Travel in India is shifting rapidly. A younger, more aware generation is shaping the conversation, turning hotels into places where comfort, character, and connection carry as much weight as a brand name. They’re looking for hotels that understand rhythm, not routine; they want meaningful experiences over predictable luxury. Today’s travellers move differently. They carry less baggage, both physical and emotional, blend work with leisure, and choose stays that feel effortless. They don’t want hotels to impress them; they want hotels to understand them.

This is the landscape in which Chalet Hotels created Athiva, a lifestyle brand built for the way India travels now.

For Chalet Hotels, the decision to launch a consumer-facing hospitality brand was not simply about adding another hospitality label to an already strong portfolio. It was about creating an upper-upscale lifestyle hospitality platform that could speak directly to the aspirations of the emerging Indian traveller while reflecting the scale and maturity of India’s evolving hospitality opportunity.

Derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘abundance’, Athiva is a premium lifestyle hospitality brand built around three central pillars: joy, wellness and sustainability. These principles influence the guest experience as well as the broader philosophy around design, operations, programming and long-term brand thinking.

The brand’s positioning is intentionally distinct. Athiva fills the space between traditional hospitality and the new traveller’s expectations, offering refined comfort, intuitive service and experiences shaped around ease and authenticity. Rather than competing in the ultra-luxury segment, Athiva is focused on the upper-upscale lifestyle space, catering to a younger affluent traveller who values authenticity, wellness, design, flexibility and meaningful experiences as much as conventional luxury markers.

Athiva’s approach remains deeply rooted in Indian hospitality warmth, interpreted for a new generation of travellers. It combines contemporary lifestyle experiences with an emotional and cultural sensibility that feels distinctly Indian rather than globally standardised.

At the centre of the Athiva experience is the idea of joy. While much of the hospitality industry continues to pursue traditional luxury playbooks, Athiva’s philosophy is built around creating experiences that feel immersive, relaxed, intuitive and emotionally memorable. The emphasis is on authenticity, flexibility and experiences that genuinely resonate with modern travellers. From small touches that make guests smile to big moments that stay with them as memories, Athiva aims to create experiences that feel personal, delightful and sometimes disarmingly simple.

Athiva brings this understanding to life in small, intentional ways. Stays feel personalised without being intrusive. Workspaces blend into rooms without feeling like offices. Breakfast is not tied to a timetable because people are not tied to timetables anymore. Thoughtful touches, such as curated additions or mindful snack selections, gently brighten the day before guests realise something was missing.

Breakfast here is served when guests desire it, not when the clock declares it. In the rooms, the old minibar has made way for curated Binge Boxes, featuring locally sourced snacks and treats for cravings that strike between meals. Stays include local immersion experiences by default, and wellness is not an appointment but a feeling that moves with the guest, through fresh air, sunlit spaces and rooms designed for rest, not simply sleep.

THE ATHIVA WORLD

Athiva’s development framework is built around a selective and integrated approach to hospitality development. The starting point is always the market itself. Rather than pursuing expansion purely for scale, Athiva focuses on destinations where long-term demand fundamentals remain strong and structurally sustainable. These may include leisure destinations, emerging lifestyle markets, business ecosystems, wellness-driven travel corridors or infrastructure-led growth regions.

However, not every growing destination automatically qualifies as a long-term hospitality market. Athiva’s philosophy remains anchored in identifying locations where demand visibility, accessibility, market resilience and long-term positioning potential align meaningfully.

The second pillar of the model is positioning. Athiva has been conceptualised as an upper-upscale lifestyle hospitality platform tailored to evolving Indian travel preferences. Increasingly, premium hospitality is becoming less about conventional luxury markers and more about authenticity, flexibility, privacy, wellness and emotionally connected experiences.

This has influenced how Athiva thinks about hospitality experiences across design, service philosophy, wellness integration, food and beverage programming and destination engagement. The focus remains on delivering premium hospitality experiences that feel contemporary, intuitive and rooted in the destination itself rather than overly formal or standardised.

Operational integration forms the third pillar of the model. Athiva approaches hospitality development through an integrated framework where operational thinking is embedded into planning and positioning from the outset rather than introduced later.

This integrated approach extends beyond planning and operations into the guest experience itself. Across its properties, Athiva brings its philosophy to life through a series of Curated Additions, thoughtful experiences designed around the changing rhythms of modern travel.

Recognising that guests no longer live by identical schedules, Anytime Breakfast reimagines one of hospitality’s oldest conventions by making breakfast available around the clock, allowing guests to begin their day whenever it feels right.

Moments of joy are further expressed through Dollops of Joy, Athiva’s thoughtful treats and little surprises that quietly brighten everyday experiences. Simple and unassuming, these gestures reflect the brand’s belief that memorable hospitality often lies in the smallest details.

Athiva’s commitment to wellness and sustainability also extends into the guest room itself, where carefully selected dehumidifying plants help create a naturally balanced indoor environment while reducing dependence on energy-intensive systems. Together, these Curated Additions reinforce Athiva’s larger philosophy of delivering experiences that feel personal, intuitive and distinctly human.

The opening of Athiva Resort & Spa, Khandala, reflects this broader approach. Reimagined from the iconic Dukes Retreat, the property combines wellness-led experiences, destination-driven hospitality and contemporary upper-upscale lifestyle positioning within a high-demand leisure corridor closely connected to Mumbai and Pune.

