the only one of its kind in the Maldives. Set overwater, the spa offers an extensive menu of treatments using The Clarins products that use the natural extracts, coupled with yoga sessions and meditation by the ocean.

Relax and rejuvenate underneath one of ten treatment pavilions nestled in abundant gardens, as the vast ocean whispers with gentle breeze.

Family-Friendly Offerings

The Kids Club ensures younger guests are entertained with fun activities, while parents unwind. Family excursions, cooking classes, and water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding make it a destination for multi-generational travelers.

Location

You can reach The Residence Maldives Dhigurah via a scenic 55-minute domestic flight from Malé followed by a short speedboat ride. This remote location ensures fewer crowds , absolute tranquility, crystal-clear lagoons, and uninterrupted ocean views.

Value for Money

The Residence Maldives, Dhigurah is for travelers seeking a luxurious Maldivian escape with the perfect mix of seclusion, adventure, and indulgence, Its expansive dual-island experience, world-class dining, private pool villas, and exclusive location make it a standout among Maldives resorts.

Avartana_Touring — Team Avartana curates a special evening in France.

The team from Avartana, a reimagined Southerm Indian marvel from the ITC Hotels is popping up in France at one of the most exclusive venues in the world.

The team will curate the evening at the legendary wine region of Bordeaux, at the historical and iconic, Chateau Haut Brion, coinciding with one of the world’s most famous wine events, the En Premieur. En Premieur interestingly is an event where negociants, retailers, and wine enthusiasts come together to taste Bordeaux’s latest vintage before it’s bottled. It’s a festival and celebration of history, that will fit in beautifully with Avartana’s reimagined renditions of Southern Indian Flavours.

At ITC Hotels, Food and Beverage forms a big part of Indian culture and with this in mind the team has been elevating the wine paired experiences at Avartana.

The culinary show is spearheaded by the two chefs – Nikhil Nagpal & Satheeshwaran, and the menu will feature dishes like the Lamb Congee, Asparagus & Coconut Stew, Spiced Pork Belly, Fennel Pannacotta and more.

For the tour, there is a 7-course experience by Avartana, ITC Hotels, paired with some of the world’s most exclusive wines, served in a setting, that is both exquisite and historical.

The culinary show is spearheaded by the two chefs – Nikhil Nagpal & Satheeshwaran, and the menu will feature dishes like the Lamb Congee, Asparagus & Coconut Stew, Spiced Pork Belly, Fennel Pannacotta and more. The wines are a secret best told to the invited guests and will feature some of the rarest and most revered wines from the region. Ganesh Kuppusami, Food and Beverage Manager, ITC Grand Chola will oversee the service sequence along with the team at Sonary’s, ensuring that guests get a glimpse of the warmth and hospitality that is synonymous with ITC Hotels.

The wine pairing has been expertly curated by Sanjay Menon along with the wine makers and the evening promise to be nothing short of spectacular.

The upcoming by-invite Avartana Pop Up Dinner:

Bordeaux- 15th April at Chateau Haut Brion

Tags Avartana, ITC Hotels, Southerm Indian marve

IHCL and Claridges Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s hospitality company, introduces Claridges Collection, a curated set of boutique luxury hotels across India.

The Claridges Collection portfolio will commence with The Claridges, New Delhi and will include the historic Connemera, Chennai and post a comprehensive renovation, Blue Diamond, Pune.

The IHCL and Claridges partnership indicates Claridges significant expansion plans across India. Claridges Collection plans to build its portfolio across the metro cities and key leisure destinations with a vision to reach 20+ hotels by 2030.

“With India’s growing economic prominence, the enjoy an unparalleled income pyramid is witnessing a structural shift and the demand for luxury product and services is at an all -time high led by significant expansion of households in the high-net worth bracket. This presents a market opportunity to extend hospitality offerings in the luxury segment as consumers are seeking differentiated experiences,” said Puneet Chhatwal, managing director and chief executive oficer, IHCL.

“Positioned at the heart of key gateway cities across the world, these hotels serve as the epicenter of cultural and social prominence, offering a refined sanctuary for discerning travelers,” he added.

