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.


ITC Grand Chola Wins Net Zero Water Category at COOL Conclave 3.0

ITC Grand Chola Wins Net Zero Water Category at COOL Conclave 3.0

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 26, 2026

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, has been named the Winner in the Net Zero Water Category at the COOL Conclave 3.0 – Decarbonisation Excellence Awards 2026. The recognition highlights the hotel’s continued efforts in water conservation, resource management and sustainable hospitality.

The award reflects ITC Grand Chola’s approach to making sustainability part of its daily operations while continuing to offer a luxury experience to guests. Its work in water conservation, reuse and efficient resource management has helped the hotel reduce its environmental impact through measurable practices. ITC Grand Chola holds LEED Platinum, LEED Zero Carbon and LEED Zero Water certifications, adding to its position as a leading example of sustainable luxury hospitality.

Beyond its sustainability initiatives, the Chennai hotel is also known for its strong connection with the heritage and culture of Southern India. Spread across eight acres, ITC Grand Chola takes inspiration from the Chola dynasty and the architectural traditions of the region.

Its design includes influences from the Brihadeeswara Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram Temple and Airavateswara Temple, creating a setting that brings together South Indian heritage, craftsmanship and luxury.

The hotel’s iconic Sangam lobby features carved balustrades, engraved stairways and detailed artistic elements, while the Grand Staircase showcases the symbolic Wheel of Life motif. These design elements give guests an experience that connects the hotel’s luxury offering with the region’s architectural legacy.

The latest recognition at the COOL Conclave 3.0 – Decarbonisation Excellence Awards adds to ITC Grand Chola’s sustainability achievements. With continued focus on environmental responsibility, resource efficiency and sustainable innovation, the hotel remains committed to shaping a more responsible approach to luxury hospitality in India and beyond.


Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Marks Eight Years of Hospitality and Growth

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Marks Eight Years of Hospitality and Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 25, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai is celebrating its eighth anniversary, marking eight years of hospitality, culinary experiences and strong connections with the city. Since opening in 2018, the hotel has grown alongside Madurai’s tourism, business and hospitality sectors.

The property has built a strong presence among Leisure Travellers, Temple Tourists, Corporate Guests, MICE groups and Wedding celebrations. Over the years, it has continued to adapt to changing guest expectations while focusing on personalized and experience-led hospitality.

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Mr. V. Vasudevan, Chairman, said, “Eight years in Madurai is a milestone built on trust, commitment and strong relationships. We are proud to have grown alongside the city and look forward to creating greater value for Madurai’s hospitality landscape in the years ahead.”

The hotel is also seeing strong business momentum in 2026. During the first half of the year, Courtyard by Marriott Madurai recorded 25%+ growth, with occupancy crossing 85%. Hotel revenue grew by 19.9%, while occupancy growth stood at 8.8%.

Mr. C. Muralikrishnan, Managing Director, said, “Our eight-year journey reflects our ability to evolve with Madurai and its changing hospitality landscape. The strong growth this year reinforces our confidence in the city’s potential and our vision for the future.”

Food and beverage continues to be an important part of the hotel’s offering, with Madurai Kitchen becoming a prominent dining destination for both hotel guests and local diners. Its buffet, food festivals, brunches and curated culinary experiences have added to Madurai’s growing premium dining culture. The hotel has also strengthened its presence in the weddings and MICE segment, having hosted 25+ medical conferences, including national and global associations.

Mr. V. Akshay Ram, Executive Director, said, “Hospitality is ultimately about creating experiences that guests remember. Over the past eight years, we have continually evolved our offerings while staying committed to personalized service and meaningful guest experiences.”

Guest loyalty remains an important part of the hotel’s journey, with repeat guests returning year after year. The property also recorded record guest satisfaction in the first half of 2026. Alongside technology-led convenience, the hotel continues to focus on the human connection that remains central to hospitality.

Sustainability has also become part of the property’s daily operations. Its glass-bottle water plant and energy-efficiency initiatives have helped bring annual electricity consumption down from 2,980,550 kWh to 2,908,447 kWh, saving 72,103 kWh despite an 8.8% increase in occupancy and 19.9% growth in hotel revenue. Engineering-led operational practices have also helped reduce HLP costs from 9.4% to 8.4%.

Mr. Mahesh Padala, General Manager, said, “Our eighth anniversary is a celebration of our guests and our associates who make every experience special. The loyalty of our guests and record satisfaction this year inspire us to raise the bar even further.”

As Courtyard by Marriott Madurai enters its ninth year, the hotel will continue to focus on guest experience, F&B innovation, weddings, MICE, technology and sustainability, while growing alongside Madurai and contributing to the city’s evolving hospitality landscape.


Taj Agra Invites Guests to Embrace the Monsoon with Special Staycation Offer

Taj Agra Invites Guests to Embrace the Monsoon with Special Staycation Offer

By Hariharan U

Published on August 23, 2026

Taj Agra is inviting guests to make the most of the monsoon season with a specially curated Monsoon Staycation, combining comfortable accommodation with dining and wellness benefits for a relaxed getaway in the historic city.

The staycation offer provides guests with savings across key aspects of their stay, including accommodation, food and beverages, and spa and salon services.

Guests can avail 25% savings on breakfast-inclusive stays, along with daily breakfast at the designated dining venue. The offer also includes 25% savings on food and beverages and 25% savings on spa therapies and salon services during the stay.

Speaking about the offer, Bikram Pradhan, Revenue Manager, Taj Agra, said, “The monsoon season offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down, reconnect and enjoy a more leisurely getaway. Through our Monsoon Staycation, we are delighted to welcome guests to Taj Agra for a relaxed and enriching experience, with thoughtfully curated dining and wellness benefits.”

Additional benefits under the offer include up to 8% NeuCoins on eligible bookings and spends, along with standard Wi-Fi throughout the stay.

Key Offer Details:

  • 25% savings on breakfast-inclusive stays
  • Daily breakfast at the designated dining venue
  • 25% savings on food and beverages
  • 25% savings on spa therapies and salon services
  • Up to 8% NeuCoins on bookings and eligible spends
  • Standard Wi-Fi during the stay

The Monsoon Staycation is available for bookings from 18 July to 23 August 2026, with stays valid from 18 July to 30 September 2026.

Located in Agra, Taj Agra offers guests a blend of contemporary hospitality and the cultural heritage of the destination, making it a setting for leisure escapes, celebrations and business stays.

Booking:

Guests can book the offer through Taj Hotels' official booking platform.

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