The Lalit Group Partners with IHMs to Advance Hospitality Education

The Lalit Group Partners with IHMs to Advance Hospitality Education

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 12, 2024

The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, one of India’s premier luxury hotel chains, has entered a strategic partnership with the Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs) in Srinagar and Chandigarh. This collaboration, supported by the Ministry of Tourism, is a significant step towards advancing the quality of hospitality education in India.

Launched under the Ministry’s "Skill in India for the World" initiative, the partnership aims to equip students with the tools they need to excel in the global hospitality landscape. By bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, this collaboration will empower young professionals with the skills and competencies necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

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Students at IHM Srinagar and AIHM Chandigarh will benefit from a range of opportunities, including:

  • Internships and training programs within The Lalit Group's renowned properties.
  • Masterclasses and mentorship sessions conducted by industry experts.
  • Exposure to real-world scenarios, fostering both technical skills and soft competencies.

The partnership reflects The Lalit Group's commitment to nurturing future hospitality leaders and advancing the standards of the industry.

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Speaking about the initiative, Vivek Shukla, CEO of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, said:

“Education and industry must work hand in hand to build a strong foundation for the future of hospitality. We are thrilled to partner with IHM Srinagar and AIHM Chandigarh. Our collaboration reflects our commitment to empowering young talent with the skills, knowledge, and values essential to excel in this dynamic field. This provides a great opportunity for us to share our expertise with future hospitality leaders, preparing them for successful careers in an ever-evolving industry.”

This partnership is expected to set a benchmark for integrating academia and industry, paving the way for a brighter future in Indian hospitality education and workforce development.


Hyatt Regency Dehradun Redefines Spiritual Travel with Wellness-Led Retreats

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Redefines Spiritual Travel with Wellness-Led Retreats

By Hariharan U

Published on May 5, 2026

Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort and Spa is introducing a fresh perspective on spiritual travel, positioning itself at the heart of the Chaar Dham circuit while offering a destination-led experience that blends pilgrimage with wellness and immersive hospitality.

Set in the tranquil foothills of Mussoorie, the resort presents itself as more than just a stopover for travellers. It becomes a place where journeys can begin, pause, or conclude, allowing guests to experience spirituality alongside comfort, space, and curated experiences.

Designed with multi-generational travellers in mind, the property enables varied experiences to coexist. While some guests focus on their pilgrimage journey, others can engage in wellness therapies, leisure activities, and recreational offerings within the resort. Evenings are thoughtfully curated with shared rituals that foster cultural connection and moments of quiet reflection, while still allowing guests the flexibility to follow their own pace.

Extending beyond the property, curated spiritual excursions connect guests with the region’s sacred landscape. Visits to Haridwar and Rishikesh, along with temple explorations such as Tapkeshwar Temple, offer a deeper immersion into the spiritual ethos of the region. Guests can also witness the serene Ganga Aarti, seamlessly integrated into their stay experience.

To support pilgrims, the resort’s dedicated concierge team provides end-to-end assistance for those undertaking the Chaar Dham Yatra. From travel planning and transport logistics to personalised itineraries and on-ground coordination, every detail is managed to ensure a smooth and meaningful journey.

Within the resort, wellness continues to anchor the experience. Guests can participate in morning yoga and meditation sessions, indulge in spa therapies, and unwind through curated evening rituals followed by ‘Hi-tea’, creating a balanced rhythm of activity and relaxation.

By bringing together spirituality, wellness, and hospitality, Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa offers a layered and cohesive experience, one where each guest, whether travelling for pilgrimage or leisure, can find a sense of pause, presence, and personal connection.


SaltStayz Enters Leisure Segment with Autograph Launch in Rishikesh

SaltStayz Enters Leisure Segment with Autograph Launch in Rishikesh

By Hariharan U

Published on May 1, 2026

SaltStayz has marked its entry into the leisure travel segment with the launch of its premium ‘Autograph’ property in Rishikesh, one of India’s most sought-after wellness and spiritual destinations.

