Sarova Hotels: Celebrating 50 Years of Hospitality Excellence

Sarova Hotels: Celebrating 50 Years of Hospitality Excellence

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 3, 2024

Kenya's tourism industry is celebrating a significant milestone as Sarova Hotels & Resorts marks its 50th anniversary in April 2024. This golden jubilee not only commemorates five decades of exceptional service but also highlights the brand's deep-rooted values and commitment to showcasing the best of Kenya.

Sarova Hotels was founded in 1974 by G.S. Vohra, Mohinder Singh Vohra, and John Ngata Kariuki. The name SAROVA is an acronym derived from the first names of their wives: Swaran Vohra, Rose Kariuki, and Varsha Vohra. The journey began with the acquisition of the Ambassadeur Hotel on Moi Avenue, a venture that set the foundation for Sarova's growth in the hospitality industry.

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Over the years, Sarova has expanded its footprint across Kenya, establishing a portfolio of nine properties that reflect a commitment to quality and innovation. These include:

  • Sarova Stanley and Sarova Panafric in Nairobi

  • Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa

  • Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa and Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge in Nakuru

  • Sarova Shaba Game Lodge in Samburu

  • Sarova Mara Game Camp in Masai Mara

  • Sarova Imperial Hotel in Kisumu

  • Sarova Maiyan in Nanyuki

In 2023, Sarova launched its first standalone specialty restaurant, Thai Chi by Sarova in Nairobi, expanding its culinary excellence beyond the well-known Thai Chi Restaurant at Sarova Stanley.

A key highlight of Sarova's journey is its dedication to nurturing talent, fostering diversity, and empowering local communities through employment and skill development. The brand's people-centric approach translates into exceptional service, where every interaction is infused with warmth and genuine care.

Sarova is also committed to sustainable practices that ensure the well-being of the environment and the communities in which it operates. Under the banner Sarova Cares, the brand has implemented initiatives such as responsible waste management, water conservation, and the use of renewable energy. These efforts ensure that Kenya's natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

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The 50th anniversary celebrations at Sarova Stanley highlighted the brand's resilience, adaptability, and enduring commitment to quality and innovation. Jimi Kariuki, MD of Sarova Hotels, remarked, "Achieving 50 years of operation is not merely a milestone but a hallmark of resilience, adaptation, and enduring commitment to quality and innovation. It places Sarova Hotels & Resorts in an elite group that has withstood the test of time, evolving with technological advancements, economic shifts, and changing consumer behaviors."

Mita Vohra, Director of Sales, Marketing, Revenue & Distribution, added, "Sarova Hotels is a heartwarming story of family and friendships coming together to realize a dream in hospitality. Celebrating this milestone of 50 years is a tribute to our founders and all of you, our partners, who have anchored and supported us through the decades. With each passing year, Sarova's future looks brighter than ever."

As Sarova Hotels celebrates its golden jubilee, it continues to offer guests not just luxury, but a deep connection to Kenya's land, people, and culture. The brand's unwavering dedication to showcasing the best of Kenya ensures that every stay is an unforgettable experience, leaving guests with memories that last long after they depart.

Happy 50th Anniversary, Sarova! Here’s to many more years of hospitality excellence.


Pune’s Next Icon: Della Group, Hiranandani, and Krisala Redefine Luxury Living with India’s First Racecourse-Themed Township

Pune’s Next Icon: Della Group, Hiranandani, and Krisala Redefine Luxury Living with India’s First Racecourse-Themed Township

By Author

Published on May 10, 2025

In a landmark collaboration poised to reshape the hospitality and real estate sectors, Della Group has announced a strategic partnership with Hiranandani Developers and Krisala Developers to develop India’s first racecourse-themed luxury township in North Hinjewadi, Pune. Spanning 40 acres of a larger 105-acre master plan, this venture promises to be more than a township—it is set to become a destination.

The Power Trio: Vision Meets Legacy

This unique alliance brings together three giants with complementary strengths:

  • Della Group, helmed by visionary Jimmy Mistry, is renowned for innovation in luxury hospitality and adventure experiences.

  • Hiranandani Developers, a name synonymous with excellence in real estate.

  • Krisala Developers, known for timely delivery and quality housing in Pune.

Together, they are building not just homes but a lifestyle ecosystem—where ultra-luxury, adventure, wellness, and business converge seamlessly.

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The Township: A Universe Within

At the heart of this project lies a full-scale racecourse and international polo club, setting the tone for the entire township. Surrounding this dynamic core are:

  • 128 private villa plots

  • 112 ultra-luxury resort residences

  • A 300-key five-star luxury resort

  • Nine wedding venues and 12 corporate event spaces

  • A world-class adventure park, golf course, and wellness retreat

This multi-use development is the first of its kind in India, blending residential, hospitality, and recreational formats into a unified, themed living experience.

With an estimated investment of ₹500 crore in its initial phase and projected revenues of ₹1,100 crore, the project uses a development management model. Della Group will earn a 15% topline fee, a bold move that aligns brand involvement with performance.

This model is transformational—bringing professional hospitality expertise into township development. It signals a new era where hospitality design principles guide real estate planning.

