Rambha Palace Opens on the Banks of Odisha’s Chilika Lake, Offering a Royal Experience

Rambha Palace Opens on the Banks of Odisha’s Chilika Lake, Offering a Royal Experience

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 7, 2024

Rambha Palace, a majestic 18th-century royal residence, has opened its doors to discerning travellers, offering an immersive experience on the tranquil banks of Chilika Lake, Asia's largest saltwater lagoon. After six years of meticulous restoration, led by renowned tropical modernist architect Channa Daswatte, the palace has been reborn, reflecting its original grandeur and Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Channa Daswatte, a protégé of the iconic Geoffrey Bawa, has seamlessly blended the palace’s classical architecture with contemporary luxury, creating a unique fusion of past and present.

This remarkable opening enhances Hidden India’s portfolio of boutique luxury hotels, offering a serene escape for travellers looking to explore Odisha’s vibrant history, nature, and traditions. The palace invites guests to unwind and reconnect with nature through its focus on mindfulness and slow living, offering experiences that encourage patrons to pause, reflect, and savour every moment of their stay.

Himangini Singh, co-founder of Hunch Ventures, expressed her excitement during the grand opening, stating, “Rambha Palace is a testament to Odisha’s historical significance. Guests can experience the state’s vibrant culture and traditions in all their grandeur and glory. The region's natural beauty beckons exploration, and I am thrilled to welcome guests to uncover Odisha through the lens of Rambha Palace.” Singh also emphasized the deep cultural roots reflected in the palace’s design and decor.

Sri Lankan architect Channa Daswatte further elaborated, “The architecture of Rambha, with its classical planning and Odisha-inspired textures, offers an immersive experience in the unique design ethos of the region.”

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Beyond its architectural splendor, Rambha Palace holds historical significance as the site of the first Utkal Conference, a pivotal event that led to the foundation of the independent state of Odisha. The palace, now a luxurious boutique hotel, offers an unparalleled blend of history, nature, and luxury.

Situated along the shores of Chilika Lake, the palace provides unforgettable bird-watching opportunities, as the region is home to a rich diversity of wildlife. Guests are treated to breathtaking lake views while indulging in the serene surroundings. To ensure a seamless and indulgent experience, each guest is assigned a personal butler throughout their stay.

The culinary offerings at Rambha Palace are equally impressive, with seven distinct cuisines available, including local Odia flavours. The property caters to a variety of dietary preferences, offering vegan and Satvik meals, allergen-free options, and personalised meal plans for those on detox and wellness retreats. Dining options range from a formal dining room and al fresco settings to a poolside cafe, two bars, riverside picnics, and beachside meals.

For those seeking rejuvenation, the Mantnam Spa at Rambha Palace provides a comprehensive wellness experience inspired by ancient Indian practices. Guests can indulge in a range of Ayurvedic therapies, including massages, facials, scrubs, and wraps, along with personalised yoga sessions. Each treatment is designed to promote healing, balance, and longevity, ensuring a refreshing and holistic retreat.

With its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to preserving Odisha’s rich history, Rambha Palace promises to be a unique destination for luxury travellers seeking a blend of cultural immersion, nature, and relaxation.


Le Méridien Ahmedabad Celebrates Raksha Bandhan with Family and Flavours

Le Méridien Ahmedabad Celebrates Raksha Bandhan with Family and Flavours

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 28, 2026

This Raksha Bandhan, Le Méridien Ahmedabad is inviting families to come together for a festive dinner centred around good food, warm hospitality and the special bond between siblings.

The celebration is designed as a relaxed evening where families can take a break from their daily routines, share conversations and enjoy time with each other. The festive spread will bring together a selection of Indian and global favourites, offering something for different generations and tastes.

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Adding to the evening will be live music, creating a warm and easy-going atmosphere while allowing families to enjoy their conversations and dining experience at their own pace.

The celebration goes beyond a festive meal, giving families a chance to reconnect, revisit familiar stories and celebrate relationships that remain an important part of their lives. With the warmth of Raksha Bandhan, a selection of favourites and contemporary hospitality, Le Méridien Ahmedabad brings families together around the table for an evening dedicated to togetherness and the enduring bond of siblinghood.


ITC Grand Chola Wins Net Zero Water Category at COOL Conclave 3.0

ITC Grand Chola Wins Net Zero Water Category at COOL Conclave 3.0

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 26, 2026

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, has been named the Winner in the Net Zero Water Category at the COOL Conclave 3.0 – Decarbonisation Excellence Awards 2026. The recognition highlights the hotel’s continued efforts in water conservation, resource management and sustainable hospitality.

