Who says business trips have to be dull? MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism is evolving, and companies are stepping away from conventional city-based venues to explore destinations that offer a blend of business, culture, and tourism. As Mr. Ramanpreet Singh, Vice President of Growth & Strategy at SKIL, points out, be it a scenic retreat or an emerging international hub, these unconventional MICE destinations are redefining corporate travel.
Andaman Islands
For companies looking to mix business with leisure, the Andaman Islands provide an exceptional setting. Port Blair, the capital, is well-connected with direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. With its pristine beaches and world-class resorts offering state-of-the-art conference facilities, Andaman is an ideal destination for incentive trips, leadership retreats, conferences and more. Imagine concluding a high-powered meeting with a team-building snorkeling or diving session. This is business in paradise.
Kovalam
Kovalam is usually viewed as a tropical getaway, but it’s also a sophisticated MICE destination where work and relaxation go hand in hand. Just 15 km from Trivandrum International Airport, Kovalam offers seamless accessibility for both domestic and international business travellers. Its beachfront resorts, high-end convention centers and Ayurvedic wellness retreats make it a prime coastal retreat for corporate events and executive getaways. With breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam ensures that work never really feels like work.
Mussoorie
Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie provides a picturesque escape for corporate events. Located just 60 km from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, which is well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, Mussoorie offers a tranquil yet accessible environment for business gatherings. Its colonial-era hotels, modern conference halls and curated adventure activities like trekking and paragliding make it a compelling choice for leadership summits and offsite retreats.
Kumarakom
Nestled in the backwaters of Kerala, Kumarakom provides a serene yet well-connected destination for corporate events. Cochin International Airport, just a 1.5-hour drive away, ensures easy access. This lush retreat offers top-notch resorts with conference facilities that flawlessly integrate nature with business. Ideal for leadership retreats and executive brainstorming sessions, Kumarakom offers boat cruises, Ayurvedic treatments, authentic local experiences among many other facilities, ensuring a true balance of work and leisure.
Kasauli
Kasauli, a charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is just a 90-minute drive from Chandigarh International Airport, which offers connectivity to major metro cities across India. The peaceful pine-clad surroundings, combined with modern conference facilities in boutique resorts, make it an excellent destination for corporate strategy meetings and team bonding sessions. Far from the city’s distractions, Kasauli allows professionals to unwind while staying productive.
Bhutan
Bhutan, with its breathtaking landscapes and strong focus on sustainability, is certainly a unique MICE destination. Paro International Airport is accessible via direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata and Bangkok, making it a feasible choice for global corporate retreats. Bhutan’s serene environment, rich cultural heritage and premium venues offer a refreshing setting for high value business interactions. Companies seeking an eco-conscious destination for their events will find Bhutan to be an inspiring choice.
Georgia
With direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Dubai, Tbilisi, Georgi, is gaining traction as an unconventional MICE hub. The capital city boasts stunning architectural landscapes, luxurious hotels and vibrant nightlife, making it perfect for both formal and informal networking. Companies looking to create a unique experience for their clients or employees can explore Georgia’s ancient monasteries, wine-tasting tours or even adventure sports as part of their itinerary.
Seychelles
For ultra-exclusive corporate events, Seychelles offers a dreamlike setting, a private island, if you will. Direct flights from Mumbai and Dubai make Mahé Island easily accessible for international business travellers. The destination’s five-star resorts, private islands and seamless event planning services make it an ideal spot for high-profile incentive trips, executive meetings and networking events. With cerulean blue waters and luxury at every turn, Seychelles takes business hospitality to the next level.
Ras Al Khaimah
Dubai and Abu Dhabi might dominate the UAE’s business landscape, but Ras Al Khaimah is quickly emerging as an attractive MICE alternative. Just a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, this emirate offers ultra-modern hotels, premium convention centers and stunning desert landscapes. With a 15% year-over-year growth in MICE visitors, it is a rising hotspot for conferences and business gatherings. Adventure-seeking corporate teams can even experience the world’s longest zipline here, making it an unforgettable destination.
Kathmandu
Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, is an offbeat yet well-equipped MICE destination. Tribhuvan International Airport offers direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Dubai, making it highly accessible. With a mix of modern conference facilities, historic temples and scenic Himalayan backdrops, Kathmandu provides a unique and dynamic environment for corporate retreats. The city’s blend of heritage and hospitality ensures a rewarding experience for both business and leisure.
MICE tourism is no longer confined to business districts in major cities. Companies are now prioritising destinations that offer not just high-end conference spaces, but also immersive experiences for attendees. These 10 unconventional MICE locations provide the perfect mix of accessibility, luxury, adventure and relaxation, ensuring that corporate travel is more inspiring and engaging than ever before.
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