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By Nishang Narayan
Published on March 30, 2024
The Indian hospitality sector is witnessing a significant transformation, fueled by the burgeoning demand for spiritual tourism. As more travellers seek meaningful, transformative experiences, the industry is quickly adapting, providing accommodations that cater specifically to this growing niche. A recent report by CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd., titled ‘Decoding Real Estate through the Spiritual Tourism Lens,’ sheds light on this trend, highlighting the retail and hospitality boom in 14 key spiritual cities across India.
Cities such as Amritsar, Ajmer, Varanasi, and Shirdi are at the forefront of this shift, attracting not only pilgrims but also travellers drawn to the spiritual heritage of these destinations. This influx of spiritual tourists has led to an increase in demand for accommodations that offer more than just a place to stay. Today's spiritual travellers are looking for clean, hygienic, and family-friendly environments, and they're willing to pay a premium for these features.
Recognizing this shift, major hotel chains, including global names like Marriott, Taj, and Hyatt, are venturing into these markets, offering a mix of economy, midscale, upscale, and luxury accommodations. These branded hotels provide a comforting blend of modern amenities and traditional hospitality, specifically tailored to meet the needs of spiritual seekers. Moreover, boutique and experiential hotels are making their mark by offering personalised services, curated spiritual activities, and authentic local experiences.
The rise in spiritual tourism is supported by improved infrastructure, such as better-connected roads, airports, and public transportation options. Additionally, the development of various accommodation types, from hotels and guesthouses to wellness centres, is making these spiritual destinations more accessible to a broader audience.
Government initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and improving connectivity between pilgrimage sites have also played a crucial role in this growth. Furthermore, the advent of online retail platforms offering easy access to faith-based products and services has contributed to the sector's expansion.
According to Anshuman Magazine, chairman & CEO - India, South-East Asia, Middle East, and Africa, CBRE, the rapid expansion of spiritual tourism is not only driving the growth of India's faith-based tourism market but also bolstering the overall economy. Ram Chandnani, Managing Director, Advisory & Transaction Services, CBRE India, echoes this sentiment, noting the surge in investor interest in capitalising on the market's potential. This trend underscores a commitment to cater to the unique needs of spiritual travellers, driving regional economic growth while safeguarding heritage sites.
As spiritual tourism continues to gain momentum, the hospitality and retail sectors in these key destinations are set to thrive, offering spiritual travellers an enriching and authentic experience that goes beyond the conventional.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on June 13, 2025
Lemonridge Hotels Group has officially launched its third property in Hyderabad — Lemonridge Hotels IDPL Balanagar Hyderabad. Located in the buzzing IDPL Balanagar-Chintal area, this new hotel features 30 well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and versatile event spaces accommodating between 30 to 300 guests.
What sets this property apart is its focus on offering personalized service 24/7, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Strategically situated about 36 km from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, 7 km from Secunderabad Junction Railway Station, and just 4 km from Balanagar Metro Station, the hotel ensures excellent connectivity for travelers.
Commenting on the launch, Co-founders Mr. V.V. Narayana, Mr. Srinivas Reddy Uppathi, and Mr. Vijay Kumar Garine said,
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our third hotel in Hyderabad. IDPL Balanagar (Chintal) is renowned for its robust economy, rapidly expanding Pharma & Hardware sector, and significant tourist attractions, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers.”
They added,
“It is also conveniently connected to other major parts of the city through National Highway 65 (NH-65), ensuring easy access to key locations such as Begumpet and Ameerpet.”
With its strategic location, modern amenities, and commitment to service excellence, Lemonridge Hotels IDPL Balanagar is poised to become a preferred stay option in the city’s growing hospitality landscape.
Published on June 12, 2025
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a new Holiday Inn in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The management agreement has been signed with Atithi Gokul Hotel Inns Pvt Ltd, part of the AG Group. The 150-key hotel is expected to open in the third quarter of 2028 and will mark another significant step in IHG’s strategic expansion in high-potential Indian cities.