Tags #claridges, #ihcl, #luxuryhotel, boutiquehotels, claridgescollection, claridgesdelgi, Delhi, indianhotelscompany, indianluxury, luxuryhotels, luxurylifestyle, ncr, theclaridges

Luxury and wellness are often seen as separate entities, but when the two philosophies intertwine, they create a transformative sanctuary that speaks to the soul. The Leela Palace, Jaipur, recently hosted The Aujasya Wellness, an immersive retreat designed to detox and rejuvenate just as the seasons change. As we transitioned from the revelry of festivities to a moment of mindful restoration, this experience proved to be the perfect antidote with a blend of indulgence and well-being, just a stone’s throw from Delhi.

In the lap of luxury

Our journey began at the gorgeous property, where we were welcomed by the hospitable staff in traditional Rajasthan custom. We were soon ushered to the opulent royal villa with a plunge pool in a private buggy cart. The details of the coral-hued villa highlighted traditional Rajasthan architecture with contemporary artistry. We couldn’t help but marvel at the regal bedroom with hand-tufted carpets, intricate silver leafing on the headboard adorned with tikri glass florals, and a grandeur enhanced by crystal chandeliers and an ornamental antique fan with a lotus leaf wing design. The pièce de résistance, however, was the temperature-controlled private pool and jacuzzi, lined with Jaisalmer stone and surrounded by palm trees and fresco-painted walls for a private moment of serenity.

The wellness weekend:

The Aujasya Wellness unfolded as a confluence of holistic well-being and indulgence. We started by trying out the low-calorie Rajasthani Thali for lunch at the opulent Sheesh Mahal restaurant, adorned with over 350,000 mirror pieces shining beautifully from the reflections of countless candles. Here we met Chef Varun Parashar and wellness expert Dr. Ankita Jalori, who gave us an interesting food for thought by stating that every dish in our thali was well thought out and cooked in the healthiest manner to keep the calorie count low for patrons.

Sound healing sessions conducted by the team Aujasya.

As the sun started to mellow down, the evening took on a meditative rhythm, with soulful sound healing sessions and ceremonial rituals steeped in tradition. By the evening, we were treated to a specially curated dinner at Preet Mahal as part of our wellness journey.

The second day commenced with an invigorating sunrise mobility yoga and breathing session in the tranquil Kanishka Bagh followed by a wellness-focused culinary treat with the Aujasya breakfast.

A defining moment of the weekend was the engaging discourse between erstwhile Princess Gauravi Kumari, wellness consultant Dr Jalori and executive chef Parashar, explaining their ideas of holistic well-being. For lunch, we had to literally earn our meal as a challenge awaited with the Aujasya cook-off. For the exciting cooking activity, we were accompanied by The Leela’s culinary experts to help us craft the Himalayan earth bowl with our customised fusion of nutrition and creativity. The experience culminated with a four-course Aujasya meal curated by our hosts.

Food for the soul

A four-course Aujasya meal curated by Dr Jalori and executive chef Parashar.

Throughout the stay, we realized that indulgence and nourishment can go hand in hand without compromising the taste profiles. Starting with a superfood seasonal mushroom and thyme soup at a mere 145 calories, complemented by the Thar Quinoa salad with slow-roasted ash gourd and baby spinach. The indulgence continued with dishes featuring bean tofu and organic beets atop red rice. The best part, a bitter chocolate orange pave, provided a decadent yet guilt-free finale at just 192 calories. The Aujasya Wellness Weekend was an experience that nourished both body and soul. And, if you’re looking for a retreat that blends indulgence with restoration, The Leela Palace Jaipur is truly unmatched.

Tags Aujasya Wellness, Jaipur, Luxury, The Leela Palace, Wellness

‘ShangHigh’ by Bo-Tai, an all new retro-Chinese restaurant in Gurgaon is a literal manifestation of its name — gives you a “high”, “Shanghai style.”

Started by Zorawar Kalra, founder of Massive Restaurants, ShangHigh is inspired by the allure of ShangHai’s historic speakeasies where the culinary haven meets high-energy bar to offer an immersive dining experience.

