Hotels

Hotels, Latest News, Resorts

voco arrives in Punjab with the opening of voco Amritsar

 IHG® Hotels & Resorts welcomes guests to voco Amritsar, marking the debut of its fastest‑growing premium brand in Punjab. Designed for travellers who value comfort with character, the hotel offers a relaxed, contemporary base for leisure, spiritual and business stays in the heart of Amritsar. Just minutes from the Golden Temple and close to Jallianwala Bagh and the Wagah Border, voco Amritsar places guests right where culture, history and modern life meet. With seamless connectivity to Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport, the hotel is well positioned for both domestic and international travellers. Speaking on the launch Manish Kumar Yadav, General Manager, voco Amritsar, said: “voco Amritsar has been envisioned as a stay experience that balances comfort with a strong sense of place — inviting guests to truly unwind while staying connected to the city’s spiritual and cultural pulse. This opening is also a proud moment for our entire team, whose passion, hard work and attention to detail have brought the voco spirit to life in Amritsar, ensuring guests feel genuinely welcomed from the moment they arrive.” Designed with an easy sense of contemporary style and gentle local touches, voco Amritsar’s interiors feel warm, inviting and effortlessly relaxed. Soft tones, layered lighting and tactile textures come together across public spaces to create a comfortable, residential‑style atmosphere. This relaxed design continues into the guestrooms and suites, where generous layouts, intuitive workspaces and soothing colour palettes make it easy to settle in. The hotel offers a range of thoughtfully designed room categories, including Standard Rooms, Premium Rooms, Suites, and the distinctive Duplex Rooms, a standout offering with its stylish two-level layout, ideal for guests seeking a more elevated stay experience. Across all 139 rooms, plush bedding crafted from recycled materials including, duvets and pillows made using recycled plastic. This initiative reflects voco’s thoughtful approach to sustainability, without compromising on comfort or a truly restorative stay. Dining at voco Amritsar is designed to suit every mood, whether it’s a relaxed meal or an evening wind‑down. Guests can enjoy all‑day favourites and regional flavours at Saffron, settle in for tea and sweet treats at The Gallery, or head up to Plum Lounge for crafted cocktails and elevated bar bites with a rooftop vibe. When it’s time to slow the pace, Tattva Spa offers holistic therapies to help restore balance, while the fully equipped fitness studio and outdoor swimming pool make it easy to recharge, refresh and enjoy some well‑deserved me time. Designed to bring people together with ease and style, voco Amritsar offers a versatile collection of seven indoor venues and two outdoor spaces suited to celebrations and conferences of every scale. At the heart of it all is the 8,075 sq. ft. Blossom Ballroom, where soaring ceilings and contemporary design set the tone for standout events. The Imperial Hall, with its generous pre‑function area, and Legacy Hall provide polished yet comfortable settings for mid‑sized and more intimate gatherings. From meetings and private occasions across Colonial Court Room, Magnolia Hall, Maple Chamber and Pearl Chamber, to open‑air celebrations at Harmony Lawn and The Pavilion, every event is designed to feel effortless and memorable. The opening of voco Amritsar reflects IHG Hotels & Resorts’ continued focus on growing its premium portfolio across North India, bringing distinctive, experience‑led stays to high‑potential leisure, spiritual and emerging destinations.

Hospitality, Hotels, Latest News, Resorts

Appointment Announcement: Conrad Bengaluru appoints Dhruva Parate as Director of Sales

Conrad Bengaluru is pleased to announce the appointment of Dhruva Parate as Director of Sales, further strengthening its commercial leadership and commitment to driving strategic growth. With over a decade of diverse experience across premium consumer brands and luxury hospitality, Dhruva brings strong expertise in corporate sales, market expansion, and strategic partnerships. An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management, Pusa, he has spent the last seven years with Marriott International, where he held key roles managing national accounts and driving revenue growth across multiple properties. He has also been associated with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts & Hyatt Hotels in the past. At Conrad Bengaluru, he will lead the hotel’s commercial strategy, focusing on strengthening client relationships, expanding market presence, and delivering performance-led growth. Commenting on the new role, Dhruva Parate said, “I am excited to join Conrad Bengaluru at such a dynamic phase of its growth. The hotel has built a strong reputation in the market, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success by strengthening partnerships and driving innovative sales strategies.” With this appointment, Conrad Bengaluru continues to build a strong leadership team aligned with its vision of delivering world-class hospitality and exceptional guest experiences.

