The Earth at Ranthambore: A Perfect Blend of Eco-Conscious Luxury and Wilderness

The Earth at Ranthambore: A Perfect Blend of Eco-Conscious Luxury and Wilderness

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 5, 2024

The Earth at Ranthambore in Rajasthan is now fully operational, offering an eco-conscious luxury experience amidst the wilderness. This unique property stands out as the only resort in Ranthambore where sustainability and luxury coexist seamlessly.

With the recent addition of 12 new, eco-friendly cottages, The Earth at Ranthambore now features a total of 37 cottages made from mud, wood, and limestone, spread across nearly five acres of lush greenery. These new cottages are not only durable and energy-efficient but also fireproof, constructed primarily from soil and wood.

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Rohit Pareek, Managing Director of The Earth at Ranthambore, emphasizes their commitment to sustainability. “Our goal was to blend with the local ecology rather than disrupt it. We used natural and sustainable materials sourced from around the site to build these cottages. Our rammed mud and cob earth walls are self-insulating and energy-efficient, maintaining a stable internal temperature through all seasons,” Pareek explains.

Earth Structure Benefits

The Earth structures at Ranthambore offer numerous benefits:

Warm, Dry, and Healthy: These cottages provide a healthy indoor environment, counteracting humidity and maintaining a stable internal temperature throughout the seasons. This creates a warm and dry living space that is energy efficient.

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Non-Toxic: Built with non-toxic materials, the cottages ensure a safe and healthy environment for guests.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: These structures are low in embodied energy and produce reduced waste during the building process. They fit seamlessly into the landscape and look great while being sustainable.

Strong and Durable: The cottages are weather-resistant and suitable for a range of climates. Experienced rammers ensure maximum strength and durability for every project.

Unique and Customized Look: Each cottage has a unique and customised appearance, blending perfectly with the natural surroundings.

Energy Efficient: The natural insulation of these cottages reduces the need for power-based heating and cooling systems, contributing to energy efficiency.

Noise, Pest, and Fire Proof: The cottages are sound insulated, reduce pest problems, and are fire-resistant, offering a secure and peaceful stay.

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Designed by renowned architect Eugene Pandala, The Earth at Ranthambore offers a range of amenities to enhance the guest experience. Guests can enjoy the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant (Tattva), a swimming pool (Taranaalya), and a recreation hall. For those seeking cultural experiences, Raasa provides an outdoor dining venue, while Kriya, the open-air amphitheater, hosts folk performances and wildlife documentaries. The spa, Sattva, offers a serene space for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The resort boasts seven categories of rooms, each designed to offer a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort:

Ambar Villas (5): These villas, crafted using the ancient cob earth technique, feature a king-size bed on the ground floor, a twin-sized bed on the mezzanine, and a spacious verandah overlooking the resort's Miyawaki forest. They also include an open-to-the-sky shower.

Neer Cottages (8): These intimate mud cottages, ideal for honeymooners and couples, come with a private indoor pool, a large bed, and a personal sit-out area.

Vayu Villas (4): Majestic duplex villas made entirely from rammed mud and cob earth, featuring a king-size bed on the ground floor, two twin-sized beds on the mezzanine, and an open-to-the-sky shower.

Tejas Cottages (8): Sustainably crafted mud cottages with an open-to-the-sky shower, offering a direct connection to nature.

Dhara Rooms (4): Luxurious cottages made entirely from stone and lime with oxide-finished floors and a personal sit-out area.

Vanam Cottages (4): Unique wooden cottages overlooking a tranquil pond, featuring an open-to-the-sky shower.

Anantam Rooms (4): Elegant rooms with stone and lime mortar construction, wooden flooring, a lavish bathtub, a kitchenette, and a private balcony.

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Located just 600 meters from Ranthambore National Park, 10 km from the railway station, and 4 km from the Trinetra Ganesh temple, the resort is easily accessible, being a five-hour drive from the National Capital Region (NCR) of New Delhi.

The Earth at Ranthambore takes pride in its sustainable construction practices. “We recycle or reuse materials from different stages of the build where possible and source materials locally to reduce carbon emissions,” adds Pareek.


ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Expands in Gurugram with Two New ‘The Hoften’ Properties

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Expands in Gurugram with Two New ‘The Hoften’ Properties

By Hariharan U

Published on August 30, 2025

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts has announced a major boost to its Gurugram portfolio with the addition of two hotels Elite Millennium (South City 1) and Elite 32 Mile Stone. Both properties will now operate under “The Hoften” brand, taking ALIVAA’s total footprint in the city to four operating hotels.

Known for its smart service and youthful vibe, The Hoften brand caters to modern travellers who prefer contemporary amenities and a seamless experience. With these new signings, ALIVAA continues its mission to strengthen its presence in India’s fast-growing hospitality market.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Elite Millennium and Elite 32 Mile Stone into The Hoften family and the wider ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts collection”, said Akash Bhatia, CEO – ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts (Managed & Franchise Business). “Gurugram is a truly dynamic destination, experiencing remarkable growth and attracting a diverse range of travellers. This strategic partnership significantly enhances our offerings, allowing us to provide our guests with an even broader range of exceptional experiences”.

