ITC Hotels Celebrates Major Milestone with Welcomhotel Expansion

ITC Hotels Celebrates Major Milestone with Welcomhotel Expansion

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 28, 2024

ITC Hotels, India's leading hospitality chain, has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its 25th property under the Welcomhotel brand. The newest addition, Welcomhotel Belagavi in Karnataka, reflects ITC Hotels’ strategy to expand while maintaining exceptional service and hospitality standards.

The Welcomhotel brand has become a key driver for ITC Hotels’ growth. Over the past five years, the brand has opened seven managed hotels and three owned properties, adding a total of 916 rooms. In the most recent financial year, four new management deals with 406 rooms were signed, with these properties expected to open within the next four to five years.

Anil Chadha, Chief Executive of ITC Hotels, highlighted the significance of this expansion, stating, “The expansion of the Welcomhotel brand is a significant achievement for ITC Hotels. Welcomhotel is the new age travellers’ key to curated immersive experiences. Present in locations ranging from hills to beaches, and deserts to cities, the opening and signing of more properties under the brand Welcomhotel is aligned with ITC Hotels’ asset right growth strategy to take our brand and services to tier-2 markets in addition to prime metro cities. Welcomhotel Belagavi, our 25th property, embodies our endeavour to create unparalleled hospitality experiences, ensuring that guests enjoy a stay that is both luxurious and in harmony with the environment. We look forward to continuing this journey of growth and excellence.”

image

Located in the serene area of Kakati, Welcomhotel Belagavi offers stunning views of hills and greenery. This new property spans over five acres and is conveniently located near the airport, making it a prime destination for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel features 116 well-appointed rooms, each with a balcony offering peaceful views of the landscape.

The architecture and interior design of Welcomhotel Belagavi reflect the local beauty and vibrant lifestyle of Belagavi, blending classic and contemporary elements. Emphasizing geometric shapes and large windows, the design ensures natural light floods the spaces. The interiors celebrate Belagavi's monsoon rains with art pieces, a water droplet sculpture, and a crystal chandelier.

The hotel caters to various events with nine versatile venues, including two grand ballrooms, a conference room, an open sky deck, and three lush lawns, making it an ideal location for weddings and business gatherings.

Welcomhotel Belagavi offers diverse dining options. WelcomCafe serves global and regional Indian cuisine all day, while Dough & Co. provides freshly baked treats and beverages. Swizzle Bar offers classic and signature cocktails with finger food. The WelcomSthalika menu features curated dishes from North Karnataka, showcasing the region's culinary heritage.

image

Guests can also enjoy a well-equipped fitness center, an outdoor infinity swimming pool, and the renowned K by Kaya Kalp spa, offering traditional therapies for a rejuvenating experience.

Basava Prasad Jolle, Managing Director of Jolle Hospitality Group, expressed pride in the new addition, stating, “Brand Welcomhotel is very popular with guests and we are extremely proud to bring Welcomhotel Belagavi to this city, which boasts a rich cultural heritage and is also a prominent business destination. This hotel is a perfect blend of modern amenities and local cultural elements, providing our guests with a unique and enriching experience.”

Focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, ITC Hotels continues to lead the hospitality industry, providing exceptional stays that honor tradition and the environment. The expansion of the Welcomhotel brand across India exemplifies the brand's focus on strategic growth and commitment to excellence. As ITC Hotels grows its footprint, guests can look forward to more unique and enriching experiences blending contemporary luxury with local cultural elements.


Raffles Udaipur Presents The Raffles Experience for Festive Getaways

Raffles Udaipur Presents The Raffles Experience for Festive Getaways

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 29, 2026

Raffles Udaipur is inviting guests to celebrate the festive season with The Raffles Experience, a curated offering that combines Rajasthan's cultural heritage, culinary experiences and opportunities for relaxation. Located on a 21-acre private island on Udai Sagar Lake, the resort offers a setting for festive gatherings and family holidays, complemented by exclusive privileges and experiences inspired by the traditions of Mewar.

The offering includes daily breakfast for two, 15% savings on food, beverages and spa treatments, and an INR 3,000 resort credit per room, per stay, redeemable across spa and food and beverage experiences. Guests can also experience the region's cultural traditions through an evening Aarti ceremony followed by cultural performances showcasing Rajasthan's heritage and local artistry.

image

For those looking to unwind after a day of exploration, The Writers Bar and Long Bar offer a daily Happy Hour from 5 PM to 8 PM, featuring a Buy Two, Get One Complimentary offer on beverages.

The experience also includes a range of activities for guests of different ages and interests. These include yoga sessions, guided nature walks and pottery, along with access to the resort's Kids Zone. Children below six years of age can stay complimentary when accommodated on existing bedding. Flexible check-in and check-out arrangements are also available, subject to availability.

For guests interested in discovering the region's religious and cultural landmarks, Raffles Udaipur offers a private, chauffeur-driven luxury temple tour to Nathdwara Temple and Eklingji Temple. The experience offers an opportunity to explore two revered destinations while enjoying private transportation.

