SOH - November 2024

WHERE ART MEETS HOSPITALITY

How Harshavardhan Neotia married cultural heritage and impeccable luxury to create eastern India’s new hospitality paradigm.

FOUNDER'S NOTE

EMBRACING SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

India’s tourism story is unfolding like never before—bold investments, transformative infrastructure, and an excitement that feels unstoppable. Everywhere you look, there’s a new opportunity to connect, explore, and experience. But as we celebrate this momentum, we can’t ignore the lessons from places like Spain, where cities such as Barcelona and Málaga are grappling with overtourism. Their challenges remind us of what can happen when growth outpaces care.

Here in India, we’re not there yet. Our beloved destinations—Goa’s beaches, Jaipur’s pink streets, the timeless Taj Mahal—still have room to breathe. But as we grow, let’s not wait for signs of strain to emerge. Let’s take what we’re learning and shape a different kind of future—one that balances growth with care.

The good news is, we’re already moving in the right direction. Across the country, new destinations are being developed with vision and purpose. Take Jadung in Uttarakhand—a remote Himalayan village now being reimagined as a haven for travellers seeking untouched beauty. In

Jammu and Kashmir, three new tourist spots are being developed with a massive ₹5600 crore investment to highlight the region’s incredible potential.

At the same time, ambitious connectivity projects are coming to life. SpiceJet’s plans to launch seaplanes next year will open up remote, breathtaking locations previously out of reach. And under the Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD Schemes, the Prime Minister has recently dedicated 52 tourism projects worth more than ₹1400 crore, all designed to strengthen India’s tourism landscape. Expressways like the Delhi-Mumbai corridor are connecting regions, shrinking distances, and paving the way to hidden gems near popular destinations like Goa and Jaipur.

This isn’t just about numbers or infrastructure—it’s about the kind of tourism we want to build together. The kind that invites people to discover India’s diversity without overwhelming it. The kind that celebrates our culture, our people, and our incredible landscapes in a way that preserves them for generations to come.

As the hospitality industry, we’re at the heart of this transformation. We’re the ones who welcome people, share our stories, and leave a lasting impression. And maybe, just maybe, we can also be the ones who ensure that this incredible energy we’re experiencing now grows into something thoughtful, sustainable, and truly remarkable.

GURMEET KAUR SACHDEV gurmeetsachdev@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com

ROAD JOURNEYS JUST GOT SNAZZIER

I've always fancied them—the allure of a winding road through forests, alongside rivers, or with ocean views was enough to tempt me, even when India's roads were a pathetic mess. Now, with navigable expressways and highways, I'm itching to hit the road again.

Previously, the lack of decent accommodation along highways meant venturing deep into cities for overnight stays. But now, hoteliers are offering options for travellers like me to stay right on the route. Branded premium and luxury resorts are capitalising on the improved road network, offering not just a breather but also extended stays in luxury resorts just off the expressways, of which India has seen many. Read more in our ‘Emerging opportunities’ segment.

Speaking of which, India's eastern regions are a prime playground for hoteliers and yet an unexplored terrain. Ambuja Neotia's Harshvardhan Neotia was among the first to recognise this, establishing hotels that blend luxury and cultural heritage. His recent focus has been on the ‘Kutir’ brand, a network of luxury hotels managed in partnership with Taj Hotels (IHCL). Our cover story explores how Neotia put eastern India, particularly Bengal, on the luxury hospitality map.

This edition also features an exciting article on how fine-dine restaurants are redefining vegetarian dining. They're showcasing ingredients previously confined to home menus, utilising innovative techniques that blend east and west. Our article on the rise of vegetarianism delves into this world of modern fine dining.

Warm regards, ED'S LETTER

Happy reading!

DEEPALI NANDWANI, EDITOR, SOH

Founder and Publisher

Gurmeet Sachdev

Editorial

Editor Deepali Nandwani

Managing Editor Rupali Sebastian

Contributing

Editor Suman Tarafdar

Contributing Writers

Pooja Bhulla, Praveena Sharma

Columnists

Mary Gostelow

Manav Thadani

Harinya Sreenivas

Creative

Creative Director Tanvi Shah

Team Shiv Soni

Contributing Artist Kunal Gupta

Sales Manager

Deepa Rao

Office Manager

Deepak Rao

Accounts Head Amey Acharekar

For queries:

editorial@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com sales@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com info@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com

Printed and Published by Gurmeet Sachdev on behalf of Soulinkk World-Wide Media LLP. Registered office: 1/2, Old Anand Nagar, Nehru Road, Santacruz East, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400055. Printed at Silverpoint Press Pvt. Ltd., A-403, TTC Industrial Area, Near Anthony Motors, Mahape, Navi Mumbai – 400709. Editor: Deepali Nandwani. All rights reserved worldwide. Reproducing in any manner without prior written permission prohibited. SOH takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material all photographs, unless otherwise indicated, are used for illustrative purposes only. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by a postage pre-paid envelope. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Mumbai only. Copyright Soulinkk World-Wide Media LLP.

crm.hospitality@kingkoil.in

50 WHERE LUXURY MEETS CULTURAL GRANDEUR

Kutir hotels by Ambuja Neotia beautifully get together art, heritage, and nature, redefining luxury under Chairman Harshvardhan Neotia's vision in eastern India.

88 Green Gourmet Luxury dining embraces flavourful and healthy plantbased cuisine.

140

30

Global Explorers Indians are travelling widely, boosting global tourism, and spending lavishly.

82

Global Palate Exploring food, culture and connections with intrepid Chef Ranveer Brar.

106

Starlit Glamour India’s diverse landscapes inspire a new wave of luxury glamping.

Wedding Wave Luxury hotels compete with each other to capture Udaipur’s wedding allure.

68

Highway Havens Expressway resorts and hotels attract road trippers, weddings and conferences.

116

Royal Revival Sawai Man Mahal seamlessly blends Rajputana heritage with modern sustainability.

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Sustainable Stays Radisson Blu Bengaluru leads with LEED Platinum certification (O+M).

SHILLONG’S AUTUMNAL PINK PARADISE

From vibrant festivals to luxurious resorts embracing the bloom, Meghalaya is the place to be for an unforgettable cherry blossom encounter as autumn descends. Hotels are cashing in on the prettiest festival of nature in India.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

The northeastern state of Meghalaya is, right now, awash in a sea of pink and white as the cherry blossom season unfolds. Unlike the spring cherry blossom blooms of Japan, Meghalaya's Himalayan Indian Sakura trees (Prunus ceramides) flower in autumn, creating a unique spectacle that has earned the state the epithet of the ‘world’s only autumn cherry blossom destination’.

This year's Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, held in November, officially ushered in the season with a celebration of culture, music, and nature. The festival featured a concert by the legendary band BONEY M as part of their Farewell Tour.

While the tradition of 'Hanami' (cherry blossom viewing) has deep roots in Japan, Shillong has embraced its autumnal version, transforming the city into a breathtaking canvas of colour. Miles of wild and cultivated Indian Sakuras adorn the landscape, thanks in part to the forest department's efforts to propagate saplings from the wild.

radissonhotels.com/blu

Most of Meghalaya is dotted with cherry blossom trees, but the best places to see them: Ward’s Lake, a serene lake surrounded by the Indian Sakura trees; the sprawling Shillong Golf Course, which transforms into a pink paradise during the blooming season; the roads leading up to Upper Shillong, which are lined with these trees; and from the Shillong Peak, which overlooks the city dotted with pink blossoms. Cherry blossoms hold cultural significance in many Asian cultures. They symbolise wellness, peace, and spiritual growth. In India's northeast, they also

represent the impermanence of things, a reminder of the fleeting beauty of life.

