InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort Unveils a New Chapter of Luxury by the Sea

InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort Unveils a New Chapter of Luxury by the Sea

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 2, 2026

InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, has unveiled the final phase of its extensive transformation, introducing a refreshed beachfront experience that combines contemporary luxury with the cultural richness of Mahabalipuram.

Spread across 15 acres along the scenic East Coast Road, the reimagined resort features a range of new offerings including an ocean-facing ballroom, expansive beach lawns, luxury suites with plunge pools, new restaurants and bars, a sports pavilion, meditation gardens, and scenic walking trails.

Commenting on the milestone, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said, “The reopening of InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort marks an important milestone for our luxury portfolio in India. This multi-million-dollar transformation reflects our commitment to delivering destination-led, experience-rich stays that combine world-class hospitality with a strong sense of place. We are excited to welcome guests back to a reimagined resort that sets a new benchmark for mindful luxury on the Coromandel Coast.”

Inspired by the iconic Shore Temple and the heritage of Mahabalipuram, the resort blends local influences with contemporary design. Its 110 guestrooms and suites have been redesigned to offer elevated beachfront living, featuring spacious layouts, premium amenities, standalone bathtubs, rain showers, and views of the Bay of Bengal, landscaped gardens, and pool areas.

Among the standout accommodations are the Grand Presidential Suite, which offers expansive ocean views, a jacuzzi, and a steam room; the Presidential Suite, featuring a private pool and spa room overlooking the sea; and the Rathi Suite, complete with a plunge pool, steam room, and serene garden views.

Reflecting on the transformation, Anand Nair, General Manager, InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, said, “This relaunch marks a proud milestone for us, unveiling a truly transformed resort. Envisioned as a coastal icon reimagined, it brings together the richness of South Indian culture with modern luxury. Every space tells a story and each experience is thoughtfully curated to offer guests a more personal and elevated stay. Our ambition is to position the resort not merely as a place to stay, but as a destination in its own right.”

The resort has also strengthened its position as a destination for weddings, celebrations, and large-scale events. The newly introduced Vaibhava Ballroom spans over 12,000 sq. ft. and offers sea-facing views, while the adjoining Vaibhava and Beach Lawns cover over 70,000 sq. ft. Together, the venues can comfortably host more than 5,000 guests, making the property one of the region’s prominent event destinations.

Dining experiences have also been expanded with a refreshed collection of restaurants and lounges. The Melting Pot offers Indian, Western, and Pan-Asian cuisine through interactive live kitchens, while KoKoMMo Tiki Shack presents a relaxed beachfront dining experience. Tao of Peng serves authentic Hunan and Cantonese cuisine, while Viora Sky Lounge offers panoramic coastal views paired with crafted cocktails. The Gatsby Lounge adds a relaxed sports lounge concept with live match screenings, handcrafted beverages, and private gathering spaces.

Wellness remains a key focus at the resort. Guests can unwind at Amrtam Spa, enjoy the fitness centre, explore meditation gardens and nature trails, or participate in activities including beachside yoga and sunrise meditation. The property also features a sports pavilion, pickleball court, ATV trail, and dedicated recreational spaces for families and children through Planet Trekkers and the Secret Garden.

The resort further enhances guest experiences through curated cultural and heritage explorations of Mahabalipuram. Through its Concierge Gallery, guests can discover the destination’s history, art, and coastal character while engaging with thoughtfully designed local experiences.

Located just 60 minutes from Chennai International Airport and close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram, the resort offers convenient access to one of India’s most culturally significant coastal destinations.

The transformation reflects IHG Hotels & Resorts’ continued focus on expanding its luxury and lifestyle portfolio across India while catering to the growing demand for destination-led travel experiences that combine leisure, celebrations, wellness, and business travel.


ITC Hotels Strengthens Rajasthan Presence with Signing of Welcomhotel Jaipur

ITC Hotels Strengthens Rajasthan Presence with Signing of Welcomhotel Jaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on June 20, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the signing of a management agreement for a 140-key Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels in Jaipur, marking another significant step in the company’s expansion strategy across key state capitals and high-demand hospitality markets.

The upcoming property will strengthen ITC Hotels’ presence in Rajasthan, a state renowned for its rich cultural heritage, royal architecture, and thriving tourism sector. Jaipur, in particular, continues to attract domestic and international travellers, while remaining one of India’s most sought-after destinations for weddings, celebrations, and business events.

