JPOD Launches First Pod Hotel at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport

JPOD Launches First Pod Hotel at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 8, 2024

JPOD Hotels Pvt Ltd has launched its new Pod Hotel at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad. Located near the City Side Check-In facility at the car park level, the hotel aims to provide a modern and innovative accommodation option for travelers. This launch is part of RGIA’s ongoing efforts to enhance the overall passenger experience, offering a convenient and comfortable stay.

The JPOD hotel provides high-quality accommodations at an affordable price, catering to various types of travelers, from business executives to leisure tourists. Each pod offers secure storage, entertainment options, and privacy, making it an ideal alternative to traditional airport lounges and hotels. The compact design also optimizes airport space, allowing for efficient accommodation without compromising on comfort.

Safety and hygiene are prioritized, with the hotel maintaining stringent cleanliness standards. This ensures peace of mind for guests, especially during transit. Passengers can book a pod on-site or through the JPOD website, where various packages are available with dynamic pricing options.

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Jagrut Thakkar, Founder of JPOD Hotels Pvt Ltd, expressed excitement over the partnership with RGIA, stating, "We are excited to partner with RGIA in Hyderabad. JPOD’s global standards in design and functionality position us to offer effective accommodation solutions across other airports in India."

Hiren Gandhi, Director of JPOD Hotels, highlighted the company’s previous ventures, saying, "While JPOD is tailored to meet the needs of airport travelers, we initially launched Urbanpod, India’s first Pod Hotel, in 2017. It was redesigned and relaunched at Mumbai Central Station in 2021 to serve railway passengers. These launches allowed us to assess the acceptability of Pod-style accommodations in India."

Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), noted that the growing number of air travelers has increased the demand for comfort and convenience. He said, “This facility offers a perfect place to unwind while transiting through the airport. The Pod Hotel at Hyderabad Airport will provide our passengers with a space to rejuvenate.”

The JPOD hotel blends affordability, comfort, and innovation, setting a new standard in airport accommodation. It caters to the needs of the modern traveler, offering a practical and efficient option without sacrificing quality.

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Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on April 2, 2026

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

By Hariharan U

Published on April 1, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.

As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.

Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”

Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.


Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 31, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle marked its third anniversary on 28th March, celebrating three years of hospitality, memorable guest experiences, and a growing presence in the city. Over this period, the hotel has welcomed guests from across India and abroad, hosted over 30 distinguished celebrities, and maintained a strong position among top properties on TripAdvisor since its opening.

While these milestones highlight its journey, the hotel places equal importance on the moments it has shared with its guests. Over the years, it has grown into more than just a place to stay, becoming a space where people come together for celebrations, conversations, and memorable experiences. The return of familiar faces and continued guest trust have played a key role in shaping its journey.

A key part of the hotel’s identity is its dining approach. Known for its 100% vegetarian, sattvic cuisine, the hotel focuses on meals that are prepared with care and authenticity, while also keeping well-being in mind. This thoughtful approach has helped create a strong connection with guests who value both taste and mindful dining.

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Speaking on the occasion, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, said:

"These three years have been incredibly special for us. Beyond numbers and milestones, it’s the relationships we’ve built and the memories we’ve been part of that truly define our journey. We are deeply grateful to our guests for their continued trust and support."

Looking ahead, Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle remains focused on growing further while continuing to offer experiences that reflect warmth, comfort, and flavour.

Three years. Countless memories. Infinite flavours.

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