Globally, Autograph Collection Hotels operates a curated portfolio of more than 360 independent properties across over 55 countries. The brand focuses on individuality, distinctive design, and a strong sense of place. Therefore, with its India entry, Marriott aims to tap into the growing demand among Indian travellers for experiential stays that seamlessly blend cultural authenticity with contemporary luxury.

Senior Vice President, South Asia at Marriott International, Kiran Andicot, described the launch as a strategic move aligned with shifting consumer preferences. He said that the brand’s philosophy of being “Exactly Like Nothing Else” is reflected in NoorMahal, which combines India’s regal heritage with modern artistry to deliver immersive guest experiences. “As Indian travellers increasingly seek stays that are distinctive, design-led, and rooted in cultural authenticity, Autograph Collection arrives at a moment of strong relevance for the market. NoorMahal brings this to life beautifully, where India’s regal heritage meets contemporary artistry to create rich, immersive moments for the modern, design-conscious traveller,” he added.

The palace-style hotel is owned by Colonel Manbeer Singh Choudhary, along with his wife Binny Choudhary and son Roop Partap Singh. The family views its partnership with Marriott International as a significant milestone that brings global recognition to a property deeply rooted in Indian heritage.

“Marriott International has a bouquet of 30-plus brands, ranging from luxury to mid-scale. However, almost all of them are rooted in modern or contemporary architecture. There is only one brand that truly celebrates individuality and heritage—Autograph Collection,” Colonel Manbeer Singh Choudhary said. “This is not a Rajasthani palace hotel; it is an Indian palace hotel. The architecture reflects a thoughtful blend of Mughal, Rajputana, and British influences. As you walk through the corridors or step into the rooms, you will notice this seamless fusion, while spaces like the Polo Bar and Frontier Mail carry a distinct British character in both design and experience,” he said.

Moreover, with this launch, NoorMahal has joined an exclusive global portfolio of Autograph Collection properties. “It will be among a select number of Autograph Collection hotels worldwide, making this a proud and defining moment for us,” he added.

The property features 176 rooms and suites, including premium accommodations such as the Raja Niwas and Khwabgah penthouses. These spaces reinterpret royal living through expansive layouts, private terraces, and dedicated butler service. At the same time, the design maintains a careful balance between traditional Indian aesthetics and modern luxury, thereby catering to the preferences of contemporary luxury travellers.

Moreover, the companies confirmed that the hotel will be located within a high-quality mixed-use ecosystem, which will drive strong captive demand and ensure high visibility. Consequently, the project will leverage SAMHI’s long-term variable lease model. Under this structure, Ingka will lease the building, including the façade and all high-side engineering, while SAMHI will invest in the interior fit-outs. Additionally, the company will operate the hotel under an international brand, which it will finalize at a later stage, according to an official statement.

Furthermore, SAMHI stated that this development will expand its footprint in the Delhi NCR hospitality market, where it already owns and operates prominent properties such as Hyatt Place Gurgaon, Holiday Inn Express Gurgaon, and Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida. As a result, the company continues to strengthen its position in one of India’s fastest-growing real estate and business hubs.

Importantly, the hotel will form an integral part of Ingka Centres’ “meeting places” concept, which aims to create a modern, retail-led destination. This concept will seamlessly integrate shopping, leisure, and community-centric experiences, while also supporting local businesses and flexible workspaces. Therefore, the project aligns with evolving urban lifestyle trends and consumer expectations.

Ashish Jakhanwala, chairman and MD, SAMHI Hotels, said this partnership with Ingka Centres represents a significant milestone for the company as it continues to scale through its capital-efficient, long-term variable lease model in the National Capital Region. “The Noida project is a marquee development with strong underlying demand drivers, and we are delighted to collaborate with world-class partners in Ingka to deliver a landmark hospitality asset,” he added.

Similarly, Giovanni Princiotta Cariddi, country manager India for Ingka Centres said the company is thrilled to welcome SAMHI Hotels as a partner in its Noida Meeting Place. “This collaboration reflects our vision to create vibrant mixed-use destinations where people can live, work, shop, and stay—all in one place,” he said. “Having a high-quality hospitality offer within our mixed-use development strengthens the overall experience we want to provide to our visitors and the local community. Together with SAMHI, we are committed to delivering a landmark destination that will set a new benchmark for integrated urban living in the Delhi NCR region,” he added.

