Electronics

COVID-19 Variants in India and the Current Vaccines for Them

Planning
08-11-2023
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Viruses can mutate and develop. When a virus copies itself, it can change in the process. A variant is a modified virus. Most changes to viruses are small, but some changes make viruses more dangerous which makes the vaccines less effective. Delta and Kappa are the names for COVID-19 variations from the Greek alphabet. B.1.617.1 is COVID Kappa, while B.1.617.2 is COVID Delta. India is where both of these variants originated. The AY.1 strain, a European Delta plus type, has also been found in India. This version sticks to lung cells easily. This article will explain the COVID-19 variants in India and how well their vaccines work.

COVID-19 Variants in India

The virus was first found in China and since then, it has evolved into several variants. In India, there are different kinds of Coronavirus variants. The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Consortium on Genomics (INSACOG) has 10 labs all over the country. It is responsible for sequencing and keeping track of these different types. The Delta variant, first found in the UK, is thought to be the most common in India. A report from INSACOG says that the Delta variant is now the most common strain in India. It makes up more than 75% of all COVID-19 cases in the country. Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Kappa are the other virus types. It is thought that each of these variants is more contagious than the original virus, but their severity is still being studied. 

COVID-19 Variants As Per WHO 

Alpha B.1.1.7 
Beta B.1.351 B.1.351.2 B.1.351.3 
Gamma P.1 P.1.1 P.1.2 
Delta B.1.617.2 AY.1 AY.2 AY.3 
Eta B.1.525 
Kappa B.1.617.1 
Iota B.1.526 
Lamda C.37 

Overview of the Delta Variant

The B.1.617.2 variant, the Delta variant, is thought to be related to the second pandemic wave, which hit India in the middle of 2021. The Delta variant is 50% more likely to spread than the original virus and it is also thought to affect younger people more than those who are older.

Impact of COVID-19 Variants in India

India suffered greatly due to COVID-19. Of the COVID-19 variants Delta caused the second pandemic wave, which led to a huge rise in the number of cases and deaths. It has also spread quickly in rural areas, where health care is not as well developed and accessible as in urban areas. The Government of India adopted certain measures to stop the virus from spreading such as lockdowns, curfews, travel restrictions and more.

Vaccines For COVID-19 Variants in India

In India, there are four different kinds of vaccines:

Covaxin

Whole virus vaccines employ a weak type of virus that can still replicate. Another way is to use a virus in which all of the genetic material has been destroyed but still makes the immune system react. One vaccine that fits into this group is Covaxin.

Covishield and Sputnik V

A vaccine with a viral vector also tells cells how to make antigens. But unlike the nucleic acid vaccine, this one uses a harmless virus like adenovirus to get the immune system to react. In India, two of these vaccines are Covishield and Sputnik V.

Corbevax

Viral protein fragments trigger an immunological response in a protein subunit vaccination. This is where the new Corbevax vaccine fits in. It was available in September 2021.

Moderna

The nucleic acid vaccine instructs cells to manufacture an antigen, which stimulates an immune response. This is the case with the Moderna vaccine.

In terms of how well they work, a study found that the Covishield vaccine from AstraZeneca is effective against the Indian variant, Delta B.1.617.2. This vaccination was 60% effective in two doses against the Delta type. 

Researchers have also found that Covaxin is 61% efficient against the same variant. Trials indicated Sputnik V to be 78.6% to 83.7% efficient, while the Delta variant’s drop in efficacy is insignificant. 

Current Vaccination Strategies for COVID-19 Variants

The Government of India has been using different vaccination strategies to fight COVID-19 and its many variants: 

