This is a greenfield project. 

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Bengaluru is widely recognised as one of India’s fastest-growing cities, driven by a strong business ecosystem and sustained infrastructure development. With the rapid expansion around the airport, North Bengaluru has emerged as a significant growth corridor, and this signing aligns with our strategy to build scale in the micro‑market, addressing the rising demand from corporate and MICE segments. We are delighted to partner with Hombale Group for this project.”

The 300-key Gateway Hotel and Convention Centre, Bengaluru Airport in Kanamangala, Devanahalli, Bengaluru features an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a specialty restaurant and a lounge. Guests can access the fully equipped gym and swimming pool to unwind. As a convention centre, the property offers versatile and spacious banquet spaces and meeting rooms, with the largest banquet hall measuring more than 16,000 sq ft., making it ideal for large-scale conferences and social events.

Shailaja Vijay Kiragandur, Hombale Group, said, “We are happy to partner with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to North Bengaluru aligning with the region’s growth trajectory.”

Bengaluru, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is a dynamic metropolis that serves as the capital of Karnataka with a diversified economy spanning IT, biotechnology, aerospace and advanced manufacturing. 

With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 20 hotels in Bengaluru, including 11 under development.

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Under the leadership of Executive Director Anand Chatterjee, who has been at the forefront of the company’s hospitality vertical for over a decade, the brand is steadily redefining premium hospitality experiences across key markets.

Since the parent company’s early ventures in 2013, marked by the landmark launch of Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Goa, the group has evolved into a dynamic hospitality player with a growing footprint across high-potential destinations including Thane, Powai and Manali.

The brand’s urban portfolio is anchored by flagship developments such as Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel in Powai, both of which exemplify the group’s commitment to design-led, experience-driven stays. Strengthening its boutique portfolio, 2025 marked the successful debut of its Manali property under The Beatle brand, catering to discerning travellers seeking elevated mountain escapes.

Further reinforcing its positioning in the elite segment, the group announced the launch of Kings Mansion in early 2026. Situated in North Goa, this exclusive destination is envisioned as a refined retreat, tailored for the ultra-premium traveller, blending privacy, bespoke experiences and distinctive design sensibilities.

Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious expansion roadmap with upcoming developments in key destinations such as New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur and Hyderabad alongside additional markets under evaluation. These projects are aligned with the brand’s vision of establishing a strong presence across India’s most sought-after leisure, spiritual and urban destinations.

Commenting on the company’s growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee said, “Our expansion strategy is deeply rooted in identifying emerging lifestyle destinations and curating experiences that resonate with the evolving expectations of today’s traveller. As we scale across diverse markets, our focus remains on delivering design-forward environments, intuitive service and immersive stays that define modern premium hospitality. This journey is not just about growth in numbers, but about creating meaningful, differentiated experiences across every touchpoint.”

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Slated to open in 2027, DHAR GOLF VISTA by Atmosphere Shillong will be ideally located in Meghalaya’s capital city, only an hour from Shillong Airport and right beside the prestigious 18-hole Golf Link Arena. 

Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Atmosphere Core stated, “As part of our dynamic expansion across India, a key focus is our approach towards developing premium experiences in hill station destinations particularly in the beautiful northeastern region. This upcoming boutique property at Shillong, Meghalaya is being thoughtfully designed to cater to a diverse range of travellers—from leisure seekers and corporate guests to curated events and social get-togethers”.

Operating under the distinguished Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts brand, the property will feature 75 keys of upper upscale accommodation, including deluxe rooms, suites, and presidential suites. Panoramic views of the Golf Course, mountain valleys, surrounding greenery and stunning city views will create a serene and immersive ambience.

 DHAR GOLF VISTA by Atmosphere Shillong promises an exceptional culinary journey. Guests will enjoy a vibrant all-day dining venue with outdoor seating, a themed sports pub, and a specialty roof top Resto bar celebrating local and multi-cuisine flavours, while serving best of the spirits and wine from across the globe. The wellness offerings will be anchored by the award-winning ELE|NA Ayur spa, offering tranquil therapy rooms with experienced therapists—the perfect setting for rejuvenation and peace. Additional facilities will include a main swimming pool with an outdoor deck overlooking the golf course, a golf simulation pavilion, a kids’ play area, and an indoor games room.