Shillong's hotels are increasingly capitalising on the allure of these autumnal blossoms, recognising their potential to attract tourists and enhance the guest experience. Many offer special packages during the blooming season, including discounted rates, complimentary meals, and guided tours to prime

viewing spots. Some hotels organise traditional Japaneseinspired ‘Hanami’ experiences, such as picnics under the blossoms, cultural performances, and themed dinners. Hotels also collaborate with local artisans to create cherry blossom-themed souvenirs and gifts for guests.

Taj Garas Kutir, a luxury resort from IHCL stands at the vantage point, next to Ward's Lake, one of the prime cherry blossom viewing

ABOVE: Taj Guras Kutir is enviably located near Ward's Lake. a prime cherry blossom viewing spot. CENTRE: Come November, Shillong turns into a vision of pink.

RIGHT TOP AND BOTTOM: Ward’s Lake and Shillong Golf Course are two places where you can enjoy the delicate beauty of the blossoming cherry trees.

Shillong's hotels are increasingly capitalising on the allure of autumn cherry blossoms, recognising their potential to attract tourists and enhance the guest experience.

spots. This allows guests easy access to the white and pink vision around the lake, complemented by the resort's beautifully landscaped gardens that feature a variety of cherry blossom trees. During the season, the resort curates a series of experiences built around cherry blossoms: a ‘Cherry Blossom Sojourn’ package, which includes high tea and spa treatments inspired by the blossoms; guided

walks across the lake; ‘Hanami’ Picnics under the cherry blossom trees, complete with customised menus; and blossomthemed decor.

The Pear Tree boasts blossomview rooms and a rooftop terrace with a 360-degree view of the city, pretty in pink and white. The Pine Tree Lodge is right by the Ward's Lake as well, so you can roll out of the bed and walk over to the trees with a cup of tea in your hand.

INDIA'S NEW WAVE OF INNOVATIVE BARS

India's bar scene embraces a wave of innovation, where expert mixologists craft unforgettable experiences in immersive, oneof-a-kind spaces.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

The bar scene is exploding with creativity. Expert mixologists are pushing boundaries, crafting unforgettable experiences in hidden speakeasies, swanky hotel bars, and cutting-edge cocktail labs. Rakshay Dhariwal, Founder, Pass Code Hospitality notes, "People are drawn to spaces with a personal touch—whether it’s the skill of expert mixologists or unique experiences like omakase-style cocktails.”

The best of the best, then.

BUMIPURA Mumbai

This is where authentic Singaporean and Malaysian flavours merge with a dynamic cocktail culture. The name, fusing the Malay ‘bumi’ (earth) with the Sanskrit ‘pura’ (city), reflects the bar's grounding in heritage while embracing innovation. Founder and mixologist Ming Yang Chai, inspired by Mumbai's burgeoning cocktail scene, sought to create a space where cocktails take centre stage. "Bumipura represents a grounded yet expansive vision—a bar deeply rooted in heritage but open to new influences," says Chai. "It envisions a future where India's cultural sphere seamlessly embraces Singapore and Malaysia, celebrating tradition and the evolution of flavours and experiences."

The idea: Captivated by Mumbai's vibrant bar scene yet recognising a need for a greater focus on cocktails, Chai envisioned Bumipura as a sanctuary for innovative mixology. "Bumipura offers a sensory journey through storytelling and inventive cocktails," says Chai.

The décor: Bumipura's immersive experience centres around a striking 21-foot omakase-style counter, “designed to encourage interaction with mixologists as they share the stories and craftsmanship behind each cocktail”. The Elephanta Caves-inspired facade adds a majestic touch, while futuristic accents create a unique ambience.

Signature experiences: Bumipura transforms classic Singaporean and Malaysian dishes into unforgettable cocktails using bold techniques. "We're distilling raw crab, infusing vodka with chicken, and fat-washing rum with lamb," says Chai. Their signature cocktail, Dear Seri, reimagines Malaysia's Nasi Lemak. "Gin, vodka, and Japanese sake undergo a two-step process: sous-vide infusion with pandan leaves, followed by fat-washing with cold-pressed coconut oil for a rich, velvety texture. They are then shaken with chilli cucumber syrup and fresh lime juice. The cocktail is served in a glass lined with a banana leaf and rimmed with crushed peanuts, then topped with a silky, savoury-sweet foam made from jasmine rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves. The gin enhances the dewy green notes of pandan leaves, while sake adds a subtle rice aroma. It is finished with a sprinkle of red chilli powder, enhancing its look and layered flavours."

THE DIRECTOR’S ROOM

PCO Delhi

Hidden behind an unassuming phone booth in South Delhi, Pass Code Only (PCO) has earned its reputation as one of India's top speakeasies. Now, founders Rakshay and Radhika Dhariwal introduce The Director's Room, an intimate 12-seat omakase bar. "It is all about trusting our expert mixologists to create a unique, off-menu cocktail tailored to your tastes," says Rakshay.

The idea: Inspired by the Japanese tradition, The Director's Room invites guests to trust PCO's expert mixologists to create personalised cocktails. "It's about evolving India's drinking culture," says Rakshay, "offering an unparalleled level of engagement." He says The Director’s Room is more than just a bar—it’s a statement on how India’s drinking culture is evolving.

Décor: The Director's Room, once Rakshay's office, retains its original signage as a subtle nod to its past.

Inside, the quintessential office transforms into an intimate 12-seat bar, offering a bespoke cocktail experience.

Signature experiences: Guests share preferences and engage in interactive cues, like choosing a fragrance or postcard, which inspire the mixologists' creations. Each cocktail is accompanied by curated bites, making the experience a journey of discovery and surprise. The Director's Room offers a unique blend of mystery, intimacy, and the artistry of bespoke mixology. The experience involves playful interactions, each inspiring a unique cocktail. For instance, a guest might select a fragrance that becomes the foundation of their drink, or pick a postcard of a destination, and the mixologist crafts a cocktail evoking that locale’s essence. The cocktails are accompanied by curated bites, making the experience a journey of discovery and surprise.

As the night unfolds, guests curate their drinking journey, guided by their moods and tastes. "From technique-forward creations to timeless classics, each cocktail is crafted with premium spirits, allowing patrons to explore the artistry of mixology in a truly luxury setting," says Rakshay.

THE LAB AT AMARAANTH

Goa

The Lab, a reservation-only collaborative bar by Amaraanth Resort and Countertop India, a bar and beverage consulting firm, is nestled within the tranquil wellness resort, Amaraanth, in a sussegado Varca.

Headed by Pankaj Balachandran, it's as much an R&D space, as a bar, and embodies Amaraanth's ethos of local-first, low-carbon, and immersive experiences. "The Lab places a strong emphasis on mindful sustainability," says Balachandran. "We realised that many travellers are seeking sensory-rich experiences, which inspired us to bring this concept to Amaraanth. For me, this is a passion project—a concept-driven, sustainability-focused venue, something I felt had not been fully realised in India."

The idea: The Lab's beverage program champions local resources, sourcing ingredients from regional

farms such as Ishka Farms and artisanal businesses. This allows them to create cocktails celebrating local flavours and spotlighting Goan spirits, particularly feni. The Lab's evolving menu changes with the seasons.

A key feature is The Lab's evolving menu, which changes seasonally. While core cocktails remain available year-round, seasonal drinks utilise fresh local produce. "We work with farms across the country committed to sustainable practices, aiming to create a closed-loop ecosystem," says Balchandran. "Most ingredients come from nearby sources, minimising our carbon footprint. True sustainability means sourcing locally whenever possible; using ingredients flown in from afar, like tequila from Mexico, would undermine our sustainable ethos. We use a lot of Indian spirits and work with farms like Iska Farms, and other sustainable producers, like Brown Koji Boy to source our miso, minimising the carbon footprint."

The décor: The 20-seater bar mirrors the resort's laidback vibe with comfortable seating arranged around a central bar. The Lab invites you to discover feni through a guided tasting experience under a cashew tree, where a mixologist explains the 

SOH DRINK | BARS

drink's tasting notes and cultural significance, and cocktail-making sessions with Countertop mixologists.

