GReaT Trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels and Resorts: A Tranquil Escape Amidst Nature

GReaT Trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels and Resorts: A Tranquil Escape Amidst Nature

Admin

Published on November 2, 2023

With 16 upscale hotels and luxury resorts across the important destinations across South India, GRT hotels is now one among the desirable venues for travelers to stay at. For more than 50 years, G.R. Thanga Maligai, popularly known as GRT has pioneered the art of combining unparalleled craftsmanship and rich heritage to create timeless designs. Branching out from GRT Jewellers, GRT Hotels & Resorts now features 16 upscale hotels and luxury resorts in the most desirable destinations across South India.

Be it business or leisure, GRT has the  accommodation and amenities to  get you covered. An inviting ambience coupled with warm hospitality and a fleet of holistic amenities are at the ready to provide you with an experience that feels personal. The hotel’s rugged and rustic style of architecture with its steep slopes, 40 exquisite rooms like Alps Swiss chalets and rocky stairs are elements that have seamlessly elevated the hotel space amidst the stunning tranquil yet rustic authenticity of the hills. “We also have other activities such as Shuttle court, Bird watching, Horse Ride, Pottery, Farm visit, Jeep Ride, Telescope to watch the night sky, bonfire with entertainments such as games for kids and families by in house event manager making it an ideal choice for both relaxation and adventure seekers. The resort is also Pet Friendly with varied amenities and exclusive Pet Park for our pet guest,” says Arun Raj R, General Manager of the property.

Monsoon Experiences

Kodaikanal experiences different seasons throughout the year, and the hotel understands the importance of adapting their services and offerings to provide a delightful experience for guests in every season. “During Spring, when the weather is pleasant and flowers are in full bloom, the resort organizes a visit to world renowned Bryant’s Park, outdoor activities, and nature walks for guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings,” explains Arun Raj R. “During Summer,” he adds, “Kodaikanal tends to get crowded and the Flower show at Bryant’s Park is not to be missed. The resort anticipates this and ensures that our facilities are well-equipped to handle increased demand.” Likewise, throughout the year, the resort ensures that their staff are well-trained and knowledgeable about the local weather conditions and attractions. They are equipped to provide recommendations on places to visit, customize itineraries, and assist guests in making the most out of their stay, regardless of the season. 

Amenities

Starting from June 1, 2023, GReaT Trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels and Resorts proudly declares itself “Pet Friendly.” Welcoming guests with dogs and cats, the resort has implemented all the necessary arrangements, provisions, and policies to ensure a comfortable stay for both humans and their four-legged companions. The property has various recreational facilities like an indoor games room, children’s play zone, art & craft, Cooking class, Mocktail making sessions, billiards room, PS5, GReaT experiences hub, and facilities for outdoor activities such as trekking, trampoline for kids and adults, tree top adventure games which includes zip line, Burma bridge. “With tourists arriving from various backgrounds and cultural norms, managing guest expectations becomes crucial. Multilingual staff members, clear communication channels, and personalized services can help bridge any potential language or cultural barriers,” Arun Raj R explains.

Sustainable Practices

“We have implemented an effective waste management system that includes  recycling and proper disposal of waste. We have installed an Organic Waste Compost machine and convert our food waste as manure and use it for garden and support neighboring local farmers by giving free manure to their farming work,” Arun Raj R explains about the sustainable practices implemented in the property. They have also taken measures to reduce energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient lighting systems, motion sensors in common areas, and regular maintenance of equipment to ensure optimum efficiency. There are also green spaces created and maintained within the hotel premises, including gardens and vertical gardens, and their own farm to produce kitchen needs like vegetables and greens. These spaces not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to air purification and provide habitats for local birds to form their nest.

Restaurants

The resort also offers an in-house restaurant that serves a variety of delicious cuisines. If you’re a food connoisseur with a passion for all things fine, Whistler cafe is where you need to be. Satiate every whimsical desire of your palate atop the valley with views so marvelous. The extensive array of delicacies and the warmth of unmatched service will make your dining experience truly unforgettable
Celebrations

As New Year approaches, the resort is planned for a grand celebration to welcome the coming year. There will be live music performances, dance parties, and entertainment programs arranged for guests to enjoy. Fireworks displays might be organized by the resort to add sparkle and excitement to the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Counting down to midnight and witnessing a beautiful fireworks show can be a memorable experience. 

Additionally, GReaT trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels celebrates Tamil New Year, Onam, International Womens Day, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Krishna Jeyanthi, Vinayaka Chaturthi, Ramzan, Teachers Day, Childrens Day, Holi, Raksha Bandhan and all other festive with festive décor, festive mood and colourful celebrations. The friendly staff at GRT Kodaikanal will be dedicated to ensuring that all the festivals are enjoyable and filled with happy memories.


Dinesh Yadav on Fine Acers’ Next Chapter with Dolce

Dinesh Yadav on Fine Acers’ Next Chapter with Dolce

Dinesh Yadav

Published on May 4, 2026

Fine Acers, a recognised name in hospitality-led real estate, has partnered with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to introduce the Dolce brand in India, marking a significant step as the country’s tourism and hospitality sector is projected to reach USD 59 billion by 2028. Reflecting on this milestone, Dinesh Yadav, Founder & MD of Fine Acers highlights how the collaboration aligns with rising demand for premium leisure travel, destination weddings, and experiential stays. With existing resorts in Jaipur, Pushkar, and Goa, the company currently operates 200 rooms across three properties and plans to add 700 more keys over the next three years across Jaipur, Jawai, Udaipur, Pushkar, and Coorg, backed by an investment of around ₹600 crore. This expansion will take the total inventory to 1500 rooms across seven properties.

