Sterling Aravalli Udaipur Wins 'Best Emerging City Hotel/Resort' at Travel+Leisure India’s Best Awards 2024

Sterling Aravalli Udaipur Wins 'Best Emerging City Hotel/Resort' at Travel+Leisure India’s Best Awards 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 15, 2024

Sterling Aravalli Udaipur has been awarded the prestigious 'Best Emerging City Hotel/Resort' title at the Travel+Leisure India's Best Awards 2024. This recognition highlights the resort's outstanding blend of luxurious offerings and a breathtaking location in Udaipur, a city renowned for its royal heritage and lakes.

Located in the heart of Udaipur, the resort is an architectural marvel, designed in the regal Mewari style, offering sweeping views of the Aravalli ranges. It features 70 upscale rooms and suites, each with a private balcony overlooking the pool, combining vintage charm with modern amenities. The property is ideal for family holidays, destination weddings, conferences, and special events.

Guests can indulge in exquisite vegetarian cuisine at Airavat, a renowned all-day vegetarian diner in Udaipur. For those seeking the perfect venue for a special occasion, the resort offers a rooftop event space with stunning Aravalli views, along with 40,000 sq. ft. of manicured lawns and two banquet halls—Mewar I and Mewar II—to cater to various events and celebrations.

Mr. Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, expressed his pride in the win: "This recognition is a proud moment for us and a reflection of the unwavering commitment of our team at Sterling Aravalli Udaipur. In a short span, they have succeeded in delivering exceptional hospitality and crafting unforgettable experiences for our guests."

image

With its growing portfolio in Rajasthan, including resorts in Mount Abu, Sariska, Ranthambore, Pushkar, and the recent addition of Sterling Aravalli Udaipur, Sterling continues to offer a rich diversity of experiences, from hill stations and heritage locations to desertscapes and wildlife.

This honor marks Sterling’s second consecutive win in the 'Best Emerging Hotel/Resort' category, after Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey earned the same recognition last year. Sterling’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality is reaffirmed with this award, solidifying its position as a leader in India’s hospitality sector.

image

About Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd. is one of India’s premier hospitality companies, managing over 3000 keys across 56 resorts and hotels in 48 unique destinations. The company offers a wide range of experiences for leisure stays, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), destination weddings, and more. Sterling’s resorts span popular tourist destinations across India, including Goa, Ooty, Udaipur, Ranthambore, and many others.

Sterling is a part of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited and is a 100% subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Limited, a leader in integrated travel and travel-related financial services.


WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

WGH Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., the hospitality wing of the diversified World Group, recently hosted Hon. Minister for Industries, Government of Kerala, P. Rajeev at the site of its upcoming flagship project in Kochi. The high-profile visit underlines the significance of this luxury development, which was also featured at the Kerala Global Investment Meet, reinforcing the state's push for sustainable and experiential tourism.

With a legacy that began in 2012 through the acquisition of World Backwaters Alleppey, WGH now boasts a strong presence in Kerala with operating properties in Alleppey, Munnar, and Thekkady. The group is now expanding ambitiously with new developments in Kochi, Varkala, Trivandrum, and Ashtamudi, including a signature wellness resort—all designed to meet international standards while staying true to Kerala’s heritage.

During the ministerial visit, WGH presented the master plan and design vision for its Kochi project, set for launch on January 1, 2028. The development aims to redefine luxury tourism in Kerala by fusing modern architecture with authentic, culturally immersive experiences.

image

Mr. J. Jayakrishnan, Director of World Group and WGH Hotels & Resorts, thanked the government for its proactive support, stating:

“Kerala’s infrastructure development and progressive tourism policies are perfectly aligned with our vision. Our projects aim to promote responsible and sustainable tourism while gifting guests an immersive experience of Kerala’s unique lifestyle and traditions.”

image

The World Group, with nearly four decades of business leadership across mining, logistics, agriculture, DRI, and consulting, has already invested INR 250 crores in Kerala's hospitality sector over the past two years. An additional INR 500 crores has been earmarked for future ventures—including the flagship resorts, a hospitality college in Kochi, and a chain of vegetarian restaurants throughout the state.

