Lilac Hotels Opens in Kumbakonam: Tamara Leisure’s Third Property in Tamil Nadu

Lilac Hotels Opens in Kumbakonam: Tamara Leisure’s Third Property in Tamil Nadu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 27, 2024

Tamara Leisure Experiences is excited to unveil its latest venture, Lilac Hotels in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. This new addition to the brand’s portfolio marks their third property in the state and strengthens their presence in pilgrimage destinations across South India.

A Cultural Haven

Kumbakonam, renowned for its 188 temples, offers a serene backdrop for the new hotel, adding to the city's rich cultural tapestry. The grand inauguration featured a ceremonial lamp-lighting by Shruti Shibulal, CEO and Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences, followed by a brand presentation by Hotel Manager V. Unnikrishnan. This launch highlights Tamara’s commitment to affordable yet exceptional hospitality experiences.

Expanding Horizons

Shruti Shibulal expressed enthusiasm about the new property, stating, “As a group, we have remained highly optimistic about the travel market in India. We are committed to expanding our presence in key pilgrimage towns. Lilac Hotels, our mid-segment brand, is perfectly suited for families and groups visiting these religious and historic sites. We are delighted to unveil Lilac Hotels Kumbakonam as our third property in Tamil Nadu and ninth in India.”

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Hotel Highlights:

  • Location: Centrally located in Kumbakonam, just 1 km from the railway station and close to major temples such as Navagraha Temple and Kasi Vishwanatha Temple.

  • Rooms: The hotel features 27 Executive rooms, 13 Premium rooms, 4 Elite rooms, and 1 suite, all designed for spacious family accommodation.

  • Decor: The hotel’s architecture and interior design are inspired by the local heritage of Kumbakonam.

  • Dining: Kesar by Lilac, the 80-seater signature restaurant, offers local delicacies and the renowned Kumbakonam Degree Coffee.

  • Banquet: Utsava, the banquet hall, is ideal for small gatherings and ceremonies, accommodating up to 60 guests.

Community and Authenticity

Tamara Leisure Experiences takes pride in employing a predominantly local workforce, fostering strong community ties and boosting the local economy. This approach ensures guests receive an authentic and culturally rich experience.

The launch of Lilac Hotels in Kumbakonam marks a significant milestone for Tamara Leisure Experiences, enhancing their portfolio with the fourth Lilac property in South India and reinforcing their dedication to exceptional hospitality in key spiritual and cultural destinations across India.


Lemon Tree Hotels Opens Sixth Property in Tamil Nadu with New Launch in Erode

Lemon Tree Hotels Opens Sixth Property in Tamil Nadu with New Launch in Erode

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 17, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the grand opening of Lemon Tree Hotel, Erode, further strengthening its footprint in Tamil Nadu. With this addition, the group now proudly operates six hotels across the state, reaffirming its commitment to offering high-quality hospitality experiences throughout India.

Strategically located in Erode — a vibrant city known as the “Loom City of India” and the “Turmeric Capital” — the new hotel features 64 well-appointed rooms, Citrus Café, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and modern conference facilities catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Kapil Sharma, Executive Vice President - Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With the launch of Lemon Tree Hotel, Erode, we now have six operational properties in Tamil Nadu. This opening aligns with our vision of offering a Lemon Tree Hotel across the length and breadth of the country where one or the other sub brands is available for our discerning guests in every city.”

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Set along the banks of the River Cauvery, Erode is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, thriving textile industry, and robust agricultural economy. Its seamless connectivity to Coimbatore, Salem, and Bangalore, coupled with attractions like Kodiveri Dam and a serene lifestyle, makes it a compelling destination for travellers and investors alike.

With this launch, Lemon Tree Hotels continues to build on its promise of combining comfort, convenience, and consistent quality, ensuring guests experience the perfect balance of tradition and modernity that cities like Erode have to offer.

