IHCL Signs Fourth Hotel in Ayodhya, Expanding Spiritual Tourism Presence

IHCL Signs Fourth Hotel in Ayodhya, Expanding Spiritual Tourism Presence

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 26, 2024

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), South Asia’s leading hospitality company, has signed an agreement to establish a new resort under its Gateway brand in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. This marks IHCL's fourth hotel project in Ayodhya, highlighting its commitment to meeting the growing demand for quality hospitality in India’s emerging spiritual tourism market. Set on 1.56 acres, the upcoming resort aims to offer both luxury and a cultural experience, strategically located to cater to Ayodhya’s increasing number of visitors.

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President of Real Estate and Development at IHCL, expressed optimism about the project’s impact, noting Ayodhya’s rapid infrastructure development and growth as a key spiritual destination. "Ayodhya is fast becoming a prominent spot on India’s spiritual circuit. This partnership strengthens our footprint in an emerging market that holds tremendous promise for the tourism sector," she said. The project will be executed in partnership with the LD Ladhani Group, IHCL's longtime collaborators.

The 150-key Gateway Ayodhya resort will cater to both pilgrims and travelers seeking a culturally immersive experience. Facilities will include an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, and a bar, along with wellness amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and holistic spa. Event spaces, including a spacious banquet hall and meeting rooms, will be available to host both small gatherings and large events.

"We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with IHCL," said Naresh Ladhani, Director of LD Ladhani Group. “As Ayodhya transforms into a world-class spiritual hub, we are excited to offer visitors hospitality that aligns with the city’s evolving identity.”

Ayodhya, a revered site for millions, is attracting an influx of visitors due to its historic and religious significance. This new resort aligns with IHCL’s strategy to tap into the spiritual tourism sector, which draws millions of domestic and international tourists every year. With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will operate 29 hotels in Uttar Pradesh, including 16 that are currently under development.

About the LD Ladhani Group

The LD Ladhani Group, whose flagship company is Amrit Bottlers, is a diversified business with a presence across sectors in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi NCR. Besides its core focus on Coca-Cola manufacturing and distribution, the group is involved in automobile dealerships with Toyota, renewable energy projects, cold storage, and real estate, including retail and hospitality ventures.


Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West Celebrates First Anniversary

Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West Celebrates First Anniversary

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 6, 2026

Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West has celebrated its first anniversary, marking a year of welcoming guests and building its presence in Mumbai's hospitality landscape. The hotel opened its doors on 18 October 2025 and has completed its first year of operations with a focus on comfortable stays, thoughtful service and memorable dining experiences.

Located on New Link Road in Andheri West, the hotel caters to both business and leisure travellers. Its approach follows Fairfield by Marriott's brand philosophy, The Beauty of Simplicity, combining contemporary accommodation with convenient amenities and dining spaces.

The property features 106 guest rooms and suites, offering a comfortable setting for guests visiting Mumbai for business, leisure and special occasions. Its dining portfolio includes Pana, the all-day dining restaurant, along with a Flavourscape, patisserie and bakery. The upcoming SORAÉ rooftop bar is expected to further add to the hotel's dining and social experiences.

The hotel also offers event spaces, including Vira and Reva banquets, which cater to corporate gatherings, social celebrations and special occasions.

The first anniversary also recognises the contributions of the hotel's associates, guests and partners, whose continued support has played an important role in shaping its journey over the past year.

Commenting on the milestone, Imran Khan, Hotel Manager, Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West, said, "Celebrating our first anniversary is a proud and meaningful milestone for all of us. The past year has been an important journey of building relationships, creating memorable guest experiences and establishing our presence in Mumbai's dynamic hospitality landscape. This achievement reflects the dedication and passion of our associates, the trust our guests place in us, and the continued support of our Stakeholders. As we look ahead, we remain committed to elevating the guest experience through thoughtful service, genuine hospitality and the simplicity that defines the Fairfield by Marriott brand."

As it completes its first year, Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai Andheri West looks ahead to building on its presence in the city while continuing to focus on guest experiences, warm hospitality and comfortable stays.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Offers Up to 25% Off on Extended Festive Stays

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Offers Up to 25% Off on Extended Festive Stays

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 6, 2026

Novotel Vijayawada Varun has introduced its 'Stay for More' offer, inviting guests to enjoy an extended festive getaway with savings of up to 25% on stays of three nights or more. The offer is open for bookings from 27 October to 1 December 2026, for stays between 8 December 2026 and 28 March 2027.

Located in the heart of Vijayawada, the hotel offers contemporary rooms with bright and spacious interiors, along with facilities designed for a relaxed stay. Guests can unwind at the rooftop infinity pool, enjoy the jogging track or visit the rooftop wellness zone, which features a gym and spa.

The hotel also offers multi-cuisine dining and a rooftop bar, with poolside, outdoor and indoor seating options, giving guests different ways to enjoy their time during a longer stay.

Commenting on the offer, Manish Pathak, General Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said, “A staycation is an opportunity to slow down and make time for what matters. With our Stay for More offer, we invite guests to celebrate the festive season at Novotel Vijayawada Varun and make the most of their time.”

Under the offer, guests booking three nights or more can receive up to 25% off. ALL Accor members are eligible for an exclusive 25% discount, while non-members can enjoy 20% off. With its extended-stay benefits and leisure facilities, Novotel Vijayawada Varun offers guests an opportunity to make their festive break longer and enjoy a relaxed stay in the city.


The Westin Chennai Velachery Hosts Annual Cake-Mixing Ceremony

The Westin Chennai Velachery Hosts Annual Cake-Mixing Ceremony

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 4, 2026

The Westin Chennai Velachery welcomed the festive season with its annual Cake-Mixing Ceremony, bringing together guests and patrons to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and a much-loved culinary tradition. Held in the hotel's lobby, the gathering marked the beginning of the property's Christmas preparations.

The ceremony featured approximately 150–200 kg of carefully selected dry fruits, mixed with an assortment of spirits, including rum, and traditional spices. Cinnamon added warmth to the blend, while nutmeg and star anise brought their distinctive aromas. Guests joined the hotel's team in tossing and mixing the ingredients, turning the occasion into an evening of festive cheer and shared experiences.

The cake-mixing ritual also marks the first step in the hotel's Christmas baking preparations. The mixture of fruits, nuts, spices and spirits will be left to mature over the coming weeks, allowing the flavours to develop before being used in traditional Christmas cakes and other festive delicacies prepared by the culinary team.

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Speaking on the occasion, Deepraj Mukherjee, General Manager, The Westin Chennai Velachery, said, "The Annual Cake-Mixing Ceremony is one of our most cherished traditions, signaling the arrival of the festive season at The Westin. It is a celebration that brings people together through food, shared experiences and the joy of giving."

Executive Chef Dinesh Kumar added, "For us, cake mixing is much more than a culinary tradition; it is about bringing people together, sharing the joy of the season and welcoming the festivities as a community. It is wonderful to see everyone come together and be part of this cherished tradition."

The evening concluded with guests enjoying festive treats, conversations and the cheerful ambience. With Christmas preparations now underway, The Westin Chennai Velachery looks forward to welcoming the season with a range of festive experiences and culinary offerings.

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