IHCL Unveils New Gateway Brand with Opening of Gateway Bekal

IHCL Unveils New Gateway Brand with Opening of Gateway Bekal

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 2, 2024

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s leading hospitality company, has expanded its brand portfolio by launching Gateway, a new full-service upscale hotel brand. The debut of this brand begins with the opening of Gateway Bekal, a riverside retreat located in Kerala.

Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, announced the brand's launch, stating, "Expanding IHCL’s brandscape, the reimagined Gateway introduces a full-service hotel offering in the upscale segment, an ideal fit to capture growth opportunities in micro markets of metros and Tier II and Tier III cities." He emphasized that Gateway is designed to meet the growing domestic demand for quality accommodations and large banqueting facilities in emerging cities.

The roll-out of the Gateway brand starts with Gateway Bekal and includes the transition of four existing hotels in Nashik, Coonoor, Madurai, and Chikmagalur. IHCL aims to expand the current portfolio from 17 hotels to 100 by 2030.

image

The re-imagined Gateway brand is committed to capturing the unique spirit and culture of each destination it serves. Every Gateway hotel will offer generously sized guestrooms and suites, locally inspired culinary options, and vibrant, culturally rich spaces. Guests can also expect extensive meeting and event spaces, as well as recreational facilities, including a pool, fitness center, and children's activity areas. Additionally, the integration of technology, such as in-lobby digital touchscreens, will offer interactive ways for guests to explore the hotel and its surroundings.

Leah Tata, Vice President and Brand Leader of Gateway Hotels & Resorts, described Gateway Bekal as a "riverside retreat nestled amidst the serene backwaters of Kerala." She added that the hotel serves as a unique showcase for the destination's character through its art, design, and cultural nuances. Special features like the hi-tea cart in the hotel lobby highlight local food culture and offer guests a window into the destination.

Gateway Bekal offers 151 well-appointed guest rooms, cottages, suites, and villas. The hotel features a diverse range of dining options, including Earth Pavilion, an all-day diner, and High Tide, a bar known for its signature cocktails. For events and celebrations, Gateway Bekal provides versatile banqueting spaces, including a sundial amphitheatre, a grand ballroom, a banquet hall, and two meeting rooms.

The hotel's recreational amenities include a pool bar with a children's pool and jacuzzi, a spa, and a state-of-the-art gym. Guests can also enjoy a variety of activities such as birdwatching, local art and dance workshops, houseboat rides, and a 1.5 km jogging track along the riverside.


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.

image

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.

image

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.”

image

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.

image

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.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.