Indholdsfortegnelse for June 2025 i Travel + Leisure India & South Asia

THE NAME 188 DOWNTOWN might sound cryptic at first, but step inside and you’ll discover one of Guwahati’s most vibrant dining experiences—nestled within Novotel Guwahati. More than just a restaurant, it evolves throughout the day, offering a fresh experience with every visit. Mornings see it as a chic café, perfect for a relaxed start with freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries. By midday, it becomes a lively restaurant serving an eclectic menu, ideal for business lunches and family gatherings. Come evening, 188 Downtown transforms into an elegant fine-dining venue with a high-energy bar, curated menus, and—on select nights—live performances and DJ sets. The menu spans Indian and global cuisines, featuring Punjabi, Awadhi, Italian, French, American, Chinese, Thai, and Japanese dishes—sushi being a standout. Each plate is crafted using authentic ingredients…

AS I STEP OUT of the airport, the cold hits me—sharp and biting at -6 degrees. Kashmir’s famous Chillai Kalan is having a 40-day winter spell. As I huddle into the warmth of the car, grateful for the heater working its magic, the drive to Nadis becomes a new world beckoning me. The road lines with towering poplar trees, while quaint Kashmiri homes dotted the snow-covered landscape. As we head towards Harwan village, where Nadis is tucked away, the bustle of the city fades into the distance. The cobblestone path leading to Nadis feel like the entrance to a peaceful haven As I enter the property and go on a walk-through, I notice how every space is designed with comfort in mind. The cosy lounge with its large, floor-to-ceiling windows…

TODAY’S EXPLORERS AREN’T just booking tickets—they’re rewriting the map. And they need machines that match their mindset. Meet Ultraviolette, where every electric curve and aerodynamic silhouette isn’t just a statement—it’s a revelation. Born out of seven years of relentless R&D, passion-fuelled innovation and a vision that refuses to follow, Ultraviolette has created one of the most advanced EV two-wheelers on the planet. Founded by Narayan Subramaniam and Niraj Rajmohan, Ultraviolette isn’t following trends—it’s setting them. “We believed India had the talent across hardware, software, and design—but lacked companies truly pushing the boundaries. So we came back to change that,” says Narayan. Inspired by aviation, driven by design and built with the kind of tech that could’ve powered sci-fi films, this is the machine for those who move differently. Boldly. Consciously.…

“KIA ORA, WELCOME,” says a bright-eyed guide, greeting me in the traditional Māori way as I step into the All Blacks Experience (experienceallblacks.com). Like many, my introduction to the legendary team was shaped by their electrifying pre-game ritual—the Haka, a performance as powerful as it is unforgettable. I still remember the first time I saw the Haka war cry on my laptop at the insistence of my partner. It was a spectacle that gave me goosebumps, even through a tiny phone screen. The irony is that I am not a sports fan, but an admirer of the mystical Māori culture. The fact that a sport so seamlessly blended itself with the spirit of the land is what intrigued me. This private experience begins with my charismatic guide for the day—former…

“You don’t have to see your shrink, there’s nothing wrong with you that can’t be cured with a little Prozac and a polo mallet. THAT’S THE DRY WIT OF Woody Allen as Carol Lipton in the 1993 cult classic Manhattan Murder Mystery. Cut to 2025, where the global hospitality and travel industry now sees polo mallets as a cure for more than just urban ennui. Once a royal bastion of prestige, the gallop of polo ponies has become the unlikely soundtrack to global indulgence for a new generation of travellers who braggingly call themselves “niche”. Today, polo tournaments are no longer just sporting events; they are lavish spectacles where guests descend in private jets, lounge in manicured gardens dressed in crisp linens, sip vintage champagne, and survey the field through…

