2706 New Rooms Entered in India in H1 2024 in Upscale & Premium Segment- SKYE Report

2706 New Rooms Entered in India in H1 2024 in Upscale & Premium Segment- SKYE Report

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 6, 2024

SKYE Hospitality, an end-to-end hospitality & strategy consulting company, has released its maiden market analysis on the pulse of the Indian hotel industry for the first six months of 2024. The analysis has shared some interesting insights and perspectives on the Indian hospitality sector.

According to the analysis, 2706 rooms have entered the market in H1 2024. Out of these, 994 rooms (~37%) consisted of upscale rooms, while the remaining (63%) consisted of premium inventories. A total of 22 new projects have opened in H1 2024, with major hospitality brands such as IHCL, ITC, Radisson, Hyatt, ROHL, Bharat Hospitality, and Wyndham contributing to the new projects.

34% of the new supplies were located in the West, followed by the East (28%). The North and South contributed to 26% and 12% respectively. "The Indian hospitality industry is on a strong footing marked by a rise in occupancy, new projects opening, and a bullish pipeline for the future. In the first half, average occupancy in major hotels ranged between 70-75%. Occupancy has risen by around 15-20% compared to the same period last year," quoted Mr. Ankit Kansal, MD, SKYE Hospitality.

"The Indian hotel industry is witnessing a robust rebound backed by a rise in business events, leisure travels, wedding season, etc. Other factors such as the growing trend of staycations, a surge in experiential travel trends amongst millennials & Gen-Z, and a rise in wellness tourism packages are also fuelling demand for hospitality businesses in India. The concept of revenge travel is also there, as most of the hotels operate at 100% occupancy during extended weekends," added Mr. Kansal.

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The government is also playing a pivotal role through concentrated policy efforts to boost infrastructure and introduce numerous attractive schemes. Multiple schemes such as Dekho Apna Desh, Incredible India, PRASHAD, Aayush, etc., have been introduced, helping in hotel demand. There has been notable growth in infrastructure development in the form of highways, railway corridors, and airports, enhancing overall accessibility. Consequently, major hotel brands are now launching new products in territories such as North East, J&K, Andaman, and Lakshadweep. These locations have been relatively less explored in the past.

During the same period, around 243,000 Sq. Ft of hotel-based meeting and banquet space entered the market, as per the SKYE analysis. Eastern parts of India accounted for the highest supplies (47%) followed by the North (25%). The Indian event and meeting industry is growing at a steady rate of 8-10%. India is becoming a reputed MICE destination internationally, stemmed by growth in infrastructure, a rise in the economy, and rich cultural heritage.

Commenting on the future outlook of the industry, Mr. Kansal said, "The next 3-5 years will see aggressive expansion in the industry, as both domestic and international brands will extend their footprint across segments."

Taj is presently working on over 20 projects, while Vivanta is invested in around 50 new projects. International hospitality brand Accor is planning to add 5500 new rooms across various brands such as Pullman, Novotel, IBIS, etc. Oberoi Groups is also planning to add around 50 projects in the next 5 years across Oberoi Hotels and Trident. The group is also planning to introduce a new brand, "Oberoi Nature," which will be a smaller format hotel.


Hyatt Signs The Landmark Kanpur as India’s Second JdV by Hyatt Hotel

Hyatt Signs The Landmark Kanpur as India’s Second JdV by Hyatt Hotel

By Hariharan U

Published on October 3, 2025

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the signing of The Landmark Kanpur, which will soon join the JdV by Hyatt portfolio, becoming India’s second hotel under this lifestyle brand. The property, owned by Som Datt Landmark Hotels and Recreations Private Limited, is set to open in 2026.

Located in one of Kanpur’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, the hotel is being thoughtfully restored to reflect the JdV by Hyatt ethos while building on The Landmark’s rich legacy in the city. Once open, it will feature 170 guest rooms, a spa, four food and beverage outlets, and expansive event spaces, including a 7,200 sq. ft. lawn on the 21st floor, designed to serve both corporate travellers and social gatherings.

The JdV by Hyatt brand short for joie de vivre is known for its vibrant, independent hotels that capture the spirit of their neighbourhoods while offering heartfelt, joy-driven hospitality. With this signing, Hyatt continues to expand its presence in India’s fast-growing lifestyle and experience-driven hotel segment.

Speaking on the development, Dhruva Rathore, Vice President, Real Estate & Development for India & South West Asia, Hyatt, said, “We're thrilled to welcome The Landmark Kanpur to the JdV by Hyatt family. This association reflects our commitment to collaborating with exceptional local operators to deliver unique guest experiences in promising markets. Building on The Landmark's esteemed legacy in Kanpur, we're excited to take this property to new heights.”

Echoing the sentiment, Vikas Malhotra, Managing Director, Som Datt Landmark Hotels and Recreations Pvt. Ltd., added, “As Kanpur’s first and only five-star hotel, The Landmark has long been a pioneer in the city’s hospitality landscape. Collaborating with Hyatt and joining the JdV by Hyatt brand marks an exciting new chapter – one that brings global standards of service while retaining our deep local roots. We look forward to welcoming guests to an enhanced, reimagined experience.”

