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OYO Travelopedia 2024 report: Puri, Varanasi top spiritual tourism destinations

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7 months ago

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Hyderabad has emerged as the top-booked city in India for 2024, according to OYO’s recently-released annual Travelopedia 2024 report. The report is based on booking data from the travel platform from January 1 to December 24 and highlights key trends and travel patterns.

“OYO’s findings show that religious tourism remains a strong focus in India, with Puri, Varanasi, and Haridwar continuing to dominate as spiritual destinations. At the same time, there has been a noticeable shift towards less-explored pilgrimage sites like Deoghar, Palani, and Govardhan, reflecting a growing interest in new spiritual locations,” the report mentioned.

While Hyderabad topped the booking charts, other cities like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata ranked high. Uttar Pradesh remained the most visited state, maintaining its popularity for travel.
Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka continued to contribute significantly to overall travel volumes, while smaller towns such as Patna, Rajahmundry, and Hubli saw impressive growth in bookings, with a rise of up to 48% year-on-year.

Also read | How Indians spent on travel in 2024: Key trends and budget management tips

“Leisure travel saw a notable surge this year, with Jaipur maintaining its position as a major tourist destination, followed by popular spots like Goa, Pondicherry, and Mysuru. Interestingly, Mumbai experienced a decline in bookings, with travellers opting for nearby destinations for leisure,” the report added.

PTI quoted Shreerang Godbole, Global Chief Service Officer at OYO as saying, “2024 has been a transformative year for global travel. We have witnessed how travelers are embracing flexibility and adaptability, whether for business or leisure. The growing trend of remote work has played a significant role in shaping travel preferences, driving both quick getaways and long stays.”

Also read | India’s tourism opportunity: Why foreign tourists prefer Thailand, Malaysia or Vietnam over India

The report highlighted that the July 4 weekend saw the highest number of bookings, while the Christmas period experienced a notable uptick in travel.



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Rs 1,000 cr plan to develop Merta as Religious Tourism Hub:Diya

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2 hours ago

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August 4, 2025

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.



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4 Indian-Origin Senior Citizens Missing In US During Road Trip To Spiritual Site, Last Seen At Burger King

Published

22 hours ago

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August 3, 2025

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4 Indian-Origin Senior Citizens Missing In US During Road Trip To Spiritual Site, Last Seen At Burger King | X/@rtonline

New York: A family of four Indian-origin senior citizens from New York has gone missing under mysterious circumstances while travelling to a spiritual destination in West Virginia.

According to police, the group was last seen at a Burger King outlet in Pennsylvania on July 29, and their whereabouts remain unknown as the search operation intensifies.

Last Seen on CCTV, Vehicle Spotted on Interstate

The missing family members have been identified as Asha Divan (85), Kishore Divan (89), Shailesh Divan (86), and Gita Divan (84). They were travelling from Buffalo to Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold in Marshall County, West Virginia, in a 2009 lime green Toyota Camry with New York licence plate EKW2611.

Surveillance footage from the Burger King shows two members of the group entering the restaurant, and their last known credit card transaction was traced to the same location. Shortly after, a Pennsylvania State Police licence plate reader detected the vehicle heading southbound on Interstate 79 at 2:45 pm on Tuesday, officials confirmed.

“The family was headed to Pittsburgh and then on to Moundsville, West Virginia,” Marshall County Sheriff Mike Dougherty told NDTV, adding that while investigators have “a few leads,” there has been no contact or confirmed sighting since.

Search Widens, Community Appeals for Help

Law enforcement teams from Marshall and Ohio counties in West Virginia have been searching local roads for any sign of the vehicle. Helicopters are being deployed to aid in the search effort, and the vehicle details have been entered into the National Crime Information Center database.

The Council of Heritage and Arts of India (CHAI), a nonprofit organisation based in Williamsville, has also raised awareness. “Two couples who were travelling are currently missing, and we’re all deeply concerned,” CHAI President Sibu Nair said, as quoted by NDTV.

Authorities are also attempting to trace the group’s cell phone signals and have urged the public to report any information. The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 304-843-5422.




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Discover The Spiritual Wonders Of Uttar Pradesh At Busan Expo

Published

1 day ago

on

August 2, 2025

By


Sunday, August 3, 2025

In a significant development for India’s spiritual tourism, Uttar Pradesh Tourism will showcase its rich Buddhist heritage at the Busan International Buddhism Expo 2025. This event will take place from August 7 to 10 at BEXCO in Busan, South Korea. The expo, one of the largest Buddhist gatherings in Asia, allows countries with strong Buddhist traditions to share their spiritual histories. Uttar Pradesh, home to some of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world, will use this chance to express India’s deep spiritual and cultural bond with Korea and a wider global audience.

The pavilion from Uttar Pradesh will be opened by senior officials from the Embassy of India in South Korea, making this a vital diplomatic and cultural event. The exhibition will honor the centuries-old connection between India and Korea, which began with Lord Buddha’s teachings and the legendary journey of Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya to Korea.