Blog, Hotels, Tourism, Travel

From Hills to Islands: Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel’s Summer Edit

As Indian travellers increasingly prioritise meaningful short breaks and experience-led holidays, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel are witnessing a strong preference for diverse summer destinations—spanning cool mountains, tropical islands and culturally rich regions. From blossom-filled valleys and high-altitude adventures to wellness retreats and vibrant cultural festivals, here are the top domestic and nearby destinations trending this summer season: Kashmir: Blossoms, Valleys & Houseboat Living Kashmir continues to captivate travellers with its timeless natural beauty, but what makes early summer particularly special is the fleeting apricot blossom season seen in parts of the region and nearby Ladakh. As the season progresses, the valley transforms into a lush expanse of green meadows and flowing rivers. Summer also sees local cultural events and garden festivals in Srinagar, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Srinagar’s iconic houseboats on Dal Lake, the expansive landscapes of Gulmarg create a multi-layered itinerary that blends relaxation with scenic indulgence. Darjeeling & Gangtok: The Classic Himalayan Duo The twin destinations of Darjeeling and Gangtok continue to be among the most sought-after summer circuits, offering a seamless blend of nature, culture and comfort. Darjeeling comes alive during the early summer months with its famed first flush tea harvest, when estates are at their most vibrant and scenic. This period also coincides with local cultural celebrations and monastery events in the region, adding depth to the experience. Travellers can pair this with sunrise views over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill, heritage toy train rides and leisurely explorations of colonial-era charm. Gangtok complements the experience with its clean, vibrant streets, monastery visits and access to high-altitude lakes like Tsomgo, making it ideal for families and couples seeking both relaxation and light exploration. Kerala: Backwaters, Hills & Coastal Bliss Kerala remains a perennial favourite, offering a diverse landscape that seamlessly blends backwaters, hill stations and beaches. During the summer months, the state’s lush greenery is enhanced by the onset of pre-monsoon showers, creating a refreshing environment for travellers. This period also sees temple festivals such as Thrissur Pooram (typically April/May), one of Kerala’s most spectacular cultural events featuring grand processions and traditional performances. Houseboat stays through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, misty mornings amid the tea gardens of Munnar and sunset views along the beaches of Varkala or Kovalam provide a well-rounded itinerary. Additionally, Kerala’s strong wellness proposition—particularly Ayurveda—continues to attract travellers looking to combine leisure with rejuvenation. Sikkim: Serenity Meets Scenic Beauty Sikkim is witnessing growing interest from travellers seeking quieter, more immersive destinations. The state’s pristine environment, marked by snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes and Buddhist monasteries, offers a sense of calm that is increasingly valued. Late spring and early summer also bring bursts of colour with rhododendron blooms across the region. Cultural experiences are enhanced by festivals such as Saga Dawa (May/June), one of the most significant Buddhist festivals commemorating the life of Lord Buddha. Experiences such as visiting Tsomgo Lake, exploring Lachung and Yumthang Valley, and engaging with local traditions make Sikkim particularly appealing to those looking to step away from crowded tourist circuits. Himachal Pradesh: A Summer Staple with Emerging Gems Himachal Pradesh continues to be a reliable summer escape, thanks to its accessibility and pleasant climate. While Shimla and Manali remain popular for their infrastructure and familiarity, there is growing interest towards offbeat locales such as Tirthan Valley and Spiti. Summer also marks the start of vibrant local fairs and festivals, including the Shimla Summer Festival, which brings together folk performances, music and regional cuisine. These destinations offer quieter, nature-led experiences including riverside stays, trout fishing, stargazing and rugged road trips, ensuring Himachal retains its broad appeal. Ladakh: Adventure & Cultural Immersion in the High Himalayas Ladakh’s short summer season opens up one of India’s most dramatic landscapes, drawing in adventure enthusiasts and experience seekers alike. With high mountain passes accessible, travellers embark on road trips and bike expeditions across Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and beyond. The season is also marked by iconic festivals such as the Hemis Festival (June/July), where monasteries come alive with masked dances, rituals and vibrant celebrations, offering deep insight into the region’s Buddhist heritage. Combined with its clear night skies and stark beauty, Ladakh offers a truly distinctive summer experience. Rajasthan: Royal Heritage & Hill Retreats Rajasthan offers a contrasting yet compelling summer experience, especially for travellers drawn to culture and heritage. While much of the state experiences warmer temperatures, destinations like Udaipur and Mount Abu provide relatively cooler settings. Udaipur’s lakeside palaces and heritage hotels offer luxurious stays paired with curated cultural experiences, including traditional music and dance performances. The Mount Abu Summer Festival (May) adds a festive dimension with folk performances, boat races and cultural showcases, making the destination especially lively during this period. Andaman & Lakshadweep: Tropical Island Escapes For travellers seeking sun, sand and sea, India’s island destinations are at their best during the summer months. Andaman and Lakshadweep offer crystal-clear waters with excellent visibility, making it an ideal time for snorkelling and scuba diving. While these destinations are more about natural experiences than large festivals, occasional local cultural events and beachside celebrations provide glimpses into island life. Whether it is exploring marine biodiversity or simply unwinding by the beach, these islands cater to both adventure seekers and those looking for pure relaxation. North East India: Untouched, Immersive & Seasonal The broader North East region, including Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh, is gaining traction for its raw, untouched beauty and immersive experiences. As summer transitions into the monsoon, the region becomes especially lush, with waterfalls in Meghalaya coming into full flow. The season also features unique cultural festivals such as the Ambubachi Mela in Assam (June), a significant spiritual event, alongside local tribal festivals that offer insight into indigenous traditions. Experiences such as trekking to living root bridges, exploring caves and engaging with local communities make this region particularly compelling.