Signature experiences: Among the signature cocktails are the Red Amaraanth, a gin-based drink featuring the Goan lal maath leafy vegetable, and Grandmum’s Curry, a tequila-based cocktail inspired by curry

ingredients like coconut milk, coriander, tamarind, and ginger. Balachandran describes it as "a rendition of curry in a cocktail". Another creation, The Hotel Lobby, is inspired by the floral scents often found in hotel lobbies. "We are getting floral teas from Tea Trunk, which has gourmet teas crafted by tea sommelier Snigdha Manchanda," says Balachandran.

AFTER DINNER Goa

After Dinner, a cosy cocktail bar in Anjuna, conceived by Twinkle Keswani, Chef Rohan D’Souza, and Daniel Lobo, brings an intimate, living-room vibe to Goa’s evolving bar scene. Here, the evening wind-down is reimagined with nostalgia and a touch of whimsy. "The scene in Goa has shifted toward more refined, experimental spaces," says Keswani. "After Dinner offers something different—a nightcap experience that feels intimate, nostalgic, and effortlessly relaxed."

The idea: Each cocktail at After Dinner tells a story, inspired by a different room in a home. Guests can sip on Lollipops and Rainbows, a playful nod to childhood served on a teddy bear, or Trust Issues, a bold, bedroom-inspired mix of hot sauce-infused tequila. Chef Rohan D’Souza’s tapas-style menu offers comfort with a twist, with inspired small plates like Old School Tempura Sichuan Pepper River Prawn and Living Room Chicken Hot Dog Brioche Buns, each dish blending familiarity with fresh, intriguing flavours.

THE WRITERS BAR Raffles Jaipur

The décor: The ambience is equally enchanting. "Every corner of After Dinner reflects thoughtful design, blending rustic textures and Goan-inspired accents. From reclaimed wood to custom-made pieces, the space celebrates local craftsmanship, creating an atmosphere that feels both personal and sophisticated," says Keswani. The decor combines rustic textures with artistic flair in an inviting, eco-conscious space that feels like a true extension of home.

The Writers Bar, a cherished tradition of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, originated at Raffles Singapore and was once a haven for literary giants like Joseph Conrad, Rudyard Kipling, and Somerset Maugham. Says the spokesperson, "The bar serves not only as a homage to these literary figures but also as a reflection of the glamorous spirit of the Golden Age of Travel, a time when writers, travellers, and adventurers passed through the doors of Raffles."

The idea: Raffles Jaipur elevates this legacy, blending Rajasthani elegance with literary charm. Nestled within the grand palace hotel, the bar reimagines the concept through a distinctly local lens. Farmto-glass mixology takes centre stage, with a master mixologist guiding guests through cocktails crafted with fresh herbs from the hotel garden and spices ground on-site. "The menu also features small plates and canapés, co-created with the palace chef, blending Singaporean heritage with Indian culinary influences. The bar offers access to a hidden wine cellar, reached via a dramatic, cinematic winding staircase, in a combination of heritage, mixology, and cultural fusion," adds the spokesperson.

The décor: The ambience is both elegant and intimate. Pastel-blue bookshelves lined with rare volumes invite guests to unwind with a literary treasure, while arches embossed with Jaipur's design motifs and a hidden wine cellar accessible by a winding staircase enhance the exclusivity. The double-height powder-blue room, adorned with floral paintings, carved wooden furniture, and intricate upholstery, offers a serene space that honours both Raffles’ literary tradition and Jaipur’s artistry.

Signature experiences: Harsh Pandya’s creations evoke the charm of home, with each cocktail inspired by a room. Highlights include Clarified Coffee Sour (a studyroom twist on a classic), and Banana Pancakes for a sweet nostalgia trip. Among their signature cocktails is Tea and Cake, a tea-infused bourbon and spiced rum with Kahlua, chocolate bitters, heavy cream, and a dash of soda; Sweet Nothings, a vodka and Pisco with dry vermouth and Pandan vodka cordial, stirred with X-rated liqueur; and Pandan Negroni, a Pandan cordial balanced with Campari, served over clear ice, among others.

SOH DRINK | BARS

Signature experiences: At its heart, the Writers Bar is a cocktail-forward bar. Each drink is meticulously crafted with local ingredients, often prepared tableside for an interactive experience. The bar also boasts an exceptional selection of spirits, from premium Scotch whiskies and exclusive bourbons to Indian single malts. Highlights include the Godawan 100 Series Limited Edition, Indri Trini, Louis XIII Cognac, Hibiki 100, Yamazaki, and the traditional Rajasthani royal liqueur Chandra Haas. The cocktail program blends local heritage with global mixology. Signature cocktails, like the Jaipur Sling (Tanqueray No. 10 Gin, orange liqueur, Chandra Haas, pineapple juice, and lime), reflect Jaipur’s rich cultural landscape. The Amber Spey (Johnnie Walker Gold Label, clarified green apple and celery juice, ginger ale, and nut bitters) captures the harmony of nature. Kesar Bagh Martini (Tanqueray No. 10 Gin, extra dry vermouth, saffron, and lemon) pays homage to the saffron gardens of Amber Fort. Godawan & Me, with Godawan fruit and spice, sweet vermouth, and a raisin and black tea reduction, transports guests to the heart of Rajasthan.

2:FIFTY9 THE BAR JW Marriott Kolkata

More than a classic bar, the unusually named 2:Fifty9 embraces a ‘cocktail-forward’ philosophy, with inventive cocktails as its centrepiece. "We wanted to create a space that moves effortlessly from a sophisticated coffee bar by day to a vibrant cocktail destination by night," explains Aranya Sain, Director of Food and Beverage. "The focus here is on innovation, creativity, and bringing a dynamic edge to every experience."

The idea: Events like the recent takeover by mixologist Cham from Singapore have transformed the bar into a dynamic space for themed nights and global cocktail influences. "Our cocktail program is about more than just serving drinks," Sain notes. "It’s about artistry, experimentation, and creating something guests can truly connect with."

The décor: The contemporary, sunlight-infused bar, accented by sculptural architectural elements, transforms in the evenings into a vibrant and energetic space. Plush seating, elegant furnishings, and tasteful accents contribute to a sense of luxury, while a canopy of trees adds a touch of nature.

Signature experiences: Curated with a discerning palate in mind, the spirit program at 2:Fifty9 offers a refined selection. Guests can enjoy premium spirits, from rare single malts and New World whiskies to artisanal gins and top-shelf vodkas. A curated selection of Japanese whiskies are paired with local ingredients to add an Indian twist. "Our spirit program celebrates a range of influences," says Sain. "It’s curated to ensure guests can explore familiar and unexpected flavours."

The cocktail program, curated by mixology expert Varun Sudhakaran, approaches cocktails as immersive, sensory experiences. "We incorporate locally sourced botanicals, exotic spices, and seasonal fruits to create unconventional flavour profiles that merge Indian heritage with global cocktail trends," Sain explains. Innovative techniques like fat-washing, barrel-ageing, and smoke infusions add complexity and depth. The result is an evolving menu that keeps guests intrigued with fresh offerings. "Each cocktail tells a story, aiming to make every sip memorable," Sain says. Signature cocktails like Oh My Ghee, The Living Thai, RSVP, and Taxi Queen have become favourites, each blending bold flavours with imaginative presentation. "These cocktails have a personality of their own," Sain shares. "Each is designed to be an experience, telling a story and surprising the palate."

MARCO POLO’S LITTLE VOYAGER

At Hyatt Hotel’s recently introduced dinner theatre, an animated Le Petit Chef takes diners on an immersive 3D journey through the countries on the fabled Silk Route.