Previously focused on business travel markets such as New Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Chandigarh-Mohali, the brand is now expanding its footprint to cater to guests seeking experience-led stays in leisure destinations. SaltStayz Autograph Rishikesh is positioned to offer high-quality accommodation combined with a deeper connection to the destination.

Strategically located, the property provides easy access to prominent landmarks such as Triveni Ghat and Parmarth Niketan Ashram, along with connectivity to iconic spots like Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula. Despite its central location, the property is designed to offer a calm and retreat-like environment.

With a strong focus on wellness, the hotel integrates experiences such as yoga sessions, guided spiritual walks, and bicycle tours, allowing guests to explore Rishikesh at a slower, more mindful pace. Dedicated meditation spaces further enhance the holistic experience. The 38-key property also features an all-day dining restaurant, including a pure vegetarian outlet inspired by the legacy of Moti Mahal.

Gaurav Gupta, Co-Founder of SaltStayz, noted that Rishikesh is witnessing a clear shift towards wellness-led travel, with guests increasingly seeking immersive and experience-driven stays. He added that the launch of the Autograph category reflects both evolving consumer preferences and the company’s broader expansion strategy.

The brand highlighted that post-pandemic travel trends have significantly boosted demand for leisure and spiritual tourism, with wellness emerging as a key factor in destination selection. The Rishikesh launch aligns with this shift, offering thoughtfully designed stays at competitive pricing.

Alongside its new Autograph category, SaltStayz’s portfolio includes Select and Premier offerings. Founded in 2022, the Gurugram-based company currently operates 32 properties across India, with 30 more in the pipeline. The Autograph brand is expected to play a central role in its expansion into high-potential leisure destinations.

With this launch, SaltStayz continues to evolve its offering, moving beyond business travel to create experiences that combine comfort, accessibility, and meaningful engagement with destinations.


Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts Expands UK Presence with The Royal Hotel Cookstown

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts Expands UK Presence with The Royal Hotel Cookstown

By Hariharan U

Published on April 30, 2026

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts has announced the addition of The Royal Hotel Cookstown to its international portfolio, marking a significant step in strengthening its presence across the United Kingdom.

The move reflects the group’s strategy of building a curated collection of distinctive hospitality destinations that combine design, cultural authenticity, and personalised guest experiences.

Under this partnership, the property will continue to be owned by the Thom family, while Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts will take over the day-to-day management. The collaboration is designed to merge the hotel’s established legacy with the group’s experience-led approach, ensuring a balance between operational efficiency and high-quality service delivery.

The group plans to focus on refining the hotel’s brand positioning across regional and international markets, while enhancing operational performance. Key initiatives will include strengthening service delivery through people-first training, implementing structured operational frameworks, and driving commercial outcomes through disciplined revenue strategies. A more cohesive, design-led identity across guest touchpoints is also part of the transformation plan.

Commenting on the expansion, Richa Adhia, Managing Director, said, “We are delighted to expand our presence in Northern Ireland with The Royal Hotel Cookstown. This is a natural step in strengthening our footprint in our home market while continuing to build a globally connected portfolio. Our focus will be on elevating operational performance and guest experience, while preserving the property’s identity and legacy.”

For guests, the transition is expected to be seamless, with existing service standards maintained while benefiting from enhanced operational systems and upgraded experiences.

With a growing portfolio that includes brands such as Treetop, Hanric, Stamps, Ocho Homes, and Signature Collection, Eight Continents continues to expand across key destinations. Its presence spans regions including Belfast, Guernsey, and Zanzibar, alongside a strong footprint in India across Kasauli, Varkala, Udaipur, Sariska, Jodhpur, and Pushkar.

Founded in 2020 by Haninder Sachdeva, the group has positioned itself as a design-led, experience-driven hospitality brand, focusing on boutique properties that blend local heritage with global standards.

This latest addition reinforces the group’s ambition to build a globally connected hospitality network while maintaining a strong emphasis on curated, meaningful travel experiences.

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