Designed to blend contemporary comfort with the city’s historic charm, Welcomhotel Jaipur will feature well-appointed guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, and a lounge bar. The hotel will also offer extensive event infrastructure, including more than 15,000 square feet of indoor banqueting space and 22,000 square feet of landscaped outdoor venues, positioning it as a preferred destination for MICE events and destination weddings.

Guests will have access to wellness and spa facilities, further enhancing the overall hospitality experience.

Commenting on the development, Anil Chadha, Managing Director of ITC Hotels Limited, said Jaipur represents a unique blend of heritage and growing demand for premium hospitality experiences. He noted that the project aligns with the company’s focus on strengthening its presence in high-visibility destinations across India.

Directors of Ashraya Hotels and Resorts Anil Agarwal, Sunil Agarwal, and Peyush Agarwal said the partnership aims to bring world-class hospitality experiences to Jaipur while celebrating Rajasthan’s cultural legacy.

The signing follows ITC Hotels’ recent expansion announcements in Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, and Hyderabad, reinforcing its long-term commitment to growing its hospitality portfolio across emerging and established markets in India.


MRG Group Expands Hospitality Footprint with Launch of Goldfinch Panjim Goa

MRG Group Expands Hospitality Footprint with Launch of Goldfinch Panjim Goa

By Hariharan U

Published on June 20, 2026

MRG Group has announced the launch of Goldfinch Panjim Goa, further strengthening its hospitality presence in one of India's most sought-after leisure destinations. Located in the heart of Panjim and overlooking the scenic Mandovi River, the new property joins the growing Goldfinch Hospitality portfolio across the country.

Designed for both business and leisure travellers, Goldfinch Panjim Goa offers 98 guestrooms, including seven suites, equipped with modern amenities and contemporary comforts. The hotel combines elegant interiors, green surroundings, and a central location to provide guests with a comfortable and convenient stay experience.

image

The property's dining offering is anchored by Banjara, the all-day dining restaurant serving a mix of global cuisine and locally inspired dishes that celebrate Goa's rich culinary heritage.

Commenting on the launch, K. Prakash Shetty said the opening reflects the group's continued commitment to expanding its hospitality footprint in high-potential markets while focusing on sustainable growth, operational excellence, and guest-centric experiences.

Gaurav Shetty added that Goa remains one of India's most iconic travel destinations and the launch marks another important milestone in the company's hospitality growth journey.

The launch reinforces MRG Group's long-term expansion strategy, with the company targeting more than 3,500 hotel keys by 2035. The group currently operates several hospitality assets across India, including Goldfinch-branded hotels and partnerships with global hospitality brands.

For more information about the group, visit MRG Group.


International Yoga Day Finds Its Home at Four Seasons Resort Maldives

International Yoga Day Finds Its Home at Four Seasons Resort Maldives

By Hariharan U

Published on June 19, 2026

As the world celebrates International Yoga Day on June 21, wellness takes centre stage at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, where yoga, nature, and holistic healing come together in one of the Indian Ocean’s most serene settings.

Nestled within the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, the island resort has long been recognised for its immersive approach to wellbeing. Surrounded by turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, the resort offers a tranquil environment where guests can disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with themselves.

At the heart of the wellness experience is AyurMa, the resort’s dedicated wellness sanctuary whose name translates to “Mother of Life” in Sanskrit. Designed around the principles of holistic healing, AyurMa blends yoga, Ayurveda, naturopathy, and mindful living to create personalised wellness journeys.

image

For International Yoga Day, guests can participate in a range of yoga experiences tailored to individual needs. Developed in collaboration with S-VYASA University, the resort’s Yoga Therapy programme addresses concerns such as stress management, spinal health, flexibility, and overall wellbeing. Guests can also explore unique experiences including AntiGravity Yoga, Aqua Float Yoga, and Pregnancy Yoga, each designed to make the practice accessible and engaging.

The island setting further enhances the experience, with yoga sessions conducted in open-air pavilions overlooking the lagoon. Guests can also take part in Rahumathuge Vaguthu, a sunset Earth Blessing ceremony that combines mindfulness with gratitude, creating a deeper connection to nature and community.

Complementing the yoga programme is AyurMa’s comprehensive Ayurveda offering, including personalised consultations, Shirodhara treatments, traditional oil therapies, and a Government of Maldives-accredited Panchakarma programme. Guided by Dr. Arun K. Tomson, these therapies are designed to support the body’s natural healing processes and restore balance.

This International Yoga Day, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru offers more than a wellness retreat—it presents an opportunity to embrace mindfulness, healing, and self-discovery in one of the world’s most extraordinary natural settings.

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.