Franchise News: Royal Orchid Expands Footprint in North India, Signs 43-Key Property in Himachal Pradesh

The Fern Hotels & Resorts has expanded its presence in Rajasthan with the launch of The Fern Nest Resort Jaipur, Series by Marriott. Strategically positioned with easy access to major transport hubs, the property is designed to serve business travelers, leisure guests, as well as wedding and convention groups seeking comfort, efficiency and seamless hospitality in Jaipur — one of India’s most culturally vibrant destinations.

With this addition, The Fern Hotels & Resorts now operates five properties in Jaipur and 17 across Rajasthan (operational and opening shortly), further strengthening its growing regional footprint.

Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts shared, “As India’s hospitality landscape continues to evolve, destinations such as Jaipur remain central to both domestic and international travel demand. Our focus is on creating hospitality experiences that combine efficient service, thoughtful amenities and strong location advantages to meet the expectations of modern travellers. This new property reflects our commitment to expanding in culturally significant markets while maintaining consistent quality and guest satisfaction across our portfolio.”

The hotel offers 107 well-appointed rooms and suites across various categories, each designed to balance comfort, practicality and contemporary aesthetics. Culinary offerings include Darpan, a multi-cuisine restaurant inspired by the architectural grandeur of Chand Baori, serving Indian, Asian and global fare in an elegant ambience. Guests can also visit Zaza, a chic café and lounge featuring gourmet teas, coffees and beverages, along with live kitchen experiences. Additionally, 24/7 in-room dining is available with a curated menu of meals and refreshments.

Located approximately 30 km from Jaipur International Airport, 25 km from Jaipur Railway Station and 29 km from Jaipur ISBT, the property offers strong connectivity for travelers. With its strategic location and comprehensive facilities, The Fern Nest Resort Jaipur is positioned to deliver a comfortable and well-connected stay experience in the Pink City.

Sarovar Hotels has announced the opening of Golden Tulip Kukas Jaipur and Skywings Sarovar Portico Mathura, strengthening its presence in key leisure and pilgrimage markets in North India.

The expansion increases the company’s footprint in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, supported by growing demand from leisure travel, weddings, MICE, and spiritual tourism. With these additions, Sarovar Hotels now operates 150 hotels across 87 destinations in India, Nepal, and Africa.

Golden Tulip Kukas Jaipur is a 90-key property located in Kukas. The hotel features dining options, a spa, swimming pool, fitness facilities, and banquet spaces that can host up to 600 guests. The property is positioned to serve destination weddings, corporate events, and leisure travellers.

Skywings Sarovar Portico Mathura is a 70-key hotel marking the group’s entry into the pilgrimage city of Mathura. The hotel includes dining facilities, a fitness centre, and banquet space for up to 400 guests, catering to spiritual travellers, social gatherings, and regional corporate demand.

Ajay K. Bakaya, Chairman, Sarovar Hotels and Director at Louvre Hotels India said, “Jaipur and Mathura are high-potential markets supported by strong leisure, pilgrimage, and wedding demand. The addition of these two hotels reinforces our commitment to expanding in culturally rich destinations with sustainable growth drivers. As we scale our footprint, our focus remains on delivering quality hospitality experiences aligned with evolving market needs.”

With the launch of these two properties, Sarovar Hotels continues to expand its portfolio across gateway cities, pilgrimage centres, and emerging leisure destinations, strengthening its presence in the mid-market and upscale hospitality segments.

Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited has expanded its presence in Uttarakhand with the launch of Club Mahindra Nadiya Parao Resort in Jim Corbett. The property marks the company’s second resort in the destination, reinforcing its position in one of India’s established nature tourism markets.

The opening is part of the company’s broader expansion plan focused on increasing room capacity, enhancing its portfolio, and maintaining disciplined capital allocation. The addition supports MHRIL’s near-term target of adding 1,000 rooms by FY26 and its long-term objective of scaling to 10,000 keys under Club M and 12,000 keys overall by FY30.

Manoj Bhat, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited said, “Our ambition is to lead leisure hospitality in India, with families at the heart of everything we do. The launch of Nadiya Parao is another step forward in our expansion journey, in a destination where demand is strong and growing. As we expand, we’re not just adding resorts; we’re delivering superior experience, sharpening execution, and building for the future.”

The new resort is spread across approximately 10 acres and features 57 rooms. In addition to leisure accommodation, the property includes landscaped lawns, a banquet hall, and riverfront access. It is designed to cater to family travel, destination weddings, and corporate off-site events.

With this addition, Mahindra Holidays continues to strengthen its footprint in high-demand leisure destinations while working toward its long-term capacity expansion goals.

