Those planning year-end getaways to hotels need not confine themselves to mere poolside relaxation, breakfast buffets, or late-night gambling. In India, hotels and restaurant chains are rolling out a variety of experiential activities for guests to partake in during the festive season of Christmas and New Year. From sundowners and stargazing to baking sessions, food trails, beekeeping, spa and salon treatments, and even a unique drag brunch, there’s a diverse array of engaging options awaiting visitors.
A sundowner event by Darbari Lake awaits guests at Narendra Bhawan in Bikaner. Meanwhile, those staying at The Tamara Coorg have the option to opt for a comprehensive New Year package, encompassing activities such as beekeeping, stargazing, trataka yoga, and explorations of cardamom and spice trails.
At Candolim’s Hilton Goa Resort, the Poder experience immerses guests in the world of local bakers, offering a firsthand glimpse into the art of crafting Goa’s renowned bread.
Furthermore, the Long Lost Recipes experience is designed to explore the origins of Goan cuisine, showcasing dishes that have otherwise slipped into obscurity.
Amandeep Singh Grover, the general manager at Hilton Goa Resort, emphasizes that Goa offers more than just beaches, parties, and casinos.
“We are inviting people to explore and experience a very different side of Goa – one that is lost, overlooked, or undiscovered,” he said. “Our goal is to make people aware of the rich culture, heritage, and lost cuisines, allowing them to discover the authentic and diverse beauty that defines Goa.”
Siddharth Yadav, Vice President of MRS Group of Hotels, mentioned that both Suryagarh Jaisalmer and Narendra Bhawan Bikaner have received an “exceptional” response for New Year celebrations, with 98% of the hotel rooms being booked.
For the year-end celebrations, the Taj Corbett Resort & Spa has collaborated with Chaliya folk artists hailing from the upper Himalayan region of Pithoragarh to deliver a captivating performance.
“The Chaliya art form traces its history to the 10th century,” said general manager Ajay Sharma. “We would like to preserve this elusive art form and provide a platform to the artists to help sustain it.”
Even city hotels have a wealth of offerings to provide.
In commemoration of its 120th anniversary, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai is introducing a light and sound show on December 16 exclusively for guests residing by the poolside. This multimedia spectacle will be an integral part of the Christmas and New Year celebrations and will extend beyond the festive season.
Anopura, the boutique luxury retreat in Jaipur, has curated a festive farm program designed for children, featuring hands-on experiences with dairy animals, interactive sessions with the head ranger, and artistic activities at the cattle ranch. For adults, Anopura presents a farm-to-table program that encompasses cooking classes with a focus on sustainable food practices.
The Lalit Ashok in Bengaluru has arranged a Christmas drag brunch, featuring appearances by artists from the community.
ITC Hotels‘ newly launched Mementos property in Udaipur is hosting an exclusive Christmas sundowner this year. The package, priced at INR 15,000 plus taxes per couple, encompasses unlimited wine and beer from 1 pm to 3:30 pm, along with a foot massage from Kaya Kalp, The Royal Spa.
The Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall presents a staycation package that features pick-and-drop services, movie tickets for a couple, a candle-lit dinner for two with complimentary cocktails, and discounts on specific spa options.
Divya Aggarwal, Chief Growth Officer at Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality, mentioned that specific Social outlets will convert into a Christmas bazaar on the day, allowing customers to purchase gifts from local business communities in certain cities.
The Zana Lake Resort in Udaipur has organized a unique vegetarian gourmet experience for New Year, complemented by a poolside sundowner. Meanwhile, the Country Inn Tarika Riverside Resort in Jim Corbett is set to host a winter carnival.
Cordelia Cruises has arranged a distinctive Christmas sailing from Mumbai to Lakshadweep and back on December 23-27. This special cruise will feature Christmas treasure hunts on board, along with the opportunity to participate in gingerbread village making.