SAMHI Hotels’ collaboration with Ingka Centres highlights the growing momentum in India’s mixed-use real estate and hospitality sector. As demand for integrated urban developments rises, this project poses to set new benchmarks in premium hospitality, retail experiences, and community-driven infrastructure in Noida and the broader Delhi NCR region.

At present, Lemon Tree Hotels operates more than 130 hotels with over 11,000 keys across 80+ destinations. As a result, the company has aligned its ambitious growth plans with strong capital efficiency. Moreover, its asset-light model has enabled faster expansion while ensuring operational consistency and partner-led development—both of which remain critical for sustaining margins in the competitive midscale hospitality segment.

Notably, one of the key financial and strategic highlights of the year is the strength of its pipeline. With 138 hotels in development—surpassing its 131 operational properties—the company has reinforced strong forward revenue visibility. Therefore, this pipeline underscores long-term growth potential without putting proportional pressure on the balance sheet.

In addition, Lemon Tree Hotels diversified its geographic expansion during the year. It moved beyond metro-centric growth and strengthened its presence in high-growth urban centres, tier II and III cities, and emerging leisure destinations. For instance, the company expanded into pilgrimage hubs such as Tirupati, Ayodhya, and Somnath. Similarly, it entered leisure markets like Malshej Ghat, Khurpatal, and Barog, while also targeting industrial corridors such as Bhilai, Rudrapur, and Mhow. Consequently, this multi-segment strategy allows the company to capture demand across religious, leisure, and business travel—especially in underpenetrated markets where branded hotel supply remains limited.

From a brand perspective, the core Lemon Tree Hotels brand led expansion with 27 signings, thereby reinforcing its position as the primary growth driver in the midscale segment. Meanwhile, Lemon Tree Premier added nine signings, expanding its upper-midscale footprint. At the same time, the Keys portfolio contributed 18 signings, reflecting strong demand in the value-driven category. Additionally, selective additions under Aurika Hotels & Resorts and Lemon Tree Resort indicate a measured push into upscale and experiential hospitality segments without diluting the company’s core focus.

Furthermore, the company maintained strong operational execution by opening 20 hotels during the year. The Lemon Tree Hotels brand accounted for 12 openings, followed by Lemon Tree Premier and Keys Lite with three each, and Keys Select with two. As a result, this steady conversion of signed projects into operational properties has improved revenue realisation timelines and strengthened network density across key travel circuits.

As of March 31, 2026, the company’s brand-wise portfolio stood at 269 hotels. Lemon Tree Hotels led with 144 properties (71 operational and 73 in pipeline), followed by Lemon Tree Premier with 38 and Keys Select with 35. Therefore, this diversified brand architecture enables the company to cater to multiple price points and capture demand across a wide customer base.

Neelendra Singh, Managing Director, Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd., said, “Lemon Tree Hotels was founded to bridge a critical gap in India’s midscale hospitality sector by delivering reliable, branded experiences. As the market reaches a new level of maturity, our next phase of growth is focused on scaling that core proposition across a much wider geographic network. We are moving beyond the traditional six-city model because the Indian traveler is now everywhere, and our network is expanding to meet them where they are, while maintaining the discipline and consistency that define our brand.”

Lemon Tree Hotels has positioned itself strongly for long-term, capital-efficient growth with a pipeline that exceeds its current operational portfolio. Coupled with sustained signing momentum, geographic diversification, and disciplined execution, the company is well-equipped to capitalise on India’s evolving hospitality demand. As travel demand continues to rise across segments, Lemon Tree Hotels is likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of the country’s midscale and upper-midscale hospitality landscape.

As a result, the move reinforces the brand’s focus on tapping into pilgrimage circuits, where destinations like Rameshwaram continue to attract domestic travellers and families, thereby driving demand for organised hospitality offerings.

Ramesh Shiva, Founder & Managing Director, Grand Continent Hotels Limited, said, “The launch of our Rameshwaram property marks an important milestone as our 31st hotel and reinforces our focus on high-potential pilgrimage destinations. South India continues to be a strong growth market for us, and we see sustained demand in destinations like Rameshwaram, where travellers seek reliable, comfortable, and well-located accommodation. Going forward, we are coming up at Somnath, Varanasi, and Ayodhya as we aim to expand across key high-demand micro-markets as we work towards building a 3,000-key portfolio over the next few years, while continuing to focus on operational consistency and guest experience.”