Hotels, Latest News, Resorts

OPO Hotels & Resorts Announces Launch of OPO Premier Marvel in Jaipur’s Mahindra World City SEZ

OPO Hotels & Resorts proudly announces the launch of its new upscale property, OPO Premier Marvel, strategically located at Ajmer Road, Omaxe City, within the rapidly growing Mahindra World City SEZ in Jaipur. This development marks a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion journey, reinforcing its commitment to building a strong presence in high-growth business and hospitality destinations across India. Positioned in one of Rajasthan’s most prominent industrial and corporate ecosystems, OPO Premier Marvel is designed to cater to the evolving needs of business travellers, corporate clients, and extended-stay guests. The property enjoys seamless connectivity via the Jaipur–Ajmer Highway (NH-48) and is conveniently located near Jaipur International Airport, ensuring easy accessibility for both domestic and international travellers. The hotel features 56 well-appointed rooms complemented by a comprehensive suite of amenities, including an all-day dining restaurant with 44 covers, banqueting facilities, a boardroom, gymnasium, spa, swimming pool, home theatre, library, and a dedicated kids’ zone. This integrated offering positions the property as a preferred destination for corporate stays, meetings, events, and leisure experiences within the SEZ ecosystem. Mahindra World City SEZ has emerged as a thriving hub for IT/ITES companies, manufacturing units, export-driven industries, and multinational corporations, creating sustained demand for quality business hospitality. With a limited presence of branded, full-service upscale hotels in the vicinity, OPO Premier Marvel addresses a critical market gap by delivering premium accommodation and lifestyle services within this high-potential micro-market. Commenting on the launch, Amit Kumar Singh, Managing Director and Founder, OPO Hotels & Resorts, said ” The launch of OPO Premier Marvel in Jaipur marks a pivotal step in our growth strategy. Mahindra World City SEZ represents a dynamic and underserved business hub with strong demand fundamentals. With this property, we are not only expanding our footprint in Rajasthan but also introducing the OPO Premier brand in a high-impact location. Our focus is to deliver a well-rounded hospitality experience that seamlessly blends business efficiency with lifestyle comfort, while creating a scalable model for future expansion across similar corporate corridors in India.” This property also strengthens OPO’s broader expansion roadmap. As the brand’s first four-star “Premier” hotel in Jaipur and its second property in Rajasthan, it enhances geographic presence while elevating brand positioning in the upscale segment. The development adds depth to OPO’s portfolio through a diversified offering spanning accommodation, F&B, wellness, and event infrastructure. Furthermore, OPO Premier Marvel serves as a scalable blueprint for the group’s future growth across SEZs and industrial hubs, enabling the brand to tap into consistent corporate demand while building a robust and future-ready hospitality platform. With this launch, OPO Hotels & Resorts continues to accelerate its vision of becoming a dominant player in India’s midscale and upscale managed hotel segment, focused on high-growth business destinations and emerging markets.

