IHCL's Third Hotel in Ayodhya: SeleQtions Ayodhya

IHCL's Third Hotel in Ayodhya: SeleQtions Ayodhya

By Author

Published on January 27, 2024

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), renowned for its blend of traditional Indian hospitality and world-class service, is all set to open its third hotel in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. This exciting new venture will operate under the IHCL SeleQtions brand, adding a touch of luxury to the spiritual city.

A Stone's Throw from Ayodhya's Key Attractions

Strategically located, this 150-key hotel sprawls across 1.3 acres and is conveniently close to the upcoming Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport and Ayodhya's famous tourist spots. It's not just about the location, though. The hotel promises a host of amenities to cater to every need of its guests.

The new IHCL SeleQtions hotel in Ayodhya is not just a place to stay; it's a destination in itself. With multiple dining options, guests can savour a variety of flavours. Those looking to unwind can enjoy the spa, swimming pool, and fitness centre. And for those grand events or crucial business meetings, over 10,000 sq. ft of banqueting space awaits.

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Puneet Chhatwal: Visionary Behind IHCL's Expansion

Puneet Chhatwal, IHCL’s Managing Director & CEO, shared his vision for the project, "Ayodhya is transforming into a world-class pilgrimage destination, and our new hotel is a testament to IHCL's commitment to developing cultural circuits." He highlights that this new addition is aligned with the company’s strategy to mark its presence in spiritual hotspots.

The Ram Mandir Effect

The inauguration of the Ram Mandir is not just a cultural milestone; it's a catalyst for tourism in Ayodhya. Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) have recorded a 70% increase in bookings, signalling a surge in interest towards this historic city. Prices for hotels and flights are seeing a notable rise, a testament to Ayodhya's growing allure as a tourist destination.

IHCL’s portfolio in Ayodhya will now feature three distinct brands – SeleQtions, Vivanta, and Ginger, each catering to different segments of travellers. The group, home to the iconic Taj brand, continues to strengthen its position as a leader in India's hospitality sector.

A Blend of Spirituality and Splendor

Ayodhya, resting on the banks of River Saryu, is not just a city; it's a chapter in India's rich cultural and spiritual tapestry. With IHCL's growing presence, the city is poised to offer an even more enriching experience to visitors from around the globe.


Devsha by Botanix Brings Luxury Forest Living to Jim Corbett

Devsha by Botanix Brings Luxury Forest Living to Jim Corbett

By Hariharan U

Published on July 31, 2025

Botanix Resorts Pvt Ltd. has officially launched Devsha Resort by Botanix, a 5-acre forest retreat set in the heart of Jim Corbett’s wilderness, offering a perfect mix of nature and curated comfort.

With 116 rooms spread across the property, guests can choose from four categories of eco-inspired stays, including premium rooms, luxury suites, and villas with plunge pools. Each space is thoughtfully designed to offer a peaceful, immersive experience surrounded by jungle calm.

“With Devsha, we’ve built a sanctuary that lets people reconnect with nature without compromising on comfort”, said Atul Vashishth, Managing Director of Botanix Resorts Pvt Ltd. “It reflects our brand's core philosophy of healing, warmth, and green hospitality”

A Destination for Families, Retreats & Celebrations

Whether you’re looking for a wellness break or planning a wedding amidst the woods, Devsha offers tailored event packages, scenic views, and full planning support. Guests can enjoy a multi-cuisine restaurant, spa, swimming pool, and activities like birdwatching, forest walks, and outdoor games.

A Deep Botanical Connection\

Rooted in Botanix’s nature-first approach, Devsha goes beyond aesthetics—focusing on conscious living and rejuvenation. From its jungle setting to its sustainability-forward design, every detail reflects the Botanix mission of building experiences that heal, inspire, and reconnect.

More Than Just a Stay

Devsha marks Botanix’s deeper expansion into Uttarakhand, adding to its growing portfolio of nature-based resorts and biophilic-designed residences under the Botanix Residences umbrella.

About Botanix Resorts Pvt Ltd.

Botanix Resorts Pvt Ltd is dedicated to creating botanical-themed living experiences that deepen people's connection with nature. Whether through resorts, branded residences, or botanical retreats, BNL projects are built on the pillars of sustainability, education, and wellness.

For more information, visit www.botanix.in and follow @botanixresorts for updates


Unboxed at The Lalit: Pride Month Exhibition Puts Queer Art in the Spotlight

Unboxed at The Lalit: Pride Month Exhibition Puts Queer Art in the Spotlight

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

In a city where tradition and transformation often collide, Art Junction at The Lalit New Delhi has carved out a unique identity as one of the capital’s most inclusive cultural spaces. This June, it strengthens that reputation with Unboxed, a bold Pride Month exhibition celebrating queer art and voices from across India.