The proposed hospitality college is envisioned to train 200 professionals annually, building a strong local talent pool to meet global industry standards. Meanwhile, the Varkala and Ashtamudi resorts are scheduled to open by 2027, further anchoring WGH’s role in shaping Kerala’s tourism future.

WGH Hotels & Resorts remains deeply committed to supporting Kerala's growth as a world-class tourism hub, guided by principles of sustainability, cultural authenticity, and community development.


Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

In the world of luxury hospitality, where lavish experiences often steal the spotlight, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa stands out by leading with a deeper mission — purpose. For Clarks, hospitality is not just about the scenic views and impeccable service; it’s about building a culture rooted in values, unity, and community responsibility.

At the core of Clarks' success is a people-first philosophy — a belief that genuine service begins with a strong, supported team. Under the leadership of Nilisha Ghuliani, Vice President, the resort has cultivated a workplace that feels less like a job and more like a purpose-driven family.

Honouring National Pride: #OperationSindoor

One of Clarks’ standout initiatives this year was #OperationSindoor, a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Employees dressed in red and pink — symbols of strength, unity, and gratitude — and came together to honour those who serve the nation.

This was more than just a ceremony. It was a collective expression of patriotism, creating a sense of purpose and solidarity among team members. “At Clarks, patriotism is not a moment — it’s a mindset,” shares Nilisha Ghuliani.

image

Nurturing the Earth: Earth Day Tree Planting

Sustainability isn’t just a policy at Clarks — it’s a practice. On Earth Day, employees participated in a tree-planting initiative at the Clubhouse Lawn, reflecting the resort’s long-standing commitment to the environment.

From water conservation to green operations, Clarks has consistently invested in planet-positive action, ensuring that everyday efforts contribute to long-term impact.

Empowering People: Culture of Care

Employee wellbeing and growth are central to the Clarks ethos. Through training programs, internal recognition, and continuous engagement, the resort empowers its team to lead, grow, and evolve. Whether it's supporting career advancement or celebrating small wins, Clarks ensures that its people feel seen, heard, and valued.

"Every initiative — whether for the nation, the environment, or our people — is designed to deepen connection and build meaning," Nilisha explains.

Clarks Exotica is proving that a great workplace isn't just built with policies — it's built with heart. Here, service excellence begins within, and each action is a step toward a more unified, compassionate, and conscious world.


Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

Elevate your monsoon experience at The Machan Lonavala with The Cocoon, a stunning 2,500+ sq. ft. villa nestled high among the treetops. Crafted as a dome-shaped sanctuary, this is the brand's most luxurious and architecturally distinct offering — designed for those who seek the perfect blend of indulgence and nature.

Timed perfectly for the rains, The Cocoon immerses guests in forest serenity with panoramic views from a soaring foot ceiling and a sprawling private deck. Whether you’re enjoying the misty monsoon air or stargazing at night, the elevated setting delivers tranquility at every turn.

The villa offers four unique sleeping zones: a cozy loft, a main-level space, and two suspended bedrooms on the lower floor. From elegant copper bathtubs to an open-to-sky His & Hers shower, and a modern multi-tiered bath, the bathing options alone are an experience in themselves.

image

Step onto the private deck to discover a heated plunge pool, sunken seating, and an alfresco dining spot — all overlooking the lush, green canopy of Lonavala.

Sustainability lies at the heart of The Cocoon. Powered entirely by solar energy and constructed using eco-sensitive materials, this retreat reflects The Machan’s commitment to luxurious yet conscious living.

Perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, or friends' reunions, The Cocoon is more than just a villa — it’s a retreat where skies meet serenity.

Bookings are now open on www.themachan.com.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.