Factsheet:

  • Property: Lemon Tree Hotel, Erode

  • Rooms: 64

  • Facilities: Citrus Café (multi-cuisine restaurant), conference facilities

  • Location: Erode, Tamil Nadu

  • Nearby Highlights: Kodiveri Dam, textile markets, River Cauvery


OBLU SELECT Sangeli Signs Landmark Pact with Maldives EPA to Boost Reef Conservation

OBLU SELECT Sangeli Signs Landmark Pact with Maldives EPA to Boost Reef Conservation

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 15, 2025

In a milestone move for marine conservation in the Maldives, OBLU SELECT Sangeli has formalised a partnership with the Maldives Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This landmark agreement aligns the resort’s proactive marine initiatives with national environmental objectives, focusing on the joint management and monitoring of the Rasfari Reef Restoration Programme.

Despite extensive coral bleaching that has impacted much of the Maldives, Sangeli’s reefs have shown notable resilience, thanks to dedicated conservation work by its marine team. The resort has already transplanted over 10,000 coral fragments using advanced nursery and frame methods, underlining its long-standing commitment to protecting marine ecosystems.

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Situated just 25 km from the Rasfari Marine Protected Area—a quick 20-minute speedboat ride—OBLU SELECT Sangeli’s marine team is ideally positioned to support this vital initiative. The official signing took place on 2 July 2025 at the resort, with Mr Ashraf, owner of OBLU SELECT Sangeli, hosting Mr Naeem, Director General of the EPA, to endorse the partnership.

“Working directly with the EPA empowers us to make a deeper impact. It’s about more than one reef—it’s about coming together to safeguard the future of these vital ecosystems,” said Mr Ashraf. “We are honoured to support this national initiative and to contribute meaningfully to the wider marine environment.”

Under the MoU, Sangeli’s marine team will actively assist with reef health monitoring, implement conservation protocols, and engage in knowledge-sharing and capacity-building with EPA experts. This collaboration blends the EPA’s regulatory strength with Sangeli’s hands-on reef expertise, enhancing monitoring practices and building long-term ecological resilience.

Located on the serene north-western tip of North Malé Atoll, OBLU SELECT Sangeli is known for its stunning natural surroundings, modern villa designs, exceptional all-inclusive Serenity Plan™, and easy access to some of the Maldives’ top diving and snorkelling sites. The partnership underscores how luxury travel and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand—offering guests unforgettable experiences while contributing to a healthier planet.


Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection Hosts Exclusive Appreciation Evening for Indian Travel Trade and Media in Mumbai

Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection Hosts Exclusive Appreciation Evening for Indian Travel Trade and Media in Mumbai

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 15, 2025

Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Dubai’s emblem of luxury hospitality, recently hosted an exclusive evening in Mumbai to appreciate its Indian media and travel trade partners for their continued collaboration and support. Held on 11th July 2025 at Tamasha, Worli, the elegant event brought together key industry professionals for an evening of curated hospitality, vibrant networking, and forward-looking conversations.

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The evening provided the perfect setting for guests to connect with the hotel collection’s senior leadership, including Vishesh Amerkar, Complex Director of Sales – MICE, and Tulay Kilic, Complex Director of Marketing. It also offered a platform to discuss future growth opportunities and deepen existing relationships.

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Highlighting the importance of the Indian market, Tulay Kilic shared, "India remains one of our strongest and most consistent source markets, and this event is our way of expressing gratitude to our valued partners for their continued support year after year. It has provided a great platform to strengthen existing relationships and explore new opportunities, as we remain committed to delivering exclusive, luxury experiences in the iconic travel destination of Dubai."

The Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection includes three distinctive properties: Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, part of the Legend Collection by Preferred Hotels & Resorts; V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton; and Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City. Each offers its own unique brand of luxury and personalised service, along with seamless access to Dubai’s top attractions, making the collection a favourite for discerning travellers from India and beyond.

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