PHDCCI Conclave positions heritage as tourism growth engine
Heritage tourism emerged as a major growth opportunity at PHDCCI’s 15th International Heritage Tourism Conclave, held at Hyderabad’s Salar Jung Museum on July 24, 2026. Government, industry and tourism boards called for investment-led conservation, stronger public-private partnerships, technology-enabled visitor experiences and deeper community participation. The third PHDCCI-KPMG Report on Heritage Tourism was also released.
Sarnath earns UNESCO World Heritage recognition
Sarnath has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List after 28 years, becoming India’s 45th World Heritage Site and Uttar Pradesh’s fourth. The Buddhist pilgrimage centre, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, had remained on UNESCO’s Tentative List since 1998. The recognition is expected to strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s Buddhist Circuit and expand the state’s UNESCO footprint beyond Agra.
Goa celebrates Chikhal Kalo Festival in Marcel
Goa’s traditional Chikhal Kalo festival was celebrated near Shree Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors for its iconic mud play. Inspired by Lord Krishna’s childhood, the festival featured games, devotion and community participation. Goa Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte joined the celebrations, highlighting the need to preserve such customs and pass them to future generations.
Summit Hotels introduces Pet-Friendly stays
Summit Hotels & Resorts has introduced pet-friendly accommodation at selected properties in Gangtok, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kaziranga and Tashigang, responding to growing demand from travellers holidaying with pets. Designated cottages, villas, premium rooms and select ground-floor categories will be available. CEO Sumit Mitruka said changing travel preferences are driving more personalised, family-oriented hospitality. A nominal fee structure for pet stays is currently being finalised.
#First Opinion
“We are delighted to host the inaugural edition of the Longevity Summit India at Fairmont Mumbai. As a hotel that has embraced the concept of longevity through Blu Xone—India’s first hotel-based longevity destination—this summit is a natural extension of our commitment to science-backed wellbeing. By bringing together leading voices from healthcare, wellness, science and hospitality, we look forward to welcoming delegates to an experience that goes beyond a conventional conference. India is rapidly emerging as a key destination for innovation in health and wellness, and forums such as these play a vital role in accelerating that momentum.”
Rajiv Kapoor,
General Manager, Fairmont Mumbai & Roswyn, A Morgans Original Hotel
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