The world’s smallest chef, the Le Petit Chef, is an animated character who performs a theatrical piece that combines cooking, travel, adventure, and technology in+ an immersive dining experience. It is essentially a dinner theatre with a technological twist.

The Hyatt Hotels and Resorts have introduced the the little animated chef as a dining concept at its hotels. Le Petit Chef has been on an Indian rendezvous, starting with Mumbai and Delhi, and has now come to rest in Grand Hyatt Goa and Hyatt Centric Sector 17, Chandigarh.

Over a two-hour performance, the tiny tastemaker— all of 58mm tall—takes us on a journey of his world travels, as cities and towns, forests and foliage unfold on our white plates and our wine glasses. The dining experience, which can be booked in any of the two

options—Gourmet and Luxe—blends immersive 3D visuals with a six-course menu inspired by Marco Polo's Silk Road journey, with dishes representing the various regions along the route.

The focus is less on innovative cuisine and more on the theatre that unfolds across the space. The animated chef and his journey are brought to life by high-quality projectors on your dinner plate, your glass, your food, and even your body, making it seem like he is interacting with your food and surroundings, as he navigates Arabian sands, braves the Himalayas, and dodges dragons.

At Grand Hyatt Goa, for instance, on Marco Polo’s Little Voyager menu, the first course, 'Voyage from Marseille', is influenced by France; the second, 'Realm of Arabia', from well, Arabia. The third is called 'The

DEEPALI NANDWANI

CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE: The Hyatt Hotels and Resorts' new 3D dinner theatre takes guests on Marco Polo's Silk Route journey; the animated chef and his journey are brought to life by high-quality projectors on your dinner plate; the six-course menu inspired by the journey features dishes representing the various regions along the Silk Route; Le Petit Chef stands all of 58mm tall.

Royals of India'; the fourth, 'Intermezzo from the Land of the Clouds' is inspired by Nepal; the fifth is from the 'Land of the Dragon', or China; and the sixth goes back to France for 'Le Dessert'. While all the other courses are same for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians— Creamy tomato and fennel soup, Mini shanklish and halloumi filo parcels with almond picada, Paneer tikka masalas and chenna truffle kofta, Barley, mountain liquorice, orange, and Crème brûlée grande—the sixth course differs. For vegetarians, there is Silken tofu, broccoli, bamboo shoot, carrot in garlic oyster sauce served with steamed rice. For meat lovers, the tofu is replaced with chicken.

Each course is accompanied by animations and narration that tell a story related to the dish and the overall theme. Thomas Angerer, Hyatt's Director of Food & Beverage, India and Southwest Asia says that animated performative piece elevates t he guest experience and sets new benchmarks in Indian hospitality.

ESCAPE TO THE EDGE

Journey to the Maldives’ most secluded atoll, where Soneva Secret redefines luxury with untouched landscapes, innovative design, and intimate experiences.

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

There’s something quietly magical about entering a place that feels as though it has always existed. That’s exactly what Soneva Secret achieves—a luxury that feels natural, lived-in, and utterly unforced. Located in one of the Maldives’ most remote atolls, this ultra-bespoke resort comprises just 14 villas, including the lagoon Crusoe Villas, accessible only by boat, offering guests a true castaway experience.

“We wanted to get back to the untouched Robinson Crusoe feeling,” says Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO, Soneva. “When we opened our first resort back in 1995, our focus was largely on couples, especially honeymooners or guests whose children were adults and they had more time on their hands. However, by the late

THE CASTAWAY VILLA—A FLOATING DREAM

Among the resort’s many innovations, the Castaway Villa (yet a work in progress) stands out as the Maldives' first floating villa. Designed by the same naval experts who crafted the vast floating harbour near Hong Kong Airport, the vlla offers unparalleled overwater living. With a robust 200-ton concrete base, it remains stable, unaffected by wave movements.

Spread across two floors, the villa features an upper deck complete with a waterslide into the lagoon and a retractable roof over the master bedroom, perfect for stargazing. Guests also have access to a private gym with panoramic views, a sunken bathtub, a pantry, and a minibar. The villa is self-sufficient, running on solar energy and featuring its own water purification and waste management systems, allowing for up to two weeks of off-grid living.

This villa moves at about 3 knots per hour and has five mooring stations around the atoll, each offering a unique, isolated experience.

OPPOSITE: Located in the remote Makunudhoo Atoll, the ultra-bespoke Soneva Secret resort comprises just 14 villas.

ABOVE LEFT: The overwater villas offer an unparalleled living experience.

ABOVE RIGHT: A guest experience that melds luxury with nature.

LEFT: Sumptuous living, nestled amisdt tropical lushness.

'90s, we saw a demographic shift. More guests in their 30s and 40s were starting families later in life. There was a demand for larger residences and a greater variety of things to do for families. Soneva Secret is our response to evolving guest expectations.”

More than a place, a feeling

The villas at Soneva Secret are designed to feel organic, as if they emerged naturally from the landscape. The materials used in the design reflect this intent—driftwood collected from various Indonesian islands has been repurposed into furniture, while roofs are crafted from leftover woodcuts, giving the spaces a tactile, lived-in quality. There’s an inviting, textural feel to the materials, while the open-plan layout keeps nature close at hand. Every detail encourages guests to slow down and fully immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty.

The villas, while appearing simple and natural, are filled with modern luxuries—sleek lighting and an air-conditioning system powered by solar energy, reducing the resort’s reliance on traditional energy sources. Guests can slide back windows and doors to cool only the spaces they’re using, minimising demand on air conditioning. The resort has achieved a balance between sustainability and comfort, showing that one does not have to come at the expense of the other.

BELOW

Designing experiences, not just spaces

Whether you’re sitting on the sandy shores or watching waves lap at the overwater villas, the architecture gives you the sense that this place was meant to exist here all along. The villas don’t simply sit on the land; they embrace it. This approach is central to Soneva's ethos—ensuring guests feel connected to the natural beauty around them, with no sense of intrusion.

Beyond the thoughtful architecture, Soneva Secret offers a range of immersive experiences that feel intricately tied to the surroundings. One such experience is the ‘Out of This World’ dining tower, where guests zip-line to a castaway-style dining platform, observatory, and wine cellar in the lagoon. The ‘So Primitive’ experience offers a toes-in-the-sand dining adventure, integrating the natural landscape into the culinary experience, creating a world where every moment feels like an adventure.

For those seeking further exploration, private picnics on uninhabited sandbanks and guided snorkelling tours provide intimate encounters with the island’s vibrant marine life. Every aspect of the resort is built to

SUSTAINABILITY AT SONEVA SECRET

Sustainability at Soneva Secret goes beyond surfacelevel commitments. Powered almost entirely by solar energy, the resort operates a floating solar plant, and all drinking water is produced on-site. The resort’s waste-to-wealth programme recycles 93% of all waste, transforming it into usable products like compost. Soneva Secret has eliminated the use of plastics entirely, and its air conditioning system is run via solar-chilled systems, reducing the need for traditional energy storage methods like batteries.

enhance the connection to nature, leaving guests with a profound sense of peace and well-being.

A new era of wellness

The resort’s integrative wellness concept unites ancient healing wisdom with the latest in scientific innovation. A curated selection of wellness services is offered to help guests relax, rejuvenate, and rebalance in the serene treatment room or in the privacy of their villa. In a world where luxury often comes at the expense of the environment, Soneva Secret proves that the two don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Every detail is crafted to harmonise with the surroundings, offering a rare blend of sustainability, innovation, and thoughtful design. It serves as a reminder that the future of luxury lies in experiences that transcend aesthetics and convenience—where connection to nature is woven into the very fabric of the place.

RIGHT: The interior narrative embraces a chic organic rusticity.

LEFT & RIGHT: The ‘Out of This World’ dining tower, where guests zipline to a castaway-style dining platform and observatory.