Hospitality, Hotels, Latest News, Resorts

Country Inn Hotels & Resorts accelerates expansion in Uttarakhand with three new openings across Dehradun and Rishikesh

Country Inn Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of ‘Espire Hospitality Limited’, one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality companies, has announced the opening of three new hotels in Uttarakhand – ‘Country Inn, Dehradun’, ‘Country Inn, Rishikesh’ and ‘Country Inn Smart Stays, Rishikesh’, marking a significant step in their expansion journey and launch of a new brand ‘Country Inn Smart Stays’ that offers a fresh, youthful take on modern travel. With these additions, the brand has strengthened its footprint across key destinations in Uttarakhand, with an existing presence in Mussoorie, Bhimtal, and Jim Corbett, reinforcing its expansion across both urban centres and leisure destinations. The opening of 53-key Country Inn, Dehradun, introduces a contemporary stay in the capital city of Uttarakhand. Strategically located on Saharanpur Road, along the corridor of the newly operational Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, the hotel has an advantage of the reduced travel time of just 2.5 hours now. Designed for both business and leisure travellers, as well as those heading further into the hills, the hotel offers a well-connected base with the most spacious rooms in the city, a multi-cuisine restaurant, Sutra, and expansive banqueting facilities. The hotel features large-format event venues including the Crystal Ballroom and Aura Hall, making it a strong destination for weddings, conferences, and social gatherings. In Rishikesh, the brand has introduced two distinct formats catering to different travellers. Country Inn, Rishikesh, located in Tapovan, offers contemporary accommodation in close proximity to key spiritual landmarks such as Lakshman Jhula and Parmarth Niketan Ashram. With 28 rooms including the Suites offering Ganga views, a casual dining restaurant, and an intimate event space overlooking the Ganges, the hotel is designed for travellers seeking a comfortable and well-connected stay in the city.  Further strengthening its presence in the destination, the group has also introduced Country Inn Smart Stays, Rishikesh, marking the launch of a new brand format under the Country Inn portfolio. Designed for younger, experience-led travellers, Country Inn Smart Stays focuses on smart spaces, warm hospitality, and ease of use. Located at a walking distance from Lakshman Jhula, the hotel offers 31 well designed rooms, rooftop swimming pool and dining, BOHO Café and a lively recreation zone. Speaking about the expansion, Mr. Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Espire Hospitality Group, said, “Uttarakhand continues to be a strong focus market for us, given its growing appeal across leisure, spiritual, and experiential travel. With the opening of three new Country Inn properties and one more coming very soon across Dehradun and Rishikesh, we are strengthening our presence across the state while catering to a diverse mix of travellers. From urban stays in Dehradun to multiple formats in Rishikesh, this expansion reflects our intent to be present across key destinations with offerings for diverse travellers” These additions will play an integral role in our overall growth strategy. With over 30 signed hotels and a plan to add at least 1,000 keys every year, we are on track to achieve the milestone of 45 hotels by the end of FY27.”

