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.


Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Marks World Ocean Day 2026 with Sustainability Initiatives

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Marks World Ocean Day 2026 with Sustainability Initiatives

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 6, 2026

Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility as part of World Ocean Day 2026 and Accor’s Save Ocean campaign, which is now in its third year since its launch in 2024. Through a series of initiatives focused on marine conservation, waste reduction and community engagement, the hotel continues to strengthen its efforts towards responsible hospitality.

Observed annually on 8 June, World Ocean Day highlights the importance of protecting oceans and marine ecosystems from pollution and environmental degradation. In line with this vision, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has integrated sustainable practices across its operations while encouraging greater awareness around environmental conservation.

As part of the campaign, the hotel organised a beach clean-up drive at Juhu Beach on 3 June, 2026, in collaboration with Funsmart Knowledge Solution Foundation. The initiative brought together hotel associates and volunteers to help clean the coastline while spreading awareness about marine pollution, waste segregation and environmental responsibility. The activity reflected the belief that safeguarding oceans requires the collective efforts of businesses, communities and individuals.

The hotel has also introduced several measures to reduce its environmental impact. One of the key initiatives includes the installation of an in-house bottling plant, helping minimise the use of single-use plastic bottles and supporting a more sustainable operating model.

Further strengthening its waste management efforts, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has installed waste segregation bins at key locations across the property. The initiative encourages guests, visitors and associates to actively participate in responsible waste disposal practices. The hotel has also incorporated sustainably sourced personal care kits as part of its guest amenities, aligning with its commitment to conscious consumption and environmentally responsible operations.

The property believes that such initiatives can inspire neighbouring communities to adopt sustainable habits and contribute towards a cleaner environment. By promoting responsible waste management and encouraging collective accountability, the hotel aims to create a positive and lasting impact for future generations.

Speaking about the initiative, Kunal Shanker, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, "At Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, sustainability is not viewed as a standalone initiative but as an integral part of how we operate every day. As we mark the third year of Accor's Save Ocean campaign, we remain committed to reducing our environmental footprint through responsible practices, conscious resource management, and community engagement. The beach clean-up drive served as a meaningful reminder that even small collective actions can contribute towards preserving our coastlines and marine ecosystems for future generations."

Manav Sony, Founder, Funsmart Knowledge Solution Foundation, said, "Environmental conservation requires long-term commitment and collaboration. We were pleased to partner with Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach on this initiative, which not only helped create awareness around marine pollution but also encouraged community participation in protecting our natural ecosystems. Such efforts play an important role in fostering sustainable habits and driving positive environmental impact."

Through these initiatives, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach continues to support Accor’s broader sustainability goals while encouraging responsible practices that contribute to the protection of oceans and the environment.


ITC Maurya Celebrates World Environment Day with Sustainability-Led Experiences

ITC Maurya Celebrates World Environment Day with Sustainability-Led Experiences

By Hariharan U

Published on June 6, 2026

ITC Maurya New Delhi marked World Environment Day 2026 with a series of sustainability-led initiatives that reinforce its long-standing commitment to Responsible Luxury and environmental stewardship.

The hotel, known for hosting one of the world’s first paraboloid solar concentrators in the hospitality sector, continues to integrate innovative technologies and mindful operational practices aimed at reducing environmental impact while maintaining a high standard of luxury hospitality.

Recognised as the world’s first LEED Platinum hotel for Existing Buildings and a LEED Zero Water certified property, ITC Maurya has adopted a comprehensive sustainability framework. Its initiatives include rainwater harvesting systems, advanced water recycling infrastructure, renewable energy integration, EV charging facilities, and efficient operational practices designed to minimise resource consumption.

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A key element of its sustainability approach is SunyaAqua, the hotel’s zero-mile water initiative. Through this programme, drinking water is purified and bottled on-site, reducing transportation emissions and eliminating dependence on single-use plastic packaging. The initiative reflects ITC Maurya’s broader effort to integrate environmental responsibility into everyday guest experiences.

The hotel also continues to promote responsible culinary practices, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients across its dining venues, supporting regional communities while reducing its carbon footprint.

As part of its World Environment Day activities, employees participated in a plantation drive in the vicinity of the hotel on June 5, contributing to urban greening efforts and encouraging collective environmental responsibility.

Adding a creative dimension to the celebrations, the hotel unveiled a curated lobby installation titled “Paludarium: Where Land Meets Water.” The installation brings together land, water, plants, and aquatic elements to represent the delicate balance of ecosystems, inviting guests to reflect on the interconnectedness of nature and human activity.

Speaking on the occasion, Amaan Kidwai, Area Manager Luxury Hotels (North) & General Manager, ITC Maurya, highlighted the integration of sustainability into the guest experience.

At ITC Maurya, sustainability finds expression as an intuitive dimension of everyday luxury, where even the simplest guest experiences contribute to a larger climate-conscious vision. Guided by ITC Hotels’ Responsible Luxury philosophy, our approach centres on seamlessly integrating mindful choices into the guest journey, ensuring that responsibility and refinement exist in perfect harmony,” he said.

Through these initiatives, ITC Maurya continues to demonstrate how environmental consciousness can be seamlessly embedded into luxury hospitality, creating experiences that are thoughtful, responsible, and meaningful.


Eros Hotel New Delhi Marks World Environment Day with Plantation Drive

Eros Hotel New Delhi Marks World Environment Day with Plantation Drive

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 6, 2026

Eros Hotel New Delhi celebrated World Environment Day with a plantation drive organised in association with Magic Bus India Foundation at the hotel premises. The initiative brought together children from the NGO along with members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), creating an opportunity to spread awareness about sustainability and environmental conservation.

Held on the morning of World Environment Day, the activity encouraged children to take part in planting saplings while learning about the importance of protecting nature. The initiative focused on inspiring young minds to understand how collective efforts can help create a greener, healthier and more sustainable future.

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The plantation drive reflected Eros Hotel New Delhi’s continued commitment to responsible hospitality and community-focused initiatives. Through its association with organisations such as Magic Bus India Foundation, the hotel aims to support programmes that contribute positively to both society and the environment.

Speaking on the occasion, Davinder Juj, General Manager, Eros Hotel New Delhi said, “At Eros Hotel New Delhi, sustainability is not just a value; it is a way of life. As a responsible entity, our commitment to environment-friendly practices is underscored by our unique focus on the three R—Reduce, Recycle and Reuse. By adopting these practices, such as efficient electricity management, water recycling initiatives, and reusing valuable resources wherever possible, we try to minimize environmental impact while promoting greater operational efficiency and sustainability.”

The event concluded with an interactive session involving the children and CWC members, reinforcing the importance of sustainable living and the role communities can play in building a greener tomorrow. The initiative highlighted how awareness, participation and small actions can contribute meaningfully towards environmental preservation.

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