IHCL Expands in Bhutan with New SeleQtions Hotel in Thimphu

IHCL Expands in Bhutan with New SeleQtions Hotel in Thimphu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 19, 2024

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has strengthened its presence in Bhutan by signing an 83-key hotel in Thimphu. This hotel will be rebranded as an IHCL SeleQtions property.

“We are delighted to expand our presence in Bhutan. The country’s growing popularity as a short-haul international getaway, particularly among Indian travelers, presents a significant opportunity for us. Thimphu’s strategic location makes it a natural inclusion in the popular Paro – Thimphu – Phobjikha itinerary, allowing us to create a seamless circuit for those seeking to explore this Himalayan kingdom,” said Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL.

The hotel conversion will enhance the interiors and offer a diverse range of dining options, including an all-day dining restaurant and bar, as well as a rooftop restaurant with stunning views. The hotel will also feature wellness areas such as a gym, an indoor heated swimming pool, and a spa.

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“We are excited to join hands with IHCL, with its legacy of pioneering destinations in the Indian Subcontinent. This partnership will be invaluable in establishing the hotel as the leading choice for travelers visiting Thimphu,” said Ugen Penjor, CEO of Yarkay Group.

Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage and is becoming a growing economic center. This expansion strengthens IHCL’s presence in Bhutan, with three hotels under development.

About Yarkay Group:

Yarkay Group, a family-owned business founded in 1970, operates across construction, commercial real estate, hospitality, tours & travels, and film production. The group has undertaken several construction projects over the last five decades. Mr. Ugen Penjor serves as the CEO of Yarkay Group Pvt. Ltd., and Ms. Phub Zam, one of the promoters, was the first woman President of the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce & Industry from 2016 to 2021.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL):

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj, the iconic brand for discerning travelers, ranked as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2024 and India’s Strongest Brand 2023 by Brand Finance; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; and Ginger, which is revolutionizing the lean luxe segment.

Founded by Jamsetji Tata, the company opened its first hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 322 hotels, including 99 under development, across four continents, 13 countries, and over 130 locations. IHCL is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization and is listed on the BSE and NSE.


Brigade Hospitality Rebrands MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre

Brigade Hospitality Rebrands MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre

By Hariharan U

Published on August 5, 2026

Brigade Hospitality has announced the rebranding of its MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre, marking the venue’s transformation into an emerging destination for arts, culture, and creative expression in Bengaluru.

The rebranding includes a refreshed logo and updated visual identity, reflecting the venue’s evolving role as a platform for cultural engagement. Over recent years, MLR Cultural Centre has expanded beyond traditional conferences and corporate events to host a diverse range of artistic experiences, including music, theatre, dance, literature, and performing arts.

The new identity recognises this journey and reinforces the venue’s commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences by bringing together artists, audiences, and creative communities.

The nomenclature and visual identity of Brigade Hospitality’s MLR Convention Centre in JP Nagar will remain unchanged.

Commenting on the rebranding, Gurmeet Singh, Assistant Vice President, Brigade Hospitality, said that the identity change reflects the transition the venue has undergone, with cultural activities becoming a stronger focus while continuing to accommodate conferences and corporate events.

He added that the vision is to establish MLR Cultural Centre as a space where artists, audiences, and ideas come together to celebrate India’s vibrant cultural fabric and create memorable experiences.

The rebranding marks a new chapter for MLR Cultural Centre as it strengthens its position as a leading destination for art, music, and cultural performances in Bengaluru and beyond.


WelcomHeritage Launches Kurki Palace in Jaipur, Celebrating Rajasthan’s Royal Legacy

WelcomHeritage Launches Kurki Palace in Jaipur, Celebrating Rajasthan’s Royal Legacy

By Hariharan U

Published on August 4, 2026

WelcomHeritage has expanded its presence in Rajasthan with the launch of WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace, a boutique heritage hotel in Jaipur that brings together royal Rajput traditions, architectural grandeur, and contemporary luxury hospitality.

