Travel Guides & Articles
India Unveils Exclusive Heli-Tourism from Hyderabad to Somasila – A Luxurious Travel Experience You Can’t Miss!

Published on
August 23, 2025
In an exciting development for the tourism industry in Telangana, the state government has unveiled plans for a new heli-tourism initiative set to connect Hyderabad with popular tourist destinations like Somasila and Srisailam. The plan aims to provide tourists with a quick and luxurious way to explore the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Partnering with EaseMyTrip, the state is gearing up to offer an exclusive heli-tourism service that will not only enhance the travel experience but also support the state’s growing wellness and spiritual tourism sector.
This new initiative is expected to significantly boost local tourism, allowing visitors to reach some of Telangana’s most sought-after locations while enjoying a bird’s eye view of the lush landscapes. The helicopter service will connect major landmarks, making it easier for tourists to explore the serene areas of Somasila, Srisailam, and other emerging destinations like the Amaragiri Island Wellness Retreat. The service will cater to tourists seeking both adventure and tranquility, as the region continues to develop its wellness tourism infrastructure.
1. The Heli-Tourism Initiative: A New Way to Experience Telangana
Heli-tourism is set to revolutionize the way travelers experience Telangana. The new services, which will operate between Hyderabad, Somasila, and Srisailam, offer tourists a quick and luxurious mode of transportation while providing a unique aerial perspective of the state’s scenic beauty. Telangana’s tourism minister, Jupally Krishna Rao, recently revealed plans for this initiative, which will operate in collaboration with EaseMyTrip, a leading tourism service provider.
The launch of heli-tourism is poised to make a significant impact on both the local economy and the tourism sector. By offering a comfortable, scenic, and efficient mode of transport, Telangana hopes to attract tourists who are looking for exclusive experiences. The service will reduce travel time between key tourist spots, making it more convenient for visitors to explore popular destinations without spending long hours on the road.
Key Points about the Heli-Tourism Initiative:
- Direct helicopter services connecting Hyderabad, Somasila, and Srisailam
- Collaboration with EaseMyTrip to ensure a seamless travel experience
- The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and promote Telangana’s natural and spiritual beauty
2. Developing Wellness and Spiritual Tourism: Amaragiri Island Wellness Retreat
In addition to the heli-tourism project, Telangana is investing in the development of wellness and spiritual tourism to cater to the growing number of visitors seeking peace, relaxation, and spiritual enlightenment. One of the major projects is the Amaragiri Island Wellness Retreat, which will be built at a cost of Rs 45.84 crore. This retreat is expected to provide visitors with a rejuvenating experience, offering spa treatments, meditation sessions, and wellness therapies in a tranquil setting.
The Wellness Retreat is located in Amaragiri, a serene part of the Kolhapur constituency, and aims to blend the healing traditions of Telangana with modern wellness practices. It will offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and focus on spiritual and physical well-being. The retreat is expected to become a significant attraction for tourists seeking holistic experiences.
3. Somasila and Srisailam: Spiritual Landmarks of Telangana
The heli-tourism route from Hyderabad will also serve as a gateway to two of Telangana’s most prominent spiritual destinations: Somasila and Srisailam. Known for their historical significance and spiritual importance, these locations attract pilgrims and tourists alike.
Srisailam, home to the famous Srisailam Temple, is a sacred destination for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is nestled in the Nallamala hills, providing visitors with a serene and spiritual environment. The Somasila area, on the other hand, is famous for the Somasila Dam, a major water reservoir in the state. With its scenic surroundings and temples, both places are major draws for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.
The new helicopter service will make these areas even more accessible, offering a hassle-free way to reach them without the long travel times typically associated with road trips. Visitors will be able to enjoy the scenic views of these places from above, making their spiritual journey even more memorable.
4. Infrastructure Development and Investment in Tourism
As part of its efforts to enhance the tourism experience, the Telangana government is investing in improving infrastructure at key tourist sites. For instance, the Somasila VIP Ghat and Boating Point are undergoing development work, with trenching activities being carried out at a cost of Rs 1.60 crore. These projects aim to improve the amenities and facilities available to tourists, ensuring they have a comfortable and enriching experience.
