1. What is India’s Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)?
The FTI-TTP is a government initiative that allows pre-verified passengers to use automated e-gates at major Indian airports, bypassing long immigration queues.

2. How can travellers register for the FTI-TTP?
Travellers can apply online at the official portal by submitting passport details, proof of address, and a recent photograph, followed by biometric enrollment at designated centres.

3. Which airports in India currently support FTI-TTP?
As of 2025, the programme is available at major airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad, with expansion planned.

4. How long does the FTI-TTP application process take?
Application processing usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on verification checks and the number of applicants. Biometric enrollment is typically completed within minutes at approved counters.

5. Is the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme free?
Yes, FTI-TTP enrollment is free of charge, making it accessible to both frequent international travellers and occasional flyers.

Last Updated:September 10, 2025, 17:51 IST

The Trend shows Indian travellers opting for underrated destinations and avoiding the traditional hotspots of the world for their perfect getaways.

Amidst rising inflation and expenses, Indian travellers are getting smarter and opting for lesser-known destinations for their family getaways. According to a report by Policybazaar, there has been a 45 per cent rise in travel insurance purchases made by Indian tourists for such not-so-popular locations within the last three years.

Travel experts have encouraged tourists to visit these offbeat destinations as they offer budget-friendly accommodation options, cheap meals and various experiences. In stark contrast with the traditional hotspots of the world, where heavy tourist turnout fuels prices to incredible heights.

Save Money By Travelling Low-Key

According to Pavan Kavad, Managing Director of Prithvi Exchange (India) Limited, Indians can save up to 20-40 per cent of their touring expenses just by opting for what are often called the underrated gems of the world. At these emerging destinations, local transport, hotel stays and food are significantly more affordable than the usual tourist hubs.

“Mid-range hotels in Vietnam are often 30-40% cheaper than comparable stays in Goa, while a city break in Eastern Europe can cost nearly half of what a weekend in Edinburgh would,” Kavad says.

The strength of the Indian rupee also plays a big role here. According to estimates, a budget of Rs 1 lakh would barely cover four nights in Paris, whereas in places like Poland, it should cover a week-long trip. When the Indian rupee weakens against a foreign currency, outbound costs for Indian travellers usually rise by 8-15 per cent, at times even 18, noted Kavad.

Smart Planning Further Raises Affordability

SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel, believes Indian travellers can further ease their budget constraints and enjoy greater buying capacity overseas through smarter travel planning. Travelling during the off-seasons, making bookings in advance and wisely choosing the accommodation and food locations could prove to be a game-changer for Indian middle-class tourists.

“Booking holidays during a destination’s off-peak season is an effective way to save. Self-drive tours in countries like South Africa, Scotland, and Spain-Portugal allow travellers to explore at their own pace while discovering lesser-known locations,” said Nandakumar.

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Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) has been awarded the ‘Best State Tourism Board’ Award at the prestigious India Travel Awards 2025, held at Le Meridien, New Delhi. The award was presented by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in recognition of Madhya Pradesh’s excellence in innovation, sustainable growth, and leadership in the tourism sector.

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts and Endowments, Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, said the honour is a matter of great pride for the people of Madhya Pradesh. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the state government has resolved to make tourism a driver of development. This award motivates us to bring global recognition to the state’s heritage, natural wealth, and folk traditions while also creating opportunities for employment and self-reliance,” he remarked.

Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, Religious Trusts and Endowments, and Managing Director of MPTB, credited the award to the team’s collective vision. “Our goal is to create new destinations, strengthen local economies, empower women, preserve traditions, and promote sustainable tourism. This recognition inspires us to position Madhya Pradesh – the ‘Heart of Incredible India’ – as a unique tourism hub where tradition, nature, and modernity blend seamlessly,” he said.

The recognition reflects MPTB’s forward-looking initiatives, including:

• Development of eco-tourism circuits

• Promotion of community-based homestays

• Expansion of adventure and experiential tourism

• Strengthening of hospitality and visitor infrastructure

With this award, Madhya Pradesh reaffirms its commitment to offering tourists a world-class travel experience, highlighting its rich cultural legacy, natural landscapes, and diverse traditions.