Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Aurika Brand with New Property in Surat, Gujarat

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Aurika Brand with New Property in Surat, Gujarat

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 26, 2024

Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd. has taken a significant step forward in expanding its upscale brand, Aurika Hotels & Resorts, by signing a new property in Surat, Gujarat. This latest addition, Aurika, Surat, is expected to open in FY 2030 and will be operated by Carnation Hotels Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary and the management arm of Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd.

Aurika, Surat is poised to offer guests an exceptional experience, featuring 175 aesthetically designed rooms and suites. The hotel will also boast a range of premium amenities, including Mirasa, an all-day dining restaurant, extensive banquet facilities with Ekaara as the ballroom, Aurum as the boardroom, a stunning swimming pool, and a rejuvenating spa.

Surat: A Blend of Industry and Culture

Known as the 'Diamond City of India,' Surat is a global powerhouse in diamond cutting and polishing, as well as a major producer of silk and synthetic fabrics, earning it the additional moniker of the 'Silk City.' Beyond its industrial acclaim, Surat is steeped in history, with landmarks such as the Dutch Garden and Surat Castle, which echo the city’s rich cultural and economic heritage. The meandering Tapi River adds to the city’s picturesque charm, making it a delightful destination for travelers.

Surat is also a food lover’s paradise, offering an array of delightful street food and traditional Gujarati dishes that showcase the region’s culinary diversity.

A Commitment to Upscale Hospitality

Commenting on the signing, Vilas Pawar, CEO of Managed and Franchise Business at Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd., said, “We are thrilled to announce the signing of Aurika, Surat, marking our second Aurika property in Gujarat. This addition will further strengthen our presence in the state, where we currently operate seven hotels and have nine more in the pipeline. Aurika, Surat, will embody our commitment to upscale hospitality, offering guests an exceptional blend of opulence and local culture. We are excited to bring our distinctive experience to this vibrant city, ensuring it becomes a sought-after destination for both domestic and international travellers.”

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Aurika: Beyond the Unusual

Aurika hotels are known for being stylishly elegant yet comfortably informal, with a strong emphasis on design that reflects the soul of the destination. Each Aurika property has its own unique personality, featuring new-age dining and innovative entertainment options, complemented by invigorating fitness and wellness facilities. The brand’s essence lies in going 'beyond the unusual,' with service that is attentive and personal, yet unobtrusive.

Inspiring spaces, flawless delivery, and cutting-edge technological solutions ensure that guests at Aurika hotels can work, play, and relax effortlessly. This new property in Surat will continue this tradition, bringing a touch of luxury to one of India’s most vibrant cities.

About Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd.

Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd. is a leading hotel chain in India, offering a wide range of accommodations across the country. With a focus on providing exceptional service and value, Lemon Tree Hotels continue to expand its presence, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

For more information, visit lemontreehotels.com.

Contact: lemontree@pragency.com


Planet Hotels & Resorts Accelerates India Expansion with Lifestyle Hospitality Focus

Planet Hotels & Resorts Accelerates India Expansion with Lifestyle Hospitality Focus

By Hariharan U

Published on April 7, 2026

Planet Hotels & Resorts is steadily strengthening its presence across India, with a clear focus on lifestyle-driven hospitality and premium travel experiences. Based out of Mumbai, the brand is building a strategically curated pipeline aimed at high-potential leisure, urban, and spiritual destinations.

Under the leadership of Anand Chatterjee, who has led the hospitality vertical for over a decade, the company is positioning itself as a key player in India’s evolving premium hospitality space.

The group’s journey began with the launch of Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Goa in 2013, which set the tone for its design-forward and experience-led approach. Since then, the portfolio has expanded across destinations such as Thane, Powai, and Manali.

Flagship urban properties like Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel reflect the brand’s commitment to design-led stays and immersive guest experiences. Expanding its boutique footprint, the group also marked its entry into the hills with a Manali property under The Beatle brand in 2025, catering to travellers seeking elevated mountain retreats.

In line with its focus on the elite segment, the brand recently introduced Kings Mansion in North Goa. Designed as an ultra-premium destination, the property aims to deliver privacy, bespoke services, and a refined hospitality experience tailored to discerning travellers.

Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious roadmap with upcoming projects planned across New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur, and Hyderabad, while also evaluating additional markets. The expansion strategy is focused on tapping into India’s most sought-after travel destinations, spanning leisure, spiritual, and urban segments.

Speaking on the growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee highlighted that the brand’s expansion is driven by a deep understanding of emerging lifestyle destinations and evolving consumer expectations. He emphasised that the focus remains on creating design-forward environments, intuitive service, and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.

With a growing portfolio that blends aesthetics, personalisation, and experience-led offerings, Planet Hotels & Resorts is positioning itself to play a significant role in shaping India’s next phase of premium hospitality growth.


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.

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