Furthermore, the Rameshwaram property features 48 well-designed rooms across multiple categories, including Grand Suite Rooms, Premium Rooms with Balcony, Grand Family Rooms, and Deluxe Rooms. Each room incorporates contemporary interiors and essential amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, tea and coffee makers, electronic safes, and 24-hour hot water. In addition, the hotel ensures accessibility with wheelchair-friendly infrastructure, enhancing convenience for all guests.

Moreover, the property houses Flavours, a multi-cuisine pure vegetarian restaurant with 48 covers. Importantly, it offers Jain and Satvik meal options tailored to the preferences of pilgrimage travellers. Alongside this, the hotel includes a dedicated play zone, making it a suitable choice for families.

Strategically positioned, the hotel provides seamless access to key landmarks such as Ramanathaswamy Temple (1.9 km), Rameshwaram Railway Station (within walking distance), Agnitheertham (2.9 km), and Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam National Memorial (5 km). Consequently, the location makes it a convenient stay option for both religious and leisure travellers.

Currently, Grand Continent Hotels operates 31 properties across more than 17 cities, with a portfolio exceeding 1,850 keys. Going forward, the company continues to scale its presence through an asset-light model, focusing on high-demand pilgrimage, business, and leisure markets.

The launch of the Rameshwaram property highlights Grand Continent Hotels’ strategic expansion into spiritually significant destinations, backed by a clear growth roadmap and a strong emphasis on guest experience. As demand for organised hospitality in pilgrimage hubs rises, the company appears well-positioned to capture long-term growth opportunities in this segment.

Notably, Amravati—recognized for its rich cultural heritage—is steadily evolving into an important educational and commercial hub. Moreover, improving connectivity and proximity to Nagpur drive increased interest from both corporate and leisure travellers, making it a strategic hotspot for hospitality investments.

The newly launched hotel offers 82 well-appointed rooms across categories such as Grande, Grande Twin, Executive Grande, and Premium Grande. The design of each room blends comfort with contemporary aesthetics to cater to both business and leisure guests.

In addition, the property stands out for its expansive event and banqueting infrastructure. It features eight versatile venues, including indoor spaces like Mahal, Jewel, and Solitaire, as well as outdoor venues such as Vrindavan and Vatika, complemented by a dedicated amphitheatre. With the capacity to host up to 2,000 guests, the hotel aims to accommodate weddings, corporate conventions, and large-scale social gatherings.

Dining experiences at the hotel revolve around Momentt, its all-day dining restaurant, which offers a curated multi-cuisine menu in a relaxed and contemporary setting.

Ajay Kanojia, Director of Operations, Sayaji Hotels, said, “With Enrise by Sayaji, our vision is to bring thoughtfully designed hospitality experiences to emerging cities that are on the cusp of growth. Amravati is a market with immense potential, and this property reflects our commitment to delivering scale, quality, and consistency across every touchpoint—from rooms and dining to large-format events.“

Meanwhile, Swapnil Soni, Director at Maniratna Group LLP, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Sayaji Hotels to bring a landmark hospitality destination to Amravati. This property has been envisioned as a space where the city can celebrate its biggest moments—from weddings to community events—while also catering to the evolving needs of modern travellers.”

Overall, with its prime location, modern infrastructure, and strong emphasis on events and business travel, Enrise by Sayaji Amravati looks ahead to play a pivotal role in transforming the hospitality landscape of the region.

Often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” Kashmir continues to attract travellers with its scenic landscapes, including the iconic Dal Lake, alpine meadows, and rich heritage. Moreover, the region has witnessed improved infrastructure and a steady rise in tourist footfall in recent years. Consequently, Kashmir has reinforced its position as a key destination for leisure travel, weddings, and adventure tourism.

Akash Bhatia, Chief Executive Officer, Alivaa Hotels & Resorts, expressed strong optimism about the region, stating, “Kashmir possesses a beauty that is truly unparalleled; it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave. We are thrilled to bring the Hoften brand here to complement that natural splendor with reliable, comfortable hospitality. Most importantly, we want to reassure travelers that Kashmir is not only breathtaking but also incredibly safe and welcoming. We invite everyone to come and experience the legendary Kashmiri hospitality firsthand.”

