IHCL Expands to McLeodganj with New Gateway Hotel Signing

IHCL Expands to McLeodganj with New Gateway Hotel Signing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 9, 2025

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced its foray into McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh, with the signing of a 65-key Gateway hotel, strategically located just a short walk from the Dalai Lama Temple and Namgyal Monastery—important landmarks in the heart of the town.

This brownfield project, developed in partnership with Mcleo Times Square, further strengthens IHCL’s footprint in key leisure destinations across the state. Speaking on the development, Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said,

“This signing is in line with IHCL’s strategy of strengthening its presence in Himachal Pradesh across key leisure destinations like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Naldhera, and Sirmaur among others. McLeodganj with its cultural richness is attracting both domestic and international tourists. We are delighted to partner with Mcleo Times Square for this project.”

Gateway McLeodganj will offer panoramic views from its cliffside location, overlooking lush valleys and snow-covered peaks. Just steps away from the vibrant McLeodganj market, the hotel is ideally positioned to cater to both leisure and spiritual travellers.

The hotel will feature:

  • An all-day dining restaurant

  • A bar

  • Meeting rooms

  • A fitness centre

  • A spa

Rahul Pathania of Mcleo Times Square added,

“We are excited to partner with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to McLeodganj. This collaboration will offer guests an authentic yet contemporary hospitality experience in this vibrant destination.”

Nestled in the scenic Kangra district, McLeodganj is known for its monasteries, trekking trails, and rich cultural experiences, making it a favourite among spiritual seekers and nature lovers. With this new addition, IHCL now has 13 hotels in Himachal Pradesh, including eight under development, reinforcing its leadership in the region’s hospitality landscape.


Celebrate Mother's Day with Timeless Gifting from Candere

Celebrate Mother's Day with Timeless Gifting from Candere

By Hariharan U

Published on April 30, 2026

As Mother's Day approaches, the focus shifts to celebrating the quiet strength, care, and everyday moments that define motherhood. This year, Candere, a lifestyle jewellery brand from Kalyan Jewellers, offers a curated selection designed to feel personal, wearable, and meaningful.

Moving beyond occasion-based gifting, the collection highlights jewellery that seamlessly fits into everyday life, pieces that reflect her individuality while adding understated elegance to daily moments. Each design balances simplicity with thoughtful detailing, making it both timeless and versatile.

The edit includes the Rylie Diamond and Fancy Gemstone Ring, a floral-inspired design that combines vibrant pink stones with delicate diamond accents, bringing a playful yet refined touch. For those who prefer minimalism, the Plain Glimmer Diamond V Ring offers clean lines and subtle sparkle, perfect for stacking or wearing solo.

Adding to the collection is the Classic Treand Diamond Cuff Bracelet, featuring twin motifs with blue stones and diamond detailing, designed to elevate both everyday and occasion wear. The Enchanting Floral Diamond and Fancy Gemstone Oval Bracelet introduces a softer, more playful aesthetic with multicoloured gemstones set against a sleek band.

For statement pieces, the Armida Diamond Earrings stand out with their layered, cascading form that catches light with movement, while the Giselle Diamond Dangle Earrings bring effortless elegance through a graceful drop design and refined brilliance.

With this Mother’s Day edit, Candere focuses on jewellery that feels natural rather than extravagant, pieces that become part of her daily story while holding emotional value. The collection reflects a shift towards gifting that is thoughtful, personal, and enduring, making each piece more than just an accessory.


JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Hosts Immersive Fashion Showcase by Sounia Gohil

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Hosts Immersive Fashion Showcase by Sounia Gohil

By Hariharan U

Published on April 30, 2026

On April 25, EL at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar hosted an exclusive and intimate fashion showcase by designer Sounia Gohil, unveiling her latest collection in association with Volvo, presented by Cedamint by Vinay Singh.

Breaking away from the conventions of a traditional runway, the showcase embraced a more immersive and interactive format. Set against Mumbai’s skyline, EL offered a fluid, open environment where guests could experience the collection at their own pace. Models moved seamlessly through the space, allowing attendees to engage with the garments up close, creating a sense of intimacy rarely seen in conventional showcases.

The evening brought together a diverse mix of guests, from fashion insiders and tastemakers to patrons of luxury mobility and hospitality, reflecting a dynamic convergence of industries. The experience was complemented by a refined food and beverage selection, thoughtfully curated to enhance the evening without overshadowing the showcase.

More than a fashion presentation, the event highlighted a broader shift in how hospitality spaces are being reimagined. EL, known for its elevated dining and panoramic views, is steadily evolving into a multi-dimensional cultural venue that embraces fashion, design, music, and curated social experiences.

With this showcase, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar strengthens its positioning as not just a hospitality destination but a platform for creative expression and community-led experiences in the city.

Commenting on the initiative, Sachin Mylavarapu, General Manager at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, said, “At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, we’re increasingly looking at how our spaces can go beyond traditional hospitality to become platforms for culture and creativity. Hosting this showcase at EL was a natural extension of that vision. We’re delighted to curate experiences that are refined, progressive, and engaging for our guests.”

Located close to Mumbai’s international and domestic airports, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar offers 588 well-appointed rooms, multiple dining destinations, and expansive event spaces. Its venues, including Romano’s, JW Café, BarQat, and AUTM – JW Lounge & EL, reflect the city’s diverse culinary landscape. The property also features Spa by JW, offering holistic wellness experiences.

Part of Marriott International, the hotel aligns with a global portfolio of over 9,500 properties across 144 countries, continuing to bring world-class hospitality experiences to India


Niraamaya Retreats Kumarakom Wins ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ Title

Niraamaya Retreats Kumarakom Wins ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ Title

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 29, 2026

Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond, Kumarakom has been awarded the title of ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ at the Global Spa Awards 2025. The recognition highlights Niraamaya Life’s continued focus on offering wellness experiences built around authenticity, sustainability, and refined hospitality.

The award was presented on 22 April 2026 at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, in the presence of key figures from the wellness and hospitality sectors, along with members of the film fraternity. Allen Machado, Chief Executive Officer, accepted the award on behalf of the organisation.

This marks the fourth time Niraamaya Life has been recognised at the Global Spa Awards, reflecting its consistent approach towards holistic wellbeing and guest-focused experiences. The brand’s philosophy centres on preventive wellness, with therapies and programmes designed to support long-term health and balance. The recognition also highlights the property’s curated spa journeys, inspired by nature-led treatments and the principles of Ayurveda.

Commenting on the recognition, Allen Machado stated:

“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the Global Spa Awards. It reflects the collective commitment of our teams to deliver preventive wellness experiences that support holistic wellbeing. We remain focused on advancing wellness hospitality through authenticity, personalisation, and consistency in delivery.”

Niraamaya Life continues to expand its presence in the wellness hospitality space, with plans to grow across both domestic and international markets over the next two years. This growth is supported by a clear focus on thoughtful programme design, calm environments, and intuitive service.

With this recognition, Niraamaya Life further strengthens its position as a leading wellness-focused hospitality brand, staying aligned with its vision of offering meaningful and immersive guest experiences.

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