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.


Eco Hotels Signs First Boutique Property in Udaipur

Eco Hotels Signs First Boutique Property in Udaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on February 3, 2026

Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited has announced the signing of its first boutique property in Udaipur, marking a key milestone in the company’s brand expansion strategy and its entry into India’s growing boutique hospitality segment.

Located in the city of Udaipur and set amid the Aravali mountain range, the upcoming property will feature 20 thoughtfully designed rooms. According to the company, the rooms will be crafted with artistic elements and attention to detail, offering guests a blend of comfort, elegance and a serene, immersive environment complemented by scenic mountain views.

A major highlight of the property will be GG’s, a pure vegetarian, double-decker rooftop restaurant. Designed with both open-to-sky and covered dining spaces, the restaurant will offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, positioning it as a distinctive culinary destination aligned with Eco Hotels’ focus on quality and innovation.

The Udaipur signing also marks the launch of Eco Hotels’ fourth brand, The Eco Boutique, following its existing brands -The Eco, Eco Xpress and Eco Value. The new boutique brand is aimed at travellers seeking premium, experience-driven stays in culturally rich and scenic leisure destinations.

Commenting on the development, Vinod Kumar Tripathi, Chairman, Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited, said, “With the Eco Boutique Udaipur, we aim to deliver a refined hospitality experience that reflects the cultural richness and natural beauty of the region. This expansion is part of our broader strategy to strengthen our footprint in high-growth markets while maintaining our commitment to sustainability, guest comfort, and operational excellence.”

Sharing a financial and growth perspective, Vikram Doshi, Director – Finance & CFO, Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited, added, “The signing of our first boutique property in Udaipur reflects our focused approach toward expanding into high-demand leisure markets with strong revenue potential. This property is expected to strengthen our portfolio by offering a differentiated guest experience while maintaining operational efficiency and financial discipline. We remain confident that such strategic expansions will contribute positively to the company’s long-term growth trajectory.”

The property is scheduled to go live in March 2026 and is expected to further strengthen Eco Hotels’ presence in India’s leisure hospitality landscape, while offering guests a distinctive blend of comfort, elegance and scenic charm.


The Leela Palace Jaipur Celebrates India’s Literary Spirit at Jaipur Literature Festival 2026

The Leela Palace Jaipur Celebrates India’s Literary Spirit at Jaipur Literature Festival 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 30, 2026

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts partnered with the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) 2026, as Jaipur once again emerged as a vibrant meeting point for literature, art, and culture. The festival, held from January 15–19, brought together leading Indian and global writers, thinkers, and cultural voices for five days of dialogue, debate, and celebration. Anchoring this collaboration was ‘A Literary Sojourn’, a thoughtfully curated festival stay that combined privileged access with The Leela’s signature hospitality.

During the five days of the festival, The Leela Palace Jaipur hosted the Author’s Lounge, designed as a calm and refined cultural retreat. The space became a hub for writers, thinkers, and creators to engage in meaningful conversations away from the bustle of the festival grounds. Guests experienced a blend of literary discussions, music showcases, and storytelling sessions, while a wellness corner by Aujasya Spa by The Leela offered moments of relaxation, balance, and mindfulness.

Sharing her experience, Ila Arun, celebrated Indian TV personality and Rajasthani folk-pop singer, said, “At the Jaipur Literature Festival, my most lovable stop was The Leela’s Author’s Lounge, so artistic, so slick, and bursting with positive energy. You walked in and your mood instantly lift. The food was delicious, but also so thoughtfully planned, healthy, well-selected, and never so heavy that it would slow you down. It’s the perfect pause before you step right back into the next session feeling happy. And that’s classic Leela, hospitality with heart. Warm, attentive staff, and a chef who takes personal interest, coming table to table to make everyone feel comfortable. You feel genuinely cared for, and you carry that warmth back into the festival with you.”

Commenting on the experience, Tripti Pandey, tourism expert and cultural writer, said, "As I walked into the Author's Lounge, it took me by complete surprise as it was so much more spacious, with the addition of a spa that elevates the entire experience. The Leela team truly echoes excellence in hospitality, and the flute performance added a special touch to the ambiance. The Writers Ball 2026 was absolutely lavish and grand, our international guests were completely overawed by the entire experience."

As part of ‘A Literary Sojourn’, guests were also invited to explore an elaborate culinary journey across The Leela Palace Jaipur’s dining destinations. The Aravalli Dining Room showcased Indian, Rajasthani, and Western cuisines in a global dining format. Modern Asian small plates at The Amber Terrace were paired with root-to-fruit inspired cocktails reflecting Rajasthan’s botanical heritage. The Leela’s signature seven-course fine dining experience celebrated royal Indian kitchens in an elegant, candlelit setting. Guests could also unwind at The Peacock Lounge with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and seasonal beverages, while the Jharokha Bar offered refined drinks and light bites in a heritage-inspired atmosphere.

The partnership reached its grand finale with the Writers’ Ball on January 19, hosted at The Leela Palace Jaipur. The evening brought together literary figures and cultural icons for conversations, live performances, and immersive experiences. A live performance by Kutle Khan added to the atmosphere, complemented by The Leela’s hallmark hospitality and curated culinary offerings.

Through its association with Jaipur Literature Festival 2026, The Leela Palace Jaipur reinforced its role as a custodian of India’s cultural and literary heritage, creating experiences that celebrated storytelling, creativity, and thoughtful engagement in a setting that felt both meaningful and memorable.


Hilton Bengaluru Launches ‘Republic Retreats’ for One-Night Getaways

Hilton Bengaluru Launches ‘Republic Retreats’ for One-Night Getaways

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park have launched Republic Retreats, an exclusive one-night stay package designed for urban travellers and staycation enthusiasts. Available for stays between 24 January and 1 February 2026, the offer combines flexibility, curated dining, and exceptional value.

Republic Retreats invite guests to unwind with thoughtful inclusions such as buffet breakfast, buffet lunch or dinner, and 24-hour check-in and check-out. Guests can also enjoy 50% off during Happy Hours at the bar (12 p.m. – 6 p.m., IMFL) and hotel credits on food & beverages, including alcohol, as well as laundry services (spa excluded).

At Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, the package includes dining at F5 and generous hotel credits, while Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park offers dining at Neo Kitchen along with attractive hotel credits.

With flexible timings, enticing dining options, and lifestyle perks, Republic Retreats make it easy to enjoy a quick getaway, celebrate a special occasion, or simply take a relaxing break. Bookings are now open for stays between 24 January and 1 February 2026.

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