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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.
“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.
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By Hariharan U
Published on April 7, 2026
Planet Hotels & Resorts is steadily strengthening its presence across India, with a clear focus on lifestyle-driven hospitality and premium travel experiences. Based out of Mumbai, the brand is building a strategically curated pipeline aimed at high-potential leisure, urban, and spiritual destinations.
Under the leadership of Anand Chatterjee, who has led the hospitality vertical for over a decade, the company is positioning itself as a key player in India’s evolving premium hospitality space.
The group’s journey began with the launch of Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Goa in 2013, which set the tone for its design-forward and experience-led approach. Since then, the portfolio has expanded across destinations such as Thane, Powai, and Manali.
Flagship urban properties like Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel reflect the brand’s commitment to design-led stays and immersive guest experiences. Expanding its boutique footprint, the group also marked its entry into the hills with a Manali property under The Beatle brand in 2025, catering to travellers seeking elevated mountain retreats.
In line with its focus on the elite segment, the brand recently introduced Kings Mansion in North Goa. Designed as an ultra-premium destination, the property aims to deliver privacy, bespoke services, and a refined hospitality experience tailored to discerning travellers.
Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious roadmap with upcoming projects planned across New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur, and Hyderabad, while also evaluating additional markets. The expansion strategy is focused on tapping into India’s most sought-after travel destinations, spanning leisure, spiritual, and urban segments.
Speaking on the growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee highlighted that the brand’s expansion is driven by a deep understanding of emerging lifestyle destinations and evolving consumer expectations. He emphasised that the focus remains on creating design-forward environments, intuitive service, and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.
With a growing portfolio that blends aesthetics, personalisation, and experience-led offerings, Planet Hotels & Resorts is positioning itself to play a significant role in shaping India’s next phase of premium hospitality growth.
Published on April 2, 2026
In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.
The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.
At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.
A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.
Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.
The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.
With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.
Published on April 1, 2026
The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.
As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.
Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.
Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”
Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.
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