The Hosteller Introduces Bam, a New Smart Hotel Brand in India

The Hosteller Introduces Bam, a New Smart Hotel Brand in India

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 22, 2024

The Hosteller, renowned for revolutionizing budget travel accommodations, is venturing into the high-end market with the introduction of its first fully smart hotel brand, Bam Hotels, in India. This move marks a significant expansion for the company traditionally known for its backpacker hostels.

Set to redefine the premium boutique hotel segment, Bam Hotels launched its first two pilot properties in the picturesque locales of Assagao and Saligao in North Goa this week. These properties feature 27 and 11 rooms respectively, each designed to cater to the discerning tastes of modern travelers seeking both luxury and technology-driven conveniences.

Pranav Dangi, the founder of The Hosteller, envisions Bam Hotels as a pioneer in the smart hospitality space. The hotels aim to offer an unparalleled guest experience managed entirely through a proprietary mobile application. This app facilitates a range of services from check-in and check-out to room access, control of room functionalities, and direct communication with hotel services.

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The innovative use of technology is expected not only to enhance guest satisfaction but also to streamline hotel operations. Dangi highlighted the potential of the technology stack developed for Bam Hotels, noting that if the pilot is successful, it could be offered as a service to other businesses in the hospitality industry.

With ambitious plans to expand further, The Hosteller aims to open ten Bam Hotels across key locations in India within the year, targeting an average daily rate (ADR) of Rs 10,000 ($120) and above. Additionally, the company plans to increase its backpacker hostel count, aiming to add 70 to 75 new hostels during the current financial year, bringing its total to between 125 and 130 properties.

To support this rapid growth, The Hosteller is considering a funding round, aiming to raise approximately $10 million in the coming months. This strategic expansion underscores The Hosteller's commitment to innovation and excellence in the hospitality sector, setting new benchmarks for what travelers can expect from their hotel experiences.


Sayaji Hotels Launches Enrise by Sayaji in Bareilly

Sayaji Hotels Launches Enrise by Sayaji in Bareilly

By Hariharan U

Published on January 13, 2026

Sayaji Hotels Limited has announced the launch of Enrise by Sayaji, Bareilly, strengthening its footprint in Uttar Pradesh and bringing contemporary hospitality to one of the region’s culturally rich cities. Located at Station Road, Civil Lines, the hotel offers convenient access for travellers, situated just 13 km from Bareilly Airport and 500 metres from Bareilly Railway Station.

The property features 36 well-appointed rooms across four categories, designed to meet the needs of business, transit, and leisure guests. The room mix includes Deluxe Rooms, Superior Rooms, Superior Balcony Rooms, and Suites, each reflecting modern design sensibilities while staying true to Sayaji’s signature “Yours Truly” service philosophy.

Enrise by Sayaji, Bareilly also brings together a diverse food and beverage offering under one roof. Guests can choose from Horizon, a rooftop multicuisine fine-dining restaurant; Momentt, a relaxed coffee shop; 99 Degree, a classic bar suited for evening conversations; and Infinity Club & Bar, positioned as a lively social and celebration space. Together, these outlets aim to make the hotel a dining and social hub for both residents and visitors.

The hotel is equipped with two banqueting venues designed to host weddings, corporate meetings, and social events. Jewel Hall and Crystal Hall offer flexible layouts and capacities, supported by tailored food and beverage services and professional event management, enabling seamless execution for gatherings of varying scales.

Commenting on the launch, Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels, said the Enrise by Sayaji brand has been developed for modern travellers seeking comfort, functionality, and value, adding that Bareilly is a strong addition to the company’s growing portfolio across emerging Indian cities.

Ankur Vig, Managing Director, Unique Complex Private Limited, noted that Bareilly’s rising commercial and travel significance makes the timing of the hotel’s launch particularly relevant, with the partnership aiming to deliver national hospitality standards while staying connected to local sensibilities.

With Bareilly’s increasing demand for organised hospitality infrastructure, Enrise by Sayaji is positioned as a preferred choice for business stays, leisure travel, dining, and social celebrations, reinforcing Sayaji Hotels’ broader strategy of expanding into high-potential markets across India.


IHCL Signs Tree of Life Resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

IHCL Signs Tree of Life Resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the signing of a Tree of Life resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka, expanding its footprint in one of the state’s emerging leisure destinations. The signing reflects IHCL’s focus on boutique and experiential hospitality in underexplored markets with strong tourism potential.

Sakaleshpur, known for its plantation landscapes and heritage appeal, is steadily gaining attention as tourism becomes an important economic driver in the region. The destination’s calm setting and natural beauty have led to a growing interest in immersive and personalised stays, especially among travellers seeking quiet, nature-focused getaways.