With the broad spectrum of dishes, from appetisers to main courses and desserts, ShangHigh’s culinary artistry ensures authentic flavours, offering something for every palate. It is interesting to see how the classic Asian meals from the old-world ShangHai, seamlessly intertwine with modern culinary innovation to offer the best fine dining experience. Every dish is crafted with care, using organic ingredients. Some of the must-have dishes include the expertly crafted Chinese-forward dishes, a diverse sushi menu (highly recommend the Avocado one), the dumplings (specially the prawns and chicken lemongrass) and mixology inspired by Chinese folklore.

The restaurant also offers an exquisite cocktail menu, inspired by the Chinese Zodiacs. Each drink is crafted using imported Chinese ingredients, bringing authentic flavors to life. The specially curated cocktail menu features creations such as “Age of Invention,” “Death of the Warlord,” “Mandate of Heaven,” and “The Great Emigration,” each representing the rich cultural heritage of Shanghai and accompanied by its own unique story. For instance, “The Age of Invention” draws inspiration from the ground-breaking inventions of the Song dynasty, while “The Mandate of Heaven” artfully blends aromatic gin with a homemade limoncello base, symbolizing the harmony between heaven and earth.

ShangHigh’s thoughtfully designed interiors evokes the essence of Shanghai while embracing modern elegance. The stunning 20-feet-high ceiling in the sunroom, red and crimson hues complemented by touches of black, and a hidden terrace area reminds of Shanghai’s historic speakeasies.

There are glamourous live performances too, happening every evening, just to elevate the vibrant atmosphere. The talented artists break into dynamic acts in the middle of the room, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the evenings.

With its unique fusion of performance dining and immersive cocktail storytelling, ShangHigh is the perfect hub for food lovers, cocktail connoisseurs, and nightlife enthusiasts alike.

Open from 12 PM to 12 AM

Address:

ShangHigh by Bo Tai

Ground Floor, Global Foyer Mall

Golf Course Road, Gurugram.

Instagram: @shanghigh.official

While-the-Mumbai — While the Mumbai route will start from April, the New Delhi route will commence from September onwards.

Royal Jordanian Airlines announces the launch of its new non-stop routes connecting Amman with Mumbai and New Delhi, this year.

The Mumbai route will operate with four weekly flights starting on April 17, 2025, and the New Delhi route will commence with four weekly flights starting on September 17, 2025.

The new routes align with Royal Jordanian’s growth and expansion strategy, focusing on positioning Jordan as a premier tourism destination for the Indian market and enhancing connectivity to over 45 global destinations.

In line with the “Explore Jordan” program, the launch of these routes highlights Royal Jordanian’s commitment to showcasing Jordan as a unique tourist destination for Indian travelers. Jordan offers a rich array of experiences, blending ancient wonders like Petra and the Dead Sea with the modern vibrancy of Amman, creating authentic and contemporary Arabian journey just five-hours away.

Through these routes, Royal Jordanian aims to introduce Indian travelers to Jordan’s charm and diversity while positioning itself as a boutique airline that delivers exceptional service, connects cultures, and brings this remarkable destination closer than ever. Amman, the hub of Royal Jordanian Airlines, will serve as a gateway for Indian travelers to Europe, North America, and the Middle East, providing seamless connections to a wide range of destinations.

As part of its expansion plan, Royal Jordanian will introduce 19 brand-new A320neo and Boeing 787 aircraft in 2025/26. The new routes to Mumbai and New Delhi will be served by the A320neos, featuring dual- class configurations (Economy and Business), advanced in-flight entertainment, and WiFi services to enhance the passenger experience. These state-of-the-art aircrafts ensure travelers enjoy exceptional comfort, efficiency, and a seamless journey.

Flights from Mumbai and New Delhi will launch with competitive fares, starting at Rs 19,999 for one- way and Rs 33,333 for return tickets. With a flight time of just five hours, Royal Jordanian is excited to introduce Indian travelers to Jordan’s rich cultural heritage, modern Arabian charm, and unique offerings as an attractive tourism destination.

“The launch of our new routes to Mumbai and New Delhi marks a significant milestone in our strategy to promote Jordan as a tourism destination for the Indian market. Through these routes, we aim to showcase the unique experiences Jordan offers while positioning Royal Jordanian as a boutique airline that promotes Jordan as a boutique destination,” said, Karim Makhlouf, Chief Commercial Officer at Royal Jordanian Airlines.

