Historic Bogambara Prison to Emerge as a Hilton Five-Star Destination

Historic Bogambara Prison to Emerge as a Hilton Five-Star Destination

By Author

Published on December 14, 2023

In a striking example of adaptive reuse, Hilton, a global leader in hospitality, has announced plans to convert the historic Bogambara prison in Sri Lanka into a five-star hotel. This ambitious project was reported by Daily News and involves the transformation of a site rich in history into a modern luxury accommodation.

State Minister for Investment Promotion, Dilum Amunugama, confirmed that a local investor has been secured for this project. Melwa Group, known for constructing and opening the Yala Hilton, will spearhead the development of the new hotel. This follows the recent opening of Hilton Yala Resort in August 2023 and the ongoing construction of another Hilton property in Negombo, set to open in 2024.

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A key aspect of this transformation is the preservation of the prison's historical value. The Urban Development Authority has received approval from the Department of Archaeology to commence the restructuring of the complex. The Bogambara prison, a three-storey building constructed by British rulers in Kandy, was operational for 138 years before its closure in 2014. Notably, it was recognized as the second-largest prison in Sri Lanka and the longest building in Asia built on a single foundation.

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Melwa Group has also signed agreements for Hilton Hotels in Kosgoda, Nuwara-Eliya, and near Colombo International Airport. With these additions, Hilton's presence in Sri Lanka will encompass six hotels, showcasing the company's growing footprint in the region.

This development is part of Hilton's broader global expansion, which includes the recent signing of a management agreement for a new Signia by Hilton property in Indiana, US, as part of a $710 million convention center expansion. Hilton currently operates 7,400 properties across 124 countries and territories under its 22 brands.


Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan Celebrates 11 Years of Success

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan Celebrates 11 Years of Success

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 3, 2024

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan recently celebrated their 11th anniversary, marking over a decade of success and dedication to service. The hotel hosted a special event in September 2024 to commemorate this milestone, bringing together key partners and guests who have been instrumental in their journey.

The celebration was a reflection of the collaborative efforts that have driven the hotel’s success over the years. Guests enjoyed a relaxing evening filled with gourmet cuisine, live entertainment, and moments of recognition for the contributions that have shaped the hotel's growth and reputation.

As Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan looks ahead, the hotel remains committed to excellence and innovation in hospitality. This anniversary not only honors past achievements but also sets the stage for continued success in the future.

The hotel extends its gratitude to all who have been part of their journey and looks forward to many more years of partnership and growth.


The Machan Embarks on Significant Expansion, Set to Launch Five New Hotels

The Machan Embarks on Significant Expansion, Set to Launch Five New Hotels

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 31, 2024

As The Machan celebrates thirty years of excellence in the hospitality industry, the renowned resort chain is set to embark on an exciting expansion plan. By 2025, The Machan will introduce five new properties in strategic locations across India, including Jaisalmer, Udaipur, and Jawai in Rajasthan, as well as Mulshi and Pawna near Lonavala in Maharashtra. These new destinations promise to deliver The Machan’s signature blend of luxury, sustainability, and immersive nature-focused experiences.

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Rakshit Sharma, COO of The Machan, shared insights into the expansion, highlighting the unique appeal of Rajasthan and Maharashtra as premier destinations for weddings, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), and leisure travel. "We are diligently developing both operational and marketing strategies to ensure the successful and timely launch of our upcoming properties in these locations. Our commitment to sustainability will further enhance the traveler's experience, providing an immersive and enriching journey that celebrates India's natural heritage," he said.

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Girish Menon, Head of Business Development, emphasized the importance of the Indian market for The Machan's growth strategy. "India represents a significant market for both business and leisure travelers, and establishing a strong presence here is a key objective for us. Our goal is to double our footprint by 2025, expanding our presence across Tier I, Tier II, and Tier III cities," he stated.

The Machan Resorts LLP's expansion underscores its dedication to redefining experiential hospitality in western and northern India. Each new property is designed with a focus on comfort, sustainability, and providing guests with a deep connection to nature. This expansion is not just about increasing their footprint but also about introducing fresh ideas and innovative concepts that enhance the guest experience while staying true to their core values of environmental responsibility and community engagement.

For more details on The Machan’s expansion and updates, visit www.themachan.com and follow @machanresorts on Instagram.


Galaxy Magnum Group Unveils The Boulevard: Gurugram’s Premier Culinary Destination

Galaxy Magnum Group Unveils The Boulevard: Gurugram’s Premier Culinary Destination

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 21, 2024

Galaxy Magnum Group, a leader in innovative real estate development, is set to transform Gurugram’s dining landscape with the upcoming launch of The Boulevard. This vibrant new venue promises to be the city’s premier culinary destination, featuring a curated selection of ten extraordinary restaurants, cafes, and bars, including establishments led by celebrity chefs Vicky Ratnani and Kunal Kapur.

The Boulevard is designed to cater to the refined tastes of Gurugram’s food lovers, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. From contemporary Indian dishes to lively European flavors, and from artisanal coffee to handcrafted cocktails, this dynamic venue transitions effortlessly from a relaxed daytime retreat to a bustling nightlife hotspot, perfect for any occasion.

“Gurugram has been craving a space that offers a diverse yet refined culinary experience,” said Pranav Poddar, Founder of The Boulevard and Director of Galaxy Magnum Group. “The Boulevard is our answer to that desire. With the invaluable support of Mr. Amanpreet Banga, F&B Leasing Consultant, we have created a destination that not only satisfies the taste buds but also elevates the overall recreational experience. It’s a place where people can come together, socialize, and indulge in the best that the culinary world has to offer.”

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In keeping with their commitment to innovation and excellence, The Boulevard will continuously evolve its offerings, introducing seasonal menus, unique dining concepts, and cutting-edge technology for enhanced customer engagement. Strategically located in the bustling Golf Course Extension area, The Boulevard is poised to become the epicenter of Gurugram’s culinary scene. This vibrant neighborhood, known for its mix of commercial and residential spaces, provides the ideal backdrop for a destination that promises to captivate food enthusiasts and redefine the city’s dining landscape with its exceptional ambiance, cuisine, and service.

About The Boulevard by Galaxy Magnum Group

The Boulevard at Magnum Global Park is not just an address; it’s a signature landmark meticulously designed to be a unique destination for food and beverage culture in Gurugram. With a focus on creating a space that celebrates life through a blend of fun, food, and recreation, The Boulevard is set to become a standout destination in Gurugram’s social scene. Whether it's the grand entrance, landscaped outdoors, cozy sit-outs, or alfresco areas, every aspect of The Boulevard is crafted to delight the senses.

About Galaxy Magnum Group

Galaxy Magnum Group is a pioneering force in modern real estate, dedicated to crafting groundbreaking projects that embody international standards and superior craftsmanship. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Galaxy Magnum consistently delivers value to all stakeholders. The group’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and responsible business ensures a positive impact on both the environment and the communities they serve.

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