The hotel also marks the launch of Vivaah by Athiva, the brand’s destination wedding offering built around seamless planning, personalised experiences and immersive celebrations. Rooted in Athiva’s philosophy of joy, wellness and contemporary Indian hospitality, Vivaah reflects the growing demand for experience-led destination weddings within India’s evolving upper-upscale hospitality landscape.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

Athiva’s partnership philosophy is centred around long-term alignment rather than transactional scale. Across the broader Chalet Hotels portfolio, partnerships with globally recognised hospitality operators have played an important role in driving operational excellence, distribution reach and demand access. At the same time, Athiva reflects the belief that certain hospitality formats, particularly lifestyle, leisure and immersive hospitality experiences, require greater individuality, flexibility and contextual storytelling.

This balance between institutional discipline and experiential freedom remains central to Athiva’s positioning.

The platform also recognises that destination hospitality increasingly extends beyond the hotel itself. Local experiences, wellness ecosystems, culinary storytelling, cultural programming and community engagement are becoming integral parts of hospitality experiences today.

As a result, partnerships with local stakeholders, designers, experience creators and operational specialists play an increasingly important role in shaping differentiated guest experiences that feel authentic to each destination.

BEYOND INDIVIDUAL HOTELS

Chalet Hotels’ broader experience across hospitality and commercial real estate has reinforced the importance of this integrated development philosophy.

Hospitality assets today function within larger ecosystems of business travel, retail, commercial infrastructure, leisure experiences and urban connectivity. This integration often creates stronger demand durability, higher utilisation and greater resilience across market cycles.

Convention-led hospitality and MICE-driven demand are also expected to play an increasingly important role. Simultaneously, destination weddings, experiential leisure travel and blended work-leisure travel continue creating new opportunities for upper-upscale hospitality formats. Athiva’s long-term outlook is closely aligned with these structural shifts.

RESPONSIBILITY AS A CORE DISCIPLINE

For Athiva, sustainability is embedded in the broader development philosophy itself. Chalet’s commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040 shapes how Athiva is designed, built and operated. Athiva carries this commitment into the guest experience through energy-efficient architecture, eco-conscious amenities and community-driven partnerships.

Governance and operational discipline remain equally important. As India’s hospitality market grows, institutional credibility, execution quality, operational transparency and long-term strategic thinking are likely to become key differentiators between enduring hospitality platforms and short-term growth-led models.

LOOKING AHEAD

India’s hospitality sector remains one of the most compelling long-term growth stories globally. Rising domestic travel, infrastructure development, expanding aviation networks, premiumisation and evolving consumer behaviour are creating sustained opportunities across hospitality formats.

At the same time, the Indian traveller is becoming more experience-led, emotionally driven and intentional in how they engage with hospitality. This is expected to drive strong long-term growth across the upper-upscale lifestyle hospitality segment, particularly in leisure, wellness, experiential travel and destination-led markets.

For Athiva Hotels & Resorts, the focus remains clear: building hospitality assets and experiences that combine long-term ownership philosophy, institutional discipline, operational excellence and contemporary Indian hospitality thinking.

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In the heart of Colombo, the experience at Hilton Colombo Residences begins with flavour, warmth and a familiar sense of connection. For Indian travellers, cuisine is often one of the most meaningful parts of a journey, bringing families together, creating comfort in a new destination and offering a taste of culture through every shared meal. At Hilton Colombo Residences, this culinary connection is brought to life through the work of Rampal Ghinkan, Indian Speciality Chef, whose passion for authentic Indian flavours adds a deeply personal touch to the hotel’s dining experience.

Coming from Uttar Pradesh, India, Chef Rampal Ghinkan brings with him the bold spices, tandoor traditions and rich culinary memories that shaped his journey. At FLOW, the hotel’s signature multi-cuisine restaurant, his Indian specialities offer guests the reassurance of familiar flavours, presented with the polish, warmth and service of Hilton hospitality.

“Hilton Colombo Residences has been my home away from home for the past five years, and it has been a truly rewarding journey. Coming from Uttar Pradesh, India, I have greatly enjoyed being part of the team here, as well as exploring Sri Lanka whenever I can, with Kandy being one of my favourite destinations. One of my favourite dishes to prepare is Tandoori Chicken Kebab, which reflects the bold and authentic flavours I grew up with and enjoy bringing to our guests,” said Rampal Ghinkan.

A dish such as Tandoori Chicken Kebab becomes more than a menu highlight. It reflects the warmth of North Indian cooking, the depth of spice and the smoky character of the tandoor. For Indian guests, it brings the comfort of familiar flavours prepared with care. For international travellers, it offers an introduction to the vibrancy of Indian cuisine.

At FLOW, five open kitchens bring energy, aroma and a sense of theatre to every dining occasion. Indian flavours sit alongside Sri Lankan, Chinese, Japanese and Western selections, creating a generous dining experience for families, business travellers, wedding groups and long-stay guests. This variety is especially meaningful for Indian travellers, whose journeys often include multi-generational families, group celebrations and shared meals that bring everyone together.

Whether it is a relaxed breakfast, family lunch, business meal or weekend gathering, FLOW offers a thoughtful balance of comfort and discovery. Guests can enjoy the flavours they know and love while exploring the diverse tastes of Colombo and beyond. For those staying longer or travelling with family, the residence-style suites also offer cooking facilities, while in-room dining provides added flexibility for quiet meals, late arrivals or relaxed evenings in. This makes dining at Hilton Colombo Residences a meaningful and adaptable part of the journey.

Beyond FLOW, guests can enjoy Basico Bar & Lounge, an inviting setting for coffee, light bites, informal meetings and evening conversations. Level3ree Poolside adds a relaxed outdoor dining experience, with refreshing beverages and made-to-order meals served beside the pool.

