Category Archives: Hotels

“India is on the path to become the third-largest economy by 2027,” said Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, IHCL at the 54th FHRAI Convention, adding that the contribution of tourism can be significant in this. He predicted the sector could double its $250 bn contribution to the GDP in the coming years.

Dusit Hotels and Resorts, under Dusit International—one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies—announces its return to India with the anticipated soft opening of dusitD2 Fagu. This luxurious retreat, set amidst the serene mountains of Fagu, near Shimla, is scheduled to open its doors in December 2024, offering an exceptional blend of Thai hospitality and local charm. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan landscape, dusitD2 Fagu promises a tranquil escape for leisure, wellness, and adventure seekers alike. The property features 80 elegantly appointed guest rooms, ranging from 38 sqm to 86 sqm, each designed to harmonize contemporary comforts with local cultural touches, and to showcase stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Located just 80 minutes from Shimla Airport and four-and-a-half hours from Chandigarh Airport, which offers daily flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, dusitD2 Fagu is also easily accessible from Kalka Railway Station, 18 kilometers away, which provides access to the scenic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.  For road travelers, Fagu is well-connected, just 7 km from Kufri, 20 km from Shimla, and 133 km from Chandigarh. Guests at dusitD2 Fagu will be able to explore nearby attractions such as Kufri, Mashobra, Narkanda, Mahasu Peak, and the UNESCO-listed Shimla-Kalka Toy Train. These destinations offer a variety of experiences, including adventure sports, cultural landmarks, nature walks, and amusement parks. The hotel will feature the renowned Namm’s Thai authentic Spa, which offers treatments aimed at enhancing physical and mental well-being. Additionally, guests can relax in the city’s largest temperature-controlled swimming pool, with breathtaking views of the valley. For meetings, weddings, and special events, dusitD2 Fagu will offer versatile function spaces, including the largest banquet and terrace lawn in the …

Pradeep Shetty, President, FHRAI, projected that the hospitality industry will contribute US $250 bn to India’s GDP by 2030, supporting 137 million jobs. He stressed on the role of long-term financing and regulatory reforms to achieve this vision, aiming for a US $3 tn contribution by 2047.

The Indian hospitality industry is primed to make a significant contribution to the country’s economy, according to Pradeep Shetty, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI). Addressing the 54th FHRAI Annual Convention on Day 1, Shetty projected that the sector will contribute a substantial $250 billion to India’s GDP by 2030, supporting 137 million jobs. To achieve this ambitious target, Shetty emphasised the need for long-term financing and regulatory reforms. The industry aims to contribute $3 trillion to the GDP by 2047. FHRAI Calls for Regulatory Reforms Shetty highlighted the critical need for long-term financing in the sector, noting that current funding options are limited to 7-8 years. He urged the government to implement regulatory reforms, such as streamlined licensing procedures and single-window systems, to unlock the industry’s full potential. Hospitality Sector Outperforms Other Industries The Indian hospitality industry is already making a substantial impact on the economy, contributing 12-13 per cent to the GDP and employing over 12 per cent of the workforce. These figures surpass those of the automobile and IT sectors, highlighting the industry’s economic significance. Sector to Add 50,000-60,000 Rooms in Next Five Years The President announced that the hospitality sector is set to expand significantly, with plans to add between 50,000 and 60,000 new hotel rooms over the next five years. This expansion will further boost employment opportunities and contribute to the country’s economic growth. FHRAI Submits Ease of Doing Business Report To address the challenges faced by the industry, FHRAI has submitted a comprehensive report on the ease of doing business in hospitality to the government. The report focuses on critical areas for reform, including simplifying regulatory compliance, reducing licensing burdens, …

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced the signing of a resort in Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. This greenfield project will be under the Gateway brand. Speaking on the occasion, Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL said, “Prayagraj, with its deep-rooted cultural and religious importance, has been a prominent destination for pilgrims and leisure tourists alike. This signing aligns with our strategy of penetrating emerging markets in Tier II and III cities. We are delighted to partner with Ecavo Hospitality Limited for this project.” True to its ethos, the 150-key Gateway Prayagraj seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics with local architectural influences. Guests can choose from an array of culinary options like an all-day-diner, a bar, a specialty restaurant, and a lounge. It will feature a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pool and spa. Spanning over 5000 sq. ft. the resort’s banqueting space makes it the ideal choice for social and corporate events. Abhishek Gupta, Managing Director, ECAVO Hospitality, said “We are thrilled to partner with IHCL to introduce the Gateway brand to Prayagraj. This hotel will be a premier destination for domestic and international travellers, offering them an unparalleled experience.” Playing host to the renowned Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world. Th city is also an emerging corporate hub due to the presence of the Allahabad High Court and several educational institutions.

With the opening of Golden Tulip, it becomes the second Golden Tulip hotel and the sixth hotel under Sarovar Hotels portfolio. Sarovar Hotels announced the grand opening of Golden Tulip Vagator, a stylish retreat located in the heart of North Goa. Known for its golden sands, dramatic red cliffs and thriving nightlife, Vagator is one of Goa’s most scenic and exciting destinations. This latest addition to Sarovar’s upscale Golden Tulip portfolio enhances the group’s growing presence in Goa, delivering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for both leisure and business travellers. Golden Tulip Vagator offers 30 elegantly designed rooms across two categories – Superior and Deluxe with modern amenities and captivating views of greenery or pool. The hotel provides guests with a rejuvenating escape, offering a wide range of facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and two dining options: Tulipe, an all-day dining restaurant with a capacity of accommodating 60 guests and Chill, a tropical bar and lounge with a capacity of 25 guests. The hotel’s proximity to Vagator Beach, Chapora Fort and other major attractions makes it the ideal choice for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Goa. Ajay K. Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels and Director, Louvre Hotels India, commented, “We are thrilled to announce the launch of Golden Tulip Vagator in partnership with Prime Avia Consultants. Located in the heart of North Goa, Vagator is truly a hidden gem, and we believe our guests will be captivated by its stunning landscapes, exceptional service, and modern design. Our vision is to create an unforgettable experience that harmoniously blends Goa’s unique charm with world-class hospitality, establishing it as the go-to destination for travellers …

Anjushree Hotel, Ujain won the ‘Best Luxury Hotel-Madhya Pradesh’ award at the India Travel Awards 2024. “The award showcases Ujjain’s ability to deliver world-class hospitality services,” said Amitava Saha, the General Manager of five-star luxury property, after receiving the award.

Hotels in India are witnessing unprecedented wedding bookings this season. Properties are nearly sold out for key dates, with rates increasing by up to 25%. Unique offerings and services are being launched to cater to the growing popularity of destination weddings in Udaipur, Goa, and beyond.

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur won ‘Luxury Resort of the Year’ at ITA 2024. From shimmering lakeside to vast realms of the Magical Forest, this property is surrounded by the Aravalli hills, and has 64 suites. Responsible luxury is the bedrock of belief and commitment for ITC Hotels.

KB Kachru, President, HAI and Chairman Emeritus & Principal Advisor, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group, said at a recent event, “Investment in training and resources that empower hotels to progress on their journeys of sustainability is a key factor that will drive India to its goals of Netzero.”