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has signed a new SeleQtions-branded property in Devanahalli, Bengaluru. The development involves converting an existing standalone resort into a SeleQtions hotel, along with expanding the total inventory to 120 keys, further strengthening IHCL’s footprint in North Bengaluru.

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL said, “Bengaluru is among the fastest-growing cities in the country, powered by its thriving IT and entrepreneurial ecosystem. North Bengaluru, particularly Devanahalli, is witnessing rapid development driven by the expansion of the airport and the presence of sectors such as aerospace, biotechnology, defence and education. The signing of this hotel, the first SeleQtions in Bengaluru, will cater to this growth and expand our brandscape in this key lodging market. We are delighted to partner with BABA Developers Private Limited for this project.”

The hotel will be branded as SeleQtions Prakruthi Resort and will operate under IHCL’s SeleQtions portfolio. Under the current plan, the property will feature 115 keys and offer amenities including an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a bar, and a lounge. Guest facilities will comprise a spa, gym, and swimming pool. Additionally, the hotel will include over 6,000 sq. ft. of banqueting space along with meeting rooms, catering to both social celebrations and corporate events.

The expansion strategy aligns with the accelerating infrastructure and commercial growth in Devanahalli, driven by airport development and the presence of aerospace, biotechnology, defence, and educational institutions. North Bengaluru has increasingly emerged as a promising hospitality hub, supported by strong business travel demand and event-driven revenue streams.

Parvataneni Sasibhushan, Managing Director, Baba Developers said, “We are delighted to partner with IHCL to bring the SeleQtions brand to Bengaluru and create a distinctive hospitality experience in Devanahalli.”

With this addition, IHCL’s portfolio in Bengaluru will expand to 20 hotels, including 11 properties currently under development. The signing underscores IHCL’s asset-light expansion strategy and its continued emphasis on strengthening brand presence across high-growth urban and peri-urban markets in India.

Suba Hotels Limited has expanded its presence in Himachal Pradesh with the launch of Click Hotel Bhuntar near Kullu. This marks the company’s third property in the state, adding to its existing hotels in Manali and Dharamshala.

The new hotel is located close to Bhuntar airport, offering improved connectivity for travellers visiting the Kullu region. With this addition, Suba Hotels continues to strengthen its footprint in leisure destinations across North India.

Mansur Mehta, Managing Director said, “There are hardly any good branded hotels in Bhuntar. Most of the hotels are concentrated in Kullu and Manali. Sensing a good business opportunity, we decided to open a hotel in this area.”

Mubeen Mehta, Chief Executive Officer said, “We have been consciously exploring leisure destinations for expansion. With the rising demand, we see tremendous potential in strengthening our presence in key leisure markets. Our focus remains on identifying locations that align with our brand philosophy while delivering value and memorable experiences to our guests.”

Chandrakant Shetty, Chief Operating Officer added, “Nowadays, travellers are looking for offbeat destinations, and this hotel fits that perfectly. Moreover, it is very close to the airport, so it makes connectivity very easy. The company plans to open many hotels in such destinations for travellers seeking complete peace and bliss.”

Click Hotel Bhuntar offers three room categories: premium, deluxe, and attic rooms. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including hot and cold air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, tea and coffee maker, minibar, LED smart TV, and an in-room safe.

The property features a multi-cuisine restaurant catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian guests. It also provides facilities for small meetings and business conferences, positioning the hotel to serve both leisure and business travellers. With this launch, Suba Hotels aims to tap into growing interest in alternative hill destinations while strengthening its regional hospitality network.

Royal Orchid Hotels (ROHL) has announced the launch of Regenta Ranjit Avenue in Amritsar, marking the group’s fifth property in the city. The opening represents a significant step in ROHL’s strategy to strengthen its presence in high-growth urban centres and prominent religious tourism destinations.

Strategically positioned at SCO 47–50, Ranjit Avenue—one of Amritsar’s most established districts—the hotel offers convenient connectivity to the city’s major landmarks. It is located approximately 7 km (10 minutes) from the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh. For domestic and international travellers, the property is situated 15 km from Shri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport and 5.5 km from Amritsar Junction railway station.

The hotel features 37 thoughtfully designed rooms that combine contemporary aesthetics with regal elegance, offering guests a tranquil retreat. It houses three distinct F&B venues: Pinxx Kitchen & Lounge, the brand’s signature all-day dining restaurant serving global cuisines alongside authentic Amritsari flavours; Mix Bar, a stylish space known for its refined ambience and curated beverages; and Kitty Lounge, an exclusive venue tailored for private gatherings and intimate social events.