From this culinary beginning, Hilton Colombo Residences unfolds as a refined residence-style hotel designed for Indian travellers seeking comfort, space and connection in Colombo. Set along Union Place in the heart of the city, the hotel places guests close to commercial districts, shopping destinations, cultural landmarks, recreational spaces and lifestyle attractions. This central setting makes it ideal for leisure stays, business travel, family holidays, long-stay visits and celebrations.

With 177 rooms and suites, three distinctive dining outlets, versatile meetings and event spaces, and recreational facilities including a gym, swimming pool, tennis court and squash court, the property brings together the ease of residential living with the trusted warmth of Hilton hospitality.

The hotel also welcomes every member of the family. As a pet-friendly hotel, it extends the same warmth and care to furry companions, creating a stay that feels inclusive, personal and thoughtfully considered for today’s modern traveller.

Residence-Style Comfort for Indian Families

For travellers who value comfort and flexibility, Hilton Colombo Residences offers expansive suites designed for the ease of residence-style living, complemented by Hilton hospitality. Whether visiting for a weekend escape, business assignment, family holiday or extended stay, guests can settle into a relaxed rhythm and experience Colombo at their own pace.

The suites offer generous living areas, city views and modern amenities, allowing families, business travellers, wedding groups and long-stay guests to move through each day with ease. This sense of space makes every stay feel warmer, more personal and naturally comfortable.

Connected to Colombo’s Culture, Shopping and City Life

Colombo is a close and rewarding destination for Indian travellers, offering cultural familiarity, coastal charm, shopping, dining and city exploration within easy reach. From its central Union Place location, Hilton Colombo Residences places guests close to the city’s key lifestyle and cultural attractions, while offering a calm setting to return to.

A key highlight within easy reach is the Colombo Lotus Tower, one of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks and a striking symbol of the city’s modern identity. Guests can also explore shopping destinations such as Colombo City Centre and One Galle Face, along with the National Museum, Galle Face Green, Colombo’s key commercial districts, Gangaramaya Park and Gangaramaya Temple.

After a day spent moving through Colombo, the outdoor swimming pool provides a refreshing space to unwind, while the fitness centre supports established wellness routines. Tennis and squash facilities add another layer of lifestyle appeal, especially for long-stay guests and families.

Celebrations and Gatherings with a Culinary Touch

For Indian weddings, family celebrations and corporate gatherings, food is central to the experience. Hilton Colombo Residences brings together versatile event spaces, residence-style accommodation and dining expertise to create occasions that feel seamless, memorable and full of warmth.

At the centre of the hotel’s event offering is the Union Ballroom, a grand and flexible venue suited to weddings, gala dinners, product launches, conferences and formal receptions. Smaller meeting rooms and private spaces are also available for board meetings, workshops, family gatherings and private dining experiences.

For Indian families and wedding groups, this combination is especially valuable. Guests can stay, gather, dine and celebrate in one connected setting, while the culinary team supports occasions where food, hospitality and togetherness play an important role.

Sustainability at the Heart of Hospitality

At Hilton Colombo Residences, refined hospitality is also guided by responsible travel, aligned with Hilton’s Travel with Purpose strategy. Practical initiatives across the property help reduce waste, support local communities and create a more mindful guest experience.

The hotel’s in-house water plant produces filtered drinking water on-site, served in reusable glass bottles to help reduce single-use plastic waste. Plastic items are replaced with paper-based alternatives, while fresh herbs from the property’s organic herb garden are used in culinary preparations. The cage-free eggs initiative supports local farmers and promotes better animal-welfare standards.

In the kitchen, Watermelon Rind Revival Curry helps reduce food waste by using watermelon peels, while Sunshine in a Jar transforms leftover buffet fruits into homemade jams. Through the Embodhi Foundation, the hotel also supports Soap for Hope and Linen for Life, repurposing used materials to benefit local communities. For meetings and events, Hilton’s Meet with Purpose, LightStay and EventReady Hybrid Solutions support more mindful gatherings.

In the heart of Colombo, Hilton Colombo Residences stands as a refined residence-style hotel for Indian travellers seeking flavour, comfort, celebration and connection. With Indian cuisine at the centre of the journey and the city just beyond its doors, it offers a stay that feels familiar, flavorful and thoughtfully connected to the spirit of Colombo.

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Embodying the vibrant spirit and rich diversity of Sri Lanka’s thriving capital, Hilton Colombo is a premier business hotel situated in the heart of the city’s enterprising Central Business District. As Hilton’s flagship hotel in Sri Lanka, the property features 368 guestrooms and suites designed to deliver a timeless business or leisure stay in one of Asia’s emerging destinations for MICE and corporate travel.

An iconic landmark that continues to reinvent Sri Lanka’s travel and tourism landscape nearly four decades after its opening, Hilton Colombo welcomes local guests and international travellers with its signature warmth and hospitality, creating the comforting feeling of a home away from home.

The hotel has also played an integral role in shaping Colombo’s restaurant and social scene, making it a distinctive destination for Indian travellers seeking authentic gourmet dining and memorable culinary experiences.

A Culinary Journey That Transcends Generations

When Hilton Colombo formally opened its doors in 1987, the hotel introduced a modern and contemporary style of dining and socialisation that had rarely been experienced in Sri Lanka before. Local guests and international travellers discovered transformative dining and culinary concepts that significantly reinvented the country’s hospitality landscape.

These experiences also established the hotel as a gathering place for government officials, business leaders, diplomats, families and friends—a tradition that continues to flourish today.