Tags #newdelhi, aircraft, Amman, arabiancharm, boeing787, boeingaircraft, bombay, boutiqueairline, deadsea, Europe, explorejordan, middleeast, Mumbai, northamerica, petra, royaljordanian

Cover-Pic-Thoughtfully-curated-Sunday-brunch — Thoughtfully curated Sunday brunch, served with warmth & care at The Poolside Lawns - Taj Mahal, New Delhi.

As the weekend unfolds, Sunday mornings in Delhi invite food enthusiasts to indulge in a leisurely brunch that blends culinary artistry with a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of global cuisine, crave comforting Indian flavors, or seek a modern European twist, the city’s vibrant brunch spots transform lazy winter Sundays into unforgettable experiences.

Here’s a guide to some of Delhi’s most enticing Sunday brunch destinations, offering everything from artisanal desserts to handcrafted cocktails, live cooking stations, and kid-friendly activities. So gather your loved ones, soak in the festive atmosphere, and savor the flavors of the season. Sundays in Delhi have never been this delicious!

A Theatrical Brunch Affair at Ophelia, The Ashoka

Ophelia takes Sunday brunching to new heights with a feast that feels like a curated performance. Set against an elegant backdrop, diners are treated to a blend of global cuisines, where Turkish kebabs, European grills, and Pan-Asian delicacies steal the spotlight.

Signature dishes such as the Double Cheese Adana and Grilled New Zealand Lamb Chops cater to the bold palate, while lighter options like the Quinoa Avocado Salad and Smoked Salmon Sushi satisfy health-conscious diners. Ophelia’s chefs also ensure inclusivity with gluten-free and vegan dishes, from tofu creations to steamed fish.

This winter, Ophelia collaborates with Minus 30 Gelato to offer a live dessert station featuring indulgent flavors like Belgian Chocolate and Pistachio, alongside customizable vegan and sugar-free options. Brunch is served every Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking elegance and flavor.

Flavors of Asia at The Spice Route, The Imperial

The-Spice-Route-at-Imperial — The Spice Route at Imperial.

Step into a world of vibrant Asian flavors with The Spice Route’s exquisite Sunday brunch. Inspired by the bustling markets of Java and the kitchens of Kerala, this feast is a sensory journey across Asia.

The brunch offers over 50 dishes brought to your table, featuring vegetarian delights like Shitake Mushroom Satay and Vegetable Dumplings, alongside non-vegetarian favorites such as Ginger Garlic Lamb Satay and Crab Thai Omelette. Crafted a la minute under the guidance of Chef Mustian, each dish reflects artisanal finesse.

Sunday-brunch-at-Spice-Route-is-a-sensory-journey-across-Asia — Sunday brunch at Spice Route is a sensory journey across Asia.

With its hand-painted murals and enchanting décor, The Spice Route is perfect for family gatherings and sophisticated outings. Guests can enjoy an authentic culinary experience that pays homage to cherished traditions, all while savoring seasonal spices and fresh ingredients.

Mediterranean Bliss at Qla, Seven Style Mile

Sunday-brunch-at-Qla — Sunday brunch at Qla, Mehrauli.

Qla is where rustic European charm meets Mediterranean flavors, creating a brunch experience that warms even the coldest winter mornings. Begin your meal with freshly baked rosemary focaccia and indulge in dishes like Turkish Eggs in caramelized pumpkin yogurt or Harissa Prawns for a flavorful start.

The Mediterranean buffet includes highlights like minty couscous with feta, grilled pineapple skewers, and gluten-free options such as Cajun-spiced zucchini ribbons and chermoula fish skewers. End on a high note with desserts like the decadent hazelnut chocolate tart or whipped ricotta pancakes topped with berries.

To complete the experience, Qla’s mixologists offer signature cocktails like the Easy Like Sunday (gin with grapefruit and hibiscus) and Tropical Mirage (white rum with passion fruit). Families are welcome, with kid-friendly menus and activities like cookie decorating and pizza making. Brunch packages offers options with soft beverages or alcoholic drinks.

