IHG Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Kashmir with Signing of a voco Hotel

IHG Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Kashmir with Signing of a voco Hotel

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 5, 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced its debut in Kashmir with the signing of a management agreement for voco Srinagar, in partnership with Geelan Residency. This marks IHG’s first hotel in Kashmir and the sixth voco hotel being developed in India. Scheduled to open in October 2026, the hotel aims to cater to both leisure travelers and social gatherings, including MICE events.

The new voco Srinagar will be located in the upscale commercial area of the city, easily accessible by road from the airport and major tourist attractions. It will be a two-hour drive from popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg. The hotel will feature 95 well-appointed rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a pool deck, and a fitness center.

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director of South West Asia at IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement about the new venture: “We are thrilled to establish our footprint in Kashmir with our premium brand, voco, in partnership with Geelan Residency. Kashmir is one of the most popular leisure destinations in the country and has experienced an unprecedented boom in tourism in the past years. This has led to an increase in demand for quality branded accommodation. With its bold design and welcoming service, we are confident that voco Srinagar will become a preferred hotel for travelers visiting Kashmir.”

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Javeed Jeelani, Managing Partner at Geelan Residency, added, “We are delighted to partner with an internationally and locally trusted hospitality brand like IHG Hotels & Resorts to debut the voco brand in Kashmir. We are confident that the hotel’s prime location coupled with IHG's global standards, voco Srinagar is set to become an ideal choice for our guests.”

The voco brand, known for its unique blend of informality and quality, has quickly gained popularity in India since its debut in 2023. With properties already established in markets such as Jim Corbett, Gurugram, Mumbai, Goa, and Punjab, the addition of voco Srinagar underscores IHG’s commitment to expanding its presence in key leisure destinations across the country.


Sterling Launches Govardhana Malampuzha, Introducing Kerala’s Garden Valley as a Signature Getaway

Sterling Launches Govardhana Malampuzha, Introducing Kerala’s Garden Valley as a Signature Getaway

By Hariharan U

Published on October 15, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts, one of India’s leading experiential hospitality brands, has unveiled its newest destination, Sterling Govardhana Malampuzha. Tucked away in Kerala’s picturesque garden valley, this resort marks Sterling’s 11th property across 8 destinations in the state, reinforcing its leadership in South India’s leisure and wellness travel circuits.

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Western Ghats, Sterling Govardhana Malampuzha reimagines the popular day-trip destination into a signature short-stay getaway for families, couples, and travellers from nearby cities like Coimbatore, Kozhikode, and Kochi. The resort offers the perfect balance of accessibility, natural beauty, and the warmth of Kerala’s culture, all enhanced by Sterling’s signature hospitality.

“Sterling Govardhana, Malampuzha isn’t just a new resort, it’s the creation of a new travel node,” said Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts. “By integrating Malampuzha into our South India grid, we are connecting markets and mindsets. This adds to our strategy, transforming high-potential locales into must-stay destinations that bridge Tamil Nadu, Central Kerala and the Nilgiris. Offering quick connectivity to Sterling in Anaikatti, Athirappilly, Guruvayur and Ooty, it comfortably ticks the requirement of a circuit travel as well.”

Nestled among lush gardens framed by the Sahyadri hills, the resort offers elegant rooms and suites suited for families, couples, and groups. Expansive lawns and stylish indoor venues make it a perfect choice for weddings, reunions, and milestone celebrations.

At Savoree, the resort’s in-house restaurant, guests can experience Kerala’s rich culinary heritage through dishes such as Paal Konchu Porichathu, Kozhi Erussery, and Paneer Kurumulaku Roast. The menu also features global comfort food and child-friendly favourites, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the region’s flavours.

M. Satheesan, representative of Malampuzha Hotel Pvt. Ltd., shared, “Malampuzha has always been a symbol of Kerala’s natural beauty and community spirit. Our partnership with Sterling is founded on a shared belief that thoughtful, design-led hospitality can spotlight such destinations responsibly while enriching local livelihoods. With Sterling’s decades of destination-development expertise, Malampuzha will evolve from a weekend stop to a must-stay experience on India’s leisure map.”

Beyond its rooms and dining, Sterling Govardhana, Malampuzha invites guests to discover the region’s many attractions — from the ropeway gliding over the valley and the whimsical rock gardens to the calm waters of the Malampuzha Dam at sunset. Families can enjoy the colourful gardens, lakeside walks, and cultural evenings filled with local performances, photo trails, and aromatic regional cuisines. Every experience at the resort is designed to help travellers reconnect with nature and each other.

With properties in Athirappilly, Anaikatti, Alleppey, Wayanad, Munnar, Guruvayur, Thekkady, and now Malampuzha, Sterling continues to strengthen its Kerala network. The new resort also fortifies Sterling’s drive-to circuit linking Tamil Nadu, Central Kerala, and the Nilgiris, furthering the brand’s “What-A-Trip” campaign, a celebration of discovering destinations beyond the obvious.

About Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited is one of India’s foremost hospitality companies, known for creating immersive experiences across diverse landscapes, from beaches and hills to jungles and heritage towns. Its extensive network spans destinations like Alleppey, Coorg, Darjeeling, Goa, Ooty, Munnar, and more.