Throughout its history, Hilton Colombo has had the distinction and privilege of hosting several Indian dignitaries and celebrities. These include former President of India, the Honourable Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam; internationally acclaimed Indian actress and film producer Priyanka Chopra; and, most recently, renowned South Indian actor Suriya Sivakumar.

Hilton Colombo also catered the state banquet held in honour of the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, during his official state visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025.

One of Hilton Colombo’s most iconic and fondly remembered restaurants during the late 1980s and 1990s was Lotus Terrace, an informal yet sophisticated all-day dining restaurant that originally served à la carte menus and dinner buffets.

Other restaurants, including Gables, a fine-dining establishment; Thorana, a serene waterfront lobby bar; The Wok, a Chinese speciality restaurant; Ginza Hohsen, an authentic Japanese speciality restaurant; and Fine Things, a patisserie, also helped shape a legacy of culinary expertise and immersive dining culture.

That legacy continues through Hilton Colombo’s modern dining iterations, which encompass Graze Kitchen, L.A.B. Lounge and Bar, Emperor’s Wok and Café Kai.

Hilton Colombo’s reputation as a nightlife hotspot began with its iconic nightclub, Blue Elephant. Today, that spirit continues at SunsetBlu, a lively all-day pool bar, and Stella Karaoke Bar & Lounge.

Dining as a Form of Connection and Memory

Graze Kitchen is Hilton Colombo’s signature all-day dining restaurant, a venue where guests can delight in international culinary fare sourced and inspired by destinations across the world.

Brimming with flavour and pulsating with culinary energy, Graze Kitchen features a series of show kitchens offering an assortment of cuisines, ranging from Southeast Asian and Indian specialities to Western grills and Sri Lankan favourites.

With rotating breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, guests can create lasting memories and connections with friends, family or corporate colleagues over delectable cuisine. The experience is set within a striking Art Deco-inspired ambience, complemented by exquisite views of the hotel’s lotus pond.

The hotel’s new Indian Chef de Cuisine, Samit Maity, together with a team of chefs specialising in Indian cuisine, oversees the dynamic Indian kitchen at Graze Kitchen.

Showcasing bold aromatics, tantalising flavours and vibrant spices, the Indian kitchen serves an authentic selection of dishes, ranging from a variety of chaats and delectable biryanis to tandoori malai chicken kebabs and assorted thali-style recipes.

What distinguishes the Indian show kitchen at Graze Kitchen is the chefs’ commitment to curating a rich tapestry of Indian delicacies that evoke the familiar flavours of home for the discerning Indian traveller.

Unique epicurean stories unfold through dishes inspired by the kitchens of Punjab, Rajasthan, Lucknow, Bengal, Kolkata and North India, alongside celebrated Mughlai culinary traditions. Each is presented through the skilful craftsmanship of the hotel’s Indian speciality chefs.

Bringing the Flavours of Chinese Cuisine to Life

Emperor’s Wok, Hilton Colombo’s speciality Chinese restaurant, celebrates the heritage of Chinese fine dining while showcasing the precision and refinement of authentic Cantonese cuisine.

As guests enter the restaurant, they are welcomed by a striking sky-blue ceiling illustrated in a Chinese artistic style, offering a captivating preview of the culinary experience that awaits.

A beautiful show kitchen, manned by chefs with expertise in Chinese culinary traditions, sits at the heart of the restaurant. An elegant bar serving classic cocktails inspired by 1920s Canton and refined interiors featuring subtle references to Chinese culture further elevate the dining ambience at Emperor’s Wok.

The restaurant is renowned for its carefully curated selection of dishes, including Beijing-style roasted Peking duck, delicious dim sum and delectable seafood prepared and served in authentic Cantonese culinary fashion.

Serene Afternoons Beside the Exquisite Lotus Pond

The lotus pond, with its lush green gardens, antique fountain adorned with radiant purple flowers, elegant black swans and colourful koi fish, is an awe-inspiring sight for guests arriving at Hilton Colombo.

Evoking nature and serenity amid the energy of the city, the lotus pond is one of the hotel’s star attractions. It invites guests to create memorable moments over an elegant afternoon tea at L.A.B., Hilton Colombo’s lobby bar and lounge.

Showcasing a serene ambience and comfortable surroundings, L.A.B. offers a quiet pause during a guest’s culinary exploration. Leisurely afternoons can be enjoyed over the elegant indulgences of a high tea platter, accompanied by a soothing cup of tea or coffee.

At night, L.A.B. transforms into a stylish jazz bar and lounge that evokes both glamour and mystique. Live jazz music, exquisite cocktails created by the bar’s expert mixologists and the distinct hum of social conversation allow guests to unwind and enjoy a truly remarkable evening.

Guests are also encouraged to experience the Cinnamon OF, L.A.B.’s distinctly Sri Lankan interpretation of the classic Old Fashioned.

SunsetBlu: The City’s Signature Nightlife Hotspot

SunsetBlu reveals another side of Hilton Colombo as the sun sets, the sky darkens and Colombo’s skyline illuminates in its full vibrancy.

Live entertainment by resident and guest DJs, performances by local musical bands and the showmanship of the hotel’s expert mixologists create the feeling that the evening will be both euphoric and exciting.

The signature SunsetBlu cocktail, recognised by its electric blue shade, is a special favourite among guests drawn to the bar’s celebratory atmosphere and spirited revelry.

During the day, SunsetBlu offers a relaxed pool-bar ambience where guests can enjoy an enticing variety of freshly baked pizzas and other bar favourites. The experience is set against lush tropical surroundings overlooking the serene green waters of the Beira Lake canal.

