Espire Hospitality Group to Launch Dual-Branded Hotel in Ayodhya

Espire Hospitality Group to Launch Dual-Branded Hotel in Ayodhya

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 23, 2024

Espire Hospitality Group, a rapidly growing name in the Indian hospitality sector, is set to launch a new dual-branded hotel in the historic city of Ayodhya. This landmark project, scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2024, will feature 150 rooms, split between two distinct brands: ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels and Resorts.

The new hotel will offer 50 rooms under the ZANA Luxury Resorts brand, providing guests with a high-end boutique resort experience. The remaining 100 rooms will be managed by Country Inn Hotels and Resorts, offering a more affordable yet comfortable stay. This dual-brand approach allows Espire Hospitality to cater to a wide range of travelers, from those seeking luxury to those preferring a budget-friendly option.

Strategically located, the hotel will provide guests with easy access to Ayodhya's significant landmarks, including the Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi Temple, and Kanak Bhawan. This makes it an ideal choice for tourists and pilgrims visiting the city, which is renowned for its cultural and historical importance.

Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant, which offers both buffet and à la carte menus. The culinary experience is designed to cater to diverse tastes, ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors.

In addition to its dining offerings, the hotel will feature a range of amenities aimed at enhancing the guest experience. These include a children’s play area named Toddle Wobble, a gaming arena, and a versatile event space covering 3,000 square feet, suitable for various gatherings and events.

The ZANA Luxury Resorts segment of the hotel promises an opulent experience with personalized services, while the Country Inn Hotels and Resorts segment will focus on providing comfort and family-friendly hospitality. This combination ensures that all guests, regardless of their budget, will find their stay pleasant and memorable.

Akhil Arora, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Espire Hospitality Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are thrilled to bring our two brands, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels and Resorts, to the city of epic Ramayana, Ayodhya.”

“This signing marks a significant milestone for us as we expand our presence in this culturally rich and historically significant city. Ayodhya’s remarkable transformation into a world-class pilgrimage destination, highlighted by the inauguration of the iconic Ram Mandir, has attracted an influx of tourists from around the world. With Ayodhya expected to become the ‘world’s most sought-after’ pilgrimage destination, we are committed to offering exceptional experiences to the travellers, combining luxury and comfort in one property, at a prime location in Ayodhya,” he added.

The launch of the dual-branded hotel in Ayodhya by Espire Hospitality Group marks a significant step in the company’s expansion. By combining the luxurious ZANA Luxury Resorts and the more economical Country Inn Hotels and Resorts under one roof, the group aims to cater to a diverse range of guests, enhancing their stay with top-notch amenities and services. As Ayodhya continues to grow as a major pilgrimage site, this new hotel is poised to become a key player in the city’s hospitality landscape.


Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 27, 2026

Taj Chandigarh has marked a major milestone by achieving the EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years. This recognition highlights the hotel’s consistent efforts towards sustainability and responsible operations, setting it apart as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality.

The certification is awarded by EarthCheck, a globally recognised scientific benchmarking and certification body for the travel and tourism sector. Earning Platinum status is a significant achievement, given that it requires at least 10 continuous years of verified performance across key sustainability measures. By maintaining this level for 13 years, Taj Chandigarh has gone beyond the standard and strengthened its position in responsible hospitality.

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This achievement also reflects the larger vision of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), under which Taj Chandigarh operates. Across its portfolio, IHCL has focused on reducing energy use, conserving water, and cutting down waste, all while ensuring a high-quality guest experience. The EarthCheck framework also aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making these efforts part of a broader purpose.

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Speaking on the milestone, Surinder Singh, Area Director – Operations & General Manager, Taj Chandigarh, said,

“Achieving EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years is a proud milestone for us. It reflects our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. At Taj Chandigarh, we believe that luxury and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand and this recognition reinforces our continued efforts towards creating a greener future.”

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Ankur Sharma, Chief Engineer, Taj Chandigarh, added, “This achievement is the result of consistent efforts, innovation and a strong focus on resource efficiency. From energy conservation to water management and waste reduction, our teams work tirelessly to ensure that sustainability is embedded in every aspect of our operations. We remain committed to enhancing our practices and setting new benchmarks in environmental performance.”

With travellers increasingly looking for responsible and sustainable choices, recognitions like this build trust and confidence. Taj Chandigarh’s continued success with EarthCheck Platinum not only celebrates a long-standing achievement but also sets a strong example for the hospitality industry, showing that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.


The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

By Hariharan U

Published on April 26, 2026

Marking Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar has introduced an immersive e-cycle experience in collaboration with Svitch, reinforcing its focus on sustainability-led luxury.

The initiative is designed to offer guests a low-impact, mindful way to explore Gandhinagar, encouraging slower, more conscious travel while reducing carbon footprint. By integrating eco-friendly mobility into the guest journey, the hotel continues to position sustainability as a core element of its hospitality experience.

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Set against the city’s serene surroundings, the e-cycle experience allows guests to engage more deeply with their environment, blending wellbeing, exploration, and environmental responsibility. The offering reflects a broader shift in luxury travel, where guests are increasingly seeking experiences that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, highlighted the hotel’s commitment to creating experiences that are enriching while embedding responsible practices into everyday operations.

The launch was complemented by an Earth Day cyclethon, bringing together guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community. The activity aimed to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards sustainable living, while encouraging active participation in eco-conscious initiatives.

Following the ride, guests experienced the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, aligning the sustainability narrative with wellness-focused dining.

Through initiatives like this, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, enhancing both comfort and awareness.


WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

By Hariharan U

Published on April 25, 2026

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa is redefining luxury getaways in the hills with its expansive offering set amidst the scenic Kasauli Hills.

Perched in the lush Shivalik range, the resort blends natural beauty with refined hospitality, offering guests a tranquil escape marked by panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a thoughtfully curated luxury experience. Designed as a sanctuary for relaxation, the property combines modern amenities with a serene setting that encourages guests to unwind at a leisurely pace.

Operated under the WelcomHeritage umbrella since December 2022, the resort has positioned itself as a full-scale five-star destination in Solan. With 93 well-appointed rooms, the property caters to a wide range of travellers, offering accommodation options that include deluxe rooms, suites, family-friendly cottages, and an exclusive four-bedroom luxury villa.

The resort is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities, including a luxury spa and salon, wellness centre, and an all-weather heated indoor swimming pool, along with a dedicated children’s pool. These features ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests across seasons.

Beyond leisure stays, the property has also emerged as a preferred venue for destination weddings, corporate conferences, and large-scale events, supported by its expansive layout and premium infrastructure.

The design philosophy strikes a balance between modern sophistication and timeless charm, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. From intimate vacations to grand celebrations, the resort offers an environment that blends comfort with understated luxury.

With its scenic location, comprehensive facilities, and focus on guest experience, WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa stands out as a premier mountain retreat, offering travellers a refined escape in the hills.

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