Curated by Praveen Mahta, Unboxed is more than just an art show — it’s an intimate, unapologetic journey into the identities, struggles, and triumphs of LGBTQIA+ artists. Running through June, the exhibition gives centre stage to works that too often remain on the fringes. As Mahta says, “This is not just about art, this is about being allowed to take up space.”

The show features a diverse mix of emotionally charged canvases, surreal depictions of love and loss, and raw reflections on gender fluidity — each piece radiating honesty and urgency. Taking things further, Padma Shri awardee Naresh Kapuria led a special workshop for participating queer artists, helping them refine their techniques and deepen their creative confidence, underscoring Art Junction’s mission to nurture talent, not just display it.

The impact is already visible. Several artworks have found buyers through the platform — a breakthrough moment for many of these emerging artists. In a remarkable gesture, The Lalit has chosen not to take any commission from these sales. As Akshay Tyagi, DEI Head at The Lalit, put it, “It’s about giving these artists a stage they’re so often denied. It’s a living, breathing tribute to our philosophy of #PureLove — where diversity isn’t a theme, but a daily practice.”

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Art Junction has long championed inclusive and accessible curation. From showcasing women artists and neurodiverse creators to supporting rural artisans and survivors of marginalisation, the gallery has consistently offered more than just wall space — it provides visibility, validation, and a voice. This vision is deeply supported by Keshav Suri, Executive Director of The Lalit and Founder of the Keshav Suri Foundation, who continues to steer the brand as a beacon of LGBTQIA+ inclusion in hospitality.

As India steadily builds its dialogue around dignity, identity, and rights, Art Junction remains a vital space — not only for art, but for authenticity and hope.

Unboxed runs until June 30, 2025, at Art Junction, The Lalit New Delhi. Entry is free. Come for the art. Stay for the revolution.


Suba Group of Hotels Launches Clarion Hotel De Renees in Gangtok

Suba Group of Hotels Launches Clarion Hotel De Renees in Gangtok

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 22, 2025

Suba Group of Hotels has announced the grand opening of its latest property, Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok, marking a key milestone in its Northeast India expansion. The hotel, inaugurated by Mr. Tshering Thendup Bhutia, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Commerce and Industries for the State of Sikkim, is strategically located in Lower Sichey with easy access to the heart of Gangtok.

Clarion Hotel De Renees features 38 upscale rooms designed with elegant aesthetics and modern amenities, catering to both business and leisure travellers. The property offers diverse dining experiences at Cinnamon, the multi-cuisine restaurant, and Tipsy Tiger, a stylish lounge. Guests can also unwind at the rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Himalayas, indulge in a full-service international spa, work out in a contemporary gymnasium, and relax in the indoor swimming pool.

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Reflecting a balance between functionality and luxury, the hotel provides high-end banqueting and meeting facilities, ideal for hosting corporate and social events. “This opening is a reflection of our continued commitment to delivering premium hospitality in prime locations. Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok is perfectly positioned to serve the evolving needs of both leisure and business travellers, while contributing meaningfully to Sikkim’s tourism ecosystem,” shared Mr.Mansur Mehta, Chairman, Suba Hotels Limited.

Clarion Hotel De Renees operates under the umbrella of Choice Hotels International, a globally renowned brand with over 7,000 hotels across 40 countries. Suba Hotels currently manages 52 Choice-branded properties in India, including Clarion, Comfort, and Quality Inn segments. “Our collaboration with Choice Hotels has played a pivotal role in shaping the guest experience across our portfolio. Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok is yet another step forward in our mission to blend international hospitality standards with local warmth,” added Mr.Mubeen Mehta, CEO, Suba Hotels Limited.

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With over 125 hotels in 70 locations and a total inventory of 5,906 keys, Suba Hotels continues to lead the Indian hospitality landscape through innovation and a strong guest-centric approach. Sustainability is also a key focus at Clarion Hotel De Renees, with energy-efficient systems, waste management protocols, and eco-friendly sourcing embedded into the hotel’s operations.

“Sustainability is not just a feature, it’s a foundation. Our goal is to create a luxurious yet responsible experience that aligns with the values of today’s travellers,” said K. Manish, GM Operations, Suba Group of Hotels.

With its strategic location, thoughtful design, and sustainability-driven ethos, Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok is set to become a new landmark in Sikkim’s premium hospitality scene.

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