Soot by O2 Opens Near the Airport, Setting a New Standard in Luxury Hospitality

Soot by O2 Opens Near the Airport, Setting a New Standard in Luxury Hospitality

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 1, 2024

Soot by O2, a new luxury hotel next to the airport, has officially opened its doors. The 4-star property spans 75,000 square feet and features 110 elegantly designed rooms, setting itself up as a key destination for those seeking luxury with ease of access. The opening ceremony also marked the launch of a Durga Puja special menu, providing both traditional and modern takes on festive dishes for guests to enjoy.

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The hotel was inaugurated by several notable personalities, including Tollywood actress Rituparna Sengupta, MLA Tapash Chatterjee, Councillor Debraj Chakraborty, and the Loharuka family—owners and directors of Soot by O2.

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During the event, Managing Directors Anisha Loharuka and Shrija Loharuka shared their vision for Soot by O2. "We are thrilled to introduce Hotel Soot as a premier destination for travelers seeking exceptional comfort and personalized service. Our rooftop bar and swimming pool offer magnificent views, including a direct sightline to the airport runway from our terrace, enhancing the overall guest experience. Our team is dedicated to creating memorable experiences through meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence. This launch represents our vision to offer a unique blend of luxury and hospitality that exceeds expectations. We look forward to welcoming guests and making every stay unforgettable," they said.

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Actress Rituparna Sengupta also spoke about her excitement for the opening. "I am excited to inaugurate Soot by O2, ideally located next to the airport. This hotel offers travelers unparalleled convenience without compromising on luxury. It's a perfect retreat for those seeking comfort and exceptional service, right at their doorstep."

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Soot by O2 aims to provide guests with an array of dining and entertainment options. The hotel features multiple restaurants and bars, including:

Venezia: A 56-seater multi-cuisine restaurant.

Caffeine: A cozy café that also accommodates 56 guests, offering diverse dishes.

The Drunken Monkey: An English-style pub with seating for 120.

Aire: A rooftop pool bar offering an impressive view of the airport runway.

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Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s spa and gym facilities.

Soot by O2 also caters to events and celebrations with three spacious banquet halls:

Victoria: A 3,000-square-foot hall with a capacity of up to 300 guests.

Aurum: Also 3,000 square feet and suitable for 300 attendees.

Olive: A smaller, more intimate venue of 1,000 square feet that accommodates 100 guests.

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The launch event ended with a celebratory toast, emphasizing the hotel's dedication to delivering a luxurious guest experience with a focus on sustainability. Soot by O2 aims to redefine hospitality by combining comfort, luxury, and convenience in one unique location.


Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 27, 2026

Taj Chandigarh has marked a major milestone by achieving the EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years. This recognition highlights the hotel’s consistent efforts towards sustainability and responsible operations, setting it apart as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality.

The certification is awarded by EarthCheck, a globally recognised scientific benchmarking and certification body for the travel and tourism sector. Earning Platinum status is a significant achievement, given that it requires at least 10 continuous years of verified performance across key sustainability measures. By maintaining this level for 13 years, Taj Chandigarh has gone beyond the standard and strengthened its position in responsible hospitality.

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This achievement also reflects the larger vision of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), under which Taj Chandigarh operates. Across its portfolio, IHCL has focused on reducing energy use, conserving water, and cutting down waste, all while ensuring a high-quality guest experience. The EarthCheck framework also aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making these efforts part of a broader purpose.

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Speaking on the milestone, Surinder Singh, Area Director – Operations & General Manager, Taj Chandigarh, said,

“Achieving EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years is a proud milestone for us. It reflects our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. At Taj Chandigarh, we believe that luxury and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand and this recognition reinforces our continued efforts towards creating a greener future.”

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Ankur Sharma, Chief Engineer, Taj Chandigarh, added, “This achievement is the result of consistent efforts, innovation and a strong focus on resource efficiency. From energy conservation to water management and waste reduction, our teams work tirelessly to ensure that sustainability is embedded in every aspect of our operations. We remain committed to enhancing our practices and setting new benchmarks in environmental performance.”

With travellers increasingly looking for responsible and sustainable choices, recognitions like this build trust and confidence. Taj Chandigarh’s continued success with EarthCheck Platinum not only celebrates a long-standing achievement but also sets a strong example for the hospitality industry, showing that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.


The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

By Hariharan U

Published on April 26, 2026

Marking Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar has introduced an immersive e-cycle experience in collaboration with Svitch, reinforcing its focus on sustainability-led luxury.

The initiative is designed to offer guests a low-impact, mindful way to explore Gandhinagar, encouraging slower, more conscious travel while reducing carbon footprint. By integrating eco-friendly mobility into the guest journey, the hotel continues to position sustainability as a core element of its hospitality experience.

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Set against the city’s serene surroundings, the e-cycle experience allows guests to engage more deeply with their environment, blending wellbeing, exploration, and environmental responsibility. The offering reflects a broader shift in luxury travel, where guests are increasingly seeking experiences that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, highlighted the hotel’s commitment to creating experiences that are enriching while embedding responsible practices into everyday operations.

The launch was complemented by an Earth Day cyclethon, bringing together guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community. The activity aimed to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards sustainable living, while encouraging active participation in eco-conscious initiatives.

Following the ride, guests experienced the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, aligning the sustainability narrative with wellness-focused dining.

Through initiatives like this, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, enhancing both comfort and awareness.


WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

By Hariharan U

Published on April 25, 2026

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa is redefining luxury getaways in the hills with its expansive offering set amidst the scenic Kasauli Hills.

Perched in the lush Shivalik range, the resort blends natural beauty with refined hospitality, offering guests a tranquil escape marked by panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a thoughtfully curated luxury experience. Designed as a sanctuary for relaxation, the property combines modern amenities with a serene setting that encourages guests to unwind at a leisurely pace.

Operated under the WelcomHeritage umbrella since December 2022, the resort has positioned itself as a full-scale five-star destination in Solan. With 93 well-appointed rooms, the property caters to a wide range of travellers, offering accommodation options that include deluxe rooms, suites, family-friendly cottages, and an exclusive four-bedroom luxury villa.

The resort is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities, including a luxury spa and salon, wellness centre, and an all-weather heated indoor swimming pool, along with a dedicated children’s pool. These features ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests across seasons.

Beyond leisure stays, the property has also emerged as a preferred venue for destination weddings, corporate conferences, and large-scale events, supported by its expansive layout and premium infrastructure.

The design philosophy strikes a balance between modern sophistication and timeless charm, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. From intimate vacations to grand celebrations, the resort offers an environment that blends comfort with understated luxury.

With its scenic location, comprehensive facilities, and focus on guest experience, WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa stands out as a premier mountain retreat, offering travellers a refined escape in the hills.

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