UluruFrom

The World is Now

To Antarctica an Indian Playground

Indians

are exploring the world, and spending as they go along. The global travel ecosystem is rolling out the proverbial red carpet.

SUMAN TARAFDAR

At Lake Como. At Sapporo Ice Festival. Around Ngorongoro crater. Exploring Pantanal— yes, the world's largest tropical wetland. Atop, well, around Uluru. Peeping into the Gates of Hell! On Antarctic cruises. In south Delhi, it is well-nigh impossible to meet someone who hasn’t holidayed at Da Nang. Or indeed the BakuTbilisi-Yerevan circuit. Of course, there is an Indian (or someone of Indian origin) stuck in space at the moment, or on a flight to somewhere. Yes, for Indians seeking to escape F&R (friends and relatives) temporarily, the world doesn’t seem to be large enough.

The numbers reveal the story. In 2019, 27 million Indians travelled abroad, and a COVIDsized interregnum later, 2023 saw about 28 million Indians go abroad, according to figures from the Bureau of Immigration. 2024 is expected to top that record. By 2040, that number is expected to reach 90 million outbound Indians. Amazingly, this is less than 10% of the nation’s population.

Compare that to 77% of Germans who travelled abroad in 2023. The comparative number of the UK is 45%, while Japan is 36%.

Even more importantly for destinations that are eyeing Indians, they are also spending significantly when they travel. Data shows that Indians spent $31.7 billion overseas in the 2023-24 financial year. About $17 billion or 54% of that amount was on travel.

Post-COVID, it is no surprise that Indians can travel visa-free to more countries than ever, 50+ at last count. Many countries, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, and South Africa—which have significant numbers of Indian tourists—have

eased visa requirements for Indians. India is the fifth largest source market for Australia now and there has been a steady rise in recent years.

As for the future, in a report released last year, Booking.com and McKinsey projected that travel spending by Indians would rise from $150 billion in 2019 to $410 billion by 2030.

Not to ignore, India is now the world’s most populous nation, and even though its GDP per capita places it in the middle-income bracket of nations globally, it has a sizable section whose disposable incomes allow them to travel the world at will.

UAE is a top destination for Indians, and now Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival for up to 14 days.

Recovery has been unexpectedly fast for India in the travel space. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, India’s outbound tourist market was among the fastest-growing markets in Asia, according to the McKinsey report released in November 2023. “India has already recovered 61% of its pre-pandemic market, with 13 million outbound tourists in 2022. This represents a much quicker recovery than most Asian countries.”

“The India travel story will only become a bigger one over the next few years and beyond,” said David Mann, Chief Economist-Asia Pacific, Mastercard, at the launch of its fifth annual travel report, Travel Trends 2024: Breaking Boundaries’ compiled by the Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI). The report, released earlier this year, notes that there has been a rise of Indian passenger arrivals by 53% in Japan, 248% in Vietnam, and 59% in the US compared to 2019.

Evidence of India’s faster recovery also comes from specific countries. “India has been amongst the few select markets who have bounced back to pre-COVID levels or, rather, grown over our pre-COVID levels as well,” informs Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager - India & Gulf, Tourism Australia. “As far as arrivals are concerned, we are at almost 416,000 visitors who have visited Australia from India, for the year ended June 2024. We had almost 224,000 visitors in the first six months, compared to 197,000 in 2019, January to June 2019. Before Covid, we were the seventh largest source destination for Australia. Today, we are the fifth largest destination.”

The sector is excited. “Outbound tourism from India is anticipated to hit 27 million travellers this year, mirroring the pre-COVID levels, while the travel and tourism market in India is expected to generate $22.30 billion in 2024, growing to $34.11 billion by 2029,” Jyoti Mayal, President, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) said in a statement.

Sanjiv Agarwal, Chairman and CEO, Fairfest Media Ltd, organiser of several of India’s largest travel fairs, including OTM (Outbound Travel Mart), has long been a major advocate, improving the infrastructure relating to the travel sector. “About three crore Indians are travelling abroad, while the domestic trip numbers are around 100 crore. Currently in a sweet spot in terms of economic growth, there is a direct impact on tourism, including outbound travel.”

Will travel for leisure

India has one of the fastest-growing economies amongst the major nations, creating a sizable segment willing to travel—and spend—on leisure travel. In 2021, India had 302.4 million households, 33% of which had a gross annual income above ₹5 lakh per annum, with 3% topping more than ₹30 lakh per annum. With India’s mega population of 1.4 billion, even if a minor fraction of this market spends on leisure travel, it is unsurprising that the world is attempting to lure the Indian traveller.

Makemytrip has just released How India Travels Abroad Report for June 2023 to May 2024, spotlighting several major outbound trends. Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO, says, “With rising disposable incomes, greater exposure to global cultures, and the increasing ease of travel, more Indians are exploring both domestic and international destinations for leisure and business. Our data attests to the growing confidence in exploring new destinations and

indulging in different/ luxury experiences, which is transforming the travel industry.”

India is set to be an important global source market for leisure travel. Of course, about 40% of outbound Indians are actually estimated to be leisure travellers. But then again, there is a huge number of destinations jostling for a share of this burgeoning pie.

Of course, just like Indian food, or language, or religion, or weather, or culture, or music, or literature, Indian travellers are not a homogenous bunch, something that most National Tourist Organisations (NTOs) are still figuring out. A significant amount of travel is driven by VFR (visiting friends and relatives) or employment, such as from Kerala to the ‘Gulf’, Tamil Nadu to Malaysia and Singapore, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to the US, Punjab to Canada, and so forth. 44% of international travellers from West Bengal chose Thailand as their overseas destination, according to Makemytrip.

Leisure travel, which comprises visiting friends and relatives, as well as the holiday segment, makes up almost close to 75% of our total visitation, notes Kashikar. “How do you make Australia the preferred holiday destination? What we do is inspire a target audience to think about Australia. Our job is to showcase everything that Australia has to offer, and irrespective of the purpose of travel, you will explore the

country and extend your length of stay.”

Luring the Indian traveller

NTOs and destination management companies (DMCs) across the world are starting to dangle increasingly attractive propositions. Malaysia and Thailand, both very popular with Indians, have relaxed visa norms recently.

Of course, India is the top market, or thereabouts for most of its neighbours, especially Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, The Maldives, along with Thailand and Malaysia. Frequent roadshows, promotional buying in media, sops to travel agents, significant discounts… all play a significant role in marketing these destinations.

LEFT: Dotted with resort villages and surrounded by mountains, Lake Como is the scene of many a celebrity wedding. RIGHT: The Golden Bridge at Da Nang. Vietnam has emerged as a popular outbound destination for Indians due to direct flights and inexpensive visas. PETER

DISTRIBUTION OF TRAVEL SEARCHES ACROSS THE YEAR

DISTRIBUTION OF TRAVEL SEARCHES ACROSS THE QUARTERS BY DISTANCE

Source: Makemytrip

The Maldives came out of the pandemic with free visa on arrival for Indians, making India its top source market in 2020-22. Similarly, Indian citizens can get a visa on arrival in UAE for up to 14 days (provided, they meet certain criteria), again making India its top tourist source market.

“From January to the first week of August, we had surpassed 230,000 visitors to Sri Lanka,” informs Krishantha Fernando, General Manager, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau. “Our best year has been 2018 with 420,000 visitors from India. We are hoping to surpass that this year.” Fernando is hoping to increase the proportion of the MICE segment, with offerings such as the Murugan trail and the Buddhist trail adding layers of cultural connections for many Indians. Sri Lankan, with 84 weekly flights from India, already runs one of the largest operations to India, and there are talks of further increasing the air traffic.

Incentives can come in various

shapes. Indian cinema’s soft power has seen success. While in the past Switzerland cashed in, especially with Yash Chopra’s movies, countries such as Spain (Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara) and Hungary (Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Dangal, Force2) have benefitted too—and seen considerable increases in the number of Indian tourists. Additionally, in 2023, Switzerland introduced the ‘Swisstainable Veggie Day’, with a relatively high number of Indians sticking to a vegetarian-only diet in focus.