Hospitality, Hotels, Latest News

Conrad Bengaluru appoints Aagman Baury as Hotel Manager

Conrad Bengaluru is pleased to announce the appointment of Aagman Baury as its new Hotel Manager. With extensive experience across luxury and upscale hospitality, Aagman brings a strong track record of operational excellence, strategic leadership, and guest-centric innovation. A seasoned hospitality professional, Aagman has held leadership roles with renowned brands including The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Marriott International. Over the course of his career, he has successfully led full-service and luxury hotels, managed pre-opening projects and operational turnarounds, and consistently delivered strong financial performance while enhancing guest satisfaction. Prior to joining Conrad Bengaluru, Aagman served as General Manager at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Delhi, where he played a key role in driving operational efficiency and strengthening the property’s market positioning. His earlier stints include leadership roles at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Trident BKC, and JW Marriott Marquis Doha, where he built deep expertise across hotel operations and rooms division management. In his new role, Aagman will oversee overall hotel operations, focusing on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening operational efficiencies, and driving sustainable growth. He brings a collaborative and data-driven approach to leadership, with a strong emphasis on building high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability, and aligning business strategies with long-term asset value. Commenting on his appointment, Aagman Baury said, “I am delighted to join Conrad Bengaluru and look forward to working with a talented team to further elevate the hotel’s positioning as a leading luxury destination. My focus will be on delivering consistent excellence, enhancing guest experiences, and driving growth through innovation and strong team collaboration.” With this appointment, Conrad Bengaluru continues to strengthen its leadership team, reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality and exceptional service.

Hotels, Latest News

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar Successfully Launches New Tea Lounge Menu

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar successfully hosted an engaging and vibrant Popcorn Themed celebration to mark the launch of its newly curated Tea Lounge menu. The exclusive event welcomed bloggers, media houses, and families for an afternoon filled with gourmet indulgence, interactive activities, and a first-hand preview of the refreshed menu offerings. The Tea Lounge, known for its relaxed and elegant ambiance, was transformed into a lively experiential space featuring live popcorn counters, caramel popcorn displays, and creatively curated sweet and savoury bites. The event offered guests an immersive experience combining flavour, fun, and aesthetic moments, making it an ideal setting for content creation and social engagement. Attendees explored the newly introduced Tea Lounge menu, which features thoughtfully curated Hi-Tea selections, artisanal sandwiches, innovative small plates, indulgent desserts, and a range of handcrafted teas and coffees. From classic comfort favourites to contemporary bites, the menu reflects a perfect balance of tradition and modern flavours, designed for casual meet-ups, business conversations, and leisurely high-tea experiences. Adding to the excitement, the event included interactive kids’ activities, including cupcake making sessions with our bakery chef, creating a lively and inclusive environment. Bloggers and media guests captured the vibrant décor, engaging setups, and curated culinary presentations, making the launch a memorable and visually appealing afternoon. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anuj Soin, General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar, said: “The launch of our new Tea Lounge menu was designed to offer guests a refreshing and interactive dining experience. We are delighted with the overwhelming response from bloggers and media, and this successful event reflects our commitment to creating unique culinary moments that bring people together in a warm and inviting setting. At Radisson Blu, we strongly believe that ‘we deliver memorable moments every day, everywhere , everytime.’ and this philosophy extends to how we create experiences that connect people and celebrate togetherness.” Executive Chef Manoj Rawat also shared his thoughts on the launch: “With the new Tea Lounge menu, our focus was on introducing comfort-driven yet creative offerings that complement the relaxed lounge experience. The popcorn-themed event allowed us to showcase playful flavours alongside refined high-tea selections, and we are thrilled with the enthusiastic response from our guests.” The successful launch highlighted Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar’s continued focus on innovative dining concepts and experiential hospitality. With its refreshed menu and inviting ambiance, the Tea Lounge is set to become a preferred destination for high tea, casual meetings, and relaxed indulgence in West Delhi. The event concluded on a high note, leaving guests with delightful flavours, engaging experiences, and a preview of the elevated Tea Lounge experience now available at Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar.