The Sweetness of Doing Nothing Gautam Gambhir, the cricketing icon, shares his dream destinations, family travel rules, and why silence in the mountains speaks the loudest. travelandleisureasia.com/in/people/interview-with-gautam-gambhir-and-natasha-gambhir/ Snorkelling in the Caribbean Journalist Erik Trinidad has been on more than 130 dives, and Thunderball Grotto in the Caribbean is his favourite snorkelling destination. travelandleisureasia.com/in/destinations/north-america/ive-gone-on-134-dives-and-this-is-my-favourite-snorkelling-spot-in-the-caribbean/ Vacations on Credit Whether it’s a mountain retreat or a last-minute festival abroad, digital payments are unlocking instant adventures, while quietly reshaping how India’s youth thinks about money. travelandleisureasia.com/in/trips/how-young-indians-travel-the-world-without-saving-for-it-first/ DIGITAL COVER Shefali Shah’s wardrobe is full of stories—each piece reflecting her rich legacy, authentic style, and the powerful narratives she brings to life on and off screen. travelandleisureasia.com/in/people/shefali-shah-has-a-wardrobe-full-of-stories/ DISCOVER Set sail on dreamy European summer coolcations from Iceland’s fjords to the sun-soaked Mediterranean shores and charming Baltic…

PARTICIPANTS AT THE recently concluded National Adventure Racing Championship 2025 came prepared for the gruelling terrain—but few expected the bonus: the breathtaking beauty of Mechuka, a remote gem tucked deep inside Arunachal Pradesh. Known as the ‘hidden paradise of the North East,’ Mechuka (also spelt Menchuka) played host to the third edition of the championship, which also marked India’s first Border Adventure Race. Set at an altitude of 6,000 feet and nearly 500 km by road from Itanagar, the state capital, Mechuka is steeped in legend. Its name stems from the local belief that water (chu) from snow (kha) on the surrounding peaks holds medicinal (men) properties. The area is renowned for its snow-capped mountains, rivers, lakes, monasteries, and traditional hamlets inhabited by indigenous tribes. The event was hosted by…

LOCATED IN THE HEART of Rajasthan’s historic capital, The Leela Palace Jaipur blends timeless grandeur with curated family experiences in its exclusive summer offering—Majestic Family Moments. Set against the backdrop of royal architecture and verdant courtyards, this experience is designed to celebrate connection, comfort, and culture. Created for multigenerational travellers, the package is a thoughtfully designed escape where each family member—regardless of age—can find joy and meaning. Mornings begin with a lavish breakfast at Sukh Mahal, where regional and global flavours meet in a vibrant spread. Afternoons unfold with guided explorations of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, while evenings are reserved for crafted sundowners at Jharokha Bar, ceremonial rituals, and immersive storytelling under sunset skies. Children are treated to the Little Royals programme—a series of engaging, imaginative activities that offer both…

SEIZE THE MOMENT WITH THE Solo Sojourn programme from The Imperial New Delhi if you are seeking a luxurious solo holiday to uplift your mood and physical wellbeing. To avail yourself of this opportunity, you must book a minimum three-night stay in one of their elegant accommodations. This package has been crafted for those keen to establish a deeper connection with themselves. According to Louis Sailer, Senior Executive Vice President of The Imperial New Delhi, recognising the rise in solo travellers—particularly women—seeking meaningful, restorative experiences rather than conventional ones, they have designed the package for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. “Whether you’re in need of a quick reprieve or a moment to reconnect with yourself, our sanctuary offers elegance, history, inspiration, and comfort, all aimed at igniting your sense…

From the pitch to the wild—how do you see sports and live tourism converging as engines of regional growth, particularly in the Northeast? Nature and sport are inherently interlinked. Their value chains converge around a shared element—travel—and both thrive in the realm of leisure. What’s fascinating is that while the audiences who come to play and those who come to watch may differ, they meet at a common crossroads: the pursuit of immersive, memorable experiences. When spectators travel for sport, it’s a natural progression for them to explore the environment they find themselves in. This intersection presents both a challenge and an opportunity: how do we create an ecosystem of convenience that encourages deeper engagement with nature? The answer lies in the concept of eco-sport—a powerful convergence of ecological consciousness…

KODI BENGRE DOESN’T LOOK like your typical surf town. It’s a sleepy fishing village where a narrow, four-kilometre road, flanked by coconut trees and Mangalore-tiled roof houses, separates the Arabian Sea from the Swarna River. There are no beach shacks, no flashy signboards, and no crowds—just boats pulled up onto the sand, the scent of fish in the air, and the kind of salty breeze that lingers on your skin. The first time I paddled out on a surfboard into these waters, I knew I had found something I wasn’t ready to leave behind. Surf Club With Soul The Shaka Surf Club (shakasurfclub.com), where I spent two weeks in 2023, is tucked along the river’s edge, with the sea just ahead. Founded by Tushar Pathiyan and Ishita Malaviya, the surf…