  • The first step is to ensure that people get their vaccines. All those above 18 who live in the country can get free vaccines. 
  • The Government has also advised people who have already had the virus to get vaccinated. This protects them from other variants and ensures that they do not face the severity of COVID-19 again.
  • The Government has set up a tiered vaccination system for high-risk groups like healthcare workers and the elderly. This ensures that those who need protection the most get it first.
State/UTTotal Doses
Andaman And Nicobar9,91,0051
Andhra Pradesh11,05,41,231570
Arunachal Pradesh19,04,914855
Assam5,02,70,5511,013
Bihar15,71,14,2982,530
Chandigarh22,80,78352
Chhattisgarh4,90,64,1103,812
Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu15,78,2972
Delhi3,73,47,885818
Goa28,72,33311
Gujarat12,76,84,7162,679
Haryana4,54,39,627630
Himachal Pradesh1,52,40,8361,896
Jammu and Kashmir2,47,24,773547
Jharkhand4,35,67,8574,518
Karnataka12,07,41,9582,418
Kerala5,74,66,100796
Ladakh5,63,29657
Lakshadweep1,45,0080
Madhya Pradesh13,35,59,4241,425
Maharashtra17,75,88,6912,963
Manipur32,64,48090
Meghalaya26,19,99492
Mizoram17,90,1010
Nagaland17,37,15534
Odisha8,14,39,777164
Puducherry22,66,651214
Punjab4,69,46,564612
Rajasthan11,51,79,4514,900
Sikkim13,60,30486
Tamil Nadu12,73,69,3221,846
Telangana7,71,62,871824
Tripura59,10,691168
Uttar Pradesh39,04,84,8984,145
Uttarakhand2,00,34,085869
West Bengal15,59,30,572869
Miscellaneous52,95,7130

How To Stay Safe From COVID-19 Variants

To stay safe from COVID-19 variants, it is important to adopt certain measures. The first and most important step is to get vaccinated. It is also important to follow basic safety rules, like wearing a face mask, keeping your distance from other people, and staying away from large groups of people. People should also be extra careful when they travel, especially to places where variants are more common. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, COVID-19 variants have caused a lot of trouble. The Government of India has invested money into making more effective vaccines to fight the variants. But to stay safe from the variants, taking certain steps is vital. People are encouraged to continue following safety protocols to stop the spread of the virus and this includes getting the vaccine. For more information on COVID-19 variants and the vaccines to treat them, visit Piramal Finance to read more helpful articles like this one.

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The Ultimate Guide to CIBIL Score for Home Loans: From 750+ to Loan Approval

Your CIBIL score is an important factor in determining your current credit score and determining if you are eligible for future loans. So, what is it, and how do you calculate it? It is really important to maintain a high CIBIL score (at least 700). Think of it as your financial report card; a higher score implies more people want to give you loans. Fun fact: taking loans and repaying them on time is, in fact, an important way to improve your CIBIL score! Table of Contents What is the CIBIL Score for a Home Loan? Why Do You Need a Good CIBIL Score? How is the CIBIL Score Calculated? How to Maintain and Improve a Credit Score for a Loan How Long Does It Take to Improve Your Score? Common Mistakes to Avoid Final Thoughts Frequently Asked Questions Key Takeaways ● CIBIL score for home loan is a three-digit number that tells banks how safely you handle money. Scores range from 300 to 900. ● The minimum CIBIL for a housing loan is usually 650, but banks prefer 700 or 750+ for easy approval and low rates. ● You can improve your credit score for a loan by paying bills on time, reducing debt, and keeping old accounts open. ● It usually takes 6-12 months of disciplined effort to increase your score. What is the CIBIL Score for a Home Loan? A CIBIL score is a credit score that shows your financial behaviour. It’s like a report card for your money habits, ranging from 300 to 900. CIBIL score for a home loan is crucial when banks are deciding whether to approve your loan or not. Think of it like a report card, like below: ● 300-549: Very bad (like failing in school) ● 550-649: Not good (like getting poor marks) ● 650-699: Okay (like average marks) ● 700-749: Good (like good marks) ● 750-900: Excellent (like being a topper!) If you have a score of 750 or above, most lenders see you as trustworthy and offer better interest rates and easier approval. Scores between 650 and 749 are considered “good,” but may come with stricter conditions or higher interest rates. Below 600, getting a loan becomes very difficult, and you need to work on your score first. Why Do You Need a Good CIBIL Score? Your score affects your chance of getting approved, how much you can borrow, and what interest rate you’ll get. Imagine if you and a friend both apply for a home loan: if you have a higher score, banks trust you more, give you faster approval, and offer better deals. That’s why the minimum CIBIL score for a housing loan is important. A higher score can save you money and make the loan process smooth and stress-free. How is the CIBIL score calculated? Your score is like a recipe with different ingredients: What They Look At How Much It Matters Paying bills on time 35% (Most important!) How much credit you use 30% How long you had credit 15% Types of loans you have 10% New loan applications 10% Think of it like this: ● Payment history: If you always pay your phone bill, electricity bill, and loan payments on time, you get good marks ● Credit usage: If you have a credit card with a ₹10,000 limit, try to use only ₹3,000. Using too much looks bad ● Credit age: Keeping old accounts open is like showing you've been responsible for a long time ● Credit mix: Having different types (credit card + loan) shows you can handle different things How to Maintain and Improve Credit Score for a Loan Here are simple credit score tips that anyone can follow: Pay Everything On Time ● Set reminders on your phone for all bill due dates ● Pay at least 2-3 days before the due date ● Never miss any payment, even small ones Don't Use Too Much Credit ● If your credit card limit is ₹10,000, use only ₹3,000 or less ● Pay off your credit card completely every month Don't Apply for Too Many Loans ● Every time you apply for a loan, your score goes down a little ● Wait at least 6 months between applications Keep Old Accounts Open ● Don't close your first credit card ● Old accounts show you've been responsible for a long time Check Your Report ● Get your free credit report once a year ● If you see mistakes, complain and get them fixed Pay Off Old Debts ● If you owe money to anyone, pay it back ● Even small unpaid bills can hurt your score How Long Does It Take to Improve Your Score? Just like losing weight or building muscles, improving your CIBIL score for a home loan takes time and patience: ● 3 months: You might see small improvements if you pay everything on time ● 6 months: You'll see good changes if you follow all the rules ● 12 months: Your score can improve significantly with consistent good habits Don't expect magic overnight. Think of it like growing a plant. You water it every day, and slowly it grows bigger and stronger. Final Thoughts Getting your dream home starts with taking care of your CIBIL score for a home loan. Think of your score as a friendship with banks. The better friend you are (by paying on time and being responsible), the more they'll want to help you. Start with small steps. Pay your phone bill on time. Don't use your entire credit card limit. Check your score every few months. These simple credit score tips will help you build a strong score that opens doors to your dream home. Remember, every responsible person started somewhere. With patience and good habits, your minimum CIBIL for housing loan goals is totally achievable. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the minimum CIBIL for a housing loan?Most banks want at least 650, but 750+ makes everything much easier and cheaper. 2. How can I check my CIBIL score?Go to the CIBIL website or your bank's website. You can check once a year for free. 3. Can I get a home loan if my score is below 650?It's very hard, but some banks might say yes if you earn a lot or have someone to guarantee for you. 4. How often does my score change?Usually, every month, when banks send your payment information to CIBIL. 5. What's the fastest way to improve a credit score for a loan?Pay all bills on time, use less credit, and don't apply for new loans frequently. 6. Does checking my own score make it worse?No! Only when banks check it for loan applications, it might go down slightly. 7. What if I have no credit history at all?Some banks give "starter" loans, or you can get a credit card first to build history. 8. Will paying off loans early help my score?Yes! It shows you're responsible and can manage money well.
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Switzerland Trip Cost from India – Full Budget Guide

