Discover Chikmagalur: The Newest Addition to The Fern Hotels & Resorts

Discover Chikmagalur: The Newest Addition to The Fern Hotels & Resorts

By Author

Published on November 1, 2023

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is delighted to announce their latest property, Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa, nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Chikmagalur, Karnataka. With five hotels already in operation in Karnataka, this addition underscores the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences for its guests.

Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa is strategically located in the serene Chikmagalur, a mere 4.30 to 5 hours’ drive from Bengaluru and just 2 hours from Shivamogga. The recent inauguration of the Shivamogga airport has made this tranquil destination even more accessible, drawing visitors from all corners of India. The resort features 70 tastefully decorated rooms, each equipped with modern comforts and amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for guests.

Chikmagalur, often referred to as the “Coffee Land of Karnataka,” is a haven for nature lovers. Its lush greenery, rolling hills, and sprawling coffee plantations offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore picturesque trekking trails, captivating waterfalls, and immersive coffee plantation tours while immersing themselves in the region’s rich coffee heritage.

Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director of The Fern Hotels & Resorts, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are truly excited about this new venture in Chikmagalur. Chikmagalur holds significant potential in terms of tourism and business. This signing aligns perfectly with our vision of extending our footprint in key domestic markets. We look forward to welcoming guests to Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa and providing them an experience filled with the warmth of our hospitality.”

The signing of Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa is another milestone for The Fern Hotels & Resorts, underscoring their commitment to excellence and growth. With its upscale amenities, commitment to environmental conservation, and picturesque location, the resort is poised to become the preferred destination for leisure travelers, conferences, and weddings in the region.

Pawan MR, Partner of Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa, expressed his pride in the association, stating, “We are immensely proud to be associated with The Fern Hotels & Resorts, a brand that shares our vision of sustainable and hospitable travel experiences. Our goal is to create a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Chikmanglur while enjoying the comforts of our thoughtfully designed resort. We envision our resort as a destination where every stay is marked by warm hospitality, environmental responsibility, and unforgettable experiences. We look forward to welcoming guests to Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa and are committed to making their stay a landmark in their journey of memorable travels.”

With this new addition, The Fern Hotels & Resorts will expand its presence in the Karnataka region, encompassing a total of 7 hotels and resorts, offering over 500 keys. These Fern-branded properties in the region include The Fern Belagavi, The Fern Shivamogga, The Fern Residency Yeshwanthpur Bengaluru, The Fern Residency Vijayapura, The Fern Residency Hubbali, and an upcoming property, The Fern Residency Seshadripuram, Bengaluru, with 78 keys. This expansion highlights The Fern’s commitment to providing world-class experiences for its guests.

Chikmagalur's Planetree The Fern Resort & Spa is set to become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences. The Fern Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its footprint in Karnataka, offering over 500 keys across 7 properties in the region, making it a prominent player in the Indian hospitality industry.


Planet Hotels & Resorts Accelerates India Expansion with Lifestyle Hospitality Focus

Planet Hotels & Resorts Accelerates India Expansion with Lifestyle Hospitality Focus

By Hariharan U

Published on April 7, 2026

Planet Hotels & Resorts is steadily strengthening its presence across India, with a clear focus on lifestyle-driven hospitality and premium travel experiences. Based out of Mumbai, the brand is building a strategically curated pipeline aimed at high-potential leisure, urban, and spiritual destinations.

Under the leadership of Anand Chatterjee, who has led the hospitality vertical for over a decade, the company is positioning itself as a key player in India’s evolving premium hospitality space.

The group’s journey began with the launch of Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Goa in 2013, which set the tone for its design-forward and experience-led approach. Since then, the portfolio has expanded across destinations such as Thane, Powai, and Manali.

Flagship urban properties like Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel reflect the brand’s commitment to design-led stays and immersive guest experiences. Expanding its boutique footprint, the group also marked its entry into the hills with a Manali property under The Beatle brand in 2025, catering to travellers seeking elevated mountain retreats.

In line with its focus on the elite segment, the brand recently introduced Kings Mansion in North Goa. Designed as an ultra-premium destination, the property aims to deliver privacy, bespoke services, and a refined hospitality experience tailored to discerning travellers.

Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious roadmap with upcoming projects planned across New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur, and Hyderabad, while also evaluating additional markets. The expansion strategy is focused on tapping into India’s most sought-after travel destinations, spanning leisure, spiritual, and urban segments.

Speaking on the growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee highlighted that the brand’s expansion is driven by a deep understanding of emerging lifestyle destinations and evolving consumer expectations. He emphasised that the focus remains on creating design-forward environments, intuitive service, and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.

With a growing portfolio that blends aesthetics, personalisation, and experience-led offerings, Planet Hotels & Resorts is positioning itself to play a significant role in shaping India’s next phase of premium hospitality growth.


Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on April 2, 2026

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

By Hariharan U

Published on April 1, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.

As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.

Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”

Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.

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