In addition, the property offers expansive banquet facilities adorned with regal detailing, suitable for corporate meetings and large-scale celebrations. Among its highlights is Celebration – The Party Hall, a 4,500 sq ft venue with 16-foot ceilings. Guests can also enjoy a rooftop swimming pool as part of the hotel’s amenities.

Commenting on the launch, Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & MD, Royal Orchid Hotels said, "The opening of Regenta Ranjit Avenue marks a significant milestone in our strategy to strengthen our presence in India's most iconic cultural and spiritual hubs. As our fifth property in Amritsar, this launch reinforces our commitment to the region and our 'Vision 2030' expansion roadmap. We aim to provide a sanctuary of 'Regal Hospitality and Eternal Serenity' that reflects the city's rich heritage while offering the modern, high-quality service our guests expect."

Sterling Holiday Resorts has expanded its footprint in Ayodhya with the launch of Sterling Saryu Ayodhya, marking its second property in the city and reinforcing its presence in one of India’s most significant spiritual destinations. The opening aligns with the company’s destination-driven growth strategy, which focuses on heritage and pilgrimage markets. The new resort aims to enhance accommodation capacity in Ayodhya, especially during high-demand pilgrimage periods.

Named after the sacred River Saryu, Sterling Saryu Ayodhya features Cocoon Rooms and Junior Suites tailored for both short visits and longer stays. The property houses an all-day vegetarian dining venue, The Saryu Café, alongside thoughtfully designed common areas and a banquet hall suitable for group tours, family events, and meetings. Its strategic location provides easy access to Ayodhya’s temples, ghats, and major transport links.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts said, “Ayodhya is a defining chapter in India’s pilgrimage landscape—where faith-led travel is being shaped by stronger infrastructure and rising demand. With Sterling Saryu Ayodhya—our second resort in the city—we are deepening destination depth to serve travellers with comfort, calm and reliability, delivered with warmth. At Sterling, we believe hospitality is not just about a stay—it’s about how you make people feel, especially in a destination where the journey is as emotional as it is spiritual.”

Rishi Uppal, Director, Kalyan KK Hotels India added, “Ayodhya is among India’s most important spiritual destinations, and demand for organised, comfort-led hospitality is growing rapidly. We wanted to create a retreat that supports this evolving travel behaviour, and Sterling’s leadership in heritage and pilgrimage destinations—combined with its proven operating expertise—made them the right partner for this vision.”

Beyond serving pilgrims visiting Ayodhya, the resort also functions as a gateway for exploring nearby destinations such as Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Varanasi, supporting broader regional travel circuits.

Yatri Vihar Hospitality Private Limited has announced the opening of Ramada by Wyndham Bodh Gaya Mahabodhi, developed to cater to pilgrims, leisure travellers and business guests visiting the spiritual destination of Bodh Gaya. The property has been launched in partnership with Wyndham Hotels and Resorts and marks the first Wyndham hotel in the state of Bihar.

Located near the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 95-key hotel offers facilities including a swimming pool, spa, health club, kids’ entertainment zone, amphitheatre, lawns, banquet venues, specialty restaurant, coffee shop and lounge.

The property has been designed to combine modern hospitality facilities with the cultural identity of Bodh Gaya. The company said the hotel is expected to support the city’s growing tourism activity and contribute to local employment and economic development. The hotel also features event spaces suited for conferences, weddings, retreats and cultural gatherings, aiming to strengthen Bodh Gaya’s role as both a spiritual and social destination.

Atul Roy, Director, Yatri Vihar Hospitality Private Limited said, "Ramada by Wyndham Bodh Gaya Mahabodhi represents a significant step forward in our journey to develop meaningful hospitality assets in destinations of spiritual and cultural importance. Bodh Gaya welcomes travelers from around the world, yet there remains strong demand for thoughtfully designed, branded accommodation that delivers consistency, comfort, and a sense of place. With this project, our focus has been to create a contemporary hotel experience that complements the city's heritage while supporting its growing tourism landscape and creating long-term value for the community and stakeholders."

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts said, "The opening of Ramada by Wyndham Bodh Gaya Mahabodhi underscores our commitment to supporting high-potential destinations with strong, reliable hotel offerings that serve the needs of today's travelers. Ramada is a globally trusted brand known for approachable, full-service hospitality, and its presence in Bodh Gaya strengthens the city's ability to welcome international pilgrims, leisure guests, and business visitors with confidence and consistency. We are pleased to collaborate with Yatri Vihar Hospitality Private Limited in bringing this project to life, and we look forward to contributing to the continued growth and visibility of the region's tourism economy."

The company said the launch reflects its ongoing focus on expanding hospitality infrastructure in the region while supporting tourism growth in Bodh Gaya.

