Accor's Grand Mercure Agra: Your Gateway to Iconic Luxury

Accor's Grand Mercure Agra: Your Gateway to Iconic Luxury

By Author

Published on October 14, 2023

Unveiling a world of timeless elegance and extraordinary luxury, Accor has introduced the Grand Mercure Agra, a haven of sophistication situated at the heart of Agra. This remarkable property features 168 meticulously designed rooms and offers an unparalleled view of the Taj Mahal. It stands as a symbol of uncompromising excellence in hospitality, promising an unparalleled experience in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Accor, one of the world’s leading hospitality groups, has marked its presence in Agra, the City of Taj Mahal, with the grand inauguration of the Grand Mercure Agra. This luxury hotel, comprising 168 meticulously designed rooms, offers an unrivaled vista of the Taj Mahal, reaffirming Accor’s dedication to providing unparalleled hospitality experiences.

The hotel is strategically located on Fatehabad Road, offering guests a brief yet awe-inspiring drive to the Taj Mahal. It immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of Agra’s cultural heritage, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

Grand Mercure Agra offers a trio of exceptional dining venues: Lattice, an all-day dining establishment tempting guests with a lavish buffet and à la carte culinary delights; Bello-Italiano, a haven for aficionados of authentic Italian cuisine; and Sky Grill, a rooftop sanctuary that provides an ethereal perspective of the Taj Mahal, creating unforgettable dining memories.

In addition to its culinary excellence, the hotel provides facilities to cater to a variety of events and gatherings. The Grand Crystal Ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 500 esteemed guests, complements two fully equipped meeting rooms. For relaxation, guests can rejuvenate in the rooftop swimming pool, set against the Taj Mahal's mesmerizing backdrop. A state-of-the-art fitness center and Nirvana Spa offer further opportunities for rejuvenation.

Mr. Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President of Accor India and South Asia, expressed the profound historical significance of Agra, emphasizing the Grand Mercure’s role in providing unparalleled hospitality experiences. He stated that the property reflects Accor's dedication to contemporary travelers, offering them premium comforts and cultural reconnections.

Mr. Vivek Mahajan, General Manager of Grand Mercure Agra, noted that the hotel represents more than just a destination; it is a testament to exceptional service and a gateway to discovering the beauty of Agra. He emphasized the essence of Agra’s rich history and vibrant culture, all reimagined through the lens of unparalleled comfort and unmatched service. Grand Mercure Agra invites guests to experience the uniqueness of local culture, from iconic dishes to cherished rituals.

The Grand Mercure Agra is set to redefine luxury and hospitality in the iconic City of Taj, offering guests an unforgettable sojourn in this historic and culturally rich destination.


Lemonridge Hotels Expands Hyderabad Presence with New Property in IDPL Balanagar

Lemonridge Hotels Expands Hyderabad Presence with New Property in IDPL Balanagar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 13, 2025

 Lemonridge Hotels Group has officially launched its third property in Hyderabad — Lemonridge Hotels IDPL Balanagar Hyderabad. Located in the buzzing IDPL Balanagar-Chintal area, this new hotel features 30 well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and versatile event spaces accommodating between 30 to 300 guests.

What sets this property apart is its focus on offering personalized service 24/7, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.

Strategically situated about 36 km from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, 7 km from Secunderabad Junction Railway Station, and just 4 km from Balanagar Metro Station, the hotel ensures excellent connectivity for travelers.

Commenting on the launch, Co-founders Mr. V.V. Narayana, Mr. Srinivas Reddy Uppathi, and Mr. Vijay Kumar Garine said,

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our third hotel in Hyderabad. IDPL Balanagar (Chintal) is renowned for its robust economy, rapidly expanding Pharma & Hardware sector, and significant tourist attractions, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers.”

They added,

“It is also conveniently connected to other major parts of the city through National Highway 65 (NH-65), ensuring easy access to key locations such as Begumpet and Ameerpet.”

With its strategic location, modern amenities, and commitment to service excellence, Lemonridge Hotels IDPL Balanagar is poised to become a preferred stay option in the city’s growing hospitality landscape.


IHG Signs Holiday Inn Ahmedabad, Expanding Footprint in Gujarat

IHG Signs Holiday Inn Ahmedabad, Expanding Footprint in Gujarat

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 12, 2025

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a new Holiday Inn in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The management agreement has been signed with Atithi Gokul Hotel Inns Pvt Ltd, part of the AG Group. The 150-key hotel is expected to open in the third quarter of 2028 and will mark another significant step in IHG’s strategic expansion in high-potential Indian cities.