TO EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS in Luxembourg is to discover a country that punches well above its weight—lush landscapes, a deep-rooted culture of outdoor sports, and a commitment to accessibility for all. One afternoon, I found myself enjoying the antics of a flock of ducks at a pond, feeling relaxed, surrounded by stout trees. Around me, people were walking, running, playing, and picnicking. I was at Kockelscheuer, an urban forest just a 20-minute bus ride from the train station of Luxembourg City (luxembourg.public.lu), the capital. The cities here abound in public parks, urban forests, and swathes of greenery. The countryside offers nature trails, including comfort hiking trails with benches and wheelchair-accessible paths that make outdoor activities available to all. At the heart of it lies the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (visitluxembourg.com),…

GAZE UPON THE cerulean waves of the Indian Ocean from your private balcony, sip a sundowner at the sky lounge, and unwind in an infinity pool that appears to merge seamlessly with the sea and sky—ITC Ratnadipa is a true gem on Colombo’s vibrant waterfront, exemplifying Sri Lanka’s irresistible charm. Centrally located between the oceanfront and Beira Lake, this 352-room hotel is just a 40-minute drive from Bandaranaike International Airport and offers sweeping views of both the Indian Ocean and the city. Speaking about the hotel’s design philosophy and guest experience, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, shared, “ITC Ratnadipa embodies the grand architectural and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and is also a LEED Platinum-certified hotel. From striking exteriors to impressive interiors, this hotel showcases the inspiring work…

OFFERING LUXURIOUS ROOMS with large picture windows framing Himalayan snow peaks and forests, a farm-to-fork menu, nature trails and more, Amaraya by LaRiSa in Gagar-Ramgarh, Uttarakhand, awaits discovery this summer. A 7-hour drive from Delhi or 2.5 hours from the nearest airport in Pantnagar, this exclusive mountain resort is all about serene, personalised experiences. Begin your morning with a warm beverage at Solja, the tea and coffee lounge offering a curated selection of artisanal teas and freshly brewed coffee. If you can resist the lure of your elegant, spacious room, there’s plenty to explore. Follow nature trails or take guided hikes to local temples, viewpoints and waterfalls. These vary in distance and difficulty, suiting both leisure walkers and seasoned trekkers. Led by local staff, the walks also offer insight into…

Football in MADRID…

You became the first Indian female gymnast to qualify for the Olympics―how did that moment reshape your sense of what was possible, both for yourself and Indian gymnastics? Qualifying for the Rio Olympics was a defining moment, not just for me but for Indian gymnastics. It was the first time someone qualified after 52 years. It proved that with determination and hard work, athletes from smaller towns and under-resourced backgrounds can achieve global recognition. India is not known for gymnastics, but this milestone has inspired many young gymnasts in India to dream big and pursue their goals relentlessly. Being a pioneer comes with pressure. How did you navigate the weight of expectations while making history at Rio 2016? Everyone feels the pressure. The pressure was immense, especially being the only…

How do you see live sporting events influencing the travel decisions of Indians? It’s great to see a growing trend of Indians travelling to watch live sport. It marks a fundamental shift in how fans want to experience and engage with the game. DreamSetGo enabled over 15,000 Indian fans to travel in 2024—double the figure from the previous year. Sports travel is no longer just about watching a match—it’s about full immersion. Whether it’s a World Cup final or a Formula 1 Grand Prix, fans are seeking experiences that combine sport, luxury, and culture. The rise in sports tourism reveals something powerful: for the modern Indian fan, sport is no longer just a hobby—it’s a reason to explore the world. Do you see fantasy sports encouraging more fans to attend…

A SENSE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT takes over me as I complete an hour of snorkelling, interspersed with deep dives to see some baby sharks from up close, alongside the marine team at a luxury resort in the Maldives. To my tired limbs, though, it feels like eternity. Suddenly the guilt of having devoured all those calories with much gusto while getting familiarised with lesser-known Maldivian delicacies in the morning vanishes. As I take on anti-gravity yoga next and the initial scepticism transforms into an exuberant self-challenge, the definition of travel changes for me. The archetypal idea of conventional, relaxed indulgence is dismissed for this new-found desire to tick off a challenge each day, channelling my inner athlete. For, being a travelling sports fan is passé. 2025 is all about actualising the…