Located along the Sarkhej–Gandhinagar Highway, the hotel will be a part of Highline, a mixed-use development featuring both residential and commercial spaces. Its prime location ensures seamless access to key government institutions, educational hubs, corporate offices, and IT parks—positioning it as an attractive option for both business and leisure travellers.
Guests will be welcomed with well-appointed rooms and suites, three distinctive dining outlets including an All-Day Dining restaurant and Lobby Lounge, a ballroom for events, a fitness centre, a swimming pool, and ample parking—delivering on Holiday Inn’s promise to make travel more relaxed and enjoyable.
Commenting on the announcement, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts said, “We are delighted to expand our footprint in Gujarat with the signing of Holiday Inn Ahmedabad. With its dynamic industrial, commercial, and educational sectors, Ahmedabad is an important destination for us. We’re confident that this hotel will cater to the evolving needs of travellers while also delivering strong value for our partners.”
He added, “India continues to be a priority market for IHG globally. The Holiday Inn brand family has seen remarkable success here, and we are on a robust growth trajectory with a strong pipeline across key cities.”
Vikram Bharvad, Managing Director, AG Group, shared, “Ahmedabad has shown sustained demand in the hospitality sector, and we are pleased to collaborate with IHG to introduce the globally respected Holiday Inn brand. The city’s strategic growth, quality infrastructure, and commercial vitality make it a strong market for branded hospitality.”
Recognised as a major hub for textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles, Ahmedabad is one of India’s most prominent commercial and manufacturing centres. It ranks as the second-largest cotton producer in the country and a top exporter of gems, jewellery, and denim.
With 50 hotels currently operating in India and a pipeline of 63 more in the next 3–5 years, IHG continues to expand across its six brands, including Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, voco, Holiday Inn, and Holiday Inn Express.
The new Holiday Inn Ahmedabad further solidifies IHG’s commitment to India’s thriving hospitality market and underscores its long-term vision for growth in urban and emerging destinations.
The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new Vivanta hotel in Mysuru. This greenfield project, developed in partnership with the Farah Group, is part of IHCL’s ongoing commitment to expanding in high-growth cultural and economic destinations.
Located strategically near Mysuru’s Hebbal Industrial Area, the upcoming 115-key Vivanta hotel will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a fully equipped gym, a swimming pool, and flexible meeting and event spaces tailored for both corporate and social gatherings.
Commenting on the signing, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Mysuru, with its rich cultural heritage and a diverse economy spanning manufacturing, education, and tourism, continues to evolve as a key urban centre. Enhanced connectivity through infrastructure developments like the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway is further boosting travel and tourism in the region. This signing aligns with our strategy of expanding in fast-growing destinations. We are delighted to partner with the Farah Group on this project.”
Mysuru is a city deeply rooted in royal heritage and vibrant traditions, famous for its iconic landmarks like the Mysuru Palace, Chamundi Hills, and the Brindavan Gardens.
Expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, Liaquath Ali Khan, Managing Director of Farah Builders, said, “We are proud to partner with IHCL to bring the Vivanta brand to Mysuru. This hotel will serve as a contemporary hub for the city’s growing hospitality needs.”
With the addition of this project, IHCL now has 26 hotels in Karnataka, including 12 under development, reinforcing its position as a leading player in the state’s hospitality sector.
About Farah Group:Founded by visionary Mr. Sadath Ali Khan, Farah Group has been a key player in shaping Bengaluru’s real estate sector for over five decades. Under the leadership of Liaquath Ali Khan, the group has expanded into commercial, residential, and now hospitality sectors, building a strong reputation in the city’s real estate landscape.
About IHCL:The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries are home to iconic brands including Taj, Claridges Collection, SeleQtions, Tree of Life, Vivanta, Gateway, and Ginger. With a legacy that began in 1903 with The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, IHCL operates a global portfolio of 388 hotels, including 139 under development, across 14 countries and over 150 locations. Recognized as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand in 2024 by Brand Finance, IHCL is listed on both the BSE and NSE.
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