What remains consistent across generations, eras, and communities is Hilton Colombo’s role as one of Asia’s defining hospitality landmarks—a place where dining continues to be closely connected with social life, celebrations, business culture and Colombo’s evolving urban identity.

The hotel’s dining offerings are among the primary ways in which guests experience Hilton Colombo’s signature warmth and hospitality. Together, they represent the social and emotional heart of the property, continuing to make the hotel a magnetic and enthralling destination for international travellers and local guests alike.

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The property will be part of The Fern Residency, Series by Marriott brand portfolio. With this signing, The Fern will have 15 operational and upcoming properties in South India and 190 properties overall across India.

The Fern Eco Bliss Resort Moolakada, Series by Marriott is scheduled to open in June 2027. The upcoming property will have 116 rooms and suites. It will include an all-day dining restaurant and event facilities, comprising a conference room and banquet hall.

Commenting on the signing, Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “South India continues to be an important market in our expansion strategy, driven by increasing travel demand and growing opportunities across emerging destinations. The signing of The Fern Eco Bliss Resort Moolakada, Series by Marriott aligns with our vision to strengthen our presence in high-potential locations while delivering quality hospitality experiences that cater to the evolving preferences of today’s travellers.”

The hotel is planned to serve business and leisure travellers, along with corporate meetings, events and social gatherings.

Commenting on the association, A S Madhavan, Director, WF Kaivalya Holistic Private Limited, said, “We are delighted to partner with The Fern Hotels & Resorts for The Fern Eco Bliss Resort Moolakada, Series by Marriott. With The Fern’s strong brand reputation, operational expertise and commitment to sustainable hospitality, we are confident that this collaboration will establish a distinguished hospitality offering in the region and provide guests with a memorable stay experience.”

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Eyak Ventures has announced the opening of Evoke Rambagh, a hospitality development near the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. The property will operate under the Evoke Experiences brand.

Located on Parikrama Marg, Evoke Rambagh is spread across 25 acres and has 156 cottages. The property is accessible from Ayodhya Junction railway station and Maharishi Valmiki International Airport.

The development includes multiple water bodies across the property and has been planned to cater to pilgrims, families, group travellers and visitors to Ayodhya. The opening comes as Ayodhya continues to see increased visitor movement following the development of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and related infrastructure in the region.

The property includes an all-vegetarian restaurant serving satvik food, with Indian, Oriental and Continental options. It also has a lobby restaurant and room service.

For events and group requirements, the property offers a banquet hall, landscaped gardens, a clubhouse and activity areas. The facilities are intended to support family gatherings, social events, destination weddings and corporate requirements.

Recreation and wellness facilities include a swimming pool, wellness centre, and yoga, meditation and naturopathy programmes. The property also offers concierge services, valet parking, golf cart transportation, multilingual assistance and wheelchair access.

Operational facilities include power backup, air conditioning, internet access, parking, housekeeping and laundry services. Safety and security systems include CCTV cameras, fire safety equipment and smoke detectors.

Evoke Rambagh will also provide scheduled shuttle services to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Airport and railway station transfers will be available on a paid basis.

Commenting on the opening, Krinal Thaker, Marketing & Experiences Head, Evoke Experiences, an initiative by Eyak Ventures, said, “The opening of Evoke Rambagh is in line with our commitment towards the development of Ayodhya as a key tourist and religious destination in India. The idea behind developing this hospitality asset was to provide accessible and comfortable accommodations.”

The opening adds to Ayodhya’s hospitality infrastructure as the city continues to develop as a religious tourism destination.

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with Zon Hotels (Mumbai) Private Limited to develop InterContinental Mumbai Goregaon. The hotel is scheduled to open in Q1 2030. The upcoming property will be located in Goregaon, in Mumbai’s western suburbs. Positioned between Andheri and Malad, the hotel is expected to cater to business and leisure travellers using this commercial corridor.

InterContinental Mumbai Goregaon will have 350 rooms, including 70 suites. The hotel will also include five dining venues, comprising an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, speciality restaurants and a lobby lounge. The property will offer meeting and event facilities across multiple spaces, including a large ballroom. Other planned facilities include a fitness centre, spa, swimming pool, retail spaces and parking.

Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to partner with Zon Hotels (Mumbai) Private Limited to bring InterContinental Mumbai Goregaon to the city. Mumbai continues to demonstrate strong demand across both business and leisure travel, and Goregaon’s emergence as a growing commercial corridor makes it an ideal location to expand our luxury portfolio.”

Sandip Gupta, Director, Zon Hotels (Mumbai) Private Limited, said, “We are pleased to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring the InterContinental brand to Goregaon. This collaboration builds on our existing relationship with IHG and reflects our shared vision of developing hospitality destinations. Leveraging IHG’s global expertise, enterprise systems and loyalty platform, we are well-positioned to deliver value to both guests and stakeholders.”

Ishwar Shukla, Director, DGS Group, said, “The hotel will be a significant hospitality asset in North Mumbai. The property is being planned with international design standards and contemporary architecture, and will cater to a range of customer segments.”

The signing adds to the company’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio in India and strengthens its presence in Mumbai. IHG currently has 52 hotels operating across seven brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, voco Hotels, Holiday Inn Resort and Holiday Inn Express. The company also has a pipeline of 98 hotels expected to open over the next three to five years.

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For our family, a summer holiday has never been only a break on the calendar. It is not simply about taking leave, booking a comfortable stay or stepping away from work for a few days. We have always tried to choose holidays that leave something behind, especially for the children.

