IHCL Expands in Gujarat with New Gateway Resort in Kandla

IHCL Expands in Gujarat with New Gateway Resort in Kandla

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 2, 2024

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new Gateway resort in Kandla, Gujarat. This strategic conversion project will be branded as a Gateway resort, marking a significant step in IHCL’s expansion into new markets, especially in Tier II and III cities.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development at IHCL, expressed her excitement about the signing, stating, “Kandla, an important industrial hub and port city in Gujarat, is an emerging market with immense potential for both business and leisure travel. This signing aligns with our vision of entering new markets and expanding IHCL’s presence in Tier II and III cities across India. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Sanjay Poddar for this project.”

Gateway Kandla will be set on an 8-acre property and will feature 93 keys. Conveniently located near Kandla Airport, the resort promises a blend of comfort and luxury, with all-day dining and specialty restaurants offering a delightful culinary experience. Guests will also be able to enjoy modern amenities such as a state-of-the-art gym, a swimming pool, and expansive banqueting spaces. With over 19,000 sq. ft of space, the resort is designed to host large-scale social events, corporate meetings, and destination weddings.

Mr. Sanjay Poddar, Director of S Poddar International, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are excited to collaborate with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to Kandla. We are confident this hotel will become a preferred destination offering a world-class hospitality experience.”

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As an important hub for maritime trade, Kandla is well-positioned as an industrial center with petroleum, chemicals, and manufacturing sectors. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to nearby cultural and historical landmarks, including the Great Rann of Kutch and Mandvi Beach.

With the signing of this Gateway resort, IHCL will now have 25 hotels in Gujarat, including 6 under development, reinforcing its presence in this vibrant region.

About S. Poddar International (India) Pvt. Ltd.

S. Poddar International (India) Pvt. Ltd. is a leading importer, exporter, distributor, and trader of steel, with a diversified portfolio in multiple industries. The company also operates educational ventures such as S Poddar Vidyajyoti School in Gandhidham.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)

IHCL and its subsidiaries offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service, with brands such as Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, Gateway, and Ginger. With 350 hotels globally, including 118 under development, IHCL is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization.


Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 27, 2026

Taj Chandigarh has marked a major milestone by achieving the EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years. This recognition highlights the hotel’s consistent efforts towards sustainability and responsible operations, setting it apart as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality.

The certification is awarded by EarthCheck, a globally recognised scientific benchmarking and certification body for the travel and tourism sector. Earning Platinum status is a significant achievement, given that it requires at least 10 continuous years of verified performance across key sustainability measures. By maintaining this level for 13 years, Taj Chandigarh has gone beyond the standard and strengthened its position in responsible hospitality.

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This achievement also reflects the larger vision of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), under which Taj Chandigarh operates. Across its portfolio, IHCL has focused on reducing energy use, conserving water, and cutting down waste, all while ensuring a high-quality guest experience. The EarthCheck framework also aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making these efforts part of a broader purpose.

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Speaking on the milestone, Surinder Singh, Area Director – Operations & General Manager, Taj Chandigarh, said,

“Achieving EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years is a proud milestone for us. It reflects our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. At Taj Chandigarh, we believe that luxury and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand and this recognition reinforces our continued efforts towards creating a greener future.”

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Ankur Sharma, Chief Engineer, Taj Chandigarh, added, “This achievement is the result of consistent efforts, innovation and a strong focus on resource efficiency. From energy conservation to water management and waste reduction, our teams work tirelessly to ensure that sustainability is embedded in every aspect of our operations. We remain committed to enhancing our practices and setting new benchmarks in environmental performance.”

With travellers increasingly looking for responsible and sustainable choices, recognitions like this build trust and confidence. Taj Chandigarh’s continued success with EarthCheck Platinum not only celebrates a long-standing achievement but also sets a strong example for the hospitality industry, showing that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.


The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

By Hariharan U

Published on April 26, 2026

Marking Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar has introduced an immersive e-cycle experience in collaboration with Svitch, reinforcing its focus on sustainability-led luxury.

The initiative is designed to offer guests a low-impact, mindful way to explore Gandhinagar, encouraging slower, more conscious travel while reducing carbon footprint. By integrating eco-friendly mobility into the guest journey, the hotel continues to position sustainability as a core element of its hospitality experience.

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Set against the city’s serene surroundings, the e-cycle experience allows guests to engage more deeply with their environment, blending wellbeing, exploration, and environmental responsibility. The offering reflects a broader shift in luxury travel, where guests are increasingly seeking experiences that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, highlighted the hotel’s commitment to creating experiences that are enriching while embedding responsible practices into everyday operations.

The launch was complemented by an Earth Day cyclethon, bringing together guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community. The activity aimed to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards sustainable living, while encouraging active participation in eco-conscious initiatives.

Following the ride, guests experienced the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, aligning the sustainability narrative with wellness-focused dining.

Through initiatives like this, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, enhancing both comfort and awareness.


WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

By Hariharan U

Published on April 25, 2026

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa is redefining luxury getaways in the hills with its expansive offering set amidst the scenic Kasauli Hills.

Perched in the lush Shivalik range, the resort blends natural beauty with refined hospitality, offering guests a tranquil escape marked by panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a thoughtfully curated luxury experience. Designed as a sanctuary for relaxation, the property combines modern amenities with a serene setting that encourages guests to unwind at a leisurely pace.

Operated under the WelcomHeritage umbrella since December 2022, the resort has positioned itself as a full-scale five-star destination in Solan. With 93 well-appointed rooms, the property caters to a wide range of travellers, offering accommodation options that include deluxe rooms, suites, family-friendly cottages, and an exclusive four-bedroom luxury villa.

The resort is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities, including a luxury spa and salon, wellness centre, and an all-weather heated indoor swimming pool, along with a dedicated children’s pool. These features ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests across seasons.

Beyond leisure stays, the property has also emerged as a preferred venue for destination weddings, corporate conferences, and large-scale events, supported by its expansive layout and premium infrastructure.

The design philosophy strikes a balance between modern sophistication and timeless charm, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. From intimate vacations to grand celebrations, the resort offers an environment that blends comfort with understated luxury.

With its scenic location, comprehensive facilities, and focus on guest experience, WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa stands out as a premier mountain retreat, offering travellers a refined escape in the hills.

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