Along with these infrastructure upgrades, the state is also focusing on environmental sustainability and the conservation of local natural resources. This includes maintaining the pristine beauty of the region’s rivers, forests, and hills, which are central to the appeal of Somasila and Srisailam.
5. Future Prospects and Strategic Goals
Telangana’s ambitious plans for heli-tourism and wellness tourism come as part of a larger strategy to diversify its tourism offerings and attract high-end travelers. By integrating adventure tourism, wellness retreats, and spiritual tourism, the state is positioning itself as a comprehensive travel destination that caters to a wide range of interests.
The tourism department aims to make Telangana a year-round destination for both domestic and international tourists. With ongoing infrastructure projects, the region is expected to see a boost in tourism arrivals, contributing to the state’s economic growth. Moreover, the partnership with EaseMyTrip is expected to enhance the state’s visibility in the global tourism market, particularly among high-net-worth individuals who value luxury travel experiences.
Conclusion:
Telangana’s innovative approach to heli-tourism and wellness tourism offers a unique opportunity to explore the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage in style. By connecting major landmarks like Hyderabad, Somasila, and Srisailam, the new helicopter service promises to deliver an unparalleled travel experience. With continued investment in infrastructure, spiritual retreats, and luxury travel services, Telangana is well on its way to becoming a leading destination for both adventure seekers and spiritual travelers. This new initiative is sure to boost the state’s tourism sector, generating employment and contributing to the local economy. As more tourists flock to the state, Telangana is setting itself up as a premier destination for those seeking unique and enriching travel experiences.
Key highlights include:
- Helicopter services from Hyderabad to Somasila and Srisailam
- Launch in collaboration with EaseMyTrip to enhance travel convenience
- Development of the Amaragiri Island Wellness Retreat to attract spiritual tourists
- Projects worth Rs 45.84 crore focused on enhancing amenities and services
This ambitious project aligns with Telangana’s broader strategy to leverage its rich cultural, spiritual, and natural resources to become a leading destination for both domestic and international tourists. The government’s move is a significant step towards redefining travel experiences in India, offering visitors an exclusive and accessible way to witness the beauty and heritage of Telangana.
Travel Guides & Articles
Festive travel packages by Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel

Traditionally, Indian festivals have been celebrated at home or in ancestral houses, with families gathering under one roof. Recently, Indian consumers have also been choosing to travel and celebrate festivals with multi-generational family units and friends.
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel’s India Holiday Report 2025 highlights this shift in consumer behaviour, with demand for longer festive breaks, higher holiday spends and interest in experiences ranging from heritage and luxury stays to cruises and new destinations.
To tap into this growing festival travel trend, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, an omnichannel travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have introduced a specially curated range of holidays for the upcoming festive season, featuring special group tour departures from Kolkata for Durga Puja and Karnataka for Dussehra, as well as from high-potential markets of Gujarat and Maharashtra. In addition, the companies have also announced special Diwali departures across key pan-India markets.
The companies have also announced a special offer: discounts of up to Rs.10000 per transaction across select holidays via HDFC credit cards.
