Thomas cook has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Gujarat to promote the state as a vibrant tourism destination across India. The collaboration was formalized on January 12, 2026, at Marwadi University, Rajkot, during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2026, marking a significant step in enhancing Gujarat's visibility among Indian travellers.

Strategic Partnership Details

The MOU brings together two key stakeholders in India's tourism ecosystem. The agreement was signed by Mr. Ravindrasinh Jadeja, Officer on Special Duty at Gujarat's Tourism Department, and Mr. Romil Pant, Executive Vice President & Business Head - Leisure at Thomas Cook (India) Limited, in the presence of state dignitaries and senior officials.

Collaboration Framework

The partnership combines Gujarat Tourism's destination development vision with Thomas Cook India's extensive capabilities across multiple areas. The collaboration focuses on structured training and knowledge-building initiatives for Thomas Cook India's travel experts and channel partners, enabling stronger destination advocacy and conversion.

Key collaboration areas include:

• Omnichannel, pan-India distribution network leverage
• Product development and consumer insights sharing
• Marketing expertise application
• Destination awareness enhancement
• Training programs for travel professionals

Tourism Promotion Strategy

The MOU aims to actively promote Gujarat tourism and drive increased arrivals by enhancing awareness across key domestic source markets. The initiative will showcase Gujarat's diverse offerings spanning multiple tourism segments.

Government Support Framework

As part of the MOU, the Government of Gujarat will provide comprehensive support to Thomas Cook India in obtaining necessary operational requirements. This includes permissions, registrations, approvals, and clearances as applicable, in accordance with existing state policies, rules, and regulations.

Leadership Perspective

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa at Thomas Cook (India) Limited, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership. He highlighted Gujarat's strengthening position on India's tourism map, anchored by iconic attractions and growing portfolio of compelling destinations across the state.

The collaboration will drive a multi-pronged strategy spanning:

• Leisure travel promotion
• MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) travel
• BLeisure (Business + Leisure) travel segments

The partnership leverages Thomas Cook India's omnichannel model, combining digital and physical presence, supported by consumer insights, engagement platforms, and on-ground expertise to stimulate visitation and contribute to sustained tourism growth in Gujarat.

Thomas Cook (India) Limited has officially launched Nature Trails Rock Valley in Ponda, Goa, marking the company's fourth resort under the Nature Trails brand and its first expansion beyond Maharashtra. The announcement was made through a press release dated January 8, 2026, filed under Regulation 30 of SEBI regulations.

Resort Specifications and Features

Nature Trails Rock Valley spans 15 acres in a scenic valley at the foothills of the Western Ghats in Ponda. The property offers comprehensive accommodation and adventure facilities designed for experiential travel.

Adventure and Experience Offerings

The resort features an extensive integrated adventure zone with professionally guided experiences. Guests can engage in zip lining, high and low rope courses, archery, target shooting, ATV rides, rappelling, and kayaking on the Khandepar backwaters. The property includes an in-house spice farm offering guided walks to introduce guests to Goa's spice heritage and local ecology.

Strategic Market Positioning

According to Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Thomas Cook (India) Limited, "Nature Trails is Thomas Cook's strategic investment to tap into India's booming domestic opportunity by offering novel, experience-led travel offerings blending nature, activity and adventure rooted in authentic, local hospitality and flavor."

Target Market and Services

The resort caters to diverse segments including individual families, group travelers, corporate team-building engagements, and educational programs for schools and colleges. Nature Trails Rock Valley offers all-inclusive dining featuring Goan specialties alongside Indian and global cuisines, and maintains pet-friendly policies.

The company plans to expand the Nature Trails brand to additional destinations, building on its existing portfolio that includes three resorts in Maharashtra at Durshet, Sajan, and Kundalika. This expansion aligns with the growing preference for experience-driven holidays among Indian travelers seeking nature-based and adventure-focused travel options.