Children remember experiences in a way adults often underestimate. A place, a smell, a sound, a ride through a village, the silence of a forest, these things stay with them long after the holiday photographs are forgotten.

For me, these journeys matter for another reason too. Life in Hyderabad can become demanding and repetitive. Office work, deadlines, traffic, endless calls and the pace of city living can make one day blend quietly into the next.

I grew up in a village, and my own childhood had a very different rhythm. We lived much closer to the outdoors. Farms, trees, animals, open spaces and evening walks were not weekend activities. They were part of everyday life.

My children are growing up in a very different world.

Their routine is built around school, apartment living, school buses, homework and mobile phones. Even weekends often slip away indoors or inside malls, especially when the summer heat becomes too much.

That is why I feel strongly about taking them beyond the city whenever possible. Sometimes the destination is a hill station. Sometimes it is a beach. Sometimes it is a village. The idea is simple: children should see more than screens, buildings and the familiar routine of city life.

When the Children Asked for the Jungle

Usually, I decide where we go for our holidays. And if I am honest, my choice almost always leans towards hill stations.

This time, the children protested.

“Why always hills?”

They wanted the summer break to feel different. Their choice was clear. They wanted a jungle holiday.

I liked the suggestion at once. I was ready for a change, too.

After looking at a few options near Hyderabad, we decided on Tipeshwar Tiger Reserve. At around 380 km from Hyderabad, it was well-suited for a long weekend road trip with the family. The distance felt manageable, and the destination promised exactly the kind of change we were looking for.

Tipeshwar also appealed to us because it still seemed quieter than many famous safari destinations. It had the charm of a forest escape without the feeling of being part of a crowd.

Finding a Stay That Belonged to the Landscape

Once Tipeshwar was finalised, the next important question was where to stay.

For a nature holiday, I never really enjoy the idea of staying in a regular city-style hotel and treating the forest as a separate outing. The stay should also carry the mood of the destination. It should feel connected to the trees, the quiet and the slower pace around it.

That thought led us to Sterling Tipeshwar.

It looked peaceful, family-friendly and close to the kind of forest atmosphere we wanted. It did not seem overdone. It felt like a place where the holiday could unfold naturally.

Leaving Hyderabad Behind, One Mile at a Time

We started early in the morning from Hyderabad.

At the beginning, the drive felt familiar. Traffic, busy roads and the city’s usual rush followed us for some time. Then, almost gradually, the scenery began to change. Buildings became fewer. Roads grew calmer. Open farmland, dry forest patches and long stretches of quieter landscape started appearing outside the window.

Even in summer, that shift felt refreshing.

Road trips have their own quiet magic. They allow the mind to slow down before the destination even arrives.

As we moved closer to Tipeshwar, everyone in the car seemed to relax. The children, who usually reach for their phones during long drives, began looking outside more. Small villages, roadside tea stalls, dry fields and open roads created a completely different mood.

The holiday had begun even before we reached.

The Calm Arrival at Sterling Tipeshwar

When we reached Sterling Tipeshwar, the first thing that struck us was the calm.

The property did not feel like a typical hotel. It had an open, relaxed character. Tall trees, quiet corners and a natural setting made it feel in tune with the forest holiday we had planned.

Our plan had been very straightforward.

Stay comfortably. Go for the safari. Spend time together. Enjoy good food. Return home refreshed.

But the experience slowly became richer than that.

The Gentle Joy of Simple Experiences

Before arriving, we had assumed the safari would be the most exciting part of the trip for the children. It certainly was special, but the smaller experiences surprised us even more.

One evening, we attended a honey tasting session. At first, the children treated it like a small resort activity. But once they began tasting the honey and listening to how natural honey is collected, their curiosity changed completely.

It was lovely to watch them become interested in something so simple and real. In a world where gadgets usually hold their attention, that kind of curiosity felt precious.

For me, the bullock cart ride became the most personal moment of the holiday.

The sight of the cart took me straight back to my childhood in my village. When I was young, such things were part of ordinary life. We never saw them as experiences to be planned or remembered.

Years of city living changed that. Seeing a bullock cart again brought back a rush of old memories.

My children, of course, saw it differently. They were laughing, enjoying the uneven village roads and treating the ride like a great adventure. Their excitement over something so simple made me unexpectedly emotional.

For them, it was a fun ride.

For me, it was a quiet return to where I had come from.

The farm visit carried the same gentle charm. There was no traffic, no noise and no hurry. Only open land, fresh air and a pace of life that felt beautifully unforced.

The children noticed plants, birds, farming activity and animals nearby. These are the small details that city life often pushes into the background.

At one point, I sat quietly and watched them run around freely, with no mobile phones in their hands.

That one sight made the trip feel worthwhile.

Into the Forest

The safari was the experience we had all been waiting for.

Early in the morning, we climbed into the jeep and entered the forest area. The feeling was different at once. A zoo shows animals within human boundaries. A forest reminds you that you are entering their world.

As we went deeper, the mood inside the jeep changed. Everyone became quieter.

There were dry trees, dusty tracks, distant bird calls and sudden movements among the branches. Even the ride itself became part of the adventure.

At times, the driver slowed down after noticing footprints. At other moments, everyone looked towards the bushes after hearing a sound. The waiting became as exciting as the sightings.

That is what makes a forest safari special. Nothing is guaranteed. Nature decides what it wants to reveal.

The children were delighted even by the smaller sightings. Deer moving freely through the forest, peacocks crossing the path without warning, monkeys leaping between trees, everything felt alive and unscripted.

