Holiday Inn Katra Vaishno Devi has announced the appointment of Gaurav Sharma as its new General Manager, marking another milestone in his illustrious career in the hospitality industry. Backed by over 18 years of experience, Gaurav is well-positioned to lead the property, focusing on operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and team development.

Joining the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) in 2019, Gaurav has held pivotal roles across several properties. His most recent assignment as Task Force General Manager at Holiday Inn Amritsar highlighted his ability to drive results under challenging circumstances. Gaurav also made significant contributions to Holiday Inn Goa Candolim and Holiday Inn Agra, successfully implementing revenue growth strategies and enhancing guest experiences. Before IHG, he worked with esteemed brands such as Lemon Tree, The Leela, Radisson, Pride Hotels, Trident, and Renaissance.

Through IHG’s Room to Grow program, Gaurav has capitalized on professional development opportunities, taking on multiple responsibilities and excelling at each. His leadership style emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and delivering personalized, memorable guest experiences.

Expressing his excitement, Gaurav shared, “I am honoured to take on this new role and excited to lead the team at Holiday Inn Katra. Katra is a unique destination, rich in culture and spirituality, and I am focused on offering millennials and Gen Z travellers an immersive, authentic experience. We will also strengthen our local partnerships to ensure Katra becomes a more vibrant and accessible destination for travellers worldwide.”

Pankaj Gupta, Area General Manager for IHG South West Asia, praised Gaurav’s dedication, stating, “Gaurav is the kind of leader who thrives on challenges. He has always stepped in whenever needed—whether for task forces or managing key operations—and brings boundless energy, problem-solving capabilities, and a solutions-driven mindset. We are confident that his leadership will help elevate Holiday Inn Katra as a premier destination in the region.”

Recognized for his exceptional contributions, Gaurav was honoured with the Best Manager Award in 2022 by India Biz, presented by the Honourable Union Minister of State for Tourism. This accolade highlights his ability to drive excellence in the hospitality industry.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gaurav is an avid traveller and enjoys playing volleyball in his leisure time. His well-rounded persona and commitment to hospitality promise to bring a fresh perspective to Holiday Inn Katra, ensuring the property remains a top choice for travellers seeking an enriching stay at this spiritual destination.