Travel

In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in high-growth regions, Thomas Cook (India) has inaugurated its first franchise outlet in Mohali, Punjab. The city, part of the prominent Tricity region alongside Chandigarh and Panchkula, is witnessing a surge in both residential and commercial development. The company identified Mohali as a key source market due to robust demand for travel services. Backed by positive consumer trends—such as rising holiday frequency and larger travel budgets—Thomas Cook aims to capitalize on this momentum.

EaseMyTrip.com, a leading online travel technology platform, has announced the launch of EMT Invest, a strategic investment arm focused on catalyzing the growth of profitable and high-potential businesses across diverse sectors. EMT Invest targets ventures with a minimum Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs. 5 crore, aiming to bolster their scalability by providing both capital and strategic support within EaseMyTrip’s robust digital ecosystem.

The Shri Amarnath Yatra, one of the most significant religious pilgrimages in India, will be held from July 3 to August 9, 2025, with a reduced duration of 38 days. This year, the government has ramped up security, deploying 581 companies from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and implementing state-of-the-art safety measures, including jammers and surveillance drones. In addition, new age and health restrictions have been introduced for pilgrims. The Yatra will also coincide with the launch of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, enhancing connectivity to the pilgrimage site.

A recent survey conducted by Thomas Cook India reveals a notable shift in the travel preferences of Indians, with an increasing number of people prioritizing experiential and event-focused trips over conventional vacations. This trend, driven by rising disposable incomes and a desire for unique experiences, is reshaping the country’s travel landscape. The report, based on over 2,500 respondents, highlights that a majority plan to boost both the frequency and expenditure of their holidays in 2025, with Europe remaining a top choice.

Int2Cruises, a cruise-focused online travel platform, has launched operations in India, aiming to transform the cruise booking experience for Indian travelers. With cruise tourism gaining popularity among families, millennials, and multi-generational groups, the company offers a digital one-stop solution that integrates live inventory, real-time pricing, and full-service vacation planning. The platform enables users to compare global cruise options while managing flights, visas, hotels, and excursions—streamlining a process that has traditionally been fragmented.

Nishant Pitti, co-founder and CEO of online travel company EaseMyTrip, is under investigation by India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the multi-crore Mahadev Betting App scam. The ED alleges that Pitti may have been involved in illicit financial transactions, including payments to shell companies, stock price manipulation, and associations with operators of illegal betting platforms.

BLS International Services Ltd has reported a robust financial performance for the fourth quarter and the full fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, fueled by a resurgence in global travel and a sharp uptick in its visa, consular, and digital services businesses. The company’s consolidated net profit jumped 69.9% year-over-year to Rs. 145.2 crore in Q4, while annual profit surged 65.7% to Rs. 539.6 crore. Total revenue for FY25 reached Rs. 2,193.3 crore, up 30.8% from the previous year.

A high-stakes feud has erupted in India’s online travel industry as EaseMyTrip Founder and Chairman Nishant Pitti leveled fresh allegations against competitor MakeMyTrip, accusing the company of harboring significant Chinese influence at the board level. In a series of pointed posts on X (formerly Twitter), Pitti claimed that half of MakeMyTrip’s board members have direct ties to China, raising national security concerns and suggesting that strategic decisions are unduly influenced by directors linked to Chinese interests.

Hospitality and travel-tech giant OYO reported a 20% year-on-year growth in its corporate client base for FY25, adding 3,500 new accounts under its Business Accelerator division. With this addition, OYO now services over 6,500 corporate entities across India, indicating a strong resurgence in business travel following the COVID-19 downturn. The growth is particularly notable in metropolitan markets like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune, which saw the highest influx of new clients.

BLS International Services Ltd has reported a robust financial performance for the fourth quarter and the full fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, fueled by a resurgence in global travel and a sharp uptick in its visa, consular, and digital services businesses. The company’s consolidated net profit jumped 69.9% year-over-year to Rs. 145.2 crore in Q4, while annual profit surged 65.7% to Rs. 539.6 crore. Total revenue for FY25 reached Rs. 2,193.3 crore, up 30.8% from the previous year.