EasyMyTrip's $12.5M Luxury Hotel Investment to Transform Ayodhya's Hospitality Landscape

EasyMyTrip's $12.5M Luxury Hotel Investment to Transform Ayodhya's Hospitality Landscape

By Author

Published on February 14, 2024

EasyMyTrip, a household name in travel tech, is setting its sights on Ayodhya, India, with an ambitious plan to invest a whopping Rs1bn ($12.5m) in a luxury hotel project. This venture, in partnership with Jeewani Hospitality, marks a significant pivot towards enhancing the city's accommodation offerings, particularly for religious tourists flocking to the recently inaugurated Shree Ram Mandir.

The upcoming five-star hotel promises not just luxury but a strategic location that's less than a kilometer away from Shree Ram Mandir. This proximity is expected to be a major draw for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the spiritual essence of Ayodhya.

With religious tourism in Ayodhya on a steep upward trajectory, recording 1.439 billion tourists in 2022, EasyMyTrip's investment comes at an opportune time. The sector is anticipated to burgeon into a Rs59bn industry by 2028, creating upwards of 140 million jobs. This hotel project is not just an investment in bricks and mortar but a testament to the faith in Ayodhya's burgeoning potential as a spiritual hub.

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Nishant Pitti, CEO and co-founder of EasyMyTrip, shares the vision behind the investment, emphasizing the dual goal of offering opulence and peace in the heart of Ayodhya. With the city gaining momentum as a key destination post the establishment of the Ram Temple, attracting over 2.4 million visitors, the move is poised to cater to a segment yearning for premium hospitality experiences.

This announcement follows EasyMyTrip's positive financial performance, showcasing a 9.6% jump in net profit in the December quarter of fiscal year 2024. The venture into Ayodhya's hospitality sector aligns with the company's broader strategy to diversify its offerings and tap into new markets, mirroring the industry's overall momentum towards expanding in pilgrimage cities.

The move sees EasyMyTrip joining ranks with other hospitality players like OYO, which recently expanded its footprint in Ayodhya, signaling a growing interest in the city's hospitality market. Additionally, EasyMyTrip's recent stake acquisition in Eco Hotels and Resorts further underscores its commitment to sustainable and expansive hospitality ventures.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Strengthens Sustainable Hospitality Initiatives on World Nature Conservation Day

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Strengthens Sustainable Hospitality Initiatives on World Nature Conservation Day

By Hariharan U

Published on July 25, 2026

Novotel Vijayawada Varun has reinforced its commitment to sustainable hospitality practices on the occasion of World Nature Conservation Day, observed on July 28, by highlighting its ongoing initiatives focused on environmental responsibility, resource conservation, and responsible tourism.

Aligned with this year's theme of “Living Sustainably in Harmony with Nature,” the hotel continues to integrate sustainability into its daily operations through cleaner energy solutions, waste reduction practices, and responsible resource management.

One of the key sustainability initiatives undertaken by the property was the transition from diesel to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for boiler operations used in laundry steam generation. Implemented in March 2023, the initiative has contributed to an estimated annual reduction of approximately 98 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions while eliminating sulphur dioxide emissions associated with diesel-based operations.

The hotel has also expanded its renewable energy adoption through solar power. Since early 2025, solar energy has contributed approximately 33 to 44 per cent of the property's monthly electricity requirements, resulting in an estimated annual reduction of around 1,476 to 1,968 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

Beyond operational efficiencies, Novotel Vijayawada Varun has incorporated sustainability into the guest experience through initiatives such as complimentary electric vehicle charging stations, encouraging cleaner mobility among travellers. The property has also eliminated single-use plastics as part of its efforts to minimise waste and promote environmentally conscious practices.

Commenting on the initiative, Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said, "World Nature Conservation Day reminds us that every organization has an opportunity to contribute towards a healthier planet through meaningful action. We remain committed to adapting responsible practices that create a positive environmental impact while delivering a seamless experience for our guests."

The hotel's sustainability efforts have also received international recognition through the Green Key Certification, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education, acknowledging its commitment towards responsible environmental practices.

As sustainability continues to influence the future of travel and hospitality, Novotel Vijayawada Varun remains focused on creating a greener hospitality ecosystem through cleaner energy adoption, conscious operations, and responsible guest experiences.


LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts Expands Uttarakhand Presence with Two New Hotel Management Agreements

LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts Expands Uttarakhand Presence with Two New Hotel Management Agreements

By Hariharan U

Published on July 24, 2026

LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts has expanded its presence in Uttarakhand with the signing and launch of two new Hotel Management Agreements for Ramgarh Vatika and Kumaon Cottage, both joining the portfolio under the AM Hotel Kollection.

