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.


The Ritz-Carlton Pune Celebrates Ukiyo's 50 Best Discovery Recognition

The Ritz-Carlton Pune Celebrates Ukiyo's 50 Best Discovery Recognition

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 20, 2026

 Ukiyo, the signature Japanese restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, has been featured on 50 Best Discovery, the global platform that highlights outstanding restaurants, bars, hotels and vineyards across the world.

The inclusion comes as part of the platform's latest expansion in July 2026, which added more than 650 hospitality venues. The update also introduced over 75 new cities and towns to the platform, further broadening its global coverage of dining, drinking and travel destinations.

With the latest additions, 50 Best Discovery now features more than 3,500 hospitality establishments across 800+ cities and towns worldwide, including over 210 restaurants, 110 bars, 130 hotels, and, for the first time, more than 190 vineyards as a dedicated category.

Each venue on the platform, including Ukiyo, is selected based on votes from the expert voting Academies responsible for creating the annual global and regional 50 Best lists.

At The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, Ukiyo offers a contemporary Japanese dining experience that combines traditional techniques with modern influences. The menu features handcrafted sushi, sashimi, robata-grilled specialities and signature dishes designed for sharing, prepared using premium ingredients while staying true to authentic Japanese flavours.

Complementing the dining experience is an elegant al fresco bar, serving handcrafted cocktails inspired by Japanese artistry. The venue is designed to cater to intimate dinners, celebrations and social gatherings in a refined setting.

A key highlight of the restaurant is the Ukiyo Drift deck, home to Pune's iconic al fresco bar. Featuring Japanese-inspired mixology, seasonal ingredients and signature cocktails, the space has become one of the city's sought-after destinations for elevated evening experiences.

50 Best Discovery serves as a curated digital guide for travellers, diners and cocktail enthusiasts. More than 3,000 Academy members from around the world, recognised for their expertise in local hospitality scenes, contribute to the selection process. While the platform extends the annual 50 Best rankings, it is not a ranking itself, and venues cannot apply for inclusion. Instead, selections are made solely through recommendations from the expert voting Academies.

The inclusion of Ukiyo on the platform further strengthens The Ritz-Carlton, Pune's position as a destination for world-class dining and premium hospitality experiences.


Cravings at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara Wins Family Restaurant of the Year 2026 Award

Cravings at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara Wins Family Restaurant of the Year 2026 Award

By Author

Published on July 19, 2026

Cravings, the signature all-day dining restaurant at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Family Restaurant of the Year 2026’ award at the Restaurant India Awards 2026. The recognition celebrates the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence, exceptional service, and creating memorable dining experiences for families and guests across generations.

A flagship dining destination at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara, Cravings has established itself as a preferred choice for guests seeking quality cuisine, variety, and warm hospitality. Known for its extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, the restaurant offers a diverse selection of Indian and international cuisines, along with thoughtfully curated menus, seasonal food festivals, and live culinary experiences.

With its inviting ambience and guest-focused approach, Cravings caters to a wide range of occasions including family celebrations, festive gatherings, business lunches, and casual dining experiences. The restaurant continues to blend culinary innovation with the signature hospitality standards of Sayaji Hotels.

Commenting on the achievement, Anand Mishra, Director of Operations, Sayaji Hotel Vadodara, said, "We are honoured to receive the 'Family Restaurant of the Year 2026' award at the Restaurant India Awards. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and the trust of our guests, who inspire us to continually elevate our dining experiences. We remain committed to delivering exceptional hospitality and creating memorable moments for every family that dines with us."

The award highlights the passion and dedication of Cravings’ culinary and service teams, who continue to enhance the dining experience through innovative concepts, regional food festivals, interactive dining experiences, and personalised service.

Through its focus on quality cuisine, guest satisfaction, and memorable experiences, Cravings continues to strengthen its position as one of Gujarat’s leading family dining destinations. The recognition further reinforces Sayaji Hotel Vadodara’s commitment to delivering exceptional culinary experiences and hospitality excellence.


Hyatt Hotels in Goa Launch GOA YOU 2026 with New Hyatt Hideaways Seasonal Experience

Hyatt Hotels in Goa Launch GOA YOU 2026 with New Hyatt Hideaways Seasonal Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on July 14, 2026

Hyatt Hotels in Goa have announced the launch of GOA YOU 2026, marking the fourth consecutive year of the destination-led campaign that celebrates Goa beyond its traditional tourism experiences. This year's edition introduces Hyatt Hideaways, a seasonal stay offering designed to encourage travellers to experience the destination at a slower, more personal pace during the summer and monsoon months.

Built around the belief that Goa allows every traveller to discover a different version of themselves, GOA YOU 2026 focuses on meaningful experiences ranging from relaxed mornings and local discoveries to leisurely dining and moments of quiet indulgence. The initiative highlights how every visit to Goa is unique, whether for families, couples, or solo travellers.

The campaign brings together Hyatt's five properties across the state: Grand Hyatt Goa, Alila Diwa Goa, Hyatt Centric Goa, Ronil Goa – a JdV by Hyatt Hotel, and Hyatt Place Goa. Together, the hotels offer diverse experiences spanning luxury resorts, lifestyle hotels, and contemporary accommodation across North and South Goa.

Introduced as the centrepiece of this year's campaign, Hyatt Hideaways is a curated seasonal package available for stays from 28 April to 30 September 2026, with bookings open until 15 September 2026. The offer requires a minimum stay of two nights and is designed to encourage guests to explore Goa beyond the peak holiday season.

The package includes a welcome beer on arrival, daily buffet breakfast, one cocktail or mocktail per guest during dinner or a daily beer bucket, along with an INR 1,000 hotel credit per night. Through these inclusions, Hyatt aims to enhance the guest experience while promoting longer, more immersive stays.

By showcasing Goa's lush monsoon landscapes, local culinary experiences, and slower pace of life, GOA YOU 2026 encourages travellers to rediscover the destination from a fresh perspective. The initiative reinforces Hyatt Hotels' long-standing connection with Goa while positioning the state as a year-round destination for leisure and experiential travel.

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