Dusit Hotels & Resorts Marks a Grand Return to India with dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla

Dusit Hotels & Resorts Marks a Grand Return to India with dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 20, 2024

Dusit Hotels & Resorts, a leading hospitality brand under Dusit International, has officially re-entered the Indian market with the grand opening of dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla. Nestled amidst the scenic grandeur of the Himalayas, the hotel welcomed its first guests on 15 December 2024, signaling a new era of Thai-inspired hospitality in India.

Strategically located just 20 kilometres from Shimla, Himachal Pradesh’s bustling capital, dusitD2 Fagu offers a tranquil haven for luxury travelers, wellness enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The property features 80 exquisitely designed rooms, ranging from 38 to 86 square metres, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including the region’s largest temperature-controlled swimming pool and the signature Namm Spa, known for its authentic Thai massage therapies and rejuvenating wellness treatments. DusitD2 Fagu is also set to become the go-to destination for events, boasting the region’s largest banquet hall, a spacious terrace lawn, and the only outdoor amphitheatre in the area.

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For culinary enthusiasts, the hotel offers a delightful mix of dining experiences. Dusit Gourmet serves an array of international dishes for all-day dining, while SOI specializes in authentic Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine, bringing a taste of Thailand to the Himalayan foothills.

Easily accessible, dusitD2 Fagu is an 80-minute drive from Shimla Airport and a four-and-a-half-hour journey from Chandigarh Airport, which connects to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The hotel is also conveniently located near Kalka Railway Station, Kufri, and several tourist hotspots, including Mahasu Peak and the UNESCO-listed Shimla-Kalka Toy Train route.

“We are thrilled to expand Dusit’s footprint into India with the opening of dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla, our very first hotel in this vibrant and diverse country,” said Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International. “India represents an important market for Dusit, and we have high expectations for its development potential, with four additional properties already in the pipeline and more to follow. These openings reflect our dedication to delivering unique, localised experiences that celebrate the culture and charm of each destination while providing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality.”

With 301 properties across 19 countries, including 57 under Dusit Hotels & Resorts and 244 luxury villas under Elite Havens, Dusit International continues to expand its global footprint. The opening of dusitD2 Fagu marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey to create memorable experiences that resonate with travelers worldwide.

To plan your stay at dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla, visit the official Dusit Hotels & Resorts website.


ROHL Signs Unique Experiential Regenta Resort in Mysore

ROHL Signs Unique Experiential Regenta Resort in Mysore

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 16, 2025

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) is taking experiential hospitality to a whole new level with the signing of Regenta Resort Tropical Village in Mysore. This one-of-its-kind resort will offer a globally inspired village experience, combining sustainability with immersive cultural storytelling.

Set amidst lush natural surroundings, the newly signed property will operate under ROHL’s franchise model as part of its asset-light growth strategy. The resort will feature 35 themed cottages, each inspired by the unique architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle of different continents—offering guests a passport-free global experience. Adding to the charm is Mangala Kutira, a dedicated block of 12 rooms that will celebrate India’s Pancha Bhootas and Pancha Tattva, giving visitors a deep dive into ancient Indian philosophy and design.

Commenting on the signing, Arjun Baljee, President, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., shared:

“Mysore has always been close to our heart, and we wanted to bring something truly new to this historic city. The Regenta Resort Tropical Village is our way of blending wellness, cultural richness, and sustainability into one holistic offering. We’re thrilled to collaborate with Mr. Mahesh, the visionary behind Tropical Village, to bring this unique concept to life.”

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The resort aims to attract both business and leisure travellers. It will include an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty kitchen for non-vegetarian cuisine, and a Healthy Bar serving detox juices and traditional wellness drinks. In line with its eco-conscious approach, the property will also feature a natural swimming pool, traditional games from across continents, and a children’s play area.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, there’s a Yoga Hall, a full-service Wellness Centre, and banqueting spaces including a lush 12,000 sq. ft. outdoor lawn, ideal for events and celebrations.

Mr. Mahesh, Owner of Tropical Village, added:

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“Regenta Resort Tropical Village is a celebration of traditional hospitality and cultural diversity. We're excited to partner with ROHL and believe this concept will add tremendous value to Mysore’s growing tourism landscape.”

