Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa has been named 1st Runner-Up in the ‘Excellence in Services & Operations’ category at the Exhibition Excellence Awards (EEA) 2025, held at the CICDO Exhibition Center in Mumbai. This prestigious recognition reinforces the resort’s status as a leading hospitality and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination in India.

Clarks Exotica’s strength lies in its precision-driven and guest-centric approach, catering to four key guest profiles: MICE clientele, destination weddings, FITs (Free Independent Travellers), and airline crew—each experiencing tailored hospitality designed for their unique needs.

• MICE guests enjoy bespoke arrivals with company-branded gifts, themed room décor, and signature desserts.
  

• Wedding guests receive thoughtful in-room surprises including festive sweets and handwritten notes.
  

• FITs are treated with wellness hampers, dietary-specific meals, and occasion-based surprises.
  

• Airline crew benefit from streamlined check-ins, restful stays, and time-sensitive efficiency.
  

In FY 2024–25, Clarks Exotica undertook strategic operational and infrastructure upgrades, resulting in improved guest satisfaction across key platforms:

• Booking.com rating rose from 7.4 to 8.4
  

• Tripadvisor ranking improved to #22 of 1,136 hotels in Bengaluru
  

• Won the Agoda 2024 Customer Review Award with a score of 8.1
  

These results were powered by a committed, cross-functional team led by Varun Sharma, General Manager - Operations. His leadership played a key role in aligning departments towards a singular focus on service excellence.

Noteworthy team contributions include:

• Rakesh Kumar (Rooms Division): Streamlined and personalised guest journeys
  

• Chef Suresh (Culinary): Introduced inventive and diverse dining options
  

• Satyabrata Samal (Housekeeping): Rolled out eco-friendly practices and rapid response SOPs
  

• Senthil Kumar (F&B): Elevated banquet services with training and delightful add-ons
  

• Kuldeep Singh (Security): Enhanced safety with seamless guest confidence measures
  

• Raghavendra Srinivasa (IT): Delivered robust digital infrastructure and event tech support
  

• Chetan (Engineering): Ensured operational uptime through sustainable engineering
  

Balaji M, CEO of Clarks Exotica, shared:

"This award is a true reflection of what happens when passion meets process. It’s not about doing one thing differently—it’s about doing everything thoughtfully. Every detail, from food to room service, is shaped by care and consistency. We’re proud of our team and thankful for the trust of our guests."

Located just 15 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, the resort is nestled across 70 acres of greenery, offering over 15 versatile venues for exhibitions, weddings, conferences, leisure travel, and airline layovers. As it continues redefining luxury hospitality with scale, warmth, and intent, this latest recognition marks another milestone in Clarks Exotica’s journey.

Marriott International has launched its first Autograph Collection hotel in South Asia with the opening of The Soaltee Kathmandu. Located in the culturally rich Tahachal area of Nepal’s capital, the 285-room property marks the entry of Marriott’s 19th brand in the region, expanding its footprint across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

A landmark in Nepalese hospitality since 1966, The Soaltee has been reimagined under the Autograph Collection brand, known for offering hotels that are “Exactly Like Nothing Else.” The property celebrates Nepal’s artistic and architectural legacy, with features like hand-carved wooden jaalis, Thangka paintings, exposed brick interiors, and sweeping views of the Himalayas and Swoyambhunath Stupa.

A standout feature is “The Storyteller”, a curated space in the public areas that weaves together the hotel’s historic journey through guest stories and cultural artefacts. Each room and suite is designed with a unique narrative, showcasing the Autograph Collection’s focus on individuality and immersive local experiences.

Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International, shared,

“The debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu reflects our commitment to expanding into culturally rich leisure destinations. With its legacy and distinct character, the hotel perfectly aligns with our vision of delivering immersive, one-of-a-kind stays.”

The hotel offers an eclectic range of dining experiences:

• Garden Terrace for global and local cuisine

• Kakori for Awadhi delicacies

• Bao Xuan for Chinese specialities

• Patio for al fresco dining

• Rodi Bar and the Sports Lounge for laid-back socializing

Guests can also enjoy a spa, outdoor pool, tennis court, and 24-hour fitness centre, making it a well-rounded urban retreat. The property boasts over 25,000 sq. ft. of banquet space, positioning it as a premium venue for weddings, MICE events, and social gatherings.

In line with Marriott’s sustainability goals, The Soaltee Kathmandu features in-house water bottling, an herb garden, and energy-efficient infrastructure to reduce its environmental impact.

General Manager Avinash Deshmukh stated,

“With a legacy of over 58 years, this iconic hotel blends Nepal’s cultural heritage with contemporary luxury. We are proud to open the first Autograph Collection in South Asia and usher in a new chapter for the brand in the region.”

With its debut, The Soaltee Kathmandu not only elevates Nepal’s luxury hospitality landscape but also strengthens Marriott’s brand presence across South Asia through a property that’s both timeless and forward-looking.

Lemon Tree Hotels has announced the signing of its first property in the scenic northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh with the launch of Lemon Tree Hotel, Itanagar. The hotel will be operated by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary and the management arm of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited.

Located in the heart of Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, the hotel will feature 70 well-appointed rooms, complemented by a full suite of amenities including a restaurant, bar, banquet and meeting facilities, spa, swimming pool, gym, and other public areas. The hotel promises to offer both business and leisure travellers a comfortable and contemporary hospitality experience.

Conveniently situated, Donyi Polo Airport is approximately 25 km away, while the Naharlagun Railway Station lies around 12 km from the hotel. The property is also well-connected by road, ensuring easy accessibility from various parts of the state and neighbouring regions.

Rich in history and natural beauty, Itanagar draws its name from Itafort, a 14th-15th century brick fort built during the reign of Ramachandra of the Jitari Dynasty. The city also houses attractions like the Jawaharlal Nehru Museum, which celebrates Arunachal’s vibrant tribal culture, and Gekar Sinyi (Ganga Lake), a popular picnic spot nestled amidst lush greenery.

Commenting on the development, Vilas Pawar, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said:

“We are excited to expand further in the eastern part of the country. This signing marks a significant milestone in our growth journey, as it will be our first property in Arunachal Pradesh. It will further strengthen our expanding portfolio.”

With this addition, Lemon Tree continues to cement its presence across India, introducing its signature blend of affordability, comfort, and contemporary hospitality to newer destinations.