One moment stayed with me in particular. The jeep stopped for a few minutes, and the forest fell into a deep quiet.

No traffic. No phone calls. No city noise.

Only the sounds of the wild.

For the children, it was an adventure.

For me, it was peace.

A Weekend That Felt Larger Than Its Dates

When we left Hyderabad, we thought we were going on a simple long weekend holiday.

By the time we drove back, it felt like something more meaningful.

We had found family time, forest silence, village experiences, open spaces and a much-needed pause from routine life. The children had laughed, explored, observed and enjoyed things that did not need a screen or an expensive setup.

Sometimes children do not need grand entertainment. They need real experiences.

This trip gave us exactly that.

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ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, a growing name in India’s boutique and premium hospitality sector, has announced the signing of ATARAXIA BY ALIVAA, Mussoorie Foothills, Dehradun. This marks the brand’s sixth property in Uttarakhand and further strengthens its presence in one of India’s most sought-after leisure destinations.

Located where the Dehradun plains rise gently towards the Mussoorie hills, the property is designed as an architectural sanctuary surrounded by dense green forest. The resort offers elegantly appointed rooms, sweeping panoramic views and a pristine outdoor swimming pool at the heart of the property, creating a restful setting for leisure travellers, families and guests seeking a refined foothill escape.

The resort is fully operational under the new brand, with summer and monsoon packages now open for reservations.

Speaking on the signing, Vikramjit Singh, Chairman & Managing Director, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, said, “ATARAXIA marks a defining step in our regional clustering strategy. Uttarakhand is central to India’s premium leisure story, and this foothill location fuses Himalayan warmth with the operational standards that define ALIVAA.”

Akash Bhatia, Chief Executive Officer, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, added, “ATARAXIA is positioned to become a benchmark asset for us in North India — restorative surroundings, exceptional amenities, and a guest experience built around superior asset performance.”

The owners of Ataraxia Resort and Spa, Sarita Upadhyay and Rajeevv Malhotra, said, ““We built this resort as a haven of absolute peace, where architecture meets the pristine foothill landscape. Partnering with ALIVAA lets us scale that vision while elevating the guest experience to its full potential.”

With this signing, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its boutique and premium hospitality footprint across high-potential leisure markets. The addition of ATARAXIA BY ALIVAA in the Mussoorie foothills reflects the brand’s focus on distinctive destinations, thoughtful hospitality and experience-led stays in India’s evolving premium travel landscape.

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Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the opening of Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt, marking the Taj brand’s entry into Continental Europe.

The opening brings Taj hospitality to one of Frankfurt’s most recognised hotel addresses. Originally established as Hotel Hessischer Hof, the property has reopened following extensive renovations and now joins Taj’s international portfolio.

Speaking on the opening, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, said, “Established in 1903, Taj is a legendary symbol of timeless hospitality. Recognised as World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2025, it is a unique collection of 150+ hotels across 15 countries offering an unrivalled fusion of Indian hospitality and world-class service. The opening of Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt marks Taj’s debut into Continental Europe, in line with our international strategy to grow our presence in key gateway cities of the world. We are delighted to reopen this iconic landmark following its extensive renovations and bringing the warmth of Tajness to Frankfurt.”

The 126-key Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt is set within one of the city’s historic hospitality landmarks. The hotel features Bombay Brasserie, offering Bombay and Indian cuisine; Jimmy’s Bar, known for live piano performances and cocktails; and the Lobby Bar, a daytime café serving teas, coffees and pastries.

Commenting on the opening, Simon Lutz, Partner at Peakside Capital, owner of the hotel, said, “We are delighted on the opening of Taj Hessischer Hof. This will be a landmark, bringing together the hotel’s rich legacy with Taj’s world-renowned luxury hospitality to Frankfurt.”

Boris Schran, Partner at Peakside Capital, added, “We are very pleased that the legendary Hotel Hessischer Hof, with its long tradition as a five-star hotel close to the Frankfurt Exhibition Centre, is now reopening its doors as a Taj Hotel.”

The hotel also offers Taj’s signature J Wellness Circle, rooted in the principles of Ayurveda, along with a fitness centre. For meetings and private receptions, the property features three event spaces with natural daylight and generous ceiling heights. It also houses The Chambers, Taj’s members-only business club.

Albert Mayr, General Manager, Taj Hessischer Hof Frankfurt, said, “Taj Hessischer Hof draws from its aristocratic provenance which has been thoughtfully reimagined for today’s traveller. We are proud to reintroduce this living legacy blending European heritage with the essence of Indian hospitality and look forward to welcoming our guests.”

Frankfurt is one of Europe’s leading financial centres and is known for its cultural landmarks, including Römerberg, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Palmengarten and the museums along the River Main.

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Set on the untamed edge of Yala National Park. In a place where dense jungle meets the vast Indian Ocean, Hilton Yala Resort brings a distinctive meaning to experiential travel. As Hilton’s first and only safari resort globally, it introduces a rare blend of world-class hospitality, immersive wildlife encounters, and refined comfort in one of Sri Lanka’s most dramatic natural settings.

The resort sits within a protected ecosystem and has been designed in harmony with its surroundings. With only 42 rooms, suites, and villas, many featuring private plunge pools, the experience remains intentionally intimate. Guests wake up with uninterrupted wilderness views and settle into a rhythm shaped by forest, ocean, birdsong, warm service, and the thrill of being close to the wild.

Hilton Yala is the gateway into one of Asia’s most extraordinary wildlife landscapes, and a pioneer in experiential safari travel in Sri Lanka.