Sapphero Hotels is planning a phased expansion across Maharashtra and Gujarat as it looks to strengthen its presence in leisure, pilgrimage, and event-driven destinations. The hospitality group currently operates properties in Shirdi, Gir, and Jamnagar.

The company has built its portfolio around technology-led operations, standardised systems, and experience-focused offerings. One of its key assets includes a wedding-centric property in Shirdi, which features large lawns, accommodation, banquet spaces, and food and beverage facilities aimed at the weddings and social events segment.

Sapphero Hotels operates on a scalable model that combines rooms, banqueting, and food and beverage services. These are supported by centralised sales, digital marketing, and distribution platforms, enabling consistent operations while allowing flexibility based on local market needs.

Shamitav Jana, CEO, Sapphero Hotels said, “As travel and celebration-led hospitality continue to evolve, our focus remains on building future-ready hotels that leverage technology, operational discipline, and local relevance. Maharashtra and Gujarat present strong opportunities aligned with our brand philosophy and long-term vision.”

The group said rising demand for destination weddings, social gatherings, and organised mid-scale hotels is shaping its expansion strategy. Going ahead, Sapphero Hotels plans to grow at a measured pace, with a focus on operational efficiency, regional relevance, and long-term sustainability.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts confirmed the launch of the Rajpath Beacon Hotel Belagavi, the company’s latest property in Karnataka. The new hotel is located in the heart of Belagavi city, offering easy access to public transport, business destinations and shopping districts. The company already operates UK27 The Fern Belagavi in this market.

Suhail Kannampilly, managing director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “As India’s growth story increasingly extends beyond metropolitan centres, cities such as Belagavi are emerging as important nodes for business, trade and regional mobility. This shift calls for hospitality formats that are efficient, accessible and consistent in quality."

Kannampilly added, “Rajpath Beacon Hotel Belagavi has been developed to address these evolving needs by offering a functional stay experience supported by dependable service and thoughtful design. Our broader vision is to build a portfolio that aligns with the way India travels today, where value-driven comfort and strategic location play a critical role in guest decision-making.”

Rajpath Beacon Hotel Belagavi has 35 rooms and suites. Each accommodation is tailored to offer comfort to its guests. Pakwan, a pure vegetarian restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, is one of the highlights of the hotel. 

The property is located just 12.4 km from Belagavi Airport, 2.4 km from Belagavi Railway Station and just 1 km from the Central Bus Stand. Its strategic location offers connectivity for a diverse range of travelers. 

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Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is in plans to develop new Ginger Hotels in key cities in North India. This would be in a first-time partnership with Rajdarbar Group, showcasing the demand for new hotels in the tier-2 cities in the North Indian region.

The addition of new hotels is in the midscale segment across cities such as Jaipur, Agra, Mathura, Vrindavan, Hisar, and Karnal is set to create fresh demand within India’s evolving hospitality landscape. These developments are driven by a new generation of aspirational midscale travellers, supported by rising socio-economic levels and the rapid expansion of domestic tourism. This growth complements the existing Ginger Hotels portfolio, a brand long recognised for offering affordable, comfortable, and hospitable stays for budget-conscious travellers.

Driving Hospitality Growth in Tier-2 Cities and Pilgrimage Destinations

Ginger Hotels’ expansion into key North Indian cities like Jaipur, Mathura, and Vrindavan marks a strategic push into Tier-2 markets, where hospitality demand is accelerating. With their strong cultural and religious significance, these destinations are witnessing a steady rise in pilgrimage tourism, alongside business and leisure travel. Ginger Hotels is well positioned to serve this diverse traveller mix through reliable, midscale accommodations.

As regional development gains momentum in North India, cities such as Karnal, Hisar, and Agra are becoming increasingly important to the country’s economic and tourism ecosystem. The introduction of seven new Ginger hotels will strengthen hospitality infrastructure by providing quality, affordable stays. This expansion also aligns with the growing demand for midscale hotels in India, fuelled by increased domestic travel and the continued growth of key economic sectors, including manufacturing, services, and technology.

Enhancing the Hospitality Landscape in High-Demand Markets

With a combined inventory of over 1,000 keys, the seven new Ginger hotels will be strategically positioned to cater to both business and leisure travellers. Designed under fully fitted lease arrangements, these properties can be seamlessly and swiftly integrated into the regional hospitality ecosystem. Their launch is expected to stimulate local tourism by attracting a wider mix of domestic and international visitors, while also strengthening accommodation options in high-demand markets.

