ITC Hotels Expands Presence in Madhya Pradesh with New Welcomhotel in Mandu

ITC Hotels Expands Presence in Madhya Pradesh with New Welcomhotel in Mandu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 1, 2024

ITC Hotels has recently signed a management contract with Lunera Castle Resort & Spa, bringing a landmark property under its Welcomhotel brand to Mandu, Madhya Pradesh. This new addition, known as Welcomhotel Mandu, is a refreshed avatar of the heritage destination ‘Lunera ki Sarai,’ paying homage to the ancient fort city of Mandu, celebrated for its architectural splendor and romantic legends.

Mandu, also known as Mandav, is an ancient fort city in Madhya Pradesh, surrounded by stone walls and dotted with historical gateways. Known for its rich history and architectural marvels, Mandu has long been a favorite destination for tourists, history buffs, and art enthusiasts. With this new Welcomhotel, the city is set to become an even more popular destination, offering travelers a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury.

Welcomhotel Mandu will feature 94 rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, meeting spaces, a spa, and a swimming pool. This project marks ITC Hotels’ continued expansion in Madhya Pradesh, bringing the total number of keys to nearly 540 in the state. The portfolio includes two operating WelcomHeritage properties in Pench and Pachmarhi, and three more Welcomhotels in the pipeline at Jabalpur, Gwalior, and Bhopal.

Anil Chadha, Chief Executive of ITC Hotels, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We are honoured to have been entrusted with the legacy of Lunera ki Sarai. Historical context dates this ‘sarai’ located along the trade routes in the 16-17th century back to 400 years. It is indeed a very special project. Brand Welcomhotel looks forward to reviving the glory of Lunera ki Sarai by enabling memorable experiences at this heritage resort.”

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Pankaj Phulwani, Director of Lunera Castle Resort & Spa, echoed this sentiment, praising ITC Hotels' expertise in hospitality. He added, "Given the enriching experiences that Brand Welcomhotel is known for, we are sure that this fort-style resort against the Sarai’s heritage backdrop will be a big draw for travelers."

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels is a collection of upper upscale hotels designed to provide immersive and enriching experiences. Whether located in hills, beaches, deserts, or cities, each property blends local aesthetics with modern comforts, enhanced by ITC Hotels' renowned culinary expertise. At Welcomhotel, the focus is on 'enrichment,' aimed at enhancing the lives of guests, communities, and hotel associates through integrated efforts and holistic initiatives.

With Welcomhotel Mandu, ITC Hotels continues its tradition of offering luxury experiences deeply rooted in the local culture, making it a significant addition to the vibrant tourism landscape of Madhya Pradesh.


The Raviz Palace at Leela Ashtamudi Redefines Luxury on Kerala's Shores

The Raviz Palace at Leela Ashtamudi Redefines Luxury on Kerala's Shores

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 15, 2025

The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, has introduced its newest luxury retreat - The Raviz Palace. Nestled along the tranquil banks of Lake Ashtamudi, this heritage masterpiece seamlessly merges Kerala’s rich traditions with modern indulgence.

Originally constructed in 1911 (1087 in the Malayalam Era), the palace reflects Kerala’s vernacular architectural style enriched by Dutch and Portuguese influences. Its intricately designed wooden interiors and adherence to Vastu Shastra principles celebrate the region’s cultural wealth.

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Guests are welcomed through three distinct modes of arrival: a serene boat ride across the lake, a picturesque drive through Kerala’s lush landscapes, or a private helipad, offering exclusivity from the start. The palace provides stunning views of both sunrise and sunset over the shimmering lake, fostering a deep connection with nature.

The surrounding area, with an air quality index of approximately 30, ensures a serene ambiance for travelers seeking peace and rejuvenation.

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B Ravi Pillai, chairman of RP Group, emphasized the vision behind The Raviz Palace, stating, “Our aim is to honor and preserve Kerala’s rich heritage. Through unique experiences, we connect our guests with the traditions and natural beauty of the region. It is our privilege to share this timeless treasure with the world.”

The unveiling ceremony was a prestigious event attended by notable figures, including N.K. PremachandranMember of ParliamentMayor Prasanna Earnest, MLA Mukesh. M, District Collector Devidas N. IASTourism Director Sikha Surendran IAS, and several industry leaders.