Echoing this, Vikramjit Singh, Founder of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, highlighted Gurugram’s importance in the company’s expansion journey. “As we strategically move towards becoming a leading national player in India’s hospitality sector, Gurugram holds a critical position in our roadmap. The city’s corporate sector, vibrant youth culture, and rising tourism make it an indispensable market for our growth, particularly for brands like The Hoften”.

For Harshal Sharma, owner of Elite Hotels, this partnership opens exciting possibilities. “Joining forces with ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts and bringing our hotels under The Hoften brand is a momentous occasion for us. Their deep expertise, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction perfectly complement our vision for providing outstanding stays in Gurugram,” he said.

With these two additions, ALIVAA now operates one ALIVAA Hotel and two Hoften hotels in Gurugram, further cementing its position in the city’s hospitality landscape.

About ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts
ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts is a growing hospitality group known for curating exceptional guest experiences. Its collection includes properties under the ALIVAA and The Hoften brands, focusing on quality, innovation, and guest delight. The group aims to create memorable stays across both established and emerging destinations in India


Summit Hotels & Resorts Launches Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahata

Summit Hotels & Resorts Launches Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahata

By Hariharan U

Published on August 30, 2025

Summit Hotels & Resorts, one of Eastern India’s leading hospitality groups, has unveiled its newest gem, Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahata. Positioned as West Bengal’s latest luxury mountain retreat, the property is just 22 kilometers from Darjeeling and offers the rare balance of easy accessibility with unmatched tranquility.

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What makes the resort stand out is its uninterrupted views of the entire Kanchenjunga range. Guests can now enjoy what is usually reserved for early-morning treks to Tiger Hill,  all from the comfort of their private balcony. The boutique property features 16 elegant rooms, including cozy Premium Rooms and spacious Balcony Rooms, each designed to showcase the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Wellness sits at the heart of Summit Enigma’s philosophy. The signature Meta Spa blends local inspirations into its therapies, alongside facilities like steam, sauna, and a Kanchenjunga-facing Jacuzzi that offers an indulgent yet immersive mountain experience. Dining is equally thoughtful at CloudSong Restaurant, where menus focus on farm-to-table freshness, local produce, and specialties such as the popular Desi Kukkad Curry.

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Beyond luxury, the resort emphasizes authentic cultural and ecological connections. Guests can walk to nearby farms, experience sustainable mountain agriculture, and engage with local communities where traditions still thrive in harmony with nature. Wildlife too adds its charm, with deer sightings on the property reminding guests of the region’s natural richness.

Lamahata’s location further enhances the appeal. While Darjeeling offers its bustling hill-station vibe, Lamahata provides a peaceful alternative, yet remains close to monasteries, tea gardens, the Lamahata Eco Park, and heritage attractions. This balance allows travelers to enjoy serenity without missing out on iconic experiences.

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“Enigma is more than just a property launch, it is Summit’s boldest interpretation of mountain hospitality to date. We have created a retreat where every moment, every view, and every detail reflects the mystery and beauty of the Himalayas”. said Sumit Mitruka, CEO and Founder of Summit Hotels & Resorts.

With this opening, Summit Hotels & Resorts strengthens its position in India’s premium hospitality market. Guided by Mitruka’s vision, the group now operates over 30 hotels and resorts across 17 destinations, employing more than 1,000 people, most from local communities. Looking ahead, Summit plans to expand to 50 properties by 2030 while continuing to blend luxury, sustainability, and authentic regional experiences.


Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan Marks 12 Years with Culture, Cuisine, and Sustainability

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan Marks 12 Years with Culture, Cuisine, and Sustainability

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 30, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan proudly celebrated its 12th anniversary with a vibrant week-long festivity that combined cultural richness, sustainability efforts, and engaging guest experiences. Marking more than a decade of excellence in hospitality, the celebrations highlighted the hotel’s dedication to creating memorable moments while embracing a greener future.

Sustainability played a central role during the anniversary, with the hotel presenting its top 15 valued partners with money plant pots. This thoughtful gesture symbolized Marriott’s commitment to environmental responsibility and encouraged the spirit of a sustainable lifestyle.

Guests were treated to a culinary journey across India as the hotel showcased six regional cuisines. From the bold flavors of Garhwali and the freshness of Konkan, to the richness of Bengali delicacies, the royal tastes of Lucknowi dishes, the distinct Hyderabadi essence, and the comforting charm of South Indian food, the celebrations brought authentic flavors from every corner of the country to one table.

To add an element of fun and interaction, a spinning wheel was set up in the lobby, giving guests the chance to win exclusive offers and perks during their stay. This interactive feature was widely appreciated and enhanced the festive spirit throughout the week.

On August 23rd, the anniversary day was marked with heartfelt celebrations for associates. A special breakfast and lunch were organized in their honor, followed by lively games with exciting prizes. The event concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting, bringing together the entire team in recognition of their dedication and contribution to the hotel’s journey.

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan remains steadfast in its mission to provide exceptional hospitality, offering a perfect blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and sustainability-driven practices for guests and associates alike.

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