As demand for midscale hospitality continues to rise, Ginger Hotels is well placed to meet the evolving expectations of travellers seeking affordable luxury and value-led experiences. This expansion aligns with the broader growth of India’s hospitality sector, supported by ongoing improvements in infrastructure and service standards to accommodate the increasing volume of tourism and business travel across the country.

Rajdarbar Group’s Role in Expanding Hospitality Reach

In partnership with IHCL, Rajdarbar Group is strategically focused on unlocking the strong hospitality potential of North India’s tier-2 cities. Vasudev Rakesh Garg, Director, Rajdarbar Group, highlighted the need to expand quality midscale accommodation in high-growth destinations such as Jaipur and Agra, which attract millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. By targeting these fast-evolving markets, the partnership aims to establish a strong and sustainable presence for the Ginger brand in regions that have historically lacked organised midscale hospitality options.

The collaboration between Rajdarbar Group and IHCL underscores the rising significance of religious tourism alongside regional economic development. This initiative aligns closely with national efforts to promote tourism beyond metropolitan centers, while simultaneously contributing to local employment, infrastructure development, and long-term economic growth in these cities.

Subin Venugopalan has been appointed as Director of Food & Beverage at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC). This development comes in at a time when the integrated destination is looking to strengthen its leadership across its culinary and convention operations.

Venugopalan comes with an experience of over a decade in luxury hospitality and large-scale F&B operations. Prior to this, he was Food & Beverage Manager at Sheraton Grand Whitefield, Bengaluru. In his role, he was leading diverse outlets, banqueting, and high-volume events, focusing on guest experience, operational excellence, and revenue growth.

In his new role, Venugopalan will watch over the F&B portfolio across Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and HICC, including signature restaurants, bars, banqueting, conventions, and bespoke culinary experiences. His mandate comprises of enhancing culinary innovation, elevating service standards, driving sustainability, and reinforcing the destination’s position as one of India’s premier convention and events hubs.

Venugopalan has led diverse teams across multicultural environments. He has experience in overseeing and managing large MICE operations, executing pre-opening responsibilities, implementing brand standards, optimising costs and introducing experiential dining concepts that progress guest engagement and financial outcomes.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts confirmed the signing of The Fern Residency Thekkady, Series by Marriott, located in Thekkady, Kerala’s Idukki district. 

The latest addition has further strengthened The Fern Hotels & Resorts' presence across the south region, with the total operational properties rising to 14. 

Suhail Kannampilly, managing director of The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “Leisure destinations with strong ecological and experiential appeal are increasingly shaping the next phase of hospitality growth in India. Thekkady stands out as a destination that attracts discerning travellers seeking immersive experiences rooted in nature and culture. The Fern Residency Thekkady, Series by Marriott will further strengthen our presence in South India while reinforcing our commitment to responsible and experience-led hospitality.” 

The upcoming Fern Residency Thekkady will feature 50 designed rooms and suites. It offers a refined stay experience, catering to both business and leisure travelers. The property will feature an all-day dining restaurant, offering guests diverse culinary options. The hotel will also have one conference room and two banquet halls, making it a suitable venue for business and corporate meetings. 

Jose Mathew, managing director of Maria Shopping Complex Pvt. Ltd., said, “We are pleased to partner with The Fern Hotels & Resorts for this project in Thekkady. We believe this collaboration will deliver a compelling hospitality offering for both domestic and international travellers.”

The property is scheduled to open its doors to its guests in the second half of 2026, further enhancing The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio.

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Marriott Hotels confirmed the opening of the Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa in Delhi NCR. The latest opening marks Marriott Hotels’ expansion in North India, solidifying its commitment to offering premium hospitality in prominent urban and leisure markets.

Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa is strategically located within the driving distance of Delhi NCR and Faridabad. The property’s layout and architecture are built around the signature two-tier pool. The property features open-air walkways, green zones, and serene gardens. 

Chalet Hotels owns the resort and has bolstered the company’s portfolio of luxury hospitality destinations across India. 

Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International, said, “Delhi NCR has evolved into one of India’s most dynamic markets for destination weddings, short-break travel, and experience-led staycations, with travelers actively seeking resort environments that offer scale, accessibility, and a strong sense of place. Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR, is strategically positioned to address this demand, offering an urban resort close to the capital. This opening reinforces our commitment to strengthening Marriott Hotels’ footprint in high-growth urban-adjacent markets, while delivering versatile resort experiences that seamlessly cater to celebrations, leisure travel, and corporate gatherings.”

The 158-key property features rooms, villas and suites, providing a diverse range of accommodations to cater to different segments of travelers. Each room is equipped with private balconies or patios, offering views of the resort’s pool, landscaped gardens, or the Aravali surroundings.