Located within a peaceful residential enclave in Jaipur, the palace offers guests a serene retreat while providing convenient access to the city’s iconic forts, palaces, and cultural landmarks. Hosted by descendants of the renowned Ranbanka Rathore family of Kurki Fort, whose lineage traces back to the 23rd generation of saint-poet Mirabai, the property offers travellers an opportunity to experience Rajasthan’s living heritage.

Inspired by traditional Rajasthani havelis, WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace reflects a blend of Marwari, Mughal, and European architectural influences. The property features grand sandstone structures, stained-glass windows, antique artefacts, intricate craftsmanship, and family heirlooms that showcase the region’s rich artistic legacy.

The palace offers 34 luxurious accommodations, including one Maharaja Suite, four Maharani Suites, 18 Executive Mahal Rooms, and 11 Rawla Deluxe Rooms. Each room has been designed with handcrafted furnishings, regional artistry, and modern amenities to provide guests with an immersive heritage stay experience.

The property features four distinctive dining venues — Darbar – The Sky Lounge, Swarn Mahal, Badal Mahal, and Sugar Coated Café — offering curated culinary experiences inspired by Rajasthan’s flavours and artistic traditions.

Beyond accommodation and dining, WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace offers a range of wellness and leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, and curated relaxation spaces. The property also caters to destination weddings, private celebrations, and MICE events through elegant venues such as Darbar Banquet, Darbar Rooftop, and Badal Mahal.

With bespoke event services and parking capacity for up to 500 vehicles, the palace provides a regal setting for large-scale celebrations, corporate gatherings, and intimate occasions.

Aligned with responsible hospitality practices, the property incorporates solar energy into its operations, combining sustainability with heritage preservation.

Speaking on the launch, Ashutosh Chhibba, CEO, WelcomHeritage, said that WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace represents the brand’s vision of preserving India’s cultural legacy while creating contemporary hospitality experiences. He added that the property strengthens WelcomHeritage’s presence in Jaipur and offers travellers an authentic gateway to Rajasthan’s timeless charm.

Chhibba further noted that the launch marks WelcomHeritage’s 11th property in Rajasthan and takes the brand’s overall portfolio to 37 properties across India. He highlighted Rajasthan’s importance to the brand’s heritage hospitality journey and reiterated the company’s focus on creating destinations that travellers actively seek for unique cultural experiences.

Strategically located near Jaipur International Airport and Jaipur Railway Station, the palace provides easy access to major attractions including Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, and Nahargarh Fort, making it an ideal base for exploring Jaipur’s heritage and vibrant culture.


ITC Hotels Celebrate Friendship Day with Curated Dining Experiences Across India

ITC Hotels Celebrate Friendship Day with Curated Dining Experiences Across India

By Hariharan U

Published on August 1, 2026

Friendship Day is a celebration of the bonds that bring people together through shared memories, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable experiences. This year, ITC Hotels is inviting guests across India to celebrate friendship with a series of specially curated dining experiences featuring indulgent menus, unique activities, and warm hospitality.

From elegant ladies' lunches and contemporary culinary journeys to lavish brunches and chocolate-making experiences, ITC Hotels' properties across Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad are offering memorable ways to reconnect with friends.

Celebrate Friendship with a Ladies' Lunch at ITC Grand Central Mumbai

ITC Grand Central Mumbai is celebrating Friendship Day with a special Ladies' Lunch at Hornby's Pavilion, offering an afternoon of great food, conversations, and togetherness.

Designed for groups of friends, ladies' groups of eight or more can enjoy 20% savings for up to 20 guests while experiencing an elaborate multicuisine lunch on 30 July 2026.

Located within the iconic luxury hotel, Hornby's Pavilion offers an all-day dining experience featuring flavours from India's culinary heritage alongside global favourites, complemented by elegant surroundings and attentive service.

