Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Announces Ambitious Expansion Plans with New Branding Strategy

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Announces Ambitious Expansion Plans with New Branding Strategy

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 12, 2024

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, a prominent Goa-based boutique hospitality company, has unveiled bold plans to expand its portfolio to 50 properties across India within the next five years. The company currently operates 16 boutique hotels and resorts and plans to add 5-6 properties annually through a combination of management contracts, lease agreements, and owned properties. This expansion aims to offer guests a unique blend of affordable luxury while reaching a broader spectrum of travelers.

Expansion Focus: A Mix of Urban and Serene Destinations

Stone Wood’s growth strategy includes establishing a strong presence in both serene, nature-rich destinations and bustling Tier 1 cities. The company is targeting tranquil locales like Kabini, Coorg, Jawai, and Ranthambore for its owned properties, offering peaceful escapes for nature lovers. At the same time, Stone Wood is expanding into urban markets like Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Amritsar, and Chandigarh through lease and revenue-sharing models, responding to the growing demand for luxury stays in key cities.

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A Refreshed Branding Strategy: Tailored Offerings for Every Traveler

To cater to the diverse needs of its guests, Stone Wood has also launched a refreshed branding strategy with three distinct sub-categories: Stone Wood Hotels, Stone Wood Premier, and Stone Wood Comfort.

  • Stone Wood Hotels: Focuses on quality, comfort, and memorable experiences in leisure, business, pilgrimage, and wellness settings.

  • Stone Wood Premier: Offers premium accommodations with spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and enhanced facilities.

  • Stone Wood Comfort: Aimed at value-conscious travelers, offering affordable yet comfortable stays.

Vision for the Future

"Our vision is to redefine boutique hospitality by offering guests unique experiences that combine premium services with exceptional value," said Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts. "The introduction of our new brand categories and aggressive expansion plans reflect our commitment to bridging the gap between affordability and luxury, creating experiences that resonate with today’s discerning travelers." 

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Building for the Future

The group’s in-house construction arm plays a vital role in supporting this expansion by enabling rapid development of owned properties. This ensures quality control and timely execution of projects, with upcoming developments in key destinations like Calangute, Kasauli, and Jawai. These projects highlight Stone Wood's ability to deliver properties that align with its high standards.

Reputation for Quality and Reliability

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts has gained a reputation for maintaining impeccable service standards and building trust with property owners. Many management companies struggle to meet quality expectations, but Stone Wood has built itself as a reliable partner by ensuring properties are managed with the utmost care.

With its bold expansion strategy, refreshed branding, and dedication to guest satisfaction, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts is set to make a significant impact on India’s hospitality landscape. Offering a range of premium and value-driven options, the company is poised to set new benchmarks in boutique hospitality.

About Stone Wood Hotels and Resorts

Founded in 2017 and based in Goa, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts offers boutique stays that combine value and luxury across prime destinations in India. From the beaches of Goa to the lush landscapes of Karnataka and the serene mountains of Himachal Pradesh, Stone Wood promises a memorable stay with exceptional service, premium amenities, and personalized experiences.

Website: Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts


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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