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.

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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.


Ascott to Open Citadines Udupi, Expands Footprint in Karnataka’s Coastal Belt

Ascott to Open Citadines Udupi, Expands Footprint in Karnataka’s Coastal Belt

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2025

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, is set to expand its India portfolio with the signing of Citadines Udupi, a premium serviced residence that will feature 104 keys in the scenic coastal town of Udupi, Karnataka. This becomes Ascott’s fourth property in Karnataka, reflecting its larger strategy of scaling up in India’s fast-growing lodging market.

Located strategically between Mangalore and Udupi, the property enjoys access to both tourism and industry. With Udupi’s Blue Flag-certified beach, strong industrial presence through Suzlon Hi-Tech SEZ and Padubidri Industrial Park, and connectivity via New Mangalore Port Trust, the town is fast becoming a hub for sustainable tourism and clean-tech industries.

Citadines Udupi will cater to both short- and long-stay guests, offering flexible modern living with apartments featuring kitchenettes, all-day dining, fitness facilities, and amenities designed for business and leisure travellers. True to the Citadines brand, the property will emphasise comfort, adaptability, and convenience.

Speaking on the signing, Mr. Hoshang Garivala, Country General Manager, The Ascott Limited, said, “India is a priority market for Ascott’s growth in Asia, and Karnataka remains one of our strongest regions. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rising industrial ecosystem, Udupi presents a unique opportunity. Citadines Udupi reflects our commitment to bringing world-class hospitality experiences to India’s emerging destinations, while strengthening our presence in the southern market.”

Adding to this, Mr. Sudharman Shetty, Director, SKS Sunshine, noted, “We are proud to partner with The Ascott Limited for our first project in India under the Citadines brand. Udupi is our home, and this collaboration allows us to combine our hospitality legacy with Ascott’s global expertise. Together, we aim to make Citadines Udupi a preferred choice for travellers seeking the warmth of coastal Karnataka along with modern comforts.”

With this project, Ascott further strengthens its presence across India, where it already operates and develops properties in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, and Goa. Its Karnataka portfolio includes Oakwood Whitefield Bengaluru and upcoming projects in Bengaluru’s Electronic City.

The addition of Citadines Udupi highlights Ascott’s focus on coastal and industrial corridors while aligning with its commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. Udupi’s recognition as a Blue Flag-certified beach destination underscores this direction, supporting Karnataka’s tourism development vision.


Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Transforms Weddings with Spectacular Showcase “Band Baja Bengaluru”

Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Transforms Weddings with Spectacular Showcase “Band Baja Bengaluru”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 19, 2025

Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, in partnership with Hilton Wedding Diaries, unveiled “Band Baja Bengaluru”, a grand three-day wedding showcase that positioned the property as North Bengaluru’s ultimate wedding destination. Held from August 8 to 10, 2025, the exclusive event welcomed 100 of India’s most influential wedding planners, alongside socialites and influencers, making it one of the city’s most high-profile wedding showcases of the year.

As couples increasingly look beyond traditional hotspots like Goa and Udaipur, Bengaluru is fast emerging as a destination wedding city, thanks to its cosmopolitan charm, year-round pleasant weather, and excellent connectivity. Just 30–35 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata offers unparalleled convenience and grandeur, with the largest convention and event space in North Bengaluru, lush landscaped outdoor venues, and luxurious accommodation.

The event transformed the hotel into a living showcase of wedding possibilities, from intimate cultural rituals to glamorous, large-scale celebrations. Wedding planners including Wedding Partners by Lalit Sharma, Global Local Weddings, F5 Advertisement and Weddings, 7vachan, and Neferrtiti Weddings experienced Hilton’s creativity, hospitality, and culinary excellence first-hand.

Highlights of Band Baja Bengaluru

  • Jasmine Luncheon Feast: At the rooftop, guests were immersed in South Indian heritage with fragrant jasmine garlands, gleaming brassware, vibrant rangolis, and regional delicacies served on banana leaves. Live Carnatic music, Kathak performances, and Hilton’s signature hospitality created a soulful, multisensory celebration.

  • Moulin Rouge Gala Dinner: As night fell, the hotel reimagined Parisian glamour with a Moulin Rouge–themed soirée. A troupe of 20 dancers delivered dazzling cabaret performances in a red-and-velvet setting, complemented by a pan-India culinary showcase.

  • Farewell Brunch: On August 10, the weekend concluded with a relaxed brunch, offering guests the chance to reflect on the immersive experience and future creative collaborations.

Since July 16, the hotel lobby had already been transformed into a wedding preview gallery, building anticipation for the showcase weekend.

Speaking about the vision, Manish Garg, General Manager, said:

“Our showcase was designed to inspire, to show that any wedding dream, no matter how grand or personal, can come alive right here at Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata. We offer the magic of a destination wedding, with the ease of being in your own city.”

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Adding to this, Pavan Kumar, Commercial Director, emphasized:

“The Wedding Showcase was not just an event, but a commitment of what Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata can deliver. From scale to service, our property offers unmatched versatility, whether it’s a grand, multi-day celebration or an intimate cultural gathering. With Bengaluru’s growing appeal as a wedding destination, we are uniquely positioned to give families the grandeur of a destination wedding, with the convenience of exceptional connectivity and world-class hospitality right here in the city.”

With “Band Baja Bengaluru,” Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata has redefined the city’s wedding landscape, proving that every wedding can tell a story, one that blends heritage, glamour, and world-class hospitality seamlessly.


Visiting Mumbai for Ganesh Chaturthi? Stay at Four Seasons Mumbai and Witness Lalbaugcha Raja

Visiting Mumbai for Ganesh Chaturthi? Stay at Four Seasons Mumbai and Witness Lalbaugcha Raja

By Hariharan U

Published on August 17, 2025

If there’s ever a time to see Mumbai in full colour, rhythm, and devotion, it’s Ganesh Chaturthi, the 10-day celebration that transforms the city into a vibrant tapestry of faith and festivity. The air fills with the sounds of dhols, streets glow under festive lights, and communities unite in honour of Lord Ganesha, the deity of wisdom and prosperity.

At the centre of this citywide celebration stands Lalbaugcha Raja,Mumbai’s most famous Ganpati idol and a revered symbol of hope for over 90 years. Each year, thousands of devotees and visitors line up for hours to catch a glimpse, making it a cultural and spiritual experience like no other.

For travellers who want to witness the magic without compromising on comfort, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is the perfect choice. Located just 15 minutes from Lalbaugcha Raja, the hotel offers seamless access to the celebrations while providing a luxurious retreat from the city’s festive bustle.

 Guests benefit from personalised concierge services to coordinate darshan timings, arrange transport, and share insider tips for navigating the celebrations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning devotee, the hotel ensures an effortless experience. After a day of celebration, indulge in the hotel’s award-winning dining or head to AER, its rooftop bar, for panoramic views of Mumbai’s sparkling skyline.

"Ganesh Chaturthi is one of Mumbai’s most extraordinary cultural experiences, and we are delighted to offer our guests a sanctuary of comfort amid the celebrations. With our prime location, impeccable service, and curated experiences, we ensure an enriching stay for both devotees and cultural explorers", says Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

Plan early to secure your spot and enjoy Mumbai’s most iconic festival in unmatched style and comfort.

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