Luxurious Poolside Brunch at Taj Mahal, New Delhi

The lush Poolside Lawns of the Taj Mahal, New Delhi, provide a serene setting for a sumptuous Sunday brunch. This experience combines world cuisines with live music, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle.

The diverse menu caters to all preferences, from hearty Indian dishes to international classics, paired with an impressive selection of beverages. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed yet indulgent afternoon under the gentle winter sun, ideal for creating unforgettable Sunday memories.

The Brew-Lovers’ Drunch at BeeYoung Brewgarden

BeeYoung-Brewgarden-offers-an-exciting-Drunch-a-brunch-with-craft-beer-pairings — BeeYoung Brewgarden offers an exciting Drunch—a brunch with craft beer pairings.

For a unique take on Sunday brunch, head to BeeYoung Brewgarden in Malviya Nagar. Combining the charm of a European brewpub with North India’s largest microbrewery, this spot offers an exciting Drunch—a brunch with craft beer pairings.

Kick off with appetizers like Mushroom Galouti and Chicken Tikka, followed by mains such as kulchas with dal makhni, customizable pizzas, and pastas. Explore their craft beers, including the tropical Poha Palooza and classic IPA, or try the inventive BeeYoung Beer Battered Specials for a dish that literally lets you “eat your beer.”

This laid-back yet lively brunch is perfect for beer enthusiasts and those seeking something different this season.

The Postcard Hotel announces the opening of its latest hotel in the North-Eastern region of India, The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam. Nestled in the tranquil tea gardens of Assam, the boutique hotel is spread across 1400 acres of sprawling tea plantations, offering one of the world’s finest teas, along with endless discoveries immersed in nature, regional cuisine, guided destination trails, and more.

Guests can choose to stay in the meticulously restored Planters’ Bungalow, a relic of colonial elegance, or in the contemporary Luxury Chalets nestled amidst the tea gardens. While the Planters’ Bungalow captures the grandeur of a bygone era, the Luxury Chalets seamlessly blend modern luxury with the serene beauty of the natural surroundings.

The contemporary Luxury Chalets nestled amidst the tea gardens.

“The natural setting of the space was our key source of inspiration when we conceptualised The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate,” says Kapil Chopra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, The Postcard Hotel. “The spacious indoor and outdoor areas, inviting the surrounding sights and sounds in, organically set the stage- offering guests the flexibility for their own self-discovery.”

Beyond the tea estate, the hotel offers a gateway to some of Assam’s most iconic experiences. Guests can explore the wilderness of Kaziranga National Park, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, or immerse themselves in the spectacular beauty of Nameri National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Adventurous souls can enjoy activities such as rafting on the Jia Bhoroli River, while cultural enthusiasts can visit Pakke, a vibrant locale showcasing Assam’s artisanal crafts and traditions.

The culinary offerings at The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate pay homage to Assam’s diverse cultural heritage. The menu is inspired by the culinary traditions of the Singpho and Ahom tribes, featuring authentic dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can indulge in flavors that reflect the region’s rich history and culinary innovation, from hearty tribal recipes to delicacies infused with Assam’s signature herbs and spices.

The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate encapsulates the essence of the region, offering guests an unparalleled blend of luxury, culture, and nature. With its thoughtful design, immersive experiences, and a deep-rooted connection to the destination, the hotel promises a transformative journey into the heart of India’s tea country.

Hashtags: #postcardhotels #durrungteaestate #assam #northeastindia #northeast #kapilchopra #luxurychalets #luxuryhotels #luxurylifestyle #kaziranganationalpark #plantersbungalow #singpho #ahomtribes #assamesecuisine #guidedtrails

Tags ahomtribes, assam, assamesecuisine, durrungteaestate, guidedtrails, kapilchopra, kaziranganationalpark, luxurychalets, luxuryhotels, luxurylifestyle, northeast, northeastindia, plantersbungalow, postcardhotels, singpho

The travel aspirations of India’s elite have contributed to a remarkable surge in luxury & heritage travel. As per the fiscal year 2024 data, overseas travel expenditure has skyrocketed, revealing the change in spending habits and preferences of Indian travellers. The heritage tourism market has witnessed unprecedented growth and it is anticipated to reach $843.5 billion by 2033. This increase represents how the elites are inclined towards luxury and heritage travel. And it has also been fueled by rising disposable incomes and a burgeoning middle class, who have the zeal to explore the world. Heritage sites and hotels such as Noormahal Palace (Karnal), Rajasthali (Jaipur), Jewel of Nizam (Hyderabad) and many more have created this heritage and luxury travel boom. Attracting travellers from all around the world is also making a wave of Indian cuisines and heritages globally.