Hotels, Latest News

IHG Hotels & Resorts signs Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba, strengthening presence in one of India’s leading leisure destinations

The 100-key hotel will cater to year-round leisure and business demand in Goa’s capital, Panaji IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a management agreement with NCPL for the development of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba. The 100-key hotel, scheduled to open in Q1 2030, will mark a further addition to IHG’s growing portfolio in India’s key leisure markets. As one of IHG’s most recognised brands globally, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts® is built on a service philosophy centered around helping guests realise the true value of travel. With a focus on creating brighter stays and delivering warm, intuitive service that evokes genuine smiles, Holiday Inn is designed to ensure that every moment, big or small, is meaningful for travellers on the road. Located in Kadamba, Panaji, the 100-key hotel is strategically positioned to offer seamless access to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, Mandovi River Promenade, and Dona Paula. The hotel will provide a central base for travellers to experience Goa’s rich cultural heritage alongside its scenic coastal charm, while also being in close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Churches and Convents of Goa. Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “Goa continues to be one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations, renowned for its unique blend of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and strong year-round demand. The signing of Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba aligns with our strategy to expand in high-potential leisure markets across the country, and we are pleased to partner with NCPL to bring this hotel to life. With its prime location in Panaji and strong brand proposition, the hotel is well-positioned to cater to a diverse mix of leisure and business travellers.” Mr. Miket Kankia, Director, NCPL added: “We are delighted to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to introduce Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba. Panaji’s distinctive positioning as both a cultural and administrative hub makes it an attractive destination for hospitality development. Backed by IHG’s global expertise and strong brand recognition, we are confident that the hotel will deliver high-quality experiences and become a preferred choice for travellers visiting Goa.” Goa remains one of India’s most prominent tourism markets, supported by strong infrastructure and connectivity, including two operational airports. The state attracts a significant volume of domestic and international visitors, driven by its beaches, heritage precincts, and vibrant lifestyle offerings. Holiday Inn Goa Kadamba will feature a comprehensive range of amenities, including five food and beverage outlets comprising an all-day dining restaurant, specialty restaurant, bar, lobby lounge, and pool bar. The hotel will also offer three meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom, along with a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and ample parking facilities, catering to both leisure and corporate travellers. IHG® currently has 51 hotels operating across six brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts®, Crowne Plaza®, voco™ Hotels, Holiday Inn Resort® and Holiday Inn Express®, and a strong pipeline of 89 hotels due to open in the next 3-5 years.

Hotels, Latest News

Urban Square Mall, Udaipur, Announces Opening of ‘The Banquet’ at Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels

Udaipur’s largest retail destination, Urban Square Mall, has announced the opening of ‘The Banquet’ at Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, marking a strategic expansion of its hospitality and experiential offerings. Positioned as a contemporary event venue, The Banquet spans approximately 5000 sq. ft. and has a hosting capacity of 150-200 guests, making it suitable for a wide range of social and corporate gatherings. The space has been designed with a focus on functionality and flexibility, enabling it to accommodate diverse event formats while ensuring operational efficiency and a consistent guest experience. Located on the ground floor of the Hotel, the addition aligns with the asset’s broader vision of integrating retail, leisure, and hospitality into a unified ecosystem. The development comes at a time when Udaipur is witnessing increasing demand for organised, high-quality event infrastructure, driven by both private celebrations and corporate engagements. Commenting on the inauguration, Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group, said, “At Bhumika Group, our approach has been to expand beyond conventional retail into a more integrated mix that includes hospitality and experience-led formats. The introduction of ‘The Banquet’ is part of that broader evolution at Urban Square Mall. We are seeing a clear shift in how consumers engage with spaces today; how they are looking for destinations that seamlessly bring together shopping, dining, and social experiences. With this addition, we are not only strengthening our hospitality footprint but also enhancing the overall relevance of the asset in a way that is both demand-led and operationally sustainable.” Nandini Taneja, CEO, Bhumika Enterprises, added, “Our focus with ‘The Banquet’ has been on creating a venue that is efficient, adaptable, and aligned with the expectations of today’s users. There is a clear shift towards professionally managed spaces that can seamlessly host both social and corporate engagements without compromising on experience. This facility has been planned to deliver consistency across service, layout, and execution, while remaining flexible enough to cater to varied event requirements. It strengthens our broader vision of building destinations that are not only well-designed, but also intuitive in how they function on a day-to-day basis.” With this launch, Urban Square Mall continues to cater as a multi-dimensional destination, addressing not only shopping and entertainment needs but also curated, experience-led interactions.