Aravali Kitchen, the all-day dining venue, celebrates regional Indian flavours and global favourites through live cooking stations in a lively, market-inspired ambience. Huang offers authentic Pan-Asian cuisine with a vibrant street-market feel and interactive live stations. Glaze evolves from a daytime café serving artisanal coffees and teas into an evening lounge with crafted beverages, while the Olive Grove Poolside Bar offers a laid-back, open-air setting for handcrafted cocktails and light bites amid lush poolside surroundings.

The resort has a full-service spa and a fitness centre. The resort is also positioned to host weddings and events in the Delhi NCR region. Aravali Marriott Resort & Spa features 20,000 square feet of versatile banqueting and outdoor event spaces across five venues. 

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Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited confirmed the signing of its first boutique property, set to be located in Udaipur. The latest signing marks a significant achievement in the company’s brand expansion blueprint. 

The forthcoming property will feature 20 thoughtfully designed rooms, featuring artistic elements, offering a blend of comfort and elegance. The company’s first boutique property, nestled in the Aravalli mountain range, offers panoramic and serene views. 

One of the key highlights of the property will be GG’s, a pure vegetarian, double-decker rooftop restaurant. This launch will be the fourth brand of the Eco Hotels. The Eco Boutique will join The Eco, Eco Xpress, and Eco Value.  

Vinod Kumar Tripathi, chairman of Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited, said, “With the Eco Boutique Udaipur, we aim to deliver a refined hospitality experience that reflects the cultural richness and natural beauty of the region. This expansion is part of our broader strategy to strengthen our footprint in high-growth markets while maintaining our commitment to sustainability, guest comfort, and operational excellence.”

Vikram Doshi, director — finance & CFO, Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited, stated, “The signing of our first boutique property in Udaipur reflects our focused approach toward expanding into high-demand leisure markets with strong revenue potential. This property is expected to strengthen our portfolio by offering a differentiated guest experience while maintaining operational efficiency and financial discipline. We remain confident that such strategic expansions will contribute positively to the company’s long-term growth trajectory.”

The project is set to commence its operations in March 2026, strengthening Eco Hotels’ portfolio in India’s growing boutique hospitality segment.

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has entered into a management agreement with Rajdeep Infra & Sales Pvt Ltd to develop voco Lucknow. The property is set to open its doors to its guests in Q3 2029, marking the introduction of IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand to Lucknow.

Lucknow is a rapidly expanding and evolving economy, emerging as a prominent hub for business, government, education, and cultural tourism. 

The opening strengthens the company’s strategic expansion in promising Tier II markets across India. Located in one of Lucknow’s most desirable areas, Ashiyana, the hotel will offer easy connectivity to major urban hubs and be a short drive away from Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport.

Voco, a distinctive premium brand, will offer an experience that combines the ease and charm of an individual hotel with the quality assurance of a global brand. Voco hotels are world-famous for their bold identity. 

Sudeep Jain, managing director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to partner with Rajdeep Infra & Sales Pvt Ltd to introduce the vibrant voco brand to Lucknow. This signing is a strategic step in expanding our premium portfolio in India’s integral state capitals. Lucknow’s dynamic growth as an administrative, educational, and business destination makes it an ideal market for voco’s contemporary and distinctive hospitality. We are confident this hotel will resonate strongly with travellers seeking a premium, relaxed, and characterful stay.”

Aman Singh Chauhan, director, Rajdeep Infra & Sales Pvt Ltd, said, “Partnering with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring the voco charm to Lucknow aligns with our vision of creating high-quality assets in prime locations. We believe the unique personality and premium positioning of the voco brand, supported by IHG’s global systems and expertise, will fill a notable gap in the Lucknow hospitality landscape and become a preferred choice for modern travellers.”

The upcoming 135-key hotel is under construction, marking the third IHG hotel in Lucknow. It will join the operational Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza hotels, bolstering the brand’s presence in the region.

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Hilton confirmed the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Airport, the brand’s largest hotel in India. This is the latest addition to Hilton’s network of seven hotels in Bengaluru, solidifying its multi-brand presence in the city. 

The property has been developed in partnership with Dangayach Group. The hotel brings DoubleTree by Hilton’s warm hospitality to Bengaluru’s rapidly growing airport corridor. 

DoubleTree by Hilton is strategically located just 15 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, situated within the Aerospace Park. It offers convenient access to key IT hubs, industrial corridors and emerging business districts.

As the first hotel in the industrial and research hub, the property serves corporate travelers, aviation-linked companies, and transit-driven stays.