At the same time, Vikramjit Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, highlighted the strategic importance of the launch. “The opening of The Hoften in Srinagar is a pivotal moment for our group. Our partnership with Al Shaykh Resorts aligns with our vision of scaling rapidly while maintaining the soul of the land. With 30 operational hotels now spanning 22 cities and 2 countries, Alivaa is committed to setting new benchmarks in the upscale, mid-scale, and boutique segments.”

Meanwhile, Shaykh Mukhtar Ahmad, Owner of Al Shaykh Resort, emphasized the value of the collaboration, stating, “Partnering with Alivaa Hotels & Resorts allows us to bring a professional, brand- driven experience to Srinagar. The Hoften’s reputation for comfort perfectly matches the tranquil environment of our resort. This collaboration is a testament to the growing potential of Kashmir’s hospitality sector. We are dedicated to showcasing the authentic warmth of our region while ensuring international standards of service. We look forward to welcoming guests to this beautiful corner of the world and being a part of their cherished memories.”

Furthermore, the launch signals the beginning of a broader regional expansion strategy. Alivaa plans to introduce approximately 10 additional properties across Kashmir in the coming years. This move aligns with the rising demand for quality accommodation in the region and reflects growing investor confidence in Kashmir’s evolving tourism landscape.

Alivaa Hotels & Resorts is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on Kashmir’s tourism growth by combining boutique hospitality with regional partnerships. As demand for experiential travel continues to rise, the group’s expansion into the region could significantly enhance its presence while contributing to the development of Kashmir’s hospitality ecosystem.

Furthermore, the company is developing the new TreeHouse Hotel as a contemporary, full-service property tailored to modern travellers. It aims to cater to business travellers, weddings, meetings, and leisure stays, while focusing on functional design, regional relevance, and essential amenities. As a result, the hotel will offer rooms and services designed to meet diverse and evolving travel needs.

In addition, the property will feature 60 rooms and suites, along with an all-day dining restaurant, banquet facilities, a rooftop casual bar, and dedicated event and meeting spaces. It will also include wellness offerings, thereby positioning itself to host corporate stays, weddings, and social gatherings with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and functional hospitality.

“We are delighted to announce our brown field project in Moradabad, a city that holds immense cultural and commercial importance. As travel patterns evolve, we see strong opportunities in emerging cities where quality hospitality supply is limited yet demand continues to grow. This project reinforces our vision of expanding TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts into high-growth markets while delivering dependable and Dil-Se experiences,” said Jayant Singh.

Meanwhile, the owner of the property also expressed confidence in the brand partnership. “This is my first hotel, and I was quite impressed with the TreeHouse Brand, its commitment, sincerity, and its brand values, which truly resonate with me,” said Khan, Managing Director and Owner of the hotel.

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts continues to capitalize on the growing demand for quality hospitality in emerging cities. By expanding into Moradabad, the brand is strategically positioning itself to tap into underserved markets while delivering consistent and experience-driven hospitality offerings.

Firstly, Brigade Hotel Ventures Limited has partnered with Hyatt to develop Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR, a premium beachfront property along the scenic southeastern coastline in Chennai. Scheduled to open in 2029, the hotel will feature approximately 200 guest rooms and offer an immersive luxury experience. In addition, the property will include five dining venues—comprising a signature restaurant, specialty outlets, a pool bar, and a lobby lounge—along with wellness facilities and multiple sophisticated event spaces. Consequently, the hotel aims to cater to both leisure and business travellers while positioning itself as a preferred destination for weddings, staycations, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).

Meanwhile, BCV Developers Private Limited has signed a separate agreement with Hyatt to launch Hyatt House Bengaluru Devanahalli, a greenfield development in Bengaluru. Expected to open in 2027, the project will feature 135 serviced apartments tailored for extended stays and short-term visits. Moreover, the property is strategically located just 20 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport and will serve the rapidly growing Devanahalli tech corridor, which includes upcoming IT parks, the Aerospace Science Park, and the planned Financial City. Amenities will include an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, meeting spaces, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre.

“We are happy to announce our plans for Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR, a world-class hotel that will redefine the hospitality landscape in Chennai,” said Nirupa Shankar. “This will be our first hotel with Hyatt, and we are confident in Hyatt’s global expertise in managing large-format MICE hotels. Strategically located on East Coast Road, the property is poised to become a premier destination, appealing to business travellers, wedding guests, and leisure seekers alike. Brigade is committed to building landmark hospitality assets, and Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR is a significant step in that journey.”