Switzerland, often called the “Paradise of Europe,” is famous for its snow-covered Alps, crystal-clear lakes, scenic train journeys, and charming towns. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic honeymoon or an adventurous vacation, knowing the Switzerland trip cost from India will help you plan your dream holiday better. India to Switzerland Flight Ticket Price Flights make up a major portion of your total trip cost. There are several one-stop flights from India to Zurich or Geneva via Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul. Round-trip airfare from India to Switzerland: ₹45,000 to ₹75,000 per person Premium airlines or peak season fares: ₹80,000 to ₹1,10,000 Booking 2–3 months in advance can help you find better deals Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and Swiss Air operate regular flights connecting major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to Switzerland. Visa and Travel Insurance Since Switzerland is part of the Schengen region, Indian travellers need a Schengen visa. Visa fee: Around ₹7,000 per person Travel insurance: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person depending on duration Accommodation Costs in Switzerland Switzerland offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury mountain resorts. Budget stays: ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per night Luxury resorts: ₹18,000 to ₹25,000 per night Staying in smaller towns like Lucerne or Interlaken instead of Zurich can help reduce your expenses while keeping you close to key attractions. Food and Dining Expenses Switzerland’s food is as rich as its culture, with influences from France, Germany, and Italy. Street food and snacks: ₹800 to ₹1,200 per meal Mid-range restaurants: ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per person Fine dining: ₹4,000+ per person For budget travellers, buying groceries and cooking simple meals can save a considerable amount, especially during long stays. Local Transport Costs Switzerland has one of the best public transportation systems in the world. Trains, buses, and boats are punctual and well-connected. Metro and buses: ₹300 to ₹500 per ride Swiss Travel Pass (unlimited train and bus travel): ₹20,000 to ₹35,000 for 8–15 days Car rentals: ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 per day (excluding fuel) If you plan to visit multiple cities, the Swiss Travel Pass is the most economical choice. Sightseeing and Activities Switzerland is packed with scenic attractions and adventure experiences. Cable car rides (Mount Titlis, Jungfraujoch): ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per person Lake cruises and local tours: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per person Museum entries and heritage sites: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person Free attractions like hiking trails, viewpoints, and lakeside walks are great options to balance your expenses. Switzerland Trip Cost for Couples and Families For a 7 to 10-day trip, here’s a general estimate of the total cost: Budget trip: ₹1.3 lakh to ₹1.8 lakh per person Mid-range trip: ₹2 lakh to ₹2.8 lakh per person Luxury trip: ₹3 lakh+ per person These costs include flights, accommodation, meals, local transport, and sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? A vacation in Switzerland can be expensive, but it’s also a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you want to explore this stunning country without financial worry, a travel loan can help. It allows you to book flights, hotels, and tours now and repay the cost gradually through affordable EMIs. Final Thoughts The Switzerland trip cost from India varies depending on how you travel and stay, typically ranging between ₹1.3 lakh and ₹2.8 lakh per person. From the snowy peaks of the Alps to the peaceful lakes of Lucerne, every corner of Switzerland promises a postcard-perfect view. With careful planning and a well-managed budget, you can make your European dream vacation come true.
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Spain Trip Cost from India: A Complete Travel Budget Guide