Neighbouring Germany saw over 30% growth in Indian tourists in 2023. Romit Theophilus, Director of Marketing & Sales for the German National Tourist Office in India, notes that Indian students are the largest international group on German campuses. He highlights Germany's diverse attractions, stating, "We have 54 UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing rich cultural and natural heritage. Hungary also offers more than most travellers realise. Budapest, with its vibrant streets, historic palaces, and rejuvenating thermal baths, deserves more than just a quick visit."

Hungary sees strong potential in the Indian tourism market, says Ivan Ljubinkovic, Regional Head of Business Development for Visit Hungary. "We're promoting Hungary as a year-round destination with diverse experiences," he says. In the first seven months of 2024, over 29,000 Indian visitors spent almost 97,000 nights in Hungary, marking a 14% rise in guest numbers and an 8.6% increase in overnight stays compared to the same period in 2023.

Some countries have done a better job in positioning their destinations. Thailand, for example, has done dozens of marketing campaigns like 'Discover Thainess' and 'Amazing Thailand'. The Tourism Authority of Thailand even has two offices in India (Mumbai and Delhi) to cater to this growing market. They frequently host travel agents, focusing on niche tourism like luxury weddings, golf, and cultural tours. Indian

NUMBER OF INDIAN NATIONALS' DEPARTURES FROM INDIA

YEAR NO. OF TRAVELLERS

1991 1942707

2001 4564477

2006 8339614

2011 13994002

2016 21871995

2017 23942957

2018 26296484

2019 26915034

2020 7294566

2021 8551315

2022 21602734

2023 28200000*

*provisional

Source: Bureau of Immigration

citizens can get a visa on arrival to UAE for up to 14 days (provided they meet certain criteria), making India its top tourist source market.

Countries in central Asia such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Georgia and others, which were not even on the radar of the regular Indian outbound traveller, have seen massive increases in the volume of Indians going there.

Azerbaijan introduced the ASAN system that processes electronic visas within three working days of application in 2017, and by 2019 annual arrivals from India increased fivefold, the McKinsey report points out.

“Good connectivity and ease of getting visa have boosted traveller footfall from India to Azerbaijan and the country is looking at 2,50,000 Indian tourists this year,” Azerbaijan Tourism Board CEO Florian Sengstschmid says. 115,000 visitors from India have visited Azerbaijan from January to July this year, a 31% increase YoY.

Australia has worked on significantly increasing the speed and ease of getting a visa for Indians, reaping benefits by way of record numbers travelling down south.

“Currently we have 11 flights flying from Delhi to Baku and three flights a week from Mumbai.”

Vietnam and Cambodia are attracting more Indian tourists with increased direct flights. Alok Kumar, Managing Director of IndoVietnam Services, says, "Direct flights and lower prices are key factors. Vietjet alone has added seven or eight routes from India." Cambodia Angkor Air is also launching a new route from Delhi this summer. Seila Hul, Under Secretary of State of the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, reports a 17% increase in Indian tourists in the first half of 2024.

Australia is attracting Indian tourists by emphasising both its unique destinations and its easy visa process. "With a 100% online process, no biometrics or interviews, Australia offers a best-in-class tourist visa experience," says Kashikar. "The speed and ease of obtaining a visa make Australia a preferred holiday choice for Indian travellers."

Seychelles is attracting adventurous Indian tourists with its unique

blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. Bernadette Willemin, Director General of Destination Marketing for Tourism Seychelles, notes the growing popularity of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue islands. She also highlights a rising trend: "Indian tourists are increasingly interested in untouched islands like Cousin Island, a birdwatcher's paradise home to Seychelles' rarest endemic birds." 

India has emerged as a key tourism market for the US, ranking second (excluding Canada and Mexico) between January and

HOW INDIANS ARE DISCOVERING THE WORLD

Here are some key findings from the How India Travels Abroad Report from Makemytrip, India’s leading online travel company.

More Indians are taking trips to international destinations, with a 32% growth in people taking two or more trips in a year. The top 10 most searched countries remain the same as 2023, contributing to 64% of all international searches on the platform.

There has been a 70% increase in the combined search volume for the top 10 emerging destinations. Almaty and Baku have seen phenomenal growth rates of 527% and 395%, respectively. The overall contribution of searches for emerging destinations on the platform has increased from 10% to 14%, indicating that Indians are exploring newer global destinations

Interest in luxury travel is rising among Indians, with a 10% growth in searches for business class flights in the international segment. Hong Kong shows the highest growth with a 131% increase in searches followed by Sri Lanka, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.

While Indians are on the lookout for pocket-friendly experiences, close to 50% of international hotel bookings fall in the above ₹7,000 per night tariff bracket. With New York being the most expensive place to book a hotel, South Asian destinations such as Pokhara, Pattaya, and Kuala Lumpur emerge as the top destinations for budget-friendly stay options. 55% of all trips to international destinations are for leisure, followed by 33% for VFR (visiting friends and relatives). Thailand is the most favourite leisure destination for Indians.

Close to 50% of international flights and 56% of international hotel rooms are booked less than 14 days before the travel date. Oman, Nepal and UAE have the highest last-minute flight bookings, while Qatar, Oman and Azerbaijan lead in last minute hotel bookings. European cities, on the other hand, have longest Advance Purchase (AP) windows.

INDUSTRY LEADERS ON THE EVOLVING OUTBOUND TRAVELSCAPE

NISHANT KASHIKAR

COUNTRY MANAGER, INDIA & GULF, TOURISM AUSTRALIA

“India has been amongst the few select markets that have bounced back to pre-COVID levels or, rather, grown over our preCOVID levels as well.”

KEVIN BUMEN

CHIEF FINANCIAL & COMMERCIAL OFFICER, SFIO

“We want to build on our strong relationship with key stakeholders and airlines.”

RAJESH MAGOW

CO-FOUNDER AND GROUP CEO, MAKEMYTRIP

“Our data attests to the growing confidence in exploring new destinations amd indulging in different/luxury experiences, which are transforming the travel industry.”

FLORIAN SENGSTSCHMID

CEO, AZERBAIJAN TOURISM BOARD

“115,000 visitors from India have visited Azerbaijan in 2024, a 31% increase YoY due to the good connectivity between Baku and India.”

IVAN LJUBINKOVIC

REGIONAL HEAD OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, VISIT HUNGARY

“Hungary offers more than most travellers realise. Budapest demands more than a quick visit; from its vibrant streets and historic palaces to traditional thermal baths.”

NARESH RAWAL

VICE PRESIDENT - SALES & MARKETING, RESORTS WORLD CRUISES (SOUTH ASIA AND MIDDLE EAST)

“Our homeports are attractive destinations for India outbound. The Genting Dream, which homeports in Singapore, sails to Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Phuket. In October, Resorts World One sailed from Dubai to the Gulf.”

BERNADETTE WILLEMIN

DIRECTOR GENERAL MARKETING, TOURISM SEYCHELLES

“There is a growing trend we have noticed—an increasing interest in visiting untouched islands like Cousin Island that is home to Seychelles' rarest endemic birds.”

AMRUTA BANGERA

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, ISRAEL MINISTRY OF TOURISM

“We are doing a lot of city-wise promotions where we go meet with agents, and we are conducting a lot of workshops and webinars.”

ALEXIA LAINE

MANAGING DIRECTOR, COURCHEVEL TOURISME

“For Indian travllers seeing the perfect balance of thrilling outdoor adventures with the highest standards of luxury, Courchevel presents an unparalleled experience.”

HUBERTUS FUNKE

EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT AND CHIEF TOURISM OFFICER, SAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

“Pre-pandemic, India was the fastest-grwoing market, and in the post-COVID phase, the trend is picking up again.”