Zubin Saxena, senior vice president and regional head, South Asia, Hilton, said, “Bengaluru continues to play a central role in Hilton’s growth story in India. The opening of India’s largest DoubleTree by Hilton in the region underscores our confidence in the city’s potential. Our focus remains on expanding thoughtfully across gateway markets with the right brands. We are grateful to our long-standing partners, Dangayach Group, whose deep local expertise has been instrumental in driving this milestone opening.”

The hotel features 304 guest rooms and suites, and also has an outdoor pool with sunken cabanas, a spa and a fitness centre. The property has over 9,185 square feet of flexible meeting and event space for business and corporate gatherings. 

Vincent Ong, vice president, Full-Service Brands, Asia Pacific, Hilton, noted, “As Hilton’s fastest growing brand in India, DoubleTree by Hilton reflects the strength of our full-service portfolio, delivering feel-good moments while remaining consistent with its focus on comfort, care and connection. At DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Airport, we are bringing this to life with a genuinely warm welcome, comfortable accommodations and thoughtful amenities that help guests unwind, recharge, and feel at home.”

Atul Dangayach, managing director, Dangayach Group, said, “The opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Airport marks an important milestone for us as we bring an internationally recognized hospitality brand to Bengaluru’s rapidly evolving northern corridor. Its proximity to the airport and substantial room inventory positions the hotel to support conferences, large-format meetings and transit-led stays, while its thoughtful design and amenities also cater to domestic travellers. Our continued partnership with Hilton reflects our shared vision for quality expansion and contribution to the growing hospitality demand in critical markets across India.”

Saus, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, provides breakfast, lunch and dinner, with menus that elevate familiar cuisines. Brew33 serves freshly brewed coffee in a relaxed social setting during the day, before transitioning into an evening lounge offering craft beers, classic cocktails, and globally inspired bar bites.

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The Union Budget 2026 marks a structural shift in how India views tourism and hospitality — from a discretionary services segment to a core economic growth lever. The policy direction signals that tourism is now being aligned with infrastructure expansion, regional development and employment strategy, placing the sector within the broader national growth architecture.

What stands out is not a single announcement, but the integration of skills, connectivity and destination development into a coordinated framework that could reshape India’s hospitality investment landscape over the next decade.

Skilling Becomes Strategic Infrastructure

The proposed National Institute of Hospitality is emerging as one of the most consequential announcements for the sector. While infrastructure funding traditionally dominates Budget narratives, this move acknowledges that human capital is the sector’s most critical constraint.

Yogesh Mudras, MD, Informa Markets in India (organizers of SATTE), says, “The Union Budget 2026 lays out a forward-looking roadmap with a clear focus on infrastructure, economic growth, and better regional connectivity. One of the standout announcements for the sector is the plan to set up a National Institute of Hospitality, a move that could really strengthen India’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem in a meaningful way. By bringing academia, industry, and government onto the same platform, the institute has the potential to create a skilled workforce that matches the evolving expectations of both domestic and international travellers."

"For hospitality businesses, this could mean higher service standards, smoother operations, and a more reliable long-term talent pipeline. In the bigger picture, initiatives like this tend to build investor confidence, encourage the development of new hotels, resorts, and tourism infrastructure, and further support India’s positioning as a global travel destination. While the industry was also hoping for wider policy measures to make investments easier and simplify operations, this strong push toward skill development still sets a solid foundation for more structured, long-term growth in tourism and hospitality," Mudras noted.

Expanding the Hospitality Map of India

Equally important is the structured development of 50 destinations in partnership with states, alongside improved connectivity to regions such as Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. This signals a deliberate push to decentralize tourism demand away from saturated urban and leisure hubs.

Nandini Taneja, Chief Executive Officer, Bhumika Enterprises, says, "The proposal to establish a National Institute of Hospitality is a timely step for India’s hospitality sector, especially in Tier-2 cities emerging as key travel and business hubs. By bridging academia, industry, and government, the institute can help create a skilled local workforce — critical for the growth of hotels and tourism-led developments. Equally encouraging is the Budget’s push for women-led entrepreneurship through community-owned SHE-Marts, which will give SHG-linked women structured retail access and a pathway to enterprise ownership. This strengthens grassroots economic participation while supporting more inclusive local economies.”

“Together, stronger talent pipelines and inclusive economic initiatives will enhance service standards, improve operational efficiency, and boost investor confidence, accelerating hospitality-led growth in emerging cities and preparing them for rising domestic and international tourism demand," she adds.

Ambika Saxena, CEO of TWH Hospitality, frames this as a market-expansion story and said, “The Budget signals a clear shift in positioning tourism as a core economic growth driver rather than a peripheral sector. The structured development of destinations, along with improved connectivity, will expand India’s viable hospitality markets beyond established hubs. With stronger destination infrastructure and a more robust talent pipeline, the industry gains better long-term demand visibility, investment confidence, and the ability to scale sustainably.”