Hotels, Latest News

Grand Continent Hotels Strengthens Presence in Spiritual Tourism with Rameshwaram Launch

Marks milestone 31st property; reinforces focus on pilgrimage-led hospitality markets  Grand Continent Hotels Limited has announced the launch of its new property in Rameshwaram, one of India’s most significant pilgrimage destinations, marking the brand’s 31st hotel. Located on Pamban Island, the contemporary four-star vegetarian hotel reflects the company’s continued focus on expanding in high-demand spiritual and leisure travel markets across India. The launch underscores the brand’s strategic emphasis on destinations witnessing consistent year-round footfall driven by pilgrimage tourism apart from key Business Cities. With Rameshwaram attracting a steady influx of domestic travellers, families, and spiritual seekers, the property is positioned to offer a comfortable, hygienic, and well-connected stay experience close to key landmarks. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ramesh Shiva, Founder & Managing Director, Grand Continent Hotels Limited, said, “The launch of our Rameshwaram property marks an important milestone as our 31st hotel and reinforces our focus on high-potential pilgrimage destinations. South India continues to be a strong growth market for us and we see sustained demand in destinations like Rameshwaram where travellers seek reliable, comfortable, and well-located accommodation. Going forward, we are coming up at Somnath, Varanasi and Ayodhya as we aim to expand across key high-demand micro-markets as we work towards building a 3,000-key portfolio over the next few years, while continuing to focus on operational consistency and guest experience.” The launch comes at a time when Grand Continent Hotels has expanded its portfolio to 31 properties across 17+ cities with over 1,850 keys, reflecting steady growth driven by its asset-light model. The company continues to see strong demand across spiritual circuits as well as emerging leisure destinations, which are increasingly driving organised hospitality growth. With a strong foundation in South India and a growing presence across North India, along with international markets such as Dubai and the USA, the company remains focused on building a scalable and sustainable hospitality network. Expansion plans will continue to prioritise high-demand micro-markets, including pilgrimage destinations, business hubs, and leisure-driven locations. The Rameshwaram hotel features 48 well-appointed rooms across categories including Grand Suite Rooms, Premium Rooms with Balcony, Grand Family Rooms, and Deluxe Rooms, designed with contemporary interiors and equipped with essential amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TV, tea and coffee maker, electronic safe, and 24-hour hot water, along with wheelchair access for added convenience. The property also houses Flavours, a multi-cuisine pure vegetarian restaurant with 48 covers, offering Jain and Satvik meal options suited to the preferences of pilgrimage travellers, along with a dedicated play zone for families. Strategically located, the hotel provides easy access to key landmarks including Ramanathaswamy Temple (1.9 km), Rameshwaram Railway Station (within walking distance), Agnitheertham (2.9 km), and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam National Memorial (5 km), making it a convenient choice for both religious and leisure visitors. Founded in 2011 by Mr. Ramesh Shiva, a hospitality professional with over three decades of experience, Grand Continent Hotels Limited has grown from a single 54-room property in Bengaluru to a 31-property portfolio with over 1,850 keys. The company has scaled through a disciplined, asset-light, lease-led model and achieved a consolidated topline of ₹73 crore. It was successfully listed on the NSE SME platform in March 2025 and is now targeting a 3,000-key portfolio across key domestic and select international markets.

Vibrant Colours is an Indian registered publication catering to the travel, tourism, embassy and hospitality sector. The magazine is published under the global publication group  Prime Communication from New Delhi, India. Launched in 2019, the magazine was conceived with a vision to serve and celebrate the ever-growing travel trade and tourism industry across India and beyond.

Copyright © 2019-2026 Vibrant Colours. All rights reserved.

Scroll to Top