Category Archives: States

THE Park Hotels group will start the construction of its new luxury property in Kolkata next year, with commissioning targeted for March 2029. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation recently approved the project, which will span 7,00,000 sq. ft. and feature both hotel and residential components.

Skål International India has expanded its presence in Jammu & Kashmir with the launch of its 20th club ‘Skål International Kashmir’ at Taj Dal View, Srinagar, inaugurated by Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, J&K. Expressing confidence in the strengthened tourism movement, he said, “Kashmir welcomes Skål International with open arms — together, we will invite the world to rediscover our peace, beauty, and hospitality. Any B2B networking is good for the Kashmir economy. Tourism is our key business, and Skål International India is doing excellent work — we are happy to see Kashmir in the spotlight for Skål International India.” Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, said, “Our goal is to establish at least one club in every State and UT — and even multiple clubs where the industry size demands it.” The ceremony followed official Skål protocols, including the oath and pinning of office-bearers and founder members, certificate presentations, recognition of tourism contributors, and messages of solidarity from Skål leaders. Office Bearers — Skål International Kashmir President — Sk Zahoor Ahmad Qari Vice President 1 — Sk Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon Vice President 2 — Sk Shamim A Shah Secretary — Sk Ather Yameen Narwari Treasurer — Sk Mir Anwar Membership Development Officer — Sk Tanveer Ahmad Khan Director — PR, Communications & CSR — Sk Irshad Hazari Auditor — Sk Rahil Patloo

The Oberoi Group has opened ‘The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace’ in Madhya Pradesh’s Khajuraho. This meticulously restored 350-year-old architectural jewel is set within a 76-acre estate featuring a pristine natural lake. The estate features 65 elegantly designed rooms and suites, including grand Palace Suites, private pool villas and accommodations with private gardens and terraces overlooking the hills, forests and shimmering lake. The palace also offers refined venues for intimate gatherings, with banquet spaces that accommodate up to 200 guests within 440 square metres of opulent and glamorous indoor settings, complemented by an additional 518 square metres outdoors.  

Bengal has emerged as India’s second most preferred destination for international tourists after Maharashtra, according to the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025. Despite lacking direct flights to Europe or the US, the state recorded 31 lakh foreign arrivals in 2024 — a 14.8% increase from 27 lakh in 2023. The surge reflects the state’s rising global appeal across culture, heritage, and tourism experiences.

Skål International is set to launch its Kashmir club at Taj Dal View, Srinagar, on 29 November, marking a major step in expanding its India presence, said Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India. The club will look after the Central Kashmir region. Mehra confirmed that additional clubs are planned across various regions, strengthening its network and fostering greater collaboration within the country’s travel and tourism fraternity.

Cholan Tours has launched a pioneering women-led e-auto initiative in Madurai, training 20 women to become certified electric auto-rickshaw drivers in the historic Temple City. Calling it a “small step toward empowering the women of Madurai,” Pandian Kumaravel, Founder & MD, said the programme will soon expand to other cities across Tamil Nadu, with Trichy next in line.

ITC Hotels expands its premium brand Storii by ITC Hotels with the launch of Storii Akanni Naina Tikkar, a 42-room and suites boutique property nestled amidst aromatic pine forests overlooking the majestic Churdaar peaks. Designed as an intimate escape that blends nature, tranquillity, and refined hospitality, it introduces travellers to a serene haven, crafted with care and artisanal detail. Set against panoramic valley views, the property features tastefully appointed rooms, open-air dining, a signature spa, and outdoor activities – thoughtfully curated to reinterpret the hotel as soulful, scenic, and deeply personal.

To expand its footprint, IHCL has signed a new hotel under its Gateway brand in Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir. Nestled amidst the serene landscapes, the 78-key Gateway Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir, will offer guests an immersive experience of the region’s natural beauty. The resort will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant and a bar.

Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, the debut property of Minor Hotels in India, has completed its first year of operations with strong performance in the competitive luxury market of Jaipur. Vimal Verma, General Manager, said, “The second year will focus on accelerated growth — introducing designer dining concepts, enhancing global flavours, and strengthening commercial momentum across luxury leisure and corporate segments through agility and faster execution.”

Referring to Assam’s inclusion in the New York Times’ ‘52 Places to Go in 2025’, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, Government of India, said it’s a proof of growing global interest in the region. Under schemes like Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD, projects worth ₹3,000 crore have been approved for the Northeast to build new circuits, revive heritage sites, enhance connectivity, and world-class tourism experiences, he said.