For investors, this means new hospitality micro-markets emerging in regions that were previously constrained by access and ecosystem gaps. Over time, this could support the viability of mid-scale and experiential formats, not just luxury developments.

Connectivity as a Demand Multiplier

Rail corridor expansion and better regional connectivity function as direct demand multipliers for tourism. Improved accessibility reduces travel friction, shortens travel cycles, and supports the rise of short-duration leisure and experiential travel — a segment that has seen strong post-pandemic momentum.

This connectivity push also strengthens the economics of hospitality projects in Tier II and scenic regions, where land availability is higher but historical demand predictability has been weaker.

Investor Signalling and the Road Ahead

While industry stakeholders had hoped for broader regulatory simplifications and investment incentives, the Budget’s direction offers something equally critical: policy signalling.

By embedding tourism within national infrastructure, skills and regional development agendas, the government is sending a message that the sector is no longer peripheral. For capital markets and long-term investors, that reduces policy uncertainty and improves the sector’s structural growth visibility.

In effect, Budget 2026 does not deliver a short-term demand stimulus. Instead, it lays the groundwork for capacity building, geographic diversification and service quality enhancement — the three pillars that determine whether India can move from being a high-volume tourism market to a high-value global destination economy.

Lords Hotels & Resorts confirmed the launch of Lords Swastik Studio, Kodinar, a hospitality destination set along the tranquil coast of Gujarat. 

Located in the peaceful town of Kodinar, the property brings together comfort, functionality, and warm hospitality for leisure travellers, pilgrim guests, business travellers, and families alike. 

With 25 well-appointed rooms, modern facilities, and spacious event areas, Lords Swastik Studio is ideal for everything from relaxed getaways to corporate meetings and social celebrations.

Blue Coriander, the in-house multi-cuisine restaurant, is one of the highlights of Lords Swastik Studio. During their stay, guests can enjoy facilities such as a swimming pool, a landscaped lawn, banquet spaces, a business centre, a kids’ play area, and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and well-rounded stay.

Lords Swastik Studio is located 30 minutes from Somnath Temple, close to Mul Dwarka, and remains within driving distance of Sasan Gir. The strategic location of the property makes it a convenient option for spiritual travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and tourists exploring the region.

Pushpendra Bansal, COO, Lords Hotels & Resorts, said, “This new addition in Kodinar reflects our commitment to expanding quality hospitality in emerging destinations. With well-appointed rooms, dining, and event spaces, it is poised to become a preferred choice for travellers visiting this region.”

Sudhir Jena, corporate vice president, Lords Hotels & Resorts, further added, “Kodinar is steadily emerging as a promising destination for both pilgrimage and leisure travel. Through this hotel, we aim to offer travellers a comfortable, contemporary stay backed by True Value Hospitality, whether they are visiting Gir, Somnath, or the surrounding industrial belt.”

With the latest launch, Lords Hotels & Resorts has strengthened its position in Gujarat. The company continues to offer reliable hospitality experiences in emerging destinations.

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Lemon Tree Hotels Limited confirmed that its material subsidiary, Fleur Hotels Limited, has signed a license deed for a heritage hotel at Varanasi for a term of 28 years.

As a part of this agreement, Fleur Hotels Limited will repair and reconstruct a heritage hotel featuring approximately 47 rooms, set to be branded as “Aurika Varanasi”.

The property offers convenient access to domestic and international tourists, considering it is strategically located approximately 4 km from Varanasi Junction Railway Station and about 26 km from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.

Patanjali Govind Keswani, executive chairman, Fleur Hotels Ltd, said, “This hotel at Varanasi, which is one of India’s most iconic destinations, blending spirituality, heritage, and tourism, will be the sixth owned/leased hotel under the upper upscale Aurika brand. This signing reinforces Fleur Hotels long term and scalable asset ownership strategy.”

The 47-room hotel will feature a restaurant and other public areas, offering a memorable hospitality experience to its guests in one of India’s most sacred spiritual destinations.

With the latest signing, Lemon Tree Hotels has strengthened its presence in Uttar Pradesh and bolstered its position on expanding across destination-led markets. 

Patanjali Govind Keswani, executive chairman, Fleur Hotels Ltd, said, “This hotel at Varanasi, which is one of India’s most iconic destinations, blending spirituality, heritage, and tourism, will be the sixth owned/leased hotel under the upper upscale Aurika brand. This signing reinforces Fleur Hotels long term and scalable asset ownership strategy.”

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