LaRiSa Hotels and Resorts has signed a hotel management agreement for a new resort in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. Scheduled to open in early 2026, this will be LaRiSa’s fifth property in the state and marks a significant step in the brand’s regional growth strategy.

Developed in collaboration with Grassmere Resorts, the upcoming resort spans 2.5 acres in the scenic Kangra Valley. It will feature 20 rooms and suites, each offering private balconies with views of either Palampur city or the majestic Dhauladhar range. Room sizes will range between 400 and 850 sq. ft.

The property will be equipped with an infinity pool overlooking the Himalayas, a spa with therapy rooms and steam facilities, and curated farm-to-table culinary experiences. Landscaped gardens, a fruit and herb garden, and a peaceful fish pond will further enhance the tranquil vibe of the retreat.

“Palampur in Kangra Valley is witnessing a notable surge in tourism,” said Priya Thakur, Director, LaRiSa Hotels and Resorts. “With the signing of LaRiSa Resort, Palampur, we are strengthening our offering in Himachal Pradesh through this collaboration with the Sandhu family.”

Achint Kaur Sandhu, Partner at Grassmere Resorts, added, “With this partnership we hope to cater to travellers seeking a premium stay experience that has been lacking in this destination.”

Strategically located, the resort will offer easy access to popular attractions such as Neugal Khad, Andretta Artist Village, Saurabh Van Vihar, and Tashi Jong Monastery. It is situated 9 km from Palampur Railway Station and 45 km from Kangra Airport, ensuring good connectivity for visitors.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a new upscale property in Ayodhya—Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Ayodhya Masodha, in partnership with M/s Anuprit Solutions Private Limited. This greenfield project, featuring 120 guest rooms, is expected to open its doors by 2028.

The upcoming hotel will offer a full suite of premium amenities including an all-day dining restaurant, expansive banquet and meeting spaces, a spa, swimming pool, and other upscale facilities to cater to both domestic and international guests. Currently in the advanced planning phase, the development signals Wyndham’s growing confidence in India’s Tier-2 markets.

Aqeel Ahmed, Director of M/s Anuprit Solutions Pvt. Ltd., stated,

“It is a privilege to bring the globally respected Ramada Plaza brand to Ayodhya in partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. With Ayodhya evolving into a major religious and cultural destination, we aim to provide world-class accommodation and service that reflects both the city's deep heritage and its modern growth story.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director – Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added,

“With Ayodhya emerging as a sought-after pilgrimage and cultural hub, this new signing represents our continued investment in high-potential markets. This marks our second hotel signing in the city – a reflection of our belief in Ayodhya’s growth trajectory and our intent to deliver exceptional stays where tradition and hospitality meet.”

This project reinforces Wyndham’s commitment to strengthening its presence in India, particularly in emerging religious tourism and leisure markets. With Ayodhya experiencing a surge in infrastructural and spiritual tourism investment, the Ramada Plaza is set to elevate the hospitality experience for visitors from around the world.

In a major humanitarian move, Tata Sons has announced the formation of a ₹500 crore public charitable trust to support the victims and affected individuals of the recent Air India AI-171 tragedy in Ahmedabad. Named The AI-171 Memorial and Welfare Trust, this initiative reflects the group's commitment to offering both immediate and long-term support to the families of those who lost their lives, those who sustained injuries, and others impacted by the tragic incident.

Registered in Mumbai, the Trust will provide ex-gratia assistance of ₹1 crore to the families of the deceased and cover the medical treatment for seriously injured survivors. Additionally, the Trust will support the rebuilding of the B.J. Medical College Hostel infrastructure, which suffered damage during the incident.

The initiative also acknowledges the tireless efforts of first responders, healthcare professionals, disaster relief workers, and government staff by including them in the welfare ambit. The Trust aims to help them cope with trauma and stress resulting from their crucial service in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Tata Sons and Tata Trusts will each contribute ₹250 crore, totalling ₹500 crore towards the Trust’s philanthropic initiatives. A five-member Board of Trustees will oversee the operations, with S. Padmanabhan, former Tata veteran, and Sidharth Sharma, General Counsel at Tata Sons, appointed as the initial trustees. More appointments will follow.

Once necessary registrations and formalities with tax authorities are completed, the Trust will commence its operations in full swing, ensuring a robust and compassionate response to one of India’s most tragic aviation incidents in recent years.