The evolving preferences of India’s affluent travellers may set new industry trends. They are drawn towards destinations offering luxurious, calming, and one-of-a-kind travel experiences. London is one of the top most preferences for Indian travellers travelling abroad. New Zealand, France, Switzerland, Spain and Australia are also among the top preferences of travellers amongst medium-haul destinations. Luxury accommodation, fine dining, and exclusive tours are what they are seeking. However, those looking for premium travel experiences along with heritage prefer domestic heritage destinations rather than international ones. These patterns are now redefining the meaning of travel in India.

Indian travellers are embracing a luxurious approach to their journeys, increasingly prioritizing experiences over mere destinations.

With the rise in luxury spending, a new segment of luxury travellers has emerged: Venture Travelers. These individuals view travel as an opportunity to expand their businesses and networks, transforming high-end leisure experiences into strategic business meetings. They prefer destination choices that offer luxurious amenities and an atmosphere conducive to professional engagements. Another notable group is the “Experience Connoisseurs,” composed of millennial travellers who seek immersive cultural experiences. They are eager to explore nature, local traditions, and cuisine. Their top priorities include personal growth, sustainability, and ethical tourism. Then comes the “Timeless Adventurer,” a group of travellers aged over 65. They look for places to visit before they become popular. They appreciate real experiences and deep connections with the culture during their trips.

Indian travellers are embracing a luxurious approach to their journeys, increasingly prioritizing experiences over mere destinations. Millennials and Gen Z are blending adventures along with their interests and passions. Apart from this, one of the most intriguing trends emerging in the luxury travel space is “sleep tourism.” It is a concept of travel which revolves around relaxation, and wellness through luxurious offerings such as rejuvenating spa treatments, serene yoga sessions, and refreshing swimming experiences. Focusing on health and wellbeing, this trend reflects a need for rest and replenishment as a central part of travel. Heritage hotels in India are becoming the first in the traveller’s priority list because of the serene views and luxury accommodations.

From London, Saudi Arabia to Switzerland and Singapore, today, nearly every destination and hotel industry abroad is targeting the Indian market by adding accommodations, cuisines and travel preferences catering to Indian travellers.

The per capita expenditure of Indian travellers has experienced a significant rise, reflecting a growing willingness to invest in a range of experiences such as comfortable hotel accommodations, shopping sprees, and exquisite dining options. When it comes to luxury vacations in popular destinations like Singapore, Dubai, Thailand, and Bali, Indian travellers can expect to spend anywhere from USD 400 up to 800 or even more per person each day, showcasing their desire for memorable and lavish travel experiences.

Countries worldwide are focusing extensively on the Indian travel market with the continuous growth in India’s luxury travel market. From London, Saudi Arabia to Switzerland and Singapore, today, nearly every destination and hotel industry abroad is targeting the Indian market by adding accommodations, cuisines and travel preferences catering to Indian travellers. This highlights the influence of Indian elites in the global luxury travel industry. Not only this but Indian cuisines and culinary experiences are also being provided abroad inspired from India’s heritage is also attracting Indian luxury travellers. As per the survey by Agoda, Indian travellers have shown the most rapid increase in searches for international travel as compared to all other markets worldwide. Better air connectivity and burgeoning incomes have created a significant boom in the travel industry beyond metros to smaller cities in India.

The rise in India’s luxury and heritage travel is a witness to the nation’s transforming socio-economic landscape and how elites and Indian travellers are spending in style. It is anticipated that the luxury travel market is poised to see a robust growth trajectory in the coming years. This will further open doors of new opportunities for both travellers and destinations respectively.

The author is Executive Director, Noormahal Group & Founder of Colonel Saab, London.