Commenting on the festive offering, Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur, said, “The festive season is a time for togetherness, cherished traditions and creating meaningful memories with loved ones. With The Raffles Experience, we bring together the cultural richness of Rajasthan and the warmth of our hospitality, from traditional evening rituals and culinary experiences to journeys into the region’s spiritual heritage, creating a memorable festive escape for our guests.”

With its combination of dining privileges, spa experiences, cultural performances and opportunities to explore Rajasthan's spiritual heritage, The Raffles Experience brings together different aspects of a festive holiday. Guests can enjoy time with family and friends while discovering the traditions and surroundings that shape the resort's setting.

Through this curated offering, Raffles Udaipur presents a festive getaway that combines luxury hospitality with regional culture, wellness and personalised experiences.

For reservations and further information, visit The Raffles Experience.


Fairmont Jaipur Introduces Festive Palace Escape for the Holiday Season

Fairmont Jaipur Introduces Festive Palace Escape for the Holiday Season

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 28, 2026

Fairmont Jaipur is welcoming the festive season with Festive Palace Escape, a seasonal stay package designed for guests looking to celebrate with family and friends. Set against the Aravalli Hills, the experience combines a palace stay, dining privileges and special savings, offering an opportunity to enjoy the festive period in a relaxed setting. Available for reservations until 31 December 2026, the package is designed around Fairmont Jaipur's philosophy, Make Special Happen, bringing together thoughtful hospitality, festive dining and time spent with loved ones.

The Festive Palace Escape includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, allowing guests to enjoy a leisurely stay with meals included throughout their visit. For families and groups travelling together, the offer also provides 30% savings on a second room, giving guests greater flexibility when planning a festive getaway. Adding to the dining experience, guests can enjoy 20% savings on food and soft beverages, offering more opportunities to explore the hotel's culinary offerings during their stay.

Located amid the scenic Aravalli Hills, Fairmont Jaipur provides a setting away from the bustle of city life. Its expansive surroundings, regal architecture and tranquil atmosphere create an inviting backdrop for guests looking to slow down, reconnect and spend quality time with family and friends during the holiday season.

The experience brings together the charm of a palace retreat and the pleasures of dining and relaxation. Whether planning a festive family holiday, a getaway with friends or a special stay to mark the season, guests can enjoy the hotel's setting alongside the privileges included in the package.

With its combination of accommodation, dining benefits and savings for guests travelling together, Festive Palace Escape offers another way to celebrate the season at Fairmont Jaipur. The package is available for reservations until 31 December 2026, inviting travellers to make the most of the festive period in Rajasthan.


Summit Hotels & Resorts to Open 17-Villa Retreat in Lachung, Sikkim

Summit Hotels & Resorts to Open 17-Villa Retreat in Lachung, Sikkim

By Hariharan U

Published on October 25, 2026

Summit Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its Signature Collection with a 17-villa retreat in Lachung, North Sikkim, scheduled to open in December 2026. The upcoming property will strengthen the company's premium hospitality portfolio in the Eastern Himalayas, with an emphasis on local architecture, cultural experiences and the region's natural landscape.

Located at an altitude of approximately 8,600 feet, Lachung is around 118 km from Gangtok and serves as a gateway to destinations including Yumthang Valley, Zero Point and Katao. The retreat will feature 17 villas inspired by traditional Sikkimese architecture, reflecting the area's cultural character and mountain setting.

Beyond accommodation, the property is expected to offer experiences that encourage guests to explore North Sikkim beyond conventional sightseeing. Planned activities include guided village walks, opportunities to discover Bhutia traditions and cuisine, visits to nearby orchards and monasteries, and excursions to alpine valleys. Seasonal experiences such as rhododendron viewing, winter snow excursions and stargazing are also being considered, subject to local conditions.

image

Commenting on the development, Sumit Mitruka, CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts, said, “North Sikkim has considerable potential to develop beyond conventional sightseeing-led tourism. Lachung is already an important stop on the Yumthang and Zero Point circuit, but we believe there is an opportunity to encourage travellers to spend more time in the destination itself. With this retreat, we want to introduce a premium stay experience that draws on the region's architecture, culture and natural surroundings. We also see opportunities to work with local communities through employment, sourcing and destination experiences as tourism develops.”

The project comes amid renewed tourism interest in North Sikkim, supported by improved accessibility along the Lachung–Yumthang–Zero Point circuit. Known for its Himalayan scenery, rhododendron forests and traditional Bhutia settlements, Lachung offers opportunities to develop longer, nature-focused stays alongside established sightseeing itineraries.

The retreat will join Summit's Signature Collection, which includes Summit Norbu Ghang in Gangtok and Summit Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh. The collection forms part of the company's wider strategy to develop premium, destination-focused hospitality across the Eastern Himalayas and other leisure markets in India.

With the Lachung project, Summit is looking to combine premium accommodation with local culture and nature-based experiences, while creating opportunities for community participation as tourism in North Sikkim evolves

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.