The township is already in advanced planning stages, with land acquisition complete and architectural designs underway. The first phase launches within three months, with possession of resort and villa plots by early next year, and the remainder—including private residences—by 2026.

Architecturally, the design will blend contemporary, organic, and British colonial aesthetics—creating a timeless, resort-style environment rarely seen in Indian housing developments.

What makes this venture extraordinary isn’t just its scale—it’s the merging of luxury hospitality with daily life. Residents won’t just live in homes—they’ll live within a curated, five-star experience. Every villa, every apartment, and every corner of the township is a touchpoint for hospitality-led living.

What It Means for the Industry

This township is a case study in convergence:

  • Hospitality meets real estate

  • Adventure meets wellness

  • Design meets experience

It underscores a broader shift: today's guests no longer want isolated stays—they want integrated, immersive environments. As hospitality players venture into real estate and vice versa, this township becomes a blueprint for future developments across India and beyond.

This project reimagines the way we live, celebrate, and unwind. As hospitality brands begin to shape the cities of tomorrow, the lines between guest, resident, and experience-blazer will blur. And if this partnership is any indication, the future is thrillingly bold.


Rosetta Hospitality Bags Dual Wins in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards

Rosetta Hospitality Bags Dual Wins in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 9, 2025

It’s a proud moment for Rosetta Hospitality as both of its signature properties, Rosetta Sakleshpur and Elements by Rosetta - Varca, Goa have been named winners of the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2025, earning spots among the top 10% of hotels worldwide.

This recognition is based entirely on consistent ratings and reviews shared by real guests on Tripadvisor over the past year, making it one of the most trusted awards in the global travel industry.

Celebrating businesses that go above and beyond in delivering exceptional guest experiences, the Travelers’ Choice Awards spotlight those who create lasting impressions and memorable stays. For Rosetta Hospitality, this double win highlights its dedication to thoughtful service, detail-driven design, and culturally rich experiences.

“This dual recognition is a proud milestone for our brand,” said Jai Sreedhar, Joint Managing Director & CEO, Rosetta Hospitality. “It reaffirms our commitment to delivering thoughtfully curated experiences — whether set amidst the expansive coffee plantations of Sakleshpur or in the serene tropical setting of Varca in South Goa.”

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At Rosetta Sakleshpur, guests enjoy serene, nature-immersed stays surrounded by lush coffee estates. In contrast, Elements by Rosetta – Varca offers a modern blend of Goan charm and contemporary comfort, promising warm hospitality near South Goa’s scenic beaches.

Kristen Dalton, President at Tripadvisor, congratulated the brand, stating, “Congratulations to Rosetta Hospitality for this remarkable achievement. Ranking among the top hotels worldwide is a true testament to the trust and appreciation of your guests.”

With this recognition, Rosetta Hospitality continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading name in Indian luxury getaways, offering a unique mix of tranquillity, culture, and impeccable service.


Sterling Strengthens Spiritual Circuit with New Resort at Rudraprayag

Sterling Strengthens Spiritual Circuit with New Resort at Rudraprayag

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 9, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts is deepening its commitment to spiritual tourism with the launch of Sterling Kastoori Rudraprayag, a peaceful yet well-connected Himalayan retreat for pilgrims and travellers alike. This marks Sterling’s 11th property in its spiritual circuit and 7th resort in Uttarakhand, reinforcing its strategic focus on meaningful, immersive travel experiences in sacred destinations.

Located just 2 km from the revered confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, the new resort is perfectly placed on the Badrinath Highway, serving as a base for Char Dham yatris, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers heading to treks like Tungnath, Deoriatal, and Chandrashila.

The resort offers a range of thoughtfully designed accommodations—from cozy rooms to elegant suites with private balconies and panoramic valley views. Guests can unwind with pure vegetarian regional cuisine at Vatika, which also offers Jain meals, or grab a comforting sip at Chai & You, the in-house café lounge.

Adding to its appeal, the property includes a banquet hall for up to 60 guests, ideal for intimate retreats, spiritual gatherings, or corporate offsites. With Chopta nearby and excellent road access from Haridwar and Rishikesh, the resort is both serene and convenient.

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“Sterling Kastoori Rudraprayag is a strategic step in our vision to bring transformational travel experiences to destinations rich in spiritual and natural significance,” said Mr. Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts.

Shri Mahabeer Singh Panwar, MD of Hotel Kastoori Inn, added, “We’re proud to partner with Sterling. Their guest-first approach ensures that this new resort will set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region.”

With spiritual tourism in India poised for significant growth, Sterling’s expanding portfolio includes destinations like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Guruvayur, Puri, Amritsar, and more. This latest launch further solidifies its leadership in catering to spiritually inclined travellers seeking curated experiences.

About Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd.

Sterling Holiday Resorts operates across 54 destinations with 62 resorts and over 3,200 operational keys. Its diverse offerings span hills, beaches, jungles, spiritual hubs, heritage spots, and more. A wholly owned subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd and part of Fairfax Financial Holdings, Sterling continues to grow its presence in India’s leisure and spiritual tourism space.

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