The introduction of Dolce by Wyndham comes at a time when India’s luxury hospitality segment faces a supply gap, with only around 29,000 luxury rooms available nationwide. Positioned to bridge this gap, Dolce integrates business, leisure, and large-scale event capabilities, making it ideal for high-demand markets like Goa and Udaipur, known for strong occupancy rates and wedding-driven demand. Fine Acers’ sale-and-leaseback model supports growth by enabling investors to purchase around 70% of its inventory, which is leased back and professionally managed, offering attractive returns without operational involvement, a model gaining traction among HNIs and NRIs seeking financial and experiential value. Backed by strong industry fundamentals, with hotel demand projected to grow at 10.8% annually against 8% supply growth, the company is expanding into high-demand destinations with a vision to surpass 1500 keys by 2030 and establish itself as a leading player in resort and lifestyle hospitality, while destination weddings and MICE remain central to the strategy, supported by India’s USD 130 billion wedding industry, driving memorable guest experiences and sustained growth.

This engaging exchange offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of India’s luxury hospitality sector and the strategic vision driving Fine Acers forward. It was truly a great conversation with Dinesh Yadav, and readers can explore the complete feature in the Hospitality News May Magazine, available on our website and in print.


Redefining Luxury Through Human Connection: The Anand Mishra Way

Redefining Luxury Through Human Connection: The Anand Mishra Way

Anand Mishra

Published on May 1, 2026

In an exclusive and engaging interaction, Anand Mishra, Director of Operations at Sayaji Vadodara, Offers a thoughtful glimpse into the evolving world of hospitality in the May edition of Hospitality News magazine, where every detail matters and every guest experience carries meaning. Known for his strong operational expertise and people-first approach, he shares perspectives that go beyond processes, diving into the emotional core of hospitality.

Reflecting on his journey, he describes it as a story that began unexpectedly but soon transformed into a fulfilling career. “I began my journey as a management trainee at ITC, more by chance than by choice. What followed was a true rollercoaster filled with ups and downs, challenges, fun, and excitement. This industry has a unique way of shaping you, pushing you to grow, and transforming who you are. Looking back, I have no regrets. In fact, today I can proudly say that I enjoy my job every single day.”

What truly stands out is his deep commitment to guest care. Recalling a touching moment at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara, he shares, “I remember a single woman traveller who approached me at check-in with a strict, medically prescribed diet and asked if we could accommodate it…” What followed was a coordinated effort by his team to ensure precision and care. “At the time of checkout, she had tears in her eyes… It reaffirmed that when we truly commit, we can create an unmatched guest experience.”

Speaking about today’s travellers, he highlights a shift in expectations. “Luxury is not materialistic, it is deeply personal.” His approach focuses on understanding guests, anticipating their needs, and delivering warmth that feels like home.

Even in moments of operational challenges, such as a sudden system failure during peak service, his emphasis remains unchanged. “It was a perfect example of teamwork, quick thinking, and resilience,” he recalls, underlining the importance of seamless guest experience.

For him, the smallest details create the biggest impact. “Luxury is always human, it is never just materialistic.” At Sayaji, this philosophy comes alive through their “Yours Truly” experience.

This insightful exchange captures the essence of modern hospitality, where emotion meets excellence. It was truly a great conversation, and you can explore the complete feature in the Hospitality News May magazine on our website, or grab a physical copy to experience it in full.


Redefining Readiness in Hospitality: A Conversation with Sanjeev Kumar

Redefining Readiness in Hospitality: A Conversation with Sanjeev Kumar

Sanjeev Kumar

Published on May 1, 2026

The hospitality industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, yet a fundamental question continues to challenge its growth, are we truly preparing talent for the realities of the job? In an exclusive and thought-provoking interaction, Sanjeev Kumar, Founder of HOSPI Sigma™, shares his perspective on this critical shift, offering a fresh lens on performance, capability, and industry readiness.

With over three decades of experience across globally respected brands such as Taj Hotels, ITC Hotels, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Premier Inn, Sanjeev Kumar brings unmatched operational depth combined with strategic foresight. His journey, further enriched by his tenure at Lloyds Banking Group, has shaped a unique approach that bridges hospitality with structured, data-driven methodologies.

In this featured conversation, he delves into the pressing gap between ‘qualified’ and ‘job-ready’ professionals, highlighting how traditional education often stops at knowledge, while the industry demands decisive action under pressure. Through HOSPI Sigma™, he introduces a transformative framework that shifts the focus from learning to real-time performance, an approach that is steadily redefining how talent is trained, evaluated, and empowered.

What sets this dialogue apart is its clarity and relevance. From addressing why performance under pressure has long been overlooked, to explaining how structured thinking can significantly reduce operational inefficiencies, Sanjeev Kumar offers insights that resonate with both industry leaders and emerging professionals. His emphasis on measurable outcomes, fewer guest complaints, reduced training costs, and consistent service delivery, adds a compelling business perspective to the conversation.

As the discussion unfolds, it builds a strong sense of anticipation around the future of hospitality talent. With India’s rapid expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, frameworks like HOSPI Sigma™ are no longer optional, they are becoming essential. The conversation also touches upon the evolving role of policy, particularly in light of the Union Budget’s focus on skill development, and the urgent need to align intent with execution on the ground.

This is more than just an interview, it is a window into the future of hospitality operations and talent transformation.

It was truly a great conversation with Sanjeev Kumar, filled with insight, clarity, and forward-thinking perspectives. To explore the complete interview and gain deeper understanding, you can check it out in the HospitalityNews May magazine on our website, or experience it in its full depth through our physical edition.