Event Details:
Venue: Hornby's Pavilion, ITC Grand Central, Mumbai
Date: 30 July 2026
Meal: Lunch
Offer: 20% savings for ladies' groups of 8 or more (up to 20 guests)
Reservations: 022 – 67045121 / 022 – 67045122

Friendship Day Celebrations at ITC Maurya, Delhi

ITC Maurya invites guests to celebrate Friendship Day with a selection of distinctive dining experiences across its renowned restaurants.

Guests can explore contemporary South Indian cuisine at Avartana, enjoy an Italian brunch at Ottimo At West View, or celebrate timeless Indian flavours at iconic restaurants Bukhara and Dum Pukht.

The hotel also offers an elaborate dining experience at The Pavilion, featuring Indian and international favourites, live cooking stations, and signature desserts. For those seeking a creative experience, Fabelle presents an artisanal chocolate-making journey where guests can craft and enjoy their own chocolate creations.

Venue: ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Date: 2 August 2026
Time: 12:30 PM onwards
Reservations: 011 2611 2233

Raise a Toast to Friendship at ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar, Kolkata

ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar are bringing together a collection of dining experiences that celebrate friendships through food, flavours, and shared moments.

At Eden Pavilion, ITC Sonar, guests can enjoy Sunday Slows Down, a relaxed Friendship Day brunch featuring global and local favourites from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. The experience is priced at ₹1,800 plus taxes per person.

At Grand Market Pavilion, ITC Royal Bengal, the Grand Sunday Brunch celebrates Anglo-Indian culinary traditions with gourmet offerings, signature delicacies, and indulgent desserts. The brunch is available from 1:00 PM to 3:45 PM at ₹2,300 plus taxes per person.

For guests seeking an elevated culinary experience, Avartana at ITC Royal Bengal presents the Kimaya Set Menu, showcasing contemporary interpretations of South Indian cuisine. Available for lunch and dinner, the experience is priced at ₹3,500 plus taxes per person.

Reservations: 033 44464646

Craft, Indulge and Bond with Fabelle at ITC Kohenur

ITC Kohenur invites guests to celebrate Friendship Day with an immersive Fabelle Chocolate Masterclass, offering a journey through the world of fine chocolate.

The experience includes a guided bean-to-bar chocolate journey, chocolate tasting, sensory experiences, hands-on chocolate making, and an opportunity to craft a personalised dessert to take home.

Guests can also enjoy a signature hot chocolate experience, receive a complimentary Fabelle Signature Chocolate Delight, and capture memorable moments with friends.

What's Included:

  • Hot Chocolate Experience
  • Guided Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Journey
  • Chocolate Tasting & Sensory Experience
  • Hands-on Chocolate Making Session
  • Craft Your Own Dessert
  • Complimentary Fabelle Signature Chocolate Delight

Date: 2 August 2026
Price: ₹2,995 for 2 adults (inclusive of taxes)
Additional Adult/Child: ₹995 (inclusive of taxes)

Friends, Flavours and Forever at ITC Kohenur Hyderabad

ITC Kohenur Hyderabad will celebrate Friendship Day with a special brunch experience, Friends, Flavours, Forever, at Golkonda Pavilion.

Designed for friends to reconnect and celebrate together, the brunch brings together exceptional flavours, handcrafted delicacies, and a vibrant setting within the landmark hotel inspired by the legacy of the Koh-i-Noor diamond and Deccan heritage.

Guests can enjoy a selection of global and regional favourites while spending quality time with friends over a leisurely afternoon of dining and conversations.

Event Details:
Venue: Golkonda Pavilion, ITC Kohenur, Hyderabad
Date: 2 August 2026
Time: 1:00 PM onwards
Meal: Brunch

With thoughtfully curated experiences across its hotels, ITC Hotels continues to create meaningful celebrations where friendships are strengthened over exceptional cuisine, memorable moments, and warm hospitality.

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