Thomas Cook India Limited, a leading omnichannel travel services company, and its subsidiary, SOTC Travel, are capitalizing on the increasing interest among travellers to combine pilgrimages with cultural and soft adventure experiences across India.
Their Darshans and Pilgrimage Plus Holidays offer meticulously curated experiences covering iconic destinations like Rishikesh, Dwarka, Varanasi, and Rameshwaram, complete with hand-picked local experiences, culinary delights, and sightseeing opportunities.
The demand for spiritual locales has seen a remarkable surge, with a 100% year-on-year increase, fueled by a desire for unique cultural experiences and adventure. Factors such as the recent inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, coupled with enhanced connectivity and infrastructure, have further accelerated interest in spiritual travel, with online searches soaring by tenfold.
Traditionally popular among seniors, spiritual travel now appeals to a broader demographic, including multigenerational families, honeymooners, and younger travelers. Recognizing this trend, Thomas Cook and SOTC have expanded their portfolio to cater to diverse preferences, offering ready-to-book and personalized tours that blend spiritual experiences with local adventures.
Their Pilgrimage Plus tours are designed to provide a holistic experience, combining spiritual core elements with leisure activities and authentic local encounters. From outdoor adventures like mountain biking and paragliding to unique experiences such as sunset boat rides in Varanasi and Chhau dance performances, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Moreover, the companies offer customized options, including meditation retreats, yoga sessions, and wellness programs, catering to the growing demand for holistic experiences.
Their Spiritual Tourism portfolio encompasses a wide range of themes, including Spiritual Journeys to India’s religious sites, Ramayana Trails exploring locales associated with Lord Ram’s life, and Jyotirlinga Darshan Trails covering the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. Each tour includes guided VIP darshans at temples, expert tour managers fluent in regional languages, and accommodation ranging from hotels to tents.
To enhance accessibility, Thomas Cook and SOTC provide flexible payment options like Travel Now Pay Later and zero-interest EMIs, ensuring convenience for travelers.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head of Holidays, MICE, Visa at Thomas Cook (India) Limited, highlighted the growing interest in spiritual journeys, emphasizing the companies’ commitment to offering hassle-free experiences that allow travelers to focus on their spiritual pursuits.
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head of Holidays at SOTC Travel Limited, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the evolution of pilgrimage experiences and the need for tours that cater to diverse consumer segments.
With their comprehensive range of offerings and customer-centric approach, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel are poised to meet the evolving needs of spiritual travelers across India.