The additions mark another milestone in LaRiSa’s growth journey, taking its presence in India to 39 hotels while strengthening its footprint in the Kumaon region, which continues to attract travellers seeking peaceful, nature-led, and experiential stays.

Located near Nainital, both properties offer guests a quieter alternative to conventional hill destinations while retaining easy access to the region’s attractions. Rooted in their surroundings, Ramgarh Vatika and Kumaon Cottage reflect LaRiSa’s focus on creating hospitality experiences that celebrate local character, heritage, and regional culture.

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Ramgarh Vatika is a wooden chalet-style boutique retreat situated in the hills of Ramgarh at an altitude of over 4,500 feet. The property offers mountain-facing views, an in-house restaurant featuring freshly prepared cuisine and local Kumaoni specialities, along with curated experiences inspired by the natural surroundings.

Kumaon Cottage, meanwhile, carries a rich heritage legacy, having originated as a private home nearly 180 years ago. Over the years, the property has been transformed into a boutique stay while preserving its traditional charm through carved wooden doors, sheesham wood flooring, and handcrafted furniture created by local artisans.

The dining experience at Kumaon Cottage focuses on fresh organic ingredients and regional flavours, with in-house chefs creating dishes that reflect the culinary traditions of Kumaon.

Commenting on the new additions, Randhir Narayan, CEO, LaRiSa Hotels and Resorts, said, "Signing Ramgarh Vatika and Kumaon Cottage was not a move to add more hotels to our portfolio, rather a way to deepen our connection to a landscape and a way of travelling that feels quieter and more personal. Both hotels are rooted in their surroundings, and that is exactly what guides us when we grow: to build with intention, not just ambition."

With these additions, LaRiSa continues to strengthen its presence across India through its three brands, LaRiSa Resorts, AM Hotel Kollection, and 8fold by LaRiSa. The company focuses on developing professionally managed properties that combine warm hospitality, regional experiences, and a strong connection with their destinations.

The expansion into Uttarakhand reflects the growing demand for boutique mountain retreats and experiential hospitality, as travellers increasingly seek meaningful stays beyond traditional tourist destinations.


Accor’s Mid Year Sale Offers Up to 25% Off Stays at Novotel Vijayawada Varun

Accor’s Mid Year Sale Offers Up to 25% Off Stays at Novotel Vijayawada Varun

By Hariharan U

Published on July 22, 2026

Accor is inviting travellers to make their next getaway more rewarding with its Mid Year Sale, offering savings of up to 25% across more than 1,500 participating hotels in Asia Pacific, Africa, and beyond, including Novotel Vijayawada Varun.

The limited-time offer provides an opportunity for guests to plan city escapes, family holidays, business trips extended into leisure, and relaxing staycations at attractive value.

Bookings for the offer are open until July 31, 2026, with stays valid through September 30, 2026. Guests can enjoy 20% savings, while members of ALL – Accor Live Limitless, Accor’s lifestyle loyalty programme, receive an additional 5% discount on their stays.

Commenting on the offer, Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said: "At Novotel Vijayawada Varun, we believe a memorable getaway should be both accessible and exceptional. Accor's Mid Year Sale gives travellers the perfect opportunity to experience our warm hospitality and distinctive dining experiences at even greater value. Whether it is a relaxing weekend staycation, a family break or a business trip extended into leisure, we look forward to welcoming guests for an unforgettable stay in the heart of Vijayawada."

Located in the heart of Vijayawada, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, the city’s only five-star deluxe hotel, offers contemporary accommodation combined with signature hospitality experiences. The property features 233 elegantly designed rooms and suites, a rejuvenating spa, a fully equipped fitness centre, and an infinity swimming pool overlooking the city.

Beyond accommodation, guests can explore the hotel’s diverse culinary offerings, including the live Teppanyaki experience at Red Bowl, international cuisine at Food Exchange, handcrafted beverages at Gourmet Bar, panoramic city views at Skydeck, and artisanal desserts from The Cake Factory.

The hotel also focuses on responsible hospitality through initiatives such as complimentary EV charging facilities for guests and sustainability-driven practices, enhancing the overall stay experience.

Travellers who are not yet members of ALL – Accor Live Limitless can join the programme free of charge to access exclusive member rates, rewards, and special offers throughout the year.

The Accor Mid Year Sale is available for bookings until July 31, 2026, with stays valid until September 30, 2026, subject to availability and applicable terms and conditions

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