Festive tourism trends
Longer stays and increased spends: From the traditional 3 days Indians are now extending their stays to 6-12 days (multi-generational families combining school vacations like Dussehra, Durga Puja and Diwali). Young India’s millennials/GenZ and working professionals are embracing extended trips, combining weekends with festival holidays for a 5-6 day break
Favourite destinations:
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Domestic & Indian Subcontinent: Andaman, Kerala, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Goa, Karnataka, North East, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal
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International: Thailand, Singapore with Bintan, Malaysia, Sabah, Indonesia, Vietnam, Oman, Australia-New Zealand, Switzerland, France, Finland, Japan, Georgia, Germany, Spain, Austria, Kenya, South Africa, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Maldives, Mauritius, South Korea
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Visa-Free, Visa-on-arrival and easy-visa destinations in demand: Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan; Dubai-Abu Dhabi, Indonesia, Maldives
- Spiritual Journeys: Leveraging festive sentiment, Thomas Cook and SOTC have curated spiritual journeys through their Spiritual Journeys & Darshans portfolio – featuring Char Dham, Kashi, Ayodhya, Rameswaram, Tirupati, Amritsar, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Dwarka and Sri Lanka with special themed tours such as ‘Ramayan Anant Yatra’ and ‘Ramayan Trails’
- Premium/affordable luxury travel: Customers are opting for luxury resorts and spas, with destinations like France, Switzerland, Scandinavia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, Morocco, Seychelles
- Cruising: Strong interest for sailings across South East Asia and the Middle East (Costa Cruises, Resorts World Cruises); premium sailings like Disney Cruise Line in Australia and Singapore; domestic (Cordelia)
- Festival regional group tours: The companies are witnessing strong interest in their regional tours: Adhbhut Asia, Alokik Asia, Ashadharon Vietnam, Duronto Dubai O Abu Dhabi, Akorshonio France O Swiss with departures accompanied by regional tour managers; on-tour puja and curated vegetarian meals on select tours
Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa – Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Travel has become non-negotiable and festive tourism serves as a cultural driver. We are witnessing a strong and exciting trend—Indians are no longer staying at home but increasingly choosing to celebrate festivals while travelling. This is reiterated in our India Holiday Report 2025 that also reveals a strong shift—85% of Indians are increasing their travel frequency and budgets, driven by a desire to celebrate culture in immersive, meaningful ways.
Hence, to maximise this opportunity we have launched innovative festive regional groups tours like Adhbhut Asia, Alokik Asia, Ashadharon Vietnam, combining local and authentic experiences to meet the aspirations of India’s new-age travellers.”
S.D. Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel Limited said, “India’s festive calendar is fast emerging as a travel driver. Families and friends are increasingly using these breaks to create multiple holidays rather than a single long annual holiday. Significantly, this trend is not restricted to customers from metro cities, but also from India’s tier 2 and 3 markets, reflecting a strong, nationwide aspiration to travel. Travellers are also embracing new formats—cruise holidays, boutique and heritage stays, luxury villas and immersive experiences like culinary trails and adventure activities. At SOTC, we have designed our festive portfolio to blend celebration with exploration—curating domestic and international tours that allow Indians to experience their festivals in unique settings, while creating deeper connections and lasting memories.”
Travel Guides & Articles
India’s TBO Buys Luxury Tour Operator Classic Vacations

Luxury tour operator Classic Vacations has a new owner.
Gurugram, India-based global travel distribution company TBO has purchased Classic Vacations from its current owner, the Phoenix-based investment firm The Najafi Companies, for “up to $125 million.”
The deal gives Classic its third owner in the last five years; Expedia Group owned Classic before selling it to The Najafi Companies in 2021.
Classic is one of the premier U.S. luxury vacation companies and has always operated under a B2B2C model, with a strong presence in the travel trade. The move from The Najafi Companies to TBO will only enhance that dedication, Melissa Krueger, the CEO of Classic, said in the announcement.
“We’re excited for this next phase in our company’s journey,” said Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations. “TBO’s tech-centric solutions are geared fully toward our travel advisor community. TBO connects us to its first-class technology platform—unlike what the wholesale market has ever had access to—allowing us to bring even more resources, tools and insider connections to our valued travel advisors.”
According to the announcement, Classic Vacations delivered a revenue of $111 million and an operating EBITDA of $11.2 million in the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2024.
Travel Guides & Articles
Long Weekend 2025: 15 Best Travel Destinations Within 200 km Of Delhi-NCR | News

Famous for its Lathmar Holi, Barsana is a beautiful small town with Radha temples, hills, and rustic charm, perfect for a cultural weekend trip.
Travel Tip: Since these destinations are within driving distance, you can plan short road trips with family or friends. Keep track of upcoming long weekends in 2025 to make the most of these quick escapes!
(All images credit: freepik)
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