Sterling is a 100% independently managed subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. (TCIL) and part of the Fairfax Financial Holdings Group.

For bookings and more information, visit www.sterlingholidays.com or whatrip.sterlingholidays.com.


A Stage for Splendour: Four Seasons Mumbai Unveils a Grand 10,000-Square-Foot Ballroom

A Stage for Splendour: Four Seasons Mumbai Unveils a Grand 10,000-Square-Foot Ballroom

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 15, 2025

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is set to redefine city celebrations with the unveiling of its stunning 10,000-square-foot ballroom in the heart of Worli. A perfect blend of grandeur and grace, the new space embodies the timeless Four Seasons philosophy, where life’s most meaningful moments are celebrated beautifully. From weddings to soirées, every occasion here promises to be effortless, elegant, and unforgettable.

Designed to be both spacious and intimate, the ballroom opens with a 500-square-foot private arrival foyer that leads into a 1,300-square-foot pre-function area, ideal for welcome drinks, conversations, or mingling before guests step into the main event. The heart of the venue lies in its 7,000-square-foot banqueting space, anchored by a spectacular 5,700-square-foot pillarless hall crowned with a soaring 19-foot ceiling. Its seamless flow into The Great Room allows celebrations to transition smoothly, from glittering weddings to sleek corporate gatherings and glamorous fashion showcases.

Technologically advanced and visually captivating, the ballroom features a full LED-paneled wall, portable repeater displays, and sleek digital signage, ensuring guests enjoy an immersive experience from every corner. Its modular design, customizable lighting, and live kitchen concept allow each event to be as unique as the people celebrating it.

Yet, it’s the signature Four Seasons service that turns every moment into something extraordinary. From handwritten countdown notes and bespoke arrival touches to personalized farewell keepsakes, the experience is deeply human and heartfelt. Every couple is supported by a dedicated wedding specialist and banquet concierge, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed. Guests also enjoy curated mementos, instant photo memories tagged with #FSMUM, and even anniversary reminders, keeping the spirit of the occasion alive long after the event ends.

Reflecting Four Seasons’ vision of conscious luxury, the ballroom emphasizes sustainability through locally sourced ingredients, zero-waste culinary practices, and partnerships with eco-luxe décor creators.

“At Four Seasons Mumbai, we believe no idea is too extravagant and no detail too small,” shares Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager. “Our new ballroom reflects this belief, evolving with our city and offering experiences that feel both grand and personal. It’s a proud moment for us to introduce this extraordinary space to Mumbai.”

From opulent sangeets and glamorous cocktail evenings to intimate brunches and bespoke after-parties at Opus or AER, the new ballroom at Four Seasons Mumbai isn’t just a venue, it’s a stage where every gathering becomes a masterpiece.


Echor Hotels Strengthens Its Presence in Uttarakhand with Two New Boutique Resorts

Echor Hotels Strengthens Its Presence in Uttarakhand with Two New Boutique Resorts

By Hariharan U

Published on October 12, 2025

After a strong start in Mussoorie, Echor Hotels Pvt. Ltd. (formerly Livin Hospitality) is expanding deeper into Uttarakhand with the opening of two boutique resorts, Echor The Corbett Nishk in Jim Corbett and Echor Malusara Lakeview Retreat in Bhimtal.

The move follows the successful debut of Echor Baris Resort, Mussoorie, which set new standards for personalised, nature-inspired hospitality. With these new openings, Echor strengthens its vision of creating thoughtfully designed boutique stays across India’s favourite travel destinations.

Nestled close to the famous Jim Corbett National Park, Echor The Corbett Nishk brings together comfort and wilderness. The resort features 56 luxury rooms, lush lawns, and elegant banquet spaces, ideal for destination weddings, corporate retreats, and leisure escapes. Located just minutes from the park, it blends modern amenities with the calm of nature.
Visit: https://echor.in/luxury-resort-in-jim-corbett

Perched by the serene Bhimtal Lake, Echor Malusara Lakeview Retreat offers a blend of European charm and contemporary comfort. With its scenic lake views, stylish interiors, and tranquil atmosphere, it’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers seeking a peaceful retreat. Its proximity to the Kainchi Dham Temple adds a spiritual touch for guests exploring the region.
Visit: https://echor.in/best-hotel-in-bhimtal

With these two additions, Echor Hotels continues to strengthen its presence across Uttarakhand’s premium hospitality circuit. The brand aims to expand further across Nainital, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, and other key destinations by 2027.

We are thrilled to welcome Echor Jim Corbett and Echor Bhimtal to our growing family,” said Manoj Sihag, Founder & Director of Echor Hotels. “Both properties reflect our vision of creating experiential stays that celebrate nature and culture while offering heartfelt hospitality. Our journey in Uttarakhand has only begun, we’re creating spaces where travellers can connect with the spirit of the Himalayas through design, comfort, and sustainability.”

Echor Hotels Pvt. Ltd. is a boutique hospitality company known for its experiential stays and nature-inspired designs. With a growing presence across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and North India, Echor continues to redefine boutique travel experiences through comfort, authenticity, and personalised service.

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