Category

Categories	Description	Criteria
High Sea and Coastal Cruises Nominate Now	Recognizes outstanding cruise liners and operators providing exceptional high sea and coastal cruise experiences. This category honours excellence in service, innovative itineraries, luxurious amenities, and guest satisfaction for voyages along the seas and coasts. Note: GSAs are not eligible to apply.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
River and Inland Water Cruises Nominate Now	Recognizes exceptional cruise liners and operators offering unique and memorable river and inland water experiences. This category highlights excellence in service, itinerary design, onboard amenities, and guest satisfaction. Note: GSAs are not eligible to apply.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Boutique/ Family-Owned Hotel of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a family-owned and operated standalone property, such as a boutique hotel or haveli, with up to 100 rooms. This category honours establishments that provide personalized hospitality, unique design, and intimate guest experiences rooted in local charm and cultural heritage.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. The property should have up to 100 rooms All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Business Hotel of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a hotel that excels in catering to business travellers by providing exceptional meeting facilities, executive lounges, luxurious accommodations, high-speed internet, comprehensive business services, and other amenities designed for a seamless and productive stay. The hotel should also be strategically located with proximity to key business hubs, offering convenience and accessibility for corporate guests.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Heritage Hotel of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a hotel with more than 100 rooms and at least 50% of its structure built before 1950, offering fine dining, bars, spa facilities, concierge services, and heritage experiences, while preserving its cultural and architectural legacy.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. Heritage hotel property who has its presence in India and has 50% of the property floor area built before 1950 and has more than 100 rooms All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Hotel Chain of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes hotel chains operating under the same brand or management, offering consistent service and premium amenities across multiple locations. Eligible chains must be present in over 3 states pan India and provide amenities such as private pools, spa services, and fine dining.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Luxury Hotel of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes an upmarket or ultra-luxury hotel with more than 100 rooms that sets a benchmark in elegance, comfort, and personalized service. The property must offer world-class amenities, exquisite dining options, and exceptional experiences that define modern luxury and cater to discerning travellers.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. The property should have more than 100 rooms All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Mid-Market/ Budget Hotel of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a hotel offering affordable yet high-quality accommodations, catering to budget-conscious travellers. The property must provide essential amenities, comfortable rooms, efficient service, and excellent value for money, ensuring a satisfying guest experience.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Wellness & SPA Resort of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a resort that offers exceptional wellness and spa experiences, including state-of-the-art facilities, diverse therapeutic treatments, wellness programs, and a tranquil environment, promoting relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic well-being.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
International Tourism Board Nominate Now	Recognizing an international tourism board for their exceptional contribution to global tourism promotion, fostering cross-border tourism relationships, and highlighting the unique cultural and natural offerings of their destination.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
State Tourism Board Nominate Now	Recognizing the outstanding performance of state tourism boards in promoting and developing tourism within their regions, through innovative marketing, diverse offerings, and sustainable initiatives.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
B2B Travel Agent of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes travel agents who excel in providing tailored solutions and comprehensive services to businesses and other travel agencies, demonstrating expertise and leadership in the B2B travel domain.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
B2C Travel Agent of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes travel agents dedicated to providing exceptional service directly to individual travellers, offering personalized travel packages, standalone services like ticketing, hotels, cars, etc.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Travel Management Company (TMC) of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a travel management company that excels in delivering comprehensive travel solutions. This includes managing travel logistics, providing cost-effective itineraries, ensuring seamless travel experiences, and offering personalized services to meet the diverse needs of all travellers.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category.
Luxury Bus Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a bus operator that excels in providing premium, luxurious travel experiences, offering high-end buses with exceptional comfort, modern amenities, and superior service. This category honours operators known for their attention to detail, seamless travel experiences, and exceptional customer service, catering to discerning passengers.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Luxury Car Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes an operator that excels in providing premium luxury car services, offering exceptional comfort, high-end vehicles, and personalized travel experiences. This category honours operators known for their outstanding service quality, attention to detail, and seamless travel solutions for discerning clients.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
State-Owned Transport Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a state-owned transport operator that excels in providing reliable, efficient, and high-quality transportation services. This category honours operators who demonstrate excellence in service delivery, operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and commitment to improving the overall travel experience for passengers	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Destination Management Company (DMC) of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizing the DMC that offers top-tier services in organizing and managing local travel experiences for inbound tourists, ensuring exceptional cultural, adventure, or leisure experiences.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
General Sales Agent of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a GSA or General Sales Agent representing travel service providers in regions without their own offices. This award honours GSAs for excellence in sales, marketing, customer service, and operations on behalf of their principals.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Travel Tech Provider of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizing the technology provider that has developed innovative solutions specifically designed for use by travel companies, such as booking systems, reservation platforms, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, and other technology solutions that enhance the travel experience for end-users.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Domestic Tour Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a tour operator that excels in providing outstanding travel experiences within India. The operator must have a PAN India presence and offer a wide range of tours and travel services across Indian destinations, ensuring exceptional service and customer satisfaction.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Inbound Tour Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a tour operator specializing in inbound tourism, demonstrating excellence in arranging transport, accommodation, sightseeing, and other services for foreign tourists visiting India.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Outbound Tour Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a tour operator that excels in organizing seamless and unique international travel experiences, offering expert destination knowledge, personalized itineraries, and exceptional customer service to create memorable journeys abroad.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
Niche Travel Operator of the Year Nominate Now	Recognizes a tour operator specializing in organizing unique and specialized travel experiences, including health, adventure, spiritual, sports and other niche tourism sectors. These operators excel in providing safe, sustainable, and memorable experiences. Mainstream operators are not eligible for participation in this category.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.
MICE Tour Operator of the Year (Domestic & Outbound) Nominate Now	Recognizes a tour operator specializing in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) travel. This category honours operators who excel in organizing corporate events, conferences, and group travel, demonstrating superior logistical planning, in-depth client understanding, and flawless event execution, both domestically and internationally.	The entity applying for the award should have been in operations for more than 2 years in India as of March 31, 2024. All applicants must have a valid certificate from the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable) along with active membership with respective industry trade association. The entity should offer services and amenities relevant to the specific award category and should meet basic service standards suitable for the category. Details provided in the form must pertain to the period from April 01, 2022, to March 31, 2024.