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Hyatt on this new project,” said Amar Mysore. “The Hyatt House brand is a perfect fit for the Devanahalli locality, offering a blend of comfort and convenience that meets the needs of today’s business and leisure travelers. Its proximity to the airport and upcoming tech parks makes it a prime location, and we are confident this hotel will set a new standard for extended-stay hospitality in the region.”

“We are excited to work with Brigade Group through the signings of Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR and Hyatt House Bengaluru Devanahalli,” said Dhruva Rathore. “Chennai and Bengaluru are dynamic markets with strong demand for hospitality, and these landmark developments align with Hyatt’s strategic vision of expanding our brand presence in key leisure and business destinations across India.” He added, “We are confident our guests will savor memorable moments whether they are traveling for business, with family, or gathering with colleagues to enrich connections.”

Furthermore, Hyatt continues to strengthen its footprint in India, aligning with its broader global expansion strategy. Headquartered in Chicago, the company operates over 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 83 countries as of December 31, 2025. Its diverse portfolio spans luxury, lifestyle, inclusive, and essentials segments, reinforcing its leadership in the global hospitality industry.

At the same time, Brigade Group, established in 1986, has built a strong presence across residential, office, retail, and hospitality segments in cities such as Hyderabad, Mysuru, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and GIFT City.

The dual signing marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s India growth strategy while reinforcing Brigade Group’s ambition to develop landmark hospitality assets. As demand for premium leisure and extended-stay accommodations continues to rise, these projects can effectively capitalise on evolving travel and business trends across key Indian metros.

Sharing details at a press conference, R S Bali confirmed that the board of directors approved the decision during a recent meeting.

He said, “This hotel will feature the state’s first musical fountain and will be constructed as a five-star property at the foothills of the scenic Dhauladhar range. The tender for this project, which is the largest in the state, will be finalised on April 6.”

Moreover, the corporation is also investing significantly in upgrading existing hospitality assets. In Shimla, it will spend Rs 45 crore on renovating the Hotel Holiday Home, for which it has already received approval from the central government.

In addition, renovation work is currently underway for three hotels in Manali. Furthermore, the corporation has allocated around Rs 20 crore for Hotel Hamir and Rs 35 crore for Jwalaji in Jwalamukhi, thereby strengthening its overall hospitality portfolio across key tourist destinations.

Alongside infrastructure upgrades, the corporation has also approved the establishment of a 24×7 call centre to enhance customer service and improve tourist engagement.

These developments reflect a comprehensive strategy by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation to modernise infrastructure, elevate visitor experiences, and position the state as a premier tourism destination in India.

Following the acquisition, Trance Hotels has initiated a comprehensive refurbishment and upgrade plan to transform both properties. The company will focus on modernizing infrastructure, enhancing service delivery, and aligning the hotels with its brand standards. As a result, guests can expect a more contemporary and elevated hospitality experience, designed to meet evolving expectations in the premium business and leisure travel segments.

Meanwhile, the operational transition is already underway, with experienced General Managers overseeing both properties. In parallel, the Pune-based Trance Hotels team is actively working to streamline operations and implement transformation initiatives, ensuring a seamless shift to the new management framework.

At the leadership level, the company draws on deep industry expertise. Veer Vijay Singh, who leads Trance Hotels, brings over four decades of experience in the hospitality sector, having started his career with the Taj Group in the 1970s. He later founded Trance International Hotels and Resort Private Limited, shaping the brand alongside Vishwaveer Singh and Suryaveer Singh. His leadership combines operational depth with long-term strategic vision, positioning the company for sustained growth.

Importantly, Trance Hotels operates on a clear philosophy: guests should not have to choose between business efficiency and luxury comfort. Instead, the brand aims to deliver a balanced experience that integrates both seamlessly, catering to modern travelers who demand convenience without compromising on quality.

Commenting on the development, a company spokesperson 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.”

Overall, this acquisition reflects Trance Hotels’ broader growth strategy, as it continues to identify high-potential assets and reposition them through operational excellence and brand-led transformation. With Pune emerging as a key hospitality hub driven by business travel and urban expansion, the company looks forward to capitalize on rising demand while strengthening its market presence.