The award reflects ITC Grand Chola’s approach to making sustainability part of its daily operations while continuing to offer a luxury experience to guests. Its work in water conservation, reuse and efficient resource management has helped the hotel reduce its environmental impact through measurable practices. ITC Grand Chola holds LEED Platinum, LEED Zero Carbon and LEED Zero Water certifications, adding to its position as a leading example of sustainable luxury hospitality.

Beyond its sustainability initiatives, the Chennai hotel is also known for its strong connection with the heritage and culture of Southern India. Spread across eight acres, ITC Grand Chola takes inspiration from the Chola dynasty and the architectural traditions of the region.

Its design includes influences from the Brihadeeswara Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram Temple and Airavateswara Temple, creating a setting that brings together South Indian heritage, craftsmanship and luxury.

The hotel’s iconic Sangam lobby features carved balustrades, engraved stairways and detailed artistic elements, while the Grand Staircase showcases the symbolic Wheel of Life motif. These design elements give guests an experience that connects the hotel’s luxury offering with the region’s architectural legacy.

The latest recognition at the COOL Conclave 3.0 – Decarbonisation Excellence Awards adds to ITC Grand Chola’s sustainability achievements. With continued focus on environmental responsibility, resource efficiency and sustainable innovation, the hotel remains committed to shaping a more responsible approach to luxury hospitality in India and beyond.


Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Marks Eight Years of Hospitality and Growth

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Marks Eight Years of Hospitality and Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 25, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai is celebrating its eighth anniversary, marking eight years of hospitality, culinary experiences and strong connections with the city. Since opening in 2018, the hotel has grown alongside Madurai’s tourism, business and hospitality sectors.

The property has built a strong presence among Leisure Travellers, Temple Tourists, Corporate Guests, MICE groups and Wedding celebrations. Over the years, it has continued to adapt to changing guest expectations while focusing on personalized and experience-led hospitality.

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Mr. V. Vasudevan, Chairman, said, “Eight years in Madurai is a milestone built on trust, commitment and strong relationships. We are proud to have grown alongside the city and look forward to creating greater value for Madurai’s hospitality landscape in the years ahead.”

The hotel is also seeing strong business momentum in 2026. During the first half of the year, Courtyard by Marriott Madurai recorded 25%+ growth, with occupancy crossing 85%. Hotel revenue grew by 19.9%, while occupancy growth stood at 8.8%.

Mr. C. Muralikrishnan, Managing Director, said, “Our eight-year journey reflects our ability to evolve with Madurai and its changing hospitality landscape. The strong growth this year reinforces our confidence in the city’s potential and our vision for the future.”

Food and beverage continues to be an important part of the hotel’s offering, with Madurai Kitchen becoming a prominent dining destination for both hotel guests and local diners. Its buffet, food festivals, brunches and curated culinary experiences have added to Madurai’s growing premium dining culture. The hotel has also strengthened its presence in the weddings and MICE segment, having hosted 25+ medical conferences, including national and global associations.

Mr. V. Akshay Ram, Executive Director, said, “Hospitality is ultimately about creating experiences that guests remember. Over the past eight years, we have continually evolved our offerings while staying committed to personalized service and meaningful guest experiences.”

Guest loyalty remains an important part of the hotel’s journey, with repeat guests returning year after year. The property also recorded record guest satisfaction in the first half of 2026. Alongside technology-led convenience, the hotel continues to focus on the human connection that remains central to hospitality.

Sustainability has also become part of the property’s daily operations. Its glass-bottle water plant and energy-efficiency initiatives have helped bring annual electricity consumption down from 2,980,550 kWh to 2,908,447 kWh, saving 72,103 kWh despite an 8.8% increase in occupancy and 19.9% growth in hotel revenue. Engineering-led operational practices have also helped reduce HLP costs from 9.4% to 8.4%.

Mr. Mahesh Padala, General Manager, said, “Our eighth anniversary is a celebration of our guests and our associates who make every experience special. The loyalty of our guests and record satisfaction this year inspire us to raise the bar even further.”

As Courtyard by Marriott Madurai enters its ninth year, the hotel will continue to focus on guest experience, F&B innovation, weddings, MICE, technology and sustainability, while growing alongside Madurai and contributing to the city’s evolving hospitality landscape.

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