Known for its royal charm, spiritual retreats, and laid-back lifestyle, Mysore is fast emerging as a preferred destination for those seeking meaningful, wellness-centric travel. With this new signing, ROHL continues its mission of creating authentic and memorable guest experiences that go beyond the ordinary.


Clarks Hotels & Resorts Unveils Gir Aatithya Clarks Inn in Sasan Gir

Clarks Hotels & Resorts Unveils Gir Aatithya Clarks Inn in Sasan Gir

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2025

Clarks Hotels & Resorts has officially launched Gir Aatithya Clarks Inn, an upscale nature-themed property located in the scenic wilderness of Sasan Gir, Gujarat. Set on a sprawling 16-acre estate, just 25 kilometers from the Somnath Temple, the resort is designed to cater to wildlife enthusiasts, spiritual travellers, and families looking for immersive and experiential getaways.

The property offers Deluxe and Premium rooms, each thoughtfully designed with private balconies overlooking lush orchards. The stay is further elevated with features like a swimming pool, gym, kids' play area, and the brand’s signature floating breakfast served at the pool.

Rahul Deb Banerjee, COO of The Clarks Hotels & Resorts, shared, “Expanding our presence to unique destinations like Sasan-Gir aligns perfectly with our corporate strategy of providing personalized experiences to our guests. Gir Aatithya Clarks Inn is crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquility of its surroundings. As domestic tourism continues to grow and travellers seek immersive getaways, we are confident that this property will offer unforgettable moments rooted in nature, culture, and heartfelt hospitality.”

The in-house vegetarian restaurant, The Bridge, serves a variety of multi-cuisine dishes, with a focus on local Gujarati delicacies. For events, the resort features a 32,000 sq. ft. lawn and an 8,000 sq. ft. banquet hall, ideal for weddings, retreats, and business gatherings.

In a statement, the ownership of Gir Aatithya Clarks Inn noted, “Our vision is to create immersive stays that connect travellers with the region’s natural and cultural richness. From mango plucking in our private orchard to exploring Gir’s iconic safaris, we’re offering guests more than just a stay — it’s a journey into the soul of Gujarat.”

With proximity to Gir Jungle Safari, Devaliya Safari Park, and major pilgrimage routes, the hotel is well-suited for wildlife photographers, honeymooners, families, and NRIs seeking a deeper connection with the land.


IHG Launches Holiday Inn Express in Kolkata’s New Town, Expanding Its Presence in East India

IHG Launches Holiday Inn Express in Kolkata’s New Town, Expanding Its Presence in East India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 15, 2025

 IHG Hotels & Resorts has officially opened its newest property—Holiday Inn Express Kolkata New Town, further expanding its footprint across India. Located in the bustling IT and commercial district of Rajarhat, the hotel offers a smart, simple, and seamless stay for modern travellers—whether on business or a leisure trip.

With 113 well-designed rooms, the hotel delivers all the essentials needed for a refreshing stay. From Express Start Breakfast options—including hearty meals to healthy bites—and Grab & Go choices for guests on the move, the property caters to a variety of travel needs.

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High-speed Wi-Fi, a 24/7 Fitness Centre, and in-room features such as blackout curtains, power showers, USB ports, and flat-screen TVs with content mirroring ensure guests stay comfortable, connected, and productive. Flexible workspaces also make it a practical choice for corporate travellers.

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said,
“We’re excited to bring Holiday Inn Express to Kolkata’s New Town. This opening highlights our commitment to smart, seamless stays. Being in the heart of a thriving business hub, we’re confident this hotel will meet the needs of corporate and leisure guests alike.”

Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman, Managing Director & CEO of SAMHI Hotels Ltd., added,
“We are proud to launch our first hotel in East India with this Holiday Inn Express. It reflects our vision to expand with relevant, high-quality hotel offerings across India’s key markets. Kolkata is a significant addition to our portfolio.”

The hotel is located close to popular spots such as Eco Park and offers easy access to the city’s core areas, making it a perfect base to explore Kolkata.

Holiday Inn Express is IHG’s largest and fastest-growing brand globally, with over 3,200 hotels operating and 644 in the pipeline. Guests booking directly through ihg.com can also sign up for IHG One Rewards for added benefits and exclusive perks.

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