Shortcuts: Places to visit, things to see and do

THE TERMINAL

Jodhpur Airport’s new passenger terminal (pictured above), which was inaugurated on July 4, is an unabashed homage to Rajasthani architecture. The architectural studio, Sthapati, eschewed the glass-and-chrome approach popular with airports, instead embracing round domes, multifoil arches, an intricately textured facade and soaring columns. At 24,000 sq. metres, the terminal has an annual capacity of two million passengers. The cheerful interiors feature regional artworks, murals and crafts by local artists. Regional touches include vibrant peacocks and scenes from royal courts. The terminal truly captures the essence of Rajasthan.

BORDER PATROL

SAUDI PACKAGE VISA FOR INDIANS

Saudi Arabia has launched a ‘Package Visa’ for several countries, including India, which bundles your electronic tourist visa, return flights, health insurance and accommodation into a single integrated booking. The visa can be issued instantly through official travel agents.

JAPAN HIKES VISA FEES, INDIA SPARED

Japan has raised visa fees for foreign nationals, with single-entry visas rising fivefold to 15,000 yen (approx. Rs 8,900) and multiple-entry visas to 30,000 yen (Rs 17,800). Indian passport holders, however, remain exempt and will continue to pay the concessional Rs 500 fee.

OCI CARD GOES DIGITAL

India has fully digitised the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) system by launching the e-OCI card. Effective July 8, new applicants receive only the digital format, while existing cardholders can download their e-OCI card via mobile without undergoing fresh physical verification.

NEW RATES FOR PASSPORTS

The Government of India has revised passport fees from July 1. Standard 36-page passports now cost Rs 2,500 (up from Rs 1,500), while 60-page passports cost Rs 3,500. Tatkaal services now cost Rs 5,000 for 36 pages and Rs 6,000 for 60 pages.

THAILAND REVISES VISA RULES

Indian passport holders will now be eligible for a 30-day visa-free entry to Thailand instead of the previous 60 days. Travellers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before departure. The measure will take effect after being notified in the Royal Gazette.

NEW HOTEL OPENINGS

From immersive nature retreats to a boutique townhouse

JW MARRIOTT RANTHAMBORE RESORT & SPA, RAJASTHAN

Set on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, the newly opened JW Marriott Resort & Spa marries contemporary luxury with the spirit of the wild. The 127-key resort offers elegant rooms, suites, tented accommodations and private villas, with architecture inspired by Rajasthan’s rich heritage, offering immersive wildlife experiences, refined dining, a signature spa and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

From Rs 30,000 plus taxes; marriott.com

BANDRA HOUSE, MUMBAI

An IHCL SeleQtions property, Bandra House is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Bandra West, inspired by the neighbourhood’s heritage bungalows, creative spirit and coastal charm. Located on Turner Road, the 39-key property combines the intimacy of a private residence with the comforts of a five-star hotel, offering elegantly designed rooms and suites—many equipped with kitchenettes for extended stays. Thoughtfully curated interiors, a library-inspired lobby, locally inspired dining and bespoke neighbourhood experiences create a stay that reflects the character of one of Mumbai’s most vibrant districts.

From Rs 24,250 plus taxes; seleqtionshotels.com

THE SEN, KUMAON, UTTARAKHAND

Nestled amid the pine forests of Kumaon near Lansdowne, The Sen is an intimate luxury retreat that celebrates minimalist design, slow living and immersive nature experiences. With just a handful of glass-fronted suites overlooking forested valleys, the boutique hideaway combines contemporary architecture, locally inspired cuisine and curated outdoor experiences, offering a serene escape for travellers seeking privacy, wellness and a deep connection with the mountains.

From Rs 30,975 incl. taxes; thesen.in