Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Emerges as Karnataka’s Top Monsoon Getaway

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Emerges as Karnataka’s Top Monsoon Getaway

By Hariharan U

Published on August 26, 2025

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts is rewriting the story of monsoon travel in India. Once seen as an off-season, the rains are now a vibrant travel window, and Stone Wood’s properties in Karnataka’s Western Ghats are at the heart of this change.

Both Stone Wood Premier Dandeli and Stone Wood Nature Resort Gokarna have seen record-breaking guest numbers this season. The surge reflects a wider trend, with domestic monsoon bookings in India rising by 25% year-on-year. With rain-soaked forests, swelling rivers, and mist-draped valleys, Karnataka has become a magnet for travelers seeking authentic experiences that celebrate the monsoon rather than avoid it.

Our Dandeli and Gokarna properties are seeing unprecedented demand”, says Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts. “Travelers today want authentic, sustainable experiences that celebrate the raw beauty of the monsoon rather than avoid it”.

In Dandeli, the Premier property has turned into a monsoon favorite. Located near the wildlife sanctuary, it features 31 suites and cottages, a pool, multi-cuisine dining, and adventure activities. Guests come for misty treks, riverside thrills on the roaring Kali River, and rare wildlife sightings that peak during the rains.

Gokarna offers another side of the season. Stone Wood Nature Resort, set along Om Beach Road and surrounded by spice plantations, has cottages and tented suites that open to lush valleys and rain-fed pools. The experience blends coastal serenity with the drama of the monsoon, giving guests both luxury and closeness to nature.

Karnataka is seeing this trend on a bigger scale. Coorg, for example, has witnessed a stunning 1910% jump in hotel bookings during the rains. For travelers, the Western Ghats’ waterfalls, trails, and mist-covered forests have become the ultimate monsoon escape.

What sets Stone Wood apart is its focus on sustainability and community. From solar power and rainwater harvesting to zero-waste kitchens, the group puts eco-practices at the core of its operations. With 70% of staff hired locally, guests enjoy authentic insights into the culture and ecology of the region.

The properties also curate seasonal experiences, guided rain walks, birdwatching, wellness retreats, and rain-fed beach explorations that turn the wet months into a celebration rather than a barrier.

With six new properties planned for 2025 and a long-term goal of 50 hotels and 3,000 rooms by 2030, Stone Wood is betting big on premium monsoon tourism. Current occupancy rates 50–60% on weekdays and up to 75% on weekends during the rains show that the model is both profitable and sustainable.

The group is also tapping into corporate travel, with MICE-ready facilities attracting conferences and retreats in the monsoon season. This signals a broader shift, where rains are no longer viewed as downtime but as a unique opportunity to host experiences that combine work, leisure, and nature.

By embracing the season, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts has set a new benchmark in Indian hospitality. Their approach proves that the monsoon, with its ecological richness, can be transformed into a premium tourism driver—one that uplifts local communities while giving travelers unforgettable journeys.

For more details, visit: https://www.stonewoodresorts.com/


Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on April 2, 2026

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

By Hariharan U

Published on April 1, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.

As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.

Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”

Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.


Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 31, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle marked its third anniversary on 28th March, celebrating three years of hospitality, memorable guest experiences, and a growing presence in the city. Over this period, the hotel has welcomed guests from across India and abroad, hosted over 30 distinguished celebrities, and maintained a strong position among top properties on TripAdvisor since its opening.

While these milestones highlight its journey, the hotel places equal importance on the moments it has shared with its guests. Over the years, it has grown into more than just a place to stay, becoming a space where people come together for celebrations, conversations, and memorable experiences. The return of familiar faces and continued guest trust have played a key role in shaping its journey.

A key part of the hotel’s identity is its dining approach. Known for its 100% vegetarian, sattvic cuisine, the hotel focuses on meals that are prepared with care and authenticity, while also keeping well-being in mind. This thoughtful approach has helped create a strong connection with guests who value both taste and mindful dining.

image

Speaking on the occasion, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, said:

"These three years have been incredibly special for us. Beyond numbers and milestones, it’s the relationships we’ve built and the memories we’ve been part of that truly define our journey. We are deeply grateful to our guests for their continued trust and support."

Looking ahead, Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle remains focused on growing further while continuing to offer experiences that reflect warmth, comfort, and flavour.

Three years. Countless memories. Infinite flavours.

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.