Renewed Grandeur: Taj Mahal Hotel Marks 45 Years with Major Revamp

Renewed Grandeur: Taj Mahal Hotel Marks 45 Years with Major Revamp

By Author

Published on December 3, 2023

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), backed by the Tata Group, commemorates the 45th anniversary of its flagship property, the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi, known colloquially as Taj Mansingh. Following a high-stakes public auction by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) in 2018, IHCL retained ownership of this iconic hotel and embarked on an extensive renovation, investing nearly Rs 250 crore.

The revamp of the Taj Mahal Hotel reflects IHCL's commitment to keeping pace with evolving customer preferences while honouring its storied past. The hotel now boasts 40 luxury suites, including five themed suites that celebrate India's rich heritage. The introduction of two floors of luxury apartments, equipped with kitchens and wardrobe spaces, caters to guests seeking longer stays.

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IHCL's renovation extended to the hotel's dining spaces, such as Machan and House of Ming, alongside the reimagining of Chambers with luxury fashion and lifestyle brand Stefano Ricci. A collaboration with Johnny Walker has brought a new dimension to the hotel’s offerings with the blue label bar and cigar lounge. The hotel's wellness facilities have been expanded, and all pools are now heated, starting with this property.

Suma Venkatesh, IHCL's executive vice president for real estate and development, stated that the renovated hotel has already restored its pre-renovation levels of revenue and profits, despite higher lease rentals. She emphasised the transformation of the hotel's accommodation mix and the focus on luxury-driven and high-end offerings to drive rates.

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Vijay Thacker, MD of Horwath HTL India, pointed out that the addition of suites and apartments at the Taj Mahal Hotel is expected to strongly enhance rate gains, positively impacting profits. The Taj Mahal Hotel, with its prime location in Lutyens' Delhi, has always been a preferred choice for global travellers and dignitaries.

As per the NDMC details from 2018, IHCL's lease renewal for another 33 years involved a significant increase in the monthly licence fee. The renovation, according to Venkatesh, was not just an update but a re-envisioning of the property for the next decade, reflecting IHCL's foresight in hospitality trends.

The Taj Mahal Hotel, a symbol of luxury and prestige, remains integral to IHCL's portfolio, both emotionally and commercially, as one of the top five revenue-earning hotels in India for the group.


Della Resorts Unveils Curated Luxury Retreat for the Republic Day Long Weekend

Della Resorts Unveils Curated Luxury Retreat for the Republic Day Long Weekend

By Hariharan U

Published on January 18, 2026

As the Republic Day long weekend approaches, Della Resorts & Adventure is inviting travellers to step away from city life and indulge in a curated luxury retreat set amidst the scenic hills of Lonavala. Designed for guests seeking a refreshing escape without travelling far, the Republic Day Retreat offers a relaxed yet indulgent holiday experience close to Mumbai and Pune.

Available from January 25, the retreat features a luxury overnight stay complemented by a complimentary breakfast, a specially curated buffet dinner, and live entertainment, creating an effortless setting for guests to unwind and celebrate the long weekend in comfort.

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Ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends, the experience blends comfort, indulgence, and entertainment, allowing guests to slow down and enjoy a thoughtfully planned staycation. With its expansive property, multiple dining venues, and signature hospitality, Della Resorts continues to position itself as a preferred destination for short luxury escapes.

The Republic Day Retreat is offering an attractive premium getaway option for travellers looking to mark the national holiday with a memorable and relaxing experience in the hills of Lonavala.


Hyatt Place Butwal Announces Opening in Western Nepal

Hyatt Place Butwal Announces Opening in Western Nepal

By Hariharan U

Published on January 17, 2026

Hyatt Place Butwal has officially announced its opening, marking a significant milestone in the hospitality landscape of western Nepal. The property becomes Butwal’s first internationally branded five-star hotel, introducing global hospitality standards to a market witnessing rapid economic and tourism-led growth.

The opening reflects Butwal’s rising importance as a regional hub, supported by expanding industrial activity, improving infrastructure, and growing international connectivity. With the operationalisation of Gautam Buddha International Airport in nearby Bhairahawa, demand for international-standard accommodation has increased across business, leisure, and trade segments.

Hyatt Place Butwal has already made an impact on the city’s evolving social and lifestyle scene with the successful hosting of its grand opening celebration, “New Year’s Eve Under the Stars.” The event brought together prominent business leaders, influencers, and local patrons, highlighting the hotel’s ability to curate large-scale, world-class experiences and position itself as a premium lifestyle destination in the region.

Commenting on the opening, Tushar Nagar, General Manager, Hyatt Place Butwal, said, “The overwhelming response to our New Year’s Eve celebration reflects that Butwal is ready for a premium hospitality and lifestyle experience. With improving air connectivity and a rapidly expanding industrial base, the need for international-standard accommodation has grown significantly. Hyatt Place Butwal aims to bridge this gap while supporting the region’s evolving business and tourism ecosystem.”

Strategically located at the intersection of the Mahendra Highway (Asian Highway) and the Siddhartha Highway, Butwal is transforming from a transit town into a commercial and industrial powerhouse. Its strategic highway access, growing industrial zones, and international air connectivity position the city as a key connector for trade, tourism, and transit in western Nepal.


Espire Hospitality Expands with Country Inn Launch in Varanasi

Espire Hospitality Expands with Country Inn Launch in Varanasi

By Hariharan U

Published on January 16, 2026

Espire Hospitality Limited, one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality companies, has announced the launch of Country Inn, Varanasi, marking another milestone in the expansion of its Country Inn Hotels & Resorts portfolio. The new opening strengthens the group’s presence in high-potential destinations and reinforces its focus on culturally significant cities.

Situated in the heart of Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities, the hotel is set against the city’s spiritual energy and timeless charm. Designed to offer a balance between contemporary living and warm hospitality, Country Inn, Varanasi provides a calm and comfortable retreat for both leisure and business travellers. Its proximity to the city’s renowned ghats and sacred temples makes it an ideal base for guests seeking convenience alongside comfort.

The property features thoughtfully designed guestrooms with fresh interiors, soothing colour palettes, high-speed Wi-Fi and premium amenities. Guests can also enjoy curated dining experiences at SUTRA By Banaras, the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant serving Indian and international flavours in a welcoming indoor and outdoor setting.

Commenting on the launch, Akhil Arora, CEO & Managing Director, Espire Hospitality Limited, said, “Varanasi is a city of unparalleled spiritual depth, shaped by its cultural richness, history and tradition. We are proud to bring Country Inn to this sacred destination, creating a space that reflects the city’s timeless spirit while offering contemporary comfort and our signature warm hospitality.” He added that the hotel aims to offer travellers a modern space to pause, unwind and immerse themselves in the essence of the city.

The opening of Country Inn, Varanasi further adds momentum to Espire Hospitality Limited’s growth journey. The company has recently signed properties in destinations including Rishikesh, Udaipur, Jalandhar, North Goa and Dehradun, and continues to move steadily towards its vision of operating 30 hotels by FY26.

With a diversified brand portfolio ranging from boutique luxury offerings under ZANA Luxury Resorts to the well-recognised Country Inn Hotels & Resorts, Espire Hospitality Limited continues to strengthen its position as a dynamic and fast-evolving player in India’s hospitality landscape.

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