The Raviz Palace is set to redefine luxury travel in Kerala, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and indulgence.


Sofitel Mumbai BKC Renews Prestigious Green Key Certification

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Renews Prestigious Green Key Certification

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 15, 2025

Sofitel Mumbai BKC has once again upheld its commitment to sustainability by renewing its prestigious Green Key Certification, valid through December 2025. Originally awarded in 2024, when it became the first hotel in India to achieve this accolade, the property has successfully passed the annual audit, reaffirming its dedication to environmentally responsible operations.

The Green Key Certification, bestowed by the National Jury Green Key India and the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), is globally recognized as a leading standard for excellence in environmental responsibility within the tourism industry. The certification mandates strict adherence to criteria established by the Foundation for Environmental Education, ensuring that recipients continuously enhance their green performance each year.

For Sofitel Mumbai BKC, maintaining this certification involves implementing measures such as reducing utility consumption, upgrading facilities, and conducting awareness campaigns aimed at promoting sustainable practices. General Manager Manish Dayya expressed pride in the achievement, stating:

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"This certification has inspired us to adopt smarter resource management, minimise waste, and integrate sustainable choices into every aspect of our operations. It’s more than an accolade—it’s our way of ensuring a greener future while delivering the exceptional service and elegance that Sofitel as a brand is known for. For our guests, it’s a promise of a stay that aligns with their values, while offering luxury with a lighter footprint. Together, we’re making every visit a step towards a more sustainable world."

The annual renewal of the Green Key Certification is a testament to Sofitel Mumbai BKC's consistent efforts to develop a sustainable and responsible business model. By meeting and exceeding the rigorous criteria, the hotel ensures it remains a benchmark for eco-friendly hospitality in India.

Guests at Sofitel Mumbai BKC can enjoy a luxurious stay that reflects their values, combining world-class service with a commitment to preserving the environment. This achievement underscores the brand’s philosophy of delivering “luxury with a lighter footprint”, setting a gold standard for sustainable tourism in the region.


WelcomHeritage Natraj Opens Its Doors in McLeod Ganj

WelcomHeritage Natraj Opens Its Doors in McLeod Ganj

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 15, 2025

WelcomHeritage Natraj, a boutique retreat by WelcomHeritage Hotels, has officially opened its doors in McLeod Ganj, the spiritual and cultural haven fondly called "Little Lhasa." Situated just 200 meters from the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the retreat offers guests an immersive experience of the region's rich Tibetan and Himachali heritage, set against the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar range.

The retreat features 32 thoughtfully designed rooms, each offering a warm and inviting space for guests to relax after exploring the vibrant town. From panoramic mountain views to contemporary amenities, every detail reflects a perfect balance of modern luxury and the warmth of Himalayan hospitality.

Guests can indulge in exquisite dining options that celebrate local and international flavors, or unwind at the stylish bar with its cozy ambiance and stunning mountain vistas. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel offers a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a well-stocked library, and an open terrace with breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas.

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"At WelcomHeritage Natraj, we are excited to welcome travelers to experience the magic of McLeod Ganj," said Abinash Manghani, CEO of WelcomHeritage Hotels. "We created a space where every visitor's story can unfold amidst the splendor of the Himalayas."

The hotel serves as a perfect base to explore McLeod Ganj’s treasures, such as the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Bhagsu Waterfall, Nechung Monastery, and the Norbulingka Institute. Guests can also enjoy hikes through picturesque trails or visit bustling markets showcasing traditional Tibetan handicrafts.

Sustainability is at the heart of WelcomHeritage Natraj. The property implements eco-friendly initiatives like water conservation, sourcing local produce, and supporting the community through responsible tourism practices.

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Accessibility is effortless, with the retreat located within driving distance of Dharamshala and Pathankot. The Dharamshala (Gaggal) Airport is just 20 kilometers away, complemented by well-connected bus and rail services.

For business and social gatherings, the six-storeyed hotel boasts a 950-square-foot meeting space, complemented by a wide range of conveniences such as 24/7 room service, high-speed internet, complimentary parking, luggage storage, and kid-friendly dining options.

Whether it’s a family vacation, a solo adventure, a trip with friends, or an intimate conference, WelcomHeritage Natraj promises an unforgettable blend of comfort and culture in the heart of the Himalayas. Come, create lasting memories in this enchanting retreat.

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