At an elevation of 1,496 metres, Shillong seamlessly blends colonial charm with natural splendour. Ward’s Lake offers serene boating amid gardens, while Elephant Falls’ cascading tiers and Shillong Peak’s panoramic views thrill visitors. Umiam Lake sparkles for watersports, and the Don Bosco Museum unveils Khasi tribal heritage through artifacts and exhibits. As India’s “Rock Capital,” Shillong vibrates with live music at cafes and festivals like the Shillong Autumn Festival, featuring folk dances and local cuisine. Formerly Assam’s capital until 1972, it beckons eco-tourists to caves, waterfalls, and reserves year-round. Shillong’s harmonious mix of history, adventure, and melody invites discovery of Meghalaya’s soul. 

Speaking on this latest venture destination, Souvagya Mohapatra, Managing Director Atmosphere Core India, Bhutan, Nepal & Sri Lanka, added, “The Northeastern state’s hill stations have always been central to our vision of creating iconic luxury experiences. Shillong the capital city of Meghalaya, with its awe-inspiring cultural heritage backdrop and timeless appeal, is a natural choice for our expansion. As plans to enter this extraordinary destination unfold, I am confident that this collaboration will redefine hospitality in the region”.

Shri Rocky Dhar, owner of DHAR GOLF VISTA by Atmosphere, concluded, “Atmosphere Core’s distinguished legacy of excellence aligns perfectly with our vision to unveil a transcendent world-class hotel in Shillong. With our vision and focused approach, we are committed to manifesting inspiring, bespoke hotels and resorts that embody the pinnacle of sophistication. This illustrious partnership will not only elevate Shillong’s hospitality landscape but will also set an unrivalled benchmark for elegance and impeccable service in this breathtaking and scenic Northeastern state of India.”

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ITA Airways marked its entry into the Alliance during a ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3. The ceremony was presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx, in the presence of media and institutional guests.

Starting April 1, ITA Airways will be fully connected into the Alliance’s global network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport, served by 17 Star Alliance members collectively, with more than 1,150 destinations worldwide. Customers travelling across the network can now benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition and access to Star Alliance lounges, creating a more seamless customer experience, in and out of Italy.

Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said, “On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when travelling across multiple airlines, through access to the world’s largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and other benefits like baggage tracking – all designed to enhance the journey at every step.”

Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said, “Joining Star Alliance marks a historic milestone for ITA Airways and a defining step in our growth. By becoming part of the world’s largest and most established global airline network, we significantly expand our international reach while offering our passengers a more seamless, consistent and high-quality travel experience, with access to over 1,150 destinations worldwide, smoother connections, integrated services and a stronger premium proposition. At the same time, we enter Star Alliance bringing with us our distinctive Italian identity, enriching the Alliance and reinforcing ITA Airways’ role in connecting Italy with the world, combining global standards of excellence with the warmth and elegance that define the Italian way of flying.”

ITA Airways’ induction into the Alliance has been mentored by the Lufthansa Group, and expert teams across the group airlines have facilitated an intense integration programme over the last several months.

Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of Lufthansa Group, said, “The Star Alliance membership is only possible thanks to the strong commitment and close collaboration of dedicated teams at ITA Airways, Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance. We are pleased to introduce ITA Airways as fully fledged hub airline into the Lufthansa Group and into the Alliance, expanding options for travellers across Europe and the world. Together, ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group, are unlocking a joint value proposition that will benefit our customers, our partners, and the Star Alliance ecosystem.”

ITA Airways, which flies over 16 million customers every year, adds more than 350 daily flights to the Alliance network, supported by a strong domestic and regional footprint. The addition expands travel options across Italy and Europe, while improving connectivity between Southern Europe and key international markets.

As part of its membership, eligible customers can enjoy priority services, lounge access across the Alliance network, and reciprocal frequent flyer programme recognition, including earning and redeeming miles. Star Alliance Gold customers will also have access to ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan and Catania.

With the addition of ITA Airways, Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a global network spanning over 190 countries.

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The service is now live at Terminal 2, domestic departures, bringing app-based delivery directly into the airport experience.

Passengers can order essentials through the Blinkit app and have them delivered to their location within the terminal, including boarding gates, lounges, the food court and select partner outlets. Deliveries are carried out by trained on-ground personnel, ensuring a seamless and secure experience without disrupting travel timelines.

AAHL Spokesperson said: “Adani Airports is reimagining how digital services can enhance the airport experience. Bringing app-based convenience into the terminal allows passengers to make better use of their time and raises the overall service standard. This is a step towards building more responsive and passenger-centric airports.”

The offering spans travel accessories, electronics, snacks, books, baby care and personal essentials. Permissible liquids such as packaged water, cold beverages and juices are sourced from approved in-terminal inventory, in line with airport security protocols.

