India is an eternal festival, a ceaseless celebration of life expressed through its kaleidoscope of cultures and landscapes. Each state is a radiant chapter in the boundless chronicle—the timeless epic called India.
In this edition, we turn the spotlight on two remarkable Indian states—one, a coveted destination for travellers from across the world, and the other, a treasure often hailed as India’s best-kept secret. The former is the regal land of kings, enchanted with golden deserts, majestic forts, opulent palaces, and a vibrant tapestry of culture, echoing timeless valour and grandeur. Yes, we are talking about Rajasthan. The latter is a land of timeless temples, pristine coasts, and vibrant traditions, embodying a harmonious blend of spiritual heritage, natural splendour, and living cultural grandeur. You guessed it right, it is Odisha.
Both these states have recently served as stages for landmark gatherings that mark defining milestones in India’s dynamic travel and tourism calendar. While the sacred city of Puri in Odisha welcomed the 40th IATO Annual Convention, the royal capital of Jaipur in Rajasthan hosted the 5th Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM). We present to you in-depth features and immersive videos that transport you to the very heart of these distinguished events.
In this edition we will take you to the lesser-known yet sacred Sakhigopal Temple near Puri, and later let you lose yourself in the spellbinding music of Rajasthan’s Manganiyars.
Our next edition will journey to Sri Lanka, spotlighting the upcoming MICE Conference later this month.
New horizons are just a journey away, until next time keep the spirit of adventure alive.
The 40th IATO Annual Convention in Puri was a landmark gathering that brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to deliberate on the future of Indian tourism. The convention served as a vibrant platform for dialogue, collaboration, and charting a roadmap to enhance inbound travel. Sessions explored sustainable growth, new opportunities, and evolving global trends. Adding a unique dimension to the event was the IATO Run for Responsible Tourism, where delegates enthusiastically participated to promote eco-conscious travel and community engagement. This symbolic initiative underscored IATO’s commitment to sustainability, making the convention not only a business milestone but also a movement for responsible tourism.
The Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM) 2025, held in Jaipur, was a grand convergence of India’s travel and tourism fraternity. The event opened with a regal inaugural ceremony at the City Palace, followed by formal proceedings at the Birla Auditorium and Convention Centre. Over two vibrant days, buyers from across the country connected with Rajasthan’s leading tourism stakeholders through productive B2B meetings, fostering collaboration and future partnerships. Cultural evenings, gala dinners, and enthralling performances highlighted Rajasthan’s rich heritage and hospitality.
The Sakhigopal Temple, located near Puri in Odisha, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as Sakshi Gopal or “the Witness Gopal.” Steeped in legend, it is believed that Krishna himself accompanied a devotee as witness to a promise, making this temple a symbol of faith and divine testimony. Built in the 13th century in Kalinga architectural style, the temple’s sanctum houses a captivating image of Krishna with Radha, drawing devotees and pilgrims year-round. Its spiritual aura, vibrant rituals, and association with the Jagannath tradition make the Sakhigopal Temple a cherished pilgrimage destination in Odisha.
Anyone who has journeyed through Rajasthan has surely been enchanted by the spellbinding music of the Manganiyars, whose melodies echo the soul of the desert. The Manganiyars are traditional folk musicians of Rajasthan, celebrated for their soulful ballads and haunting melodies that echo the spirit of the desert. Belonging mainly to the Thar region, their repertoire ranges from devotional songs in praise of Hindu deities to rich oral histories of kings, battles, and love. Accompanied by instruments like the kamaicha, dholak, and khartal, their performances blend rhythm and emotion in perfect harmony.
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