Spain, one of Europe’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations, offers everything from sunny beaches and architectural marvels to flamenco shows and delicious food. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada combine history, art, and modern energy, making Spain a dream vacation spot for Indian travellers. If you are planning to visit, here’s a complete guide to the Spain trip cost from India. India to Spain Flight Ticket Price Flights are one of the biggest parts of your Spain travel budget. Round-trip airfare from India to Spain (Delhi or Mumbai to Madrid or Barcelona): ₹45,000 to ₹70,000 per person Premium airlines may cost ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000 during peak seasons Booking 2 to 3 months in advance and checking connecting flights can save money Major airlines like Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air France offer frequent connections from India to Spain. Accommodation Costs in Spain Spain has options for every traveller, from backpackers to luxury seekers. Budget hostels and guesthouses: ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per night Luxury hotels and resorts: ₹12,000 to ₹20,000 per night Staying in smaller towns or using Airbnb can help you save on accommodation, especially during summer. Food and Dining Expenses Spain is famous for its food culture, from tapas and churros to paella and sangria. Street food and local cafes: ₹600 to ₹1,000 per meal Mid-range restaurants: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per person Fine dining experiences: ₹4,000+ per person A daily food budget of ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per person is comfortable for most travellers. Local Transport in Spain Spain has one of the best transportation systems in Europe. Metro and local buses: ₹250 to ₹500 per ride City travel passes: ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per day Intercity trains (Madrid to Barcelona): ₹4,000 to ₹7,000 per person Car rentals: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per day You can also take high-speed trains like AVE for faster travel between cities. Sightseeing and Activities Spain offers something for everyone, from beaches to architecture and history. Sagrada Familia entry (Barcelona): ₹2,000 to ₹2,500 per person Prado Museum (Madrid): ₹1,500 per person Alhambra Palace (Granada): ₹2,000 per person Flamenco show: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person Beach activities and day tours: ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per person Spain Trip Cost for Couples and Families For a 7 to 10 day trip, here’s an approximate cost: Budget trip: ₹1.3 lakh to ₹1.6 lakh per person Mid-range trip: ₹1.8 lakh to ₹2.3 lakh per person Luxury trip: ₹2.5 lakh+ per person This includes flights, accommodation, meals, local transport, and sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? Spain is a country that offers unforgettable experiences, but it can be expensive for long stays or family trips. A travel loan can help you manage your trip expenses easily, allowing you to book flights, hotels, and tours without financial pressure. You can repay later in small, manageable EMIs while enjoying your dream European holiday. Final Thoughts A trip to Spain from India can cost between ₹1.3 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh per person, depending on your travel preferences. With smart planning, advance bookings, and the right budgeting, your Spanish adventure can be both memorable and affordable. From the beaches of Barcelona to the royal palaces of Madrid, Spain is a destination worth every rupee.
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Shimla Trip Cost 2025 – A Complete Travel Guide

