ITC Hotels Embarks on its First Overseas Venture in Colombo

ITC Hotels Embarks on its First Overseas Venture in Colombo

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 28, 2024

In a landmark move, ITC Hotels, a major player in the Indian hospitality sector, has made its debut in the international market with the inauguration of ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This luxurious property, situated on prime sea-facing land, boasts 352 guest rooms, suites, and service apartments, marking a significant milestone for the conglomerate.

The inauguration ceremony, graced by Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, underscored the symbolic significance of this venture. With futuristic twin towers connected by a sky bridge, the ultra-modern architecture of ITC Ratnadipa reflects the nation's transition from its colonial past to a modern era of development. The presence of this iconic property alongside other international, Indian, and Sri Lankan hospitality brands on Galle Face redefines Colombo's skyline, reminiscent of bustling nightlife scenes akin to those in Macau.

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Built at a cost exceeding $500 million, ITC Ratnadipa is strategically positioned under WelcomHotels Lanka, a subsidiary of ITC, marking one of the company's most significant investments. Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and MD of ITC, emphasized Colombo's appeal as the first international location for the conglomerate, citing the region's burgeoning tourism industry. The property is set to cater largely to the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment, offering state-of-the-art conferencing and banqueting facilities.

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The hotel's architectural marvel, featuring a triangular design offering breathtaking ocean views, underscores ITC's commitment to luxury and innovation. The property comprises two towers, with the smaller tower housing the hotel and the larger tower accommodating the 132 Sapphire Residences. This trend of residences within hotels, a post-pandemic phenomenon, reflects evolving consumer preferences.

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Connecting the two towers is the Ahasa One sky bridge, an engineering feat standing 100 meters above ground, making it the first of its kind in South Asia. Notably, the project received strategic investment status from the Sri Lankan government, along with tax breaks and exemptions from foreign exchange regulations.

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ITC's foray into the international market aligns with its broader expansion strategy, aiming to reach 200 properties within the next five years. With 22 properties opened in the past two years and 25 more in the pipeline, the company emphasizes growth through management contracts. The recent approval of the demerger of its hotels vertical signifies a significant milestone, with a listing expected within 15 months.

In addition to ITC Ratnadipa, several other hospitality projects have recently emerged in Sri Lanka, indicating the region's growing prominence in the global tourism landscape. With renowned brands such as Hilton, Sheraton, and Marriott making significant investments, Sri Lanka is poised to become a coveted destination for luxury hospitality experiences.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Unveils The Tree by Dhananjay Singh

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Unveils The Tree by Dhananjay Singh

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 31, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport, located in GMR Aerocity Hyderabad, has unveiled The Tree, a permanent sculptural installation by contemporary artist Dhananjay Singh, in collaboration with FICCI YFLO Hyderabad. Presented under YFLO Hyderabad's Art Beyond Walls initiative, the installation brings contemporary art into the hotel's public spaces, allowing guests and visitors to experience the artwork as part of their everyday surroundings.

Created in 2025, The Tree measures 78 x 46 x 44 inches and is crafted entirely from stainless steel wire. The sculpture reflects Singh's artistic practice of using industrial materials to recreate organic forms, creating a contrast between the rigid nature of metal and the natural structure of a tree. Placed in one of the hotel's public areas, the installation is designed to interact with its surroundings. Its intricate, open structure and reflective surface create a visual experience, while its central subject explores themes of nature, duality and coexistence. The work draws attention to the relationship between the natural world and human-made structures.

The installation is a flagship initiative by FICCI YFLO Hyderabad under its Art Beyond Walls vertical, led by incoming Chairperson Khushboo Daga for 2026–2027. The initiative aims to bring art into shared and accessible spaces, giving people opportunities to engage with contemporary artistic expression beyond traditional galleries.

By placing artworks in everyday environments, Art Beyond Walls seeks to make art a more visible part of public life and encourage people to connect with creative expressions in familiar settings. With The Tree now part of its permanent public space, Novotel Hyderabad Airport adds a distinctive artistic element to its environment. The collaboration also supports wider efforts to make contemporary art more accessible while encouraging conversations around nature, materials and coexistence.


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.

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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.

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