For Blinkit, the initiative extends quick commerce into a high-frequency, high-intent environment, driving deeper online adoption and consumer penetration. For AAHL, it reflects a strategic push to enhance passenger convenience while unlocking non-aeronautical growth through digitally enabled retail.

The service also brings a new level of accessibility and affordability to airport retail, giving travellers more choice without the typical constraints of time and location.

With high passenger throughput at Terminal 2, the initiative addresses a familiar gap in the travel journey, enabling access to essentials exactly when they are needed.

The rollout aligns with AAHL’s focus on building technology-led, passenger-centric airports, where convenience, accessibility and seamless digital experiences define the journey.

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This new addition marks a significant milestone in the company’s regional expansion, bringing its total footprint in Jammu & Kashmir to four operational hotels and two properties currently under development.

The hotel will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited. 

Strategically located just 2 km from Srinagar International Airport and 11 km from the Srinagar Railway Station, the property offers unparalleled connectivity for both fly-in corporate travellers and leisure groups entering the Kashmir Valley.

The hotel will feature 60 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, banquet hall, conference room and recreational facilities including swimming pool, fitness centre and other areas. 

Commenting on the signing, Neelendra Singh, Managing Director & CEO, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “Jammu & Kashmir is rapidly evolving into a high-potential leisure market, underpinned by a surge in domestic tourism and significantly improved infrastructure. In destinations like Srinagar, we are seeing a sophisticated shift in traveller expectations as guests are increasingly seeking refined, experience-led stays that offer the reliability of a trusted brand. The introduction of Keys Prima to this market is a direct response to that demand. By expanding state-wide footprint, we are not just adding rooms; we are building a network that offers consistency and quality across India’s most iconic travel circuits.”

Keys Prima represents LTHL’s elevated midscale offering, blending contemporary design with enhanced service standards. This signing reinforces the company’s commitment to capturing demand in high-growth leisure markets while maintaining the operational rigor of its asset-light growth model.

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The hotel is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2029.

The signing marks Wyndham’s third hotel in Goa, further strengthening the brand’s presence in one of India’s most dynamic and high-performing leisure markets.

Strategically located in Vagator, one of North Goa’s most vibrant and upscale locales, the hotel will cater to leisure travellers, MICE demand, destination weddings and group business driven by Goa’s continued appeal as a premier domestic and international tourism hub.

Upon completion, Wyndham Grand Goa Vagator will feature luxurious guest rooms and suites, expansive social spaces, an all-day dining restaurant, bar and specialty restaurant, swimming pool, fitness centre, and a curated selection of upscale amenities designed for leisure and event-driven travellers. The property is also expected to include modern meeting and event facilities to capture growing MICE demand in the region.

The promoters of Hotel Library Club Private Limited said: “We are honoured to collaborate with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to bring the Wyndham Grand brand to Goa. With the state’s sustained tourism growth and increasing demand for upscale hospitality experiences, we are confident this hotel will become a preferred destination for both leisure and event travellers.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director – Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, said, “Goa remains one of India’s strongest and most resilient hospitality markets, and expanding the Wyndham Grand brand here reflects our confidence in the destination’s long-term growth. As travel demand continues to rise across leisure, MICE and lifestyle segments, we see significant opportunity to elevate the upper-upscale experience in iconic destinations like Vagator. This signing reinforces our strategy to grow our premium portfolio in high-performing resort markets and deepen our presence in India.”

This signing further reinforces Wyndham’s growth momentum across India, particularly in high-performing resort and lifestyle destinations.

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The properties, formerly known as The Oakwood Hotel and Sunderban Hotel, have now been rebranded as Trance Oakwood Hotel, Pune and Trance Sunderban Hotel, Pune.

This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in Trance Hotels’ growth journey, strengthening its presence in one of India’s key business and leisure destinations.

Trance Hotels is committed to revitalising both properties through a series of planned refurbishments and upgrades. These enhancements will focus on modernising infrastructure, elevating guest experiences, and aligning the hotels with Trance’s brand standards and service philosophy. Guests can look forward to noticeable improvements designed to offer a refreshed and contemporary hospitality experience.

Both properties are currently being overseen by experienced General Managers, who, along with the Trance Hotels team in Pune, are actively working towards streamlining operations and implementing the planned transformation initiatives.

A key driving force behind Trance Hotels is Veer Vijay Singh, a stalwart of the hotel industry with over 40 years of rich experience. Having begun his career with the Taj Group of Hotels in the mid-1970s, he brings with him deep-rooted expertise and a distinguished track record in hospitality leadership.