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most loved hill stations. With its snow-covered hills, colonial charm, toy train rides, and lively Mall Road, Shimla attracts travellers from all over the country. Whether you are planning a quick weekend getaway or a family vacation, understanding the Shimla trip cost can help you plan your journey better. Travel Cost to Shimla By Flight The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport, located about 22 km away, but only limited flights operate here. Most travellers prefer flying to Chandigarh Airport, which is about 120 km from Shimla. Delhi to Chandigarh flights: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 (round trip) Taxi from Chandigarh to Shimla: ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 Shared cabs and buses: ₹800 to ₹1,200 per person By Train The Kalka–Shimla toy train is a UNESCO World Heritage route and a favourite among tourists. Delhi to Kalka (train): ₹400 to ₹1,200 Kalka to Shimla (toy train): ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person Duration: Around 5 to 6 hours with scenic mountain views By Road Shimla is around 340 km from Delhi. Volvo/AC bus: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person Private cab: ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 (one-way) Self-drive: Around ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 for fuel Accommodation Costs in Shimla Shimla offers stays for every kind of traveller. Budget hotels and homestays: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹3,500 to ₹6,000 per night Luxury resorts: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000+ per night Staying near Mall Road or The Ridge is convenient but can be slightly more expensive than properties on the outskirts. Food and Dining Expenses Shimla offers a mix of local Himachali dishes, North Indian meals, and café-style food. Street food and local dhabas: ₹200 to ₹400 per meal Mid-range restaurants and cafes: ₹600 to ₹1,200 per person Fine dining or hotel meals: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per person A daily food budget of ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person is ideal for most travellers. Sightseeing and Local Transport You can explore Shimla’s attractions using local taxis, rented bikes, or walking tours. Local taxi for a day: ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 Toy train rides within town: ₹100 to ₹300 Entry fees for attractions: ₹20 to ₹200 Popular Attractions in Shimla The Ridge and Mall Road Jakhoo Temple Kufri (snow point) Christ Church Green Valley Himalayan Bird Park Shimla Trip Cost for Couples and Families Here’s an estimated budget for a 3 to 4 days trip: Budget trip: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 for two people Mid-range trip: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 for two people Luxury trip: ₹45,000+ for two people This includes travel, stay, food, and local sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? If you’re planning a longer vacation or want to enjoy a premium stay, a travel loan can make your journey easier. It allows you to cover flight bookings, accommodation, and sightseeing costs while repaying comfortably in EMIs later. Final Thoughts The Shimla trip cost varies depending on your travel style and preferences, ranging from ₹6,000 per person for budget travellers to ₹25,000 or more for luxury vacations. With beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and easy accessibility, Shimla is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travellers. Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy the perfect hill station getaway without worrying about expenses.
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Pondicherry Trip Cost – A Complete Travel Budget Guide

Pondicherry, or Puducherry, is a charming coastal town on India’s southeast coast that beautifully blends French heritage with South Indian culture. With its peaceful beaches, colourful streets, spiritual retreats, and delicious food, it is one of India’s most loved weekend getaways. If you’re planning a vacation, understanding the Pondicherry trip cost will help you plan your travel smartly. Travel Cost to Pondicherry By Flight Pondicherry has a small airport with limited connectivity. The best option is to fly to Chennai International Airport, about 150 km away, and then travel by road. Delhi to Chennai flights: ₹5,000 to ₹9,000 (round trip) Mumbai to Chennai flights: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 (round trip) Taxi or bus from Chennai to Pondicherry: ₹500 to ₹2,500 depending on the mode By Train Pondicherry is connected by train to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi. Chennai to Pondicherry train: ₹250 to ₹600 per person Bangalore to Pondicherry train: ₹500 to ₹1,200 per person By Road Pondicherry is easily accessible by road, and the East Coast Road (ECR) is one of India’s most scenic routes. Chennai to Pondicherry (150 km): ₹800 to ₹1,500 by bus or ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 by taxi Bangalore to Pondicherry (310 km): ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 by bus or ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 by cab Accommodation Costs in Pondicherry Pondicherry offers a mix of heritage guesthouses, beachfront resorts, and boutique hotels. Budget hotels and hostels: ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per night Luxury resorts: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per night Staying near White Town or Promenade Beach gives you easy access to attractions but may cost slightly more. Food and Dining Expenses Pondicherry’s food scene reflects its French influence mixed with South Indian flavours. Street food and local cafes: ₹300 to ₹500 per meal Mid-range restaurants: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person Fine dining and beachside restaurants: ₹2,000+ per person A daily food budget of ₹1,000 to ₹1,800 per person is ideal for a comfortable trip. Sightseeing and Local Transport Getting around Pondicherry is easy with rented scooters, bicycles, or auto-rickshaws. Scooter rentals: ₹400 to ₹600 per day Auto rides within city: ₹100 to ₹300 per trip Entry fees for attractions: ₹20 to ₹100 per person Top Attractions in Pondicherry Promenade Beach Auroville and Matrimandir Paradise Beach French Quarter (White Town) Aurobindo Ashram Serenity Beach Pondicherry Trip Cost for Couples and Families Here’s an estimated budget for a 3 to 4 days trip: Budget trip: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 for two people Mid-range trip: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 for two people Luxury trip: ₹45,000+ for two people This includes travel, stay, food, local transport, and sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? If you’re planning a longer stay or a luxury vacation, managing expenses upfront can be challenging. A travel loan can make your Pondicherry trip hassle-free by covering flights, stays, and sightseeing costs while you repay conveniently through EMIs. Final Thoughts The Pondicherry trip cost largely depends on how you travel and where you stay, ranging from ₹6,000 per person for a budget holiday to ₹25,000 or more for a luxury vacation. With its calm beaches, French cafés, and colourful streets, Pondicherry offers the perfect escape for every kind of traveller. Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy a peaceful getaway by the sea.
14-10-2025
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Kedarnath Trip Package – Cost and Travel Itinerary

Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, is nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kedarnath Temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra and attracts lakhs of devotees every year. The journey to this sacred shrine is both spiritual and scenic, making it a dream for those seeking peace and devotion. If you’re planning your visit, understanding the Kedarnath trip package details, cost, and travel options can help you plan your yatra efficiently. Travel Options to Kedarnath There are several routes and modes to reach Kedarnath, depending on your convenience and budget. By Air The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 240 km from Gaurikund (the base point for Kedarnath). Delhi to Dehradun flight: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 (round trip) Taxi from Dehradun to Gaurikund: ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 per vehicle Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi to Kedarnath for those who want to skip the trek. Helicopter tickets cost between ₹5,000 and ₹8,000 per person (round trip). By Train The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located around 210 km from Gaurikund. Delhi to Rishikesh train: ₹400 to ₹1,000 per person Cab or bus from Rishikesh to Gaurikund: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person By Road Buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Gaurikund. The journey takes about 8 to 10 hours through beautiful mountain roads. Trekking to Kedarnath From Gaurikund, the Kedarnath trek spans about 16 kilometres. Ponies, palkis, and doli services are available for those who prefer not to walk. Pony ride: ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 per person Doli: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per person Porter: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 The trek offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and alpine forests, making it a spiritual as well as adventurous experience. Kedarnath Trip Package Cost Package prices vary based on departure city, duration, and inclusions such as meals, hotels, and transport. Budget Package: ₹9,000 to ₹15,000 per person (shared transport, basic stays, group tour) Mid-Range Package: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per person (comfortable hotels, meals, guide) Luxury Package: ₹35,000 to ₹50,000 per person (private cab, premium stays, helicopter option) If you choose to include nearby sites like Badrinath, Tungnath, or Guptkashi, costs may increase slightly but offer a complete Char Dham experience. Accommodation and Food Costs Accommodation options near Kedarnath are limited but sufficient for most pilgrims. Budget guesthouses: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per night Mid-range hotels in Guptkashi or Sonprayag: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per night Luxury stays near Phata: ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 per night Meals are simple and vegetarian, with dhabas and ashrams offering thalis priced around ₹150 to ₹300 per person. Ideal Duration and Best Time to Visit The Kedarnath Temple opens in April or May and closes by October or early November before snowfall.A 4 to 5-day trip from Haridwar or Rishikesh is ideal to cover travel, stay, and darshan comfortably. How to Choose the Right Kedarnath Package Check if the package includes transport from Haridwar or Dehradun. Confirm meals, hotel quality, and local guide services. Verify inclusion of permits and temple entry arrangements. For senior citizens, helicopter-inclusive packages are highly recommended. Can a Travel Loan Help? Pilgrimage trips like Kedarnath can involve high travel and accommodation costs, especially for families. Opting for a travel loan can make it easier to manage these expenses while allowing you to repay conveniently through EMIs. Final Thoughts The Kedarnath trip package cost generally ranges between ₹9,000 and ₹30,000 per person, depending on comfort and inclusions. Whether you choose to trek or fly by helicopter, the journey to Kedarnath is an unforgettable spiritual experience. With a little planning and smart budgeting, you can make this holy yatra peaceful, memorable, and financially manageable.
14-10-2025
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