Commenting on the development, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said,
"Sakaleshpur is a pristine destination in Karnataka that blends heritage with plantation landscapes. With tourism emerging as a strong economic driver here, experiential and boutique stays are witnessing growing demand. This signing marks IHCL’s early entry into an underpenetrated micro-market, enabling us to cater to discerning travellers seeking immersive leisure experiences. The Tree of Life resort will strengthen our presence along the Western Ghats and reinforce IHCL’s boutique positioning in this evolving destination belt. We are delighted to partner with Mystica Retreats LLP for this project."

Set amidst the Western Ghats, the 40-key Tree of Life Sakaleshpur is envisioned as a peaceful retreat surrounded by forests and a perennial stream. Staying true to the Tree of Life philosophy, the resort will focus on calm, comfort, and connection with nature. Planned facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, wellness amenities such as a swimming pool, treatment room, yoga space, and a range of thoughtfully designed guest experiences.

Sharing their views on the partnership, Mr. Sharanabasava Meti and Mr. Kemparaju of Mystica Retreats LLP said,
"We are pleased to partner with IHCL for this project and look forward to creating a unique getaway for travellers seeking a quiet escape."

Sakaleshpur offers a mix of trekking trails, heritage sites, and plantation tourism, with attractions such as Manjarabad Fort, Kaginahare Fort, Bisle Ghat Viewpoint, Jenukal Gudda, and the ruins within the Kaginahare Forest, making it an attractive destination for slow and meaningful travel.

With this signing, IHCL’s portfolio in Karnataka will grow to 34 hotels, including 19 under development, further reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to the state.

Mystica Retreats LLP is promoted by Mr. Sharanabasava Meti and Mr. Kemparaju, both experienced entrepreneurs with interests across infrastructure, hospitality, real estate, agriculture, cinema, and education. Their collaboration with IHCL aims to create a refined yet relaxed retreat aligned with the destination’s natural character.

IHCL and its subsidiaries bring together a wide range of hospitality brands, offering a blend of Indian warmth and global service standards. With a strong domestic and international presence, the company continues to expand across leisure and business destinations, strengthening its position as India’s largest hospitality company.


Golden Tulip to Debut in Virat Nagar, Jaipur

Golden Tulip to Debut in Virat Nagar, Jaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on January 10, 2026

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting has successfully brought together Green Oasis Hospitality Pvt Ltd and Sarovar Hotels to introduce Golden Tulip in Virat Nagar, Jaipur. This strategic brand partnership marks an important addition to Rajasthan’s growing hospitality landscape, with the upcoming property positioned as a premium four-star hotel.

Planned as a 110-room development, Golden Tulip Virat Nagar is designed to serve a balanced mix of business and leisure travellers, while also emerging as a preferred destination for large-format social gatherings. Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, Virat Nagar has been identified as a high-potential micro-market, particularly for destination weddings, corporate offsites, and upscale retreats.

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting played a key role in aligning the hospitality asset with the right brand to unlock long-term value. By bringing Golden Tulip, part of the Sarovar Hotels portfolio, to the project, Green Oasis Hospitality gains access to a strong global distribution network and professional hotel management expertise, setting the stage for sustained revenue growth from the outset.

Highlighting the vision behind the partnership, Sandeep Roy, Founder & CEO, SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting, said, "Jaipur’s periphery is evolving into a powerhouse for high-end social events and leisure retreats. Facilitating this partnership between Green Oasis and Sarovar Hotels ensures that Virat Nagar gains a premier asset designed to capture the growing demand for large-format weddings and upscale staycations."

Golden Tulip Virat Nagar, Jaipur is being thoughtfully planned with a strong focus on events and premium guest experiences. The hotel will feature 110 spacious luxury rooms, each with a minimum size of 400 square feet, including a select number of exclusive plunge pool rooms.

The property’s food and beverage offerings will include a signature all-day dining restaurant and a contemporary lounge bar, catering to both resident guests and event attendees. For social and corporate functions, the hotel will house a grand banquet hall spanning 6,500 square feet, supported by multiple conference halls suited for meetings and MICE requirements.

One of the key highlights of the development is its expansive outdoor event infrastructure. The hotel will offer multiple landscaped lawns, with the largest covering 13,000 square feet, specifically designed to host large-scale destination weddings and celebratory events. Additional amenities will include a swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and spa, and a dedicated kids play area, ensuring a complete leisure experience for families and groups.

With this signing, Virat Nagar is set to gain a landmark hospitality asset that aligns with Jaipur’s evolving demand for premium stays and large-format event venues, further strengthening the region’s appeal as a luxury wedding and leisure destination.

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