Hilton’s New Yala Resort in Sri Lanka: A Nature-Focused Oasis

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

Hilton, the renowned global hospitality leader, has recently unveiled its newest gem, the Hilton Yala Resort. Situated on the fringes of Sri Lanka’s famed Yala National Park, this property marks Hilton’s third flagship establishment in the country. Set amidst lush greenery and offering breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean, this resort is an ideal escape for travelers yearning for adventure and relaxation.

The resort’s design is a tribute to the wonders of Yala’s natural beauty. It features 42 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas adorned with contemporary interiors in soothing neutral tones. Safari chic accents and local artworks provide a subtle touch of the locale’s essence. Expansive windows invite guests to connect with the resort's natural surroundings, which teem with diverse flora and fauna. Ground-floor rooms boast private pools ranging from eight to 16 square meters, while those on the upper level offer private hot tubs, creating a tranquil space for relaxation.

Hilton Yala Resort takes its guests beyond its borders, offering an elevated and eco-conscious safari experience led by locally trained rangers. These wildlife experts tailor personalized, twice-daily game drives within Yala National Park. Each safari is not only an opportunity to witness the local wildlife but also a chance to participate in educational sessions that foster a deeper sense of awareness and appreciation for the environment.

The protection of Yala’s biodiversity and environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of Hilton Yala Resort's mission. Hilton collaborates with local partners to safeguard habitats and biodiversity. An onsite animal research program has been initiated, supported by the Hilton Global Foundation. It equips rangers with cutting-edge wildlife information, technology, and tools such as solar-powered weather sensors and night vision binoculars to monitor wildlife around the resort, aiding in their protection.

Hilton Yala Resort is dedicated to contributing to both conservation and the economic well-being of the local communities. The resort actively promotes responsible tourism, and Hilton is playing a pivotal role in conserving the region ethically. In collaboration with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Hilton Yala Resort is partnering on wildlife research and exploring projects to protect wildlife across the Yala area and expand the use of locally grown produce. Moreover, they are excited to develop community education programs.

As part of Hilton’s commitment to destination stewardship and career advancement, they have established a ranger academy program in Sri Lanka. This program aims to increase the pool of qualified rangers and provide meaningful employment and conservation opportunities for the local community. Conducted by a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa-certified trainer, graduates may have the opportunity to work at Hilton Yala Resort.

Hilton Yala Resort offers three exceptional restaurants, each highlighting head chef Jerome Tissera's contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine, predominantly sourced from local ingredients. Guests can savor the flavors of Asia at Dhira, explore Western cuisine at Sandali, or enjoy cocktails and breathtaking views at Vanya. For a truly unique dining experience, venture into the wild for Lanthaaruma, an exclusive dining experience set amidst the lush jungle and the Indian Ocean's lapping waves, featuring a fully customized menu and sommelier-selected wines.

At the heart of the resort lies an outdoor pool that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. The resort also boasts a fully equipped gym and a state-of-the-art spa, providing rejuvenating treatments in a beautifully designed space.

Hilton Yala Resort is part of Hilton Honors, the acclaimed guest loyalty program for Hilton's 22 hotel brands. To celebrate the resort's opening, Hilton Honors members will receive 10,000 bonus points for a minimum three-night stay booked directly with Hilton before December 1, 2023.

Hilton’s Yala Resort is a nature-focused sanctuary that combines adventure and relaxation, offering guests a unique connection with the remarkable Yala National Park and its surroundings while emphasizing environmental conservation and community involvement. Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's natural wonders.

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.

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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.

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.