SEILA HUL

UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE, CAMBODIA MINISTRY OF TOURISM

“In the first of six months of 2024, Cambodia saw an increase of around 17% in the number of tourists from India from last year.”

KRISHANTHA FERNANDO

GENERAL MANAGER, SRI LANKA CONVENTION BUREAU

“We are hoping to increase the proportion of the MICE segment, with offerings such as the Murugan trail and the Buddhist trail adding layers of cultural connections.”

SANJIV AGARWAL

CHAIRMAN AND CEO, FAIRFEST MEDIA LTD

“There was a huge backlog from the COVID-era, so countries that managed to open their visas saw a flood of travellers from India.”

Source: Makemytrip

May 2024, according to the US National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO). 1.7 million Indians visited the US in 2023, with that number projected to reach 2 million by 2027. However, at the Indo-US Tourism and Hospitality Summit in Delhi, Suman Billa, Additional Secretary of India's Ministry of Tourism, highlighted challenges like visa delays and limited direct flights.

Medium haul travel, ease of visas, and affordable costs have seen central Asian countries become viable destinations for Indians.

TOP 10 INTERNATIONAL CITIES THAT INDIANS LOVE TO TRAVEL TO

Source: Makemytrip

San Francisco is targeting India, its third-largest overseas market in 2022 with 158,000 visitors. The city's appeal includes its quality of life, Michelin-star restaurants, pleasant weather, and job opportunities. "India was our fastest-growing market pre-pandemic, and that trend is returning," says Hubertus Funke, Executive Vice President of the San Francisco Travel Association. The

city is focused on strengthening relationships with key stakeholders and airlines. Kevin Bumen, Chief Financial Officer at San Francisco International Airport, adds, "We aim to provide exceptional service and showcase our airport's unique offerings to create a positive journey for visitors on non-stop flights.”

Despite the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Russia is surprisingly popular with Indian tourists. Zoya Chaudhary from the Salvia Group, which handles St. Petersburg, notes, "In the last year, they have implemented an e-visa for the Indian market."

Even amidst current war, Israel is actively courting Indian tourists. "We're conducting cityspecific promotions, meeting with agents and media, and focusing on e-learning," says Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing for the Israel Ministry of Tourism. "Around 49% of Indian travellers visit for religious purposes, while others come for leisure and MICE tourism."

Luxury destinations like Courchevel are eager to attract wealthy Indian travellers. Alexia Laine, Managing Director of Courchevel Tourisme, highlights the destination's “unparalleled experience,” from world-class skiing to luxurious accommodations and cultural attractions. With celebrities such as Shahrukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hrithik Roshan, and Varun Dhawan already spotted there, Courchevel is becoming a top aspirational destination for Indians.

Cruising through the world

Cruises are not to be left behind in specifically catering to Indians, especially regarding food. “Given persistent price increases in the hotel industry, the price difference between cruises and hotels has

widened, making trips by cruise a relatively more budget-friendly option in many cases,” states the Mastercard report.

Resorts World Cruises is catering to Indian travellers with certified vegetarian and Jain cuisine, Bollywood-themed entertainment, and itineraries featuring popular destinations. "Our homeports are attractive to the Indian outbound market," says Naresh Rawal, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "The Genting Dream sails from Singapore to Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Phuket. In October, Resorts World One will offer cruises from Dubai to the Gulf."

Resorts World Cruises is expanding its reach through new distribution channels and by focusing on growing segments like MICE and fly-cruises, which have exceeded pre-pandemic levels. They are also seeing increased interest from younger travellers, repeat cruisers, and the MICE market. "We are optimistic about the continued growth of fly-cruises from India as it remains a key contributor to our business," says a Resorts World Cruises spokesperson.

What patterns reveal

Just about every stakeholder is looking at how to increase revenue from the Indian traveller. According to the McKinsey report, around 70% of Indian travellers choose nearby destinations reachable by short or medium-haul flights, and this has traditionally included West and Southeast Asia, with Central Asia becoming increasingly popular.

“We are witnessing a whole generational shift in travel,” notes Kashikar. “Indians are travelling at a far, far younger age. Today’s kids don't want to marry or they want to marry in their late 30s or early 40s. So they are spending their disposable income on shopping, eating and holidays. Therefore the spend on holidays is likely to increase. We are moving from a savings economy to a splurging economy. Then we have seen an increased traction for Indians travelling to attend global concerts and events. This is going to help us achieve that CAGR of 7.6% from now on till 2040.”

Europe continues to be a sought-after destination, despite rising costs and visa hurdles.

TOP DESTINATIONS ARE STEADY FAVOURITES, OTHERS HAVE GAINED GROUND, AND NEW DESTINATIONS HAVE APPEARED.

INDIA'S TOP 20 OUTBOUND TOURISM MARKETS, BY DESTINATION STALWARTS UAE

GAINERS NEW ENTRANTS

BAHRAIN US

THAILAND

MALAYSIA

SAUDI ARABIA

KUWAIT

BANGLADESH

GERMANY

Source: McKinsey / Oxford Economics

SAUDI ARABIA

THAILAND

BAHRAIN

UK

FRANCE

SINGAPORE

MALAYSIA

AUSTRALIA

BANGLADESH

OMAN

INDONESIA

QATAR

CANADA

KUWAIT

TÜRKIYE

GERMANY

SWITZERLAND AUSTRALIA ITALY

The lure of homestays

Homestays are gaining popularity with outbound Indian travellers. Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager for Airbnb India, SE Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, notes, "We've seen a surge in international bookings, with a 30% increase for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Beyond

According to Bajaj, there is a 75% YoY increase in international bookings from group travellers in 2023 on Airbnb, driven by rising affluence, a growing appetite for diverse travel experiences, and the influence of social media. “Indian travellers primarily seek unique and culturally immersive experiences when choosing Airbnb UAE

Paris, we are also seeing increased interest in cities such as Milan, Tokyo, and Rome. Internationally, top choices include Dubai, London, Toronto, and Bangkok. Group travel is a significant trend, with more than 86% of bookings being group trips.”

SWEDEN

TOP 10 SOURCE STATES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO 80% SEARCHES FOR INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS

TOP 10 SOURCE STATES SHARE OF SEARCHES MOST SEARCHED DESTINATIONS

Source: Makemytrip

Destinations that were not on the radar of most Indians, such as the Maasai Mara in Kenya, are joining the to-do lists for many Indians.

accommodations.” There’s a demand now for boutique properties and villas that guests can buy out in Seychelles, adds Willemin.

While the potential of the outbound Indian traveller is immense, there are multiple practical challenges. Direct flight connectivity and long, opaque visa processing systems are the main bugbears, though the situation is improving for both. There has been a tripling of direct aviation capacity between India and Australia, notes Kashikar. “PreCOVID, there were just eight direct flights between India and Australia per week. Today there are 25 direct flights between India and Australia every week.” US visa processing times are reducing, though still far from ideal.

“With increasing demand from India, we are trying to increase the number of flights from various Indian cities to Seychelles,” says Willemin. “The existing flight routes have served us well, but we recognise that to truly tap into the vast potential of the Indian market, we need to enhance accessibility.” A conclusion just about every NTO and DMC has drawn as they take extra steps to make the Indian traveller feel welcome.

RICHARD BRANSON'S PASSION PROJECT

What drives a billionaire to spend decades navigating bureaucratic hurdles and pouring resources into a hotel project? Inside Mallorca's Son Bunyola.

OPPOSITE: Richard Branson’s passion project, Son Bunyola looks as if it could have been fortified in times past.

BELOW: Restful rooms are drenched in taupe and green.

MARY GOSTELOW TRAVELS ABOUT 300 DAYS A YEAR, ASSESSING WHAT IS NEW AND WORTH WATCHING IN LUXURY HOSPITALITY TRENDS.

