ELIVAAS, the luxury vacation rental brand, has announced the opening of Sirmour Baag, a 16-cottage eco-retreat set amidst the tranquil hills of Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh. Spread across one acre, the new property blends sustainable hospitality with immersive nature-based experiences, offering a haven for conscious travellers.

Each of the 16 standalone cottages features wooden interiors, private decks, jacuzzis, skylights, and panoramic views of pine-covered hills. Built with eco-conscious design in mind, the cottages offer both heating and air conditioning, allowing guests to enjoy the retreat year-round.

The retreat is also pet-friendly, with open green spaces that welcome animal companions. Guests can enjoy a variety of experiences including indoor and outdoor games, a clubhouse accommodating up to 60 guests, picnic areas, and nature trails that connect visitors with the local environment.

Dining at Sirmour Baag is focused on traditional Himachali cuisine, served in an open-air setting, adding to the retreat’s commitment to local culture and sustainable living. A chef-on-call, concierge service, and round-the-clock caretaker support ensure a personalised and comfortable stay.

“Sirmour Baag is a reflection of our vision to offer a new kind of luxury travel that combines comfort with authenticity,” said Ritwik Khare, Founder and CEO of ELIVAAS. “We believe that today’s travellers seek more than just a place to stay—they want an immersive experience that connects them to nature, local culture, and sustainable practices.”

The property avoids single-use plastics and instead provides biodegradable amenities such as jute slippers, wooden combs, and refillable toiletries, reinforcing ELIVAAS’ focus on low-impact travel.

With the launch of Sirmour Baag, ELIVAAS continues to expand its footprint in offbeat destinations, promoting community engagement and responsible tourism as core values of its brand.

Raffles Udaipur has unveiled its latest luxury offering, Raffles Lakeshore Udaipur, nestled on the tranquil shores of Udai Sagar Lake. The newly launched property boasts 36 carefully crafted accommodations, including 28 rooms and 8 suites, designed with influences from colonial-era aesthetics and the intricate artistry of Rajasthan.

Framing breathtaking views of the lake through expansive windows, the interiors feature bespoke furnishings, natural textures, and calming tones that together exude an ambiance of refined serenity. The suites, equipped with freestanding bathtubs and thoughtfully chosen palettes, are curated to offer guests a space for quiet reflection and luxurious comfort.

“This launch represents a significant milestone in our commitment to redefining luxury hospitality in Udaipur,” said Ratan Kant Sharma, Owner, Vardha Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. “We continue to set new benchmarks by blending heritage, elegance, and world-class service.”

Richard Schestak, Vice President Operations, Asia Pacific, Raffles & Fairmont, added, “Lakeshore is a proud continuation of the Raffles legacy—an invitation to enjoy world-class hospitality while remaining deeply connected to the cultural fabric of the destination.”

The property offers more than luxurious rooms. Guests can enjoy an infinity pool by the lake, manicured lawns with native flora, and meandering pathways designed to encourage connection with the natural beauty of the surroundings.

“Raffles Lakeshore Udaipur is more than a destination—it’s an evolution,” said Rajesh Namby, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur. “It embodies our dedication to creating extraordinary experiences while embracing the cultural soul of this enchanting city.”

With this addition, Raffles Udaipur continues to elevate luxury hospitality in the region, merging timeless service with the richness of Rajasthan’s heritage.

DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon New Delhi NCR is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Pranab Paul as its new Executive Chef. With an illustrious career spanning 24 years, Chef Paul is poised to bring a new era of culinary innovation and excellence to the hotel’s dining experiences.

In his new role, Chef Paul will lead all kitchen operations, blending international culinary trends with authentic flavors to deliver memorable meals. Known for his hands-on leadership, he will mentor and guide the culinary team to uphold the highest standards of quality, presentation, and operational efficiency.

Chef Paul’s responsibilities will span strategic menu development, operational oversight, cost management, and ensuring consistency in quality and guest satisfaction. His approach is grounded in creativity, discipline, and a passion for learning.

Having worked with some of the most renowned hotel brands including Intercontinental Hotels, Hilton, Four Seasons, and Starwood, Chef Paul brings unmatched expertise, particularly in Western and Middle Eastern cuisines. His culinary style marries sophistication with the rich, aromatic notes that resonate deeply with diverse palates.

Reflecting on his journey, Chef Paul shared, “My passion for culinary innovation while honoring traditional flavors makes me more inclined to learn more every day and create something extraordinary for my guests.”

General Manager Mr. Tuli praised the appointment, saying, “Chef Paul continues to inspire culinary team members, mentoring emerging chefs and fostering a culture of creativity and precision. His vision is to keep pushing culinary boundaries while maintaining the authenticity and integrity of the cuisines he masters.”

With his innovative mindset and dedication to excellence, Chef Paul’s leadership is set to redefine the culinary narrative at DoubleTree by Hilton Gurgaon.