Located along the Sarkhej–Gandhinagar Highway, the hotel will be a part of Highline, a mixed-use development featuring both residential and commercial spaces. Its prime location ensures seamless access to key government institutions, educational hubs, corporate offices, and IT parks—positioning it as an attractive option for both business and leisure travellers.

Guests will be welcomed with well-appointed rooms and suites, three distinctive dining outlets including an All-Day Dining restaurant and Lobby Lounge, a ballroom for events, a fitness centre, a swimming pool, and ample parking—delivering on Holiday Inn’s promise to make travel more relaxed and enjoyable.

Commenting on the announcement, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts said, “We are delighted to expand our footprint in Gujarat with the signing of Holiday Inn Ahmedabad. With its dynamic industrial, commercial, and educational sectors, Ahmedabad is an important destination for us. We’re confident that this hotel will cater to the evolving needs of travellers while also delivering strong value for our partners.”

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He added, “India continues to be a priority market for IHG globally. The Holiday Inn brand family has seen remarkable success here, and we are on a robust growth trajectory with a strong pipeline across key cities.”

Vikram Bharvad, Managing Director, AG Group, shared, “Ahmedabad has shown sustained demand in the hospitality sector, and we are pleased to collaborate with IHG to introduce the globally respected Holiday Inn brand. The city’s strategic growth, quality infrastructure, and commercial vitality make it a strong market for branded hospitality.”

Recognised as a major hub for textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles, Ahmedabad is one of India’s most prominent commercial and manufacturing centres. It ranks as the second-largest cotton producer in the country and a top exporter of gems, jewellery, and denim.

With 50 hotels currently operating in India and a pipeline of 63 more in the next 3–5 years, IHG continues to expand across its six brands, including Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, voco, Holiday Inn, and Holiday Inn Express.

The new Holiday Inn Ahmedabad further solidifies IHG’s commitment to India’s thriving hospitality market and underscores its long-term vision for growth in urban and emerging destinations.


IHCL Brings Vivanta to Mysuru with New Greenfield Signing

IHCL Brings Vivanta to Mysuru with New Greenfield Signing

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 12, 2025

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new Vivanta hotel in Mysuru. This greenfield project, developed in partnership with the Farah Group, is part of IHCL’s ongoing commitment to expanding in high-growth cultural and economic destinations.

Located strategically near Mysuru’s Hebbal Industrial Area, the upcoming 115-key Vivanta hotel will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a fully equipped gym, a swimming pool, and flexible meeting and event spaces tailored for both corporate and social gatherings.

Commenting on the signing, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Mysuru, with its rich cultural heritage and a diverse economy spanning manufacturing, education, and tourism, continues to evolve as a key urban centre. Enhanced connectivity through infrastructure developments like the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway is further boosting travel and tourism in the region. This signing aligns with our strategy of expanding in fast-growing destinations. We are delighted to partner with the Farah Group on this project.”

Mysuru is a city deeply rooted in royal heritage and vibrant traditions, famous for its iconic landmarks like the Mysuru Palace, Chamundi Hills, and the Brindavan Gardens.

Expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, Liaquath Ali Khan, Managing Director of Farah Builders, said, “We are proud to partner with IHCL to bring the Vivanta brand to Mysuru. This hotel will serve as a contemporary hub for the city’s growing hospitality needs.”

With the addition of this project, IHCL now has 26 hotels in Karnataka, including 12 under development, reinforcing its position as a leading player in the state’s hospitality sector.

About Farah Group:
Founded by visionary Mr. Sadath Ali Khan, Farah Group has been a key player in shaping Bengaluru’s real estate sector for over five decades. Under the leadership of Liaquath Ali Khan, the group has expanded into commercial, residential, and now hospitality sectors, building a strong reputation in the city’s real estate landscape.

About IHCL:
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries are home to iconic brands including Taj, Claridges Collection, SeleQtions, Tree of Life, Vivanta, Gateway, and Ginger. With a legacy that began in 1903 with The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, IHCL operates a global portfolio of 388 hotels, including 139 under development, across 14 countries and over 150 locations. Recognized as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand in 2024 by Brand Finance, IHCL is listed on both the BSE and NSE.

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