Driven by a vision to contribute meaningfully to the hospitality industry, Veer Vijay founded Trance International Hotels and Resort Private Limited. Trance Hotels represents a unique blend of traditional hoteliering values and modern service excellence, guided by the founding trio—Veer Vijay Singh, Vishwaveer Singh, and Suryaveer Singh.

At its core, Trance Hotels is built on the philosophy that guests should not have to choose between business efficiency and luxury comfort, but instead experience the best of both worlds. The Oakwood Hotel and Sunderban Hotel have now been rebranded as Trance Oakwood Hotel, Pune and Trance Sunderban Hotel, Pune. Veer Vijay Singh’s leadership is anchored in strong operational knowledge and strategic insight, developed through decades of hands-on experience across key roles in the hospitality sector.

Speaking on the occasion, a spokesperson for Trance Hotels stated, “We are excited to bring these two well-located properties into the Trance portfolio. Our focus is on breathing new life into the hotels through thoughtful upgrades and delivering enhanced value to our guests. Pune is a dynamic market, and we see immense potential in elevating these properties to new standards.”

With this addition, Trance Hotels continues to reinforce its commitment to growth, quality, and excellence in hospitality.

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Strengthening its efforts to tap into the growing appetite for international travel across tier-2 cities, the workshop series is designed to offer travel trade partners deeper insights into South Africa’s diverse tourism experiences from cultural routes and adventure offerings to emerging regions beyond well-known favourites like Cape Town and Johannesburg. With rising demand from non-metro travellers seeking curated and immersive journeys, these workshops play a pivotal role in equipping partners with the knowledge and tools to craft personalised itineraries.

Through this multi-city initiative, South African Tourism seeks to deepen engagement with the travel trade community, address market-specific challenges, and strengthen partner readiness to capitalise on the growing demand for South Africa as a preferred leisure and MICE destination. India continues to be a vital source market for South African Tourism. Lucknow is playing an increasingly important role, supported by a strong base of legacy businesses, emerging entrepreneurs, and a growing segment of outbound leisure travellers. Travellers from Lucknow are demonstrating a rising interest in immersive, experience-led holidays that blend culture, heritage, wildlife, scenic landscapes, and soft adventure, along with premium leisure and incentive-led travel.

The workshop equips travel partners with deeper destination knowledge and practical insights to curate tailored itineraries that align with Lucknow’s evolving travel aspirations, further strengthening South Africa’s positioning as an attractive destination for both leisure and MICE travel.

Commenting on the successful event in Lucknow, Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australasia, and the Middle East, South African Tourism, stated, “Travellers from Lucknow, including families, professionals, and affluent leisure seekers, are increasingly drawn to meaningful, experience-rich holidays that combine wildlife, nature, heritage, cuisine, and relaxed luxury, preferences that strongly align with South Africa’s diverse offerings.

To cater to this demand, we are strengthening collaboration with travel agents in key markets like Lucknow through enhanced destination knowledge and itinerary planning support. Our engagement with the city’s travel trade community has been highly encouraging and is expected to drive greater interest in exploring South Africa beyond traditional entry points, reinforcing its appeal as a leading leisure and MICE destination.”

South Africa continues to gain traction amongst the Indian audience, supported by a favourable exchange rate where 1 South African Rand equals approximately 5.21 Indian Rupees making long-haul travel more accessible and appealing.

The 11th edition of ‘Learn South Africa’ in Lucknow marks a key milestone in South African Tourism’s continued endeavour to strengthen its partnerships with India’s travel trade professionals. In line with the board’s strategic vision to position South Africa as a versatile and high-value destination, the Rainbow Nation continues to deepen its engagement in tier-2 cities, recognising their increasing influence in India’s outbound travel landscape.

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Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Kanpur, a vital commercial and industrial centre is witnessing rapid growth with its evolving infrastructure and increasing connectivity. The opening of Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions addresses the growing demand from corporate, MICE and social segments.”

Strategically located away from the city’s bustle on NH‑91, Eternity, Kanpur features 104 neo‑classical rooms offering cityscape views. Dining experiences include Célesté, an all‑day dining restaurant; Thea, a bar offering European‑inspired cocktails along with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurumn the Lounge. Guests can also access wellness facilities including a spa, swimming pool and fully equipped gym. The hotel features grand banquet halls and meeting rooms spanning over 11,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for conferences, conventions, and social events. 

Jalpreet Sodhi, General Manager, Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, said, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Eternity – IHCL SeleQtions and offering a memorable experience in the culturally rich city of Kanpur.”

Situated on the banks of the Ganga, Kanpur is known for its rich industrial legacy in leather, textiles and manufacturing, making it one of North India’s significant commercial cities. 

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