Why Yala National Park Feels Unlike Anywhere Else

Spanning nearly 130,000 hectares, Yala National Park ranks among Sri Lanka’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries and one of the most biodiverse regions in Asia. It is renowned globally for one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, along with elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 species of birds.

Yala’s real distinction lies in its variety of landscapes. Dry monsoon forests, open grasslands, coastal lagoons, sand dunes, and scrubland create an ecological canvas where wildlife thrives in striking ways. This diversity gives every safari a different mood, texture, and possibility.

No two drives feel alike. A morning expedition may reveal a leopard moving silently through the undergrowth. An evening drive may close with elephants grazing against a glowing sky. That unpredictability gives Yala its charge, and precisely what makes it unforgettable.

Safari, Reimagined: The Hilton Yala Difference

At Hilton Yala Resort, safari is not treated as a side excursion. It forms the essence of the stay. The experience begins as guests arrive, drawing them into a carefully curated journey that reaches beyond traditional game drives.

Guided safaris are led by expert rangers who bring depth, storytelling, and insight into every expedition. Guests can explore different park blocks, including the famed Block 1, known for leopard density, along with remote areas that offer exclusivity and a deeper sense of wilderness.

Personalisation adds another layer. Each safari can be shaped around individual interests such as wildlife photography, birdwatching, tracking, or the pure thrill of exploration. Experiences continue beyond the vehicle, with curated bush walks, dune explorations, and interpretive sessions that help guests understand the ecosystem in a more meaningful way.

Instead of focusing only on sightings, Hilton Yala encourages a more mindful safari philosophy. Patience, observation, silence, and connection matter here.

Led by Expertise: A World-Class Ranger Team

At the heart of Hilton Yala’s safari experience is its exceptional ranger team, led by Head Ranger Sajith Withanage. Bringing international expertise into Sri Lanka’s wilderness, Sajith is supported by a team with certifications through the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa, along with globally recognised CyberTracker Conservation tracking credentials.

“A true safari is not measured by the number of sightings, but by the depth of connection you build with the wilderness. At Yala, every track, every sound, and every moment tells a story—we simply help guests learn how to read it,” said Sajith Withanage, Head Ranger.

This rare combination brings deep ecological knowledge and advanced tracking skills into every safari. Guests are invited to be an active part in a richer understanding of animal behaviour, tracks, calls, movement patterns, and the subtle signs that reveal the life of the forest.

Every drive becomes a story. A footprint in dust, a distant call, a change in wind, a broken twig, or a sudden silence can shift the narrative. Under expert guidance, the smallest details begin carrying meaning.

Lucas: The Spirit of the Wild

Among the many elements that shape Hilton Yala’s storytelling is Lucas, a presence that has become symbolic of the resort’s safari experience.

Lucas represents more than a single moment in the wild. He embodies the spirit of Yala itself: elusive, powerful, watchful, and deeply captivating. Encountered in reality or brought alive through ranger storytelling, Lucas reflects the emotional connection guests form with the wilderness.

This narrative quality elevates the experience. Wildlife encounters become more than sightings. They become personal memories, carried long after departure.

Beyond Safari: Immersive Experiences in Nature

Hilton Yala’s approach to experiential travel extends beyond the safari vehicle, offering curated experiences that connect guests with nature and culture in gentler, more layered ways. Guided bush walks, dune explorations, and stargazing under clear, unpolluted skies deepen the sense of place.

Guests can engage with local communities, explore cultural landmarks, or unwind in serene surroundings after a day outdoors. Younger explorers can join the Junior Ranger Program, where they learn wildlife tracking, conservation, and ecosystem awareness through interactive sessions with expert rangers.

Dining is equally immersive. Lantern-lit beach dinners, bush-side culinary journeys, and locally inspired cuisine bring the destination alive with elegance and ease. Each meal is thoughtfully crafted, blending adventure with refined indulgence.

Sustainability at the Core

Operating within a sensitive ecological zone requires serious responsibility, and Hilton Yala has embedded this care across its operations. Guided by strong ESG principles, the resort works across responsible waste management, water conservation, sustainable sourcing, and community engagement.

The design of the resort reflects the same ethos. Natural materials, landscape-sensitive architecture, and preservation of the existing environment help reduce disruption. Guest experiences are curated with care, encouraging responsible tourism and respect for wildlife.

This approach helps preserve the beauty and biodiversity of Yala while offering travellers an experience that feels meaningful, conscious, and deeply connected.

Where Nature Meets Luxury

Hilton Yala Resort stands apart for its ability to balance raw wilderness with refined luxury. Guests can move easily between an early morning safari and a rejuvenating spa experience, or between an adventurous day in the park and a tranquil evening overlooking the jungle.

The absence of heavy barriers between the resort and its surroundings strengthens that sense of immersion. Nature takes centre stage, while architecture, interiors, service, dining, and storytelling enhance the connection rather than compete with it.

Every detail supports the larger idea that luxury feels richer when it listens carefully to the land.

Luxury That Listens to the Wild 

As global travel evolves, travellers are seeking journeys that go deeper than surface-level beauty. They want experiences that educate, inspire, connect, and remain memorable after the holiday ends.

Hilton Yala Resort stands at the forefront of this movement. As Hilton’s first and only safari resort in the world, it offers a distinct perspective on luxury travel, one rooted in nature, guided by expertise, and enriched by storytelling.

Here, adventure is not defined by sightings alone. It is shaped by what guests feel, learn, notice, and carry with them. At Hilton Yala, every journey into the wild becomes a story worth telling.

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