This signing underscores Hyatt’s strategy to strengthen its lifestyle portfolio in India, offering travellers distinctive stays that combine global quality with strong local character.


Sterling Opens Rampath Ayodhya Resort, Blending Devotion with Comfort

Sterling Opens Rampath Ayodhya Resort, Blending Devotion with Comfort

By Hariharan U

Published on October 3, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts has expanded its footprint into Uttar Pradesh with the launch of Sterling Rampath Ayodhya, its 67th property and 57th destination. Located just steps away from the ceremonial Ram Path, the hotel offers pilgrims, families, and culture-seekers a perfect retreat while visiting the Ram Mandir.

With this opening, Sterling marks its 11th spiritual location, reinforcing the brand’s vision of offering journeys that balance devotion with modern comfort. The move comes at a time when Ayodhya is emerging as one of India’s most significant spiritual destinations, attracting a rising wave of travellers seeking cultural immersion.

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The boutique hotel features 35 thoughtfully designed rooms, across Cocoon Double, Deluxe, and Classic categories, crafted to provide calm and comfort after temple visits. Dining is led by The Divine, a pure-veg restaurant serving sattvic-inspired meals, with special Jain options available on request reflecting the ethos of Ayodhya itself.

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Speaking about the launch, Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, said, “Ayodhya is at the heart of India’s spiritual and cultural renaissance. Sterling Rampath Ayodhya is more than a hotel — it is a gateway to devotion and discovery, serving guests who arrive with faith, families, and a sense of cultural curiosity.”

Adding to this, Rishi Uppal, Director, Kalyan KK Hotels India Pvt Ltd., shared, “Ayodhya is emerging as one of India’s most important spiritual destinations. Our vision was to create a property that not only serves pilgrims with comfort and care but also honours the cultural fabric of the city. In Sterling, we found a partner who shares this vision.”

Sterling’s spiritual portfolio has been growing steadily, with recent openings in Guruvayur, Vellore, and Rudraprayag. The addition of Ayodhya strengthens the company’s mission to bring together tradition, devotion, and hospitality across sacred destinations in India.

About Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited is among India’s leading hospitality brands, with 64 resorts, hotels, and retreats across 55 unique destinations, offering over 3,400 rooms. Its properties cover hills, beaches, jungles, pilgrimage sites, heritage towns, and drive-to locations. The company caters to leisure travellers, MICE, weddings, and group events. Sterling is a 100% independently managed subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., part of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited.

For bookings and more information, visit www.sterlingholidays.com


Sterling Unveils Kadumane Hills Sakleshpur, a Boutique Retreat in the Western Ghats

Sterling Unveils Kadumane Hills Sakleshpur, a Boutique Retreat in the Western Ghats

By Hariharan U

Published on September 29, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts has launched Sterling Kadumane Hills Sakleshpur, a boutique resort created as a sanctuary for those looking to unplug, reconnect, and rejuvenate amidst nature. This marks Sterling’s first boutique property in Sakleshpur and the fourth in Karnataka.

Located high on a scenic hill in the Western Ghats, the resort welcomes guests with a signature 4x4 jeep ride that sets the tone for an offbeat adventure. Spread across 14 acres of untouched landscape, the property features handcrafted wooden cottages that open to sweeping views of valleys and forests, blending comfort with the spirit of slow travel.

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At Rasavati, the resort’s dining space, food takes a wellness-first approach with wholesome vegetarian meals and Malnad-inspired specials. Guests can further unwind at the wellness centre, which offers authentic Ayurvedic therapies aimed at holistic healing. For those seeking adventure, options include treks to hidden waterfalls, birdwatching, plantation walks, and a visit to the famed Bisle Ghat viewpoint, often called “India’s Amazon.”

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Speaking about the launch, Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, said, “Sterling Kadumane Hills Sakleshpur is a milestone in our journey to create immersive, boutique resorts that redefine leisure travel. This property is designed as an expansive canvas for discovery—where wellness, slow travel, and mindful living come together.”

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Mr. Raghavendra, Owner, Kadumane Hills Resorts, added, “We are delighted to partner with Sterling, who bring deep expertise and a shared vision for ‘slow travel’ in this region. Together, we aim to create experiences that highlight the culture, cuisine, and natural beauty of Sakleshpur.”

The retreat’s tranquil setting and intimate vibe make it ideal for couples, families, wellness seekers, and offbeat travellers who want more than just rest they return home refreshed and renewed.

Sterling Kadumane Hills Sakleshpur is located 17 km from Sakleshpur town and about 224 km (roughly 5.5 to 6 hours by road) from Bangalore. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 3.5 hours away.

With this launch, Sterling reinforces its growing portfolio of resorts across India, offering experiences that range from hill stations and jungles to beaches and heritage towns.

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