Uttar Pradesh’s Buddhist Legacy: A Spiritual Showcase
Uttar Pradesh is known for its link to Lord Buddha, especially in cities like Sarnath, Kushinagar, Shravasti, Sankisa, and Kaushambi. These sacred places hold great religious and archaeological importance and attract millions of Buddhist pilgrims each year. The state takes pride in being where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon in Sarnath and where he reached Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar, making it a top pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide.

At the Busan Expo, Uttar Pradesh Tourism will highlight these sacred destinations. Each section of the pavilion will offer an engaging, interactive experience. Visitors can participate in virtual pilgrimages, view 3D storytelling, and explore authentic cultural items that showcase the state’s rich Buddhist history. These experiences aim to create a meaningful connection for the global audience, especially for those interested in spiritual exploration and cultural heritage.

Jaiveer Singh, the UP Minister of Tourism and Culture, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Uttar Pradesh is not just the land of temples and traditions. It is the land where the Buddha gave the world his first sermon and where his journey of peace concluded. Through this global platform, we will invite the world to rediscover India through the path of Dhamma.”

Connecting India and Korea: A Shared Spiritual Journey
The relationship between India and South Korea has deep roots, particularly in Buddhism. The legendary journey of Princess Suriratna from Ayodhya to Korea reflects the long-standing bond between the two nations. This historical connection is also seen in the ongoing exchange of spiritual practices and ideas between both cultures. The participation of Uttar Pradesh Tourism at the Busan Expo aims to highlight this important relationship while reinforcing India’s role in Buddhist diplomacy.

Through this exhibition, the state seeks to promote spiritual tourism not only as part of India’s cultural outreach but also as a way to foster international understanding and peace. The UP pavilion at the Expo will bridge India and Korea while showcasing Uttar Pradesh as a key spiritual destination for international travelers.

The Pavilion: Immersive Experiences and Interactive Learning
The Uttar Pradesh pavilion will be an engaging space designed to immerse visitors in the region’s rich Buddhist history. Using modern technology like virtual pilgrimages and 3D storytelling, the pavilion will provide a deep dive into the sacred sites of Uttar Pradesh. These interactive experiences will allow visitors to learn about the Buddha’s life, his teachings, and the historical importance of the Buddhist Circuit in India.

Visitors will also have the chance to explore cultural items from Uttar Pradesh, giving them a deeper appreciation of the region’s heritage. The pavilion will offer travel advice for Korean and international visitors interested in exploring the Buddhist Circuit, providing insights on logistics, accommodation, and spiritual experiences at these sacred sites.

Fostering Global Interest in Spiritual Tourism
The theme for the 2025 Busan Expo, ‘Find Your Enlightenment (with the Eightfold Path),’ resonates with audiences worldwide, especially young people from the West who are increasingly drawn to mindfulness and spiritual journeys. Uttar Pradesh Tourism’s participation will align with this theme by offering immersive storytelling and spiritual exploration to enrich the experience for both traditional and modern travelers.

Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary of the Department of Tourism, remarked, “By showcasing our rich Buddhist legacy internationally and engagingly, we aim to strengthen India’s cultural outreach and make spiritual tourism more relevant to today’s generation.”

This platform also corresponds with South Korea’s growing interest in spiritual and wellness tourism. As South Korea continues to grow as a leading travel market, Uttar Pradesh’s presence at the Expo will help position the state as a top choice for mindful travelers and cultural explorers.

The Bigger Picture: Promoting the Buddhist Circuit as a World-Class Tourism Offering
Uttar Pradesh’s participation in the Busan International Buddhism Expo is part of a broader effort to promote the Buddhist Circuit as a top tourism offering. The state is making great progress in modernizing infrastructure, improving digital storytelling, and building strong international partnerships to make its Buddhist heritage accessible to a global audience.

These efforts will not only attract tourists from Korea but will also appeal to international travelers seeking to explore the spiritual heart of India. The integration of modern technologies with the promotion of cultural heritage will create a meaningful experience that is both spiritually enriching and easy to navigate for visitors.

Conclusion: Uttar Pradesh as a Global Spiritual Hub
Uttar Pradesh’s presence at the Busan International Buddhism Expo 2025 marks a key step in the state’s efforts to globalize its Buddhist heritage and promote spiritual tourism. With its rich cultural history, famous sacred sites, and strong ties to South Korea, Uttar Pradesh is well-equipped to attract travelers looking for spiritual fulfillment and cultural exploration.

As the Expo draws visitors from around the world, the UP Tourism pavilion will be a beacon for those wishing to follow the path of the Buddha and discover India’s spiritual legacy. Through its interactive experiences and meaningful connections, Uttar Pradesh is inviting people not just to visit but to experience the deep spiritual essence that has made it a global center for Buddhist tourism.

(Source: Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Busan International Buddhism Expo, India-Korea cultural ties, Buddhist Circuit, spiritual tourism, UP Minister of Tourism and Culture)



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