Why does a tycoon spend valuable time developing hotels? In the case of Sir Richard Branson, it is occasionally a financial opportunity, as with the 2023 re-branding of the former Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas to Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

Generally, however, it’s passion.

Necker Island, in the Caribbean, falls into the latter category, as does the newbie Son Bunyola, in Mallorca. He’d been coming to the Spanish island with his family for decades and later, as an adult, he owned La Residencia in the arts area of Deià. He sold this to the then-Orient-Express, now Belmond, and in 1987 bought 1,300 acres of UNESCO-protected land at Banyalbufar, close to Mallorca’s west coast. He then spent 30 years getting all the permits for the hotel.

Finally, finally, it opened as a hotel in June 2023. Three floors, 27 bedrooms plus three detached villas, one five-bedroom and two with four bedrooms. It’s already a striking success, more a way of life than a resort with vineyards, olive groves, two restaurants and one large heated pool. There are sheep and donkeys here, and black Cannondale bikes (free, as are Pilates and yoga, and wine-tasting sessions).

Son Bunyola has been built by those who know the island best. GRAS Reynés Architecture Studio has come up with a structure that looks as if it could have been fortified in times past. Interiors are by Rialto Living, the Palma-based lifestyle concept store, named for the city’s now-defunct cinema. Rialto Living was started in 2007 by two Swedes, fashion designer Klas Käll and Barbara Bergman, a graphic designer.

Today it’s one of Palma’s must-visits. Its design studio is responsible for many of Mallorca’s most chic

Son Bunyola bedrooms have natural wood floors, and 3.5mtr-high ceilings of wood beams, with stone between. Eatertainment centres, in tall cane-fronted wood armoires, have pottery plates, and Asian-looking sleek black cutlery. Nothing’s ostentatious. Wellness and sustainability are omnipresent but not pushed down your throat.

villas—and, it seems, for private residences further afield.

But Rialto Living had never done a hotel before and initially, they turned the Son Bunyola commission down. "The Branson project was probably our most famous and certainly the biggest so far. To be honest, when Sir Richard said the project was ours, we said no," the pair recall. Looking back, they are bowled over by the support he and the Virgin team gave them.

The result says a lot about Sir Richard’s personal taste. Son Bunyola bedrooms have natural wood floors, and 3.5mtr-high ceilings of wood beams, with stone between. Eatertainment centres, in tall cane-fronted wood armoires, have pottery plates, and Asian-looking sleek black cutlery. Want snacks? Occasional tables hold black bowls with whole fruits, plus black wood boxes (one for whole almonds, one dried apricots). The ablution rooms have twin sinks, two-head showers. All linens are simply labelled Son Bunyola. There are divine super-soft dark-putty anonymous robes, plus local espardenyes slippers.

Dining is fun, be it in or outside the main all-day restaurant or in the bistro converted from a centuriesold olive press room. Nothing’s ostentatious (wellness and sustainability are omnipresent but not pushed down your throat). Everything’s fun, too, for the hotel’s

ABOVE: Because Sun Bunyola sits in a UNESCO World Heritage site, everything from gravel to plantation needed prior approval.

BELOW: The resort's massive infinity-edge swimming pool—92 feet long—enjoys incomparable views of the Mediterranean Sea.

150 staff, 90% local. They’re dressed casually, by Rialto Living, and, like those who fly his airline or stay in his other properties, say in Chicago or inland from Marrakech, there’s a feeling ‘our Richard’ may arrive at any moment. Does it all make business sense? Obviously marketing budgets are minimal, and good financial control has allowed Son Bunyola to be built locally, cutting back on imported materials. Day-to-day ops appear to be generous—free workouts and wine tastings but room rates are highest in Mallorca. The weekend of 1st November, when many competitors have closed for the winter despite high-spending tourists still coming in seemingly full force, sees Son Bunyola charging €1,500 a night. Breakfast extra.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Many of the rooms have original wooden rafters; Richard Branson; the courtyard of the upscale hotel.

In the tranquil eastern Himalayas or amidst the cultural grandeur of Kolkata, the Kutir hotels by Ambuja Neotia Group redefine luxury through an exquisite blend of art, heritage, and nature. At the heart of this vision is HARSHAVARDHAN NEOTIA , Chairman, Ambuja Neotia whose deep-rooted sensibilities, entrepreneurial zeal, and passion for aesthetics have shaped eastern India’s luxury hospitality segment. In an exclusive chat with SOH , Harshavardhan Neotia explains how art and architecture combine to make his hotels distinctive.

SUMAN TARAFDAR

REIMAGINING THE

EAST

CREATIVE DIRECTOR TANVI SHAH PHOTOGRAPHED BY KUNAL GUPTA

A visit to any of the ‘Kutir’ hotels is indelible. Whether it is the interplay of bamboo, timber, and stones at Taj Chia Kutir, Darjeeling, or rhododendrons and design-centric hubs at Taj Guras Kutir, the urban resort that is Taj Taal Kutir, or even Raajkutir Kolkata – IHCL SeleQtions, homage to the grandeur of palaces of Kolkata that allows you stay in a modern rajbari. All are operating as IHCL hotels, and a stay in each is unforgettable and exceptional.

And this is not by accident. The sensibilities and passions of Harshavardhan Neotia, Chairman, Ambuja Neotia have coincided with his entrepreneurship and values to create these extraordinary getaways. And happily, for enthusiasts of heritage and art reflecting in hospitality, there are more ‘kutirs’ in the offing, including the Vanya Kutir in Lataguri, in the Dooars, home to the Gorumara National Park and a verdant landscape by the Teesta river; Sagar Kutir in Digha, an unexplored seaside destination; Himal Kutir in Darjeeling; Sunder Kutir in Sunderbans; and the under-renovation Taj Ganga Kutir at Raichak.

Today the Kolkata-based ₹10,000 crore Ambuja Neotia Group is spread over four major verticals. While real estate forms the largest segment in terms of revenue, the group is also growing rapidly in health, education and, of course, hospitality. Heir to the Ambuja Cement empire, 1961-born Neotia’s journey, too, forayed through the traditional family business, till the family exited the cement space in 2005-06. Though he had done an odd early project in real estate, he almost had to start afresh. “When I was 21 years old, I started (my real estate journey with) a small residential building. It just so happened that a father's friend had a small property and he was not able to sell it. And, in one of our conversations, he mentioned that if we make apartments on the land, we might be able to monetise it. Serendipitously, I happened to be sitting there, so my father said, ‘Why don't you do it?’ That, somehow, started me on this journey.”

A significant stint in cement later, the return to an arena he was more comfortable with was, perhaps, fated.

The foray into hospitality

“When the family decided to divest our cement business in 2006, I had an opportunity to focus back on real estate,” recollects Neotia. “At the time I thought, let’s also do hospitality. Before that, I had built one hotel, which is at Raichak, and it brought (me) great pleasure and excitement. It didn’t do so well financially, because I think we overbuilt and overinvested.

An Art Deco theme entwines with the vibrance of a modern city at Taj Taal Kutir, New Town, Kolkata.

The

creative experience that I had was very rewarding. It kind of kindled an interest to look at hospitality more seriously. So, in my second innings, I refocused on real estate and hospitality."

“Nevertheless, the creative experience that I had was very rewarding. It kind of kindled an interest to look at hospitality more seriously. So, in my second innings, I refocused on real estate and hospitality. I was familiar with the eastern part of India since I lived in Calcutta (Kolkata), and I was fascinated by the mountains, especially the eastern Himalayas. So we went around scouting for property there.”

The first hotel opened in 2020 and it has been a long journey. “It was many, many years of thinking, planning, buying the land, getting the documentation done. In these remote locations, the regulatory issues were quite challenging. Initially, we wanted to focus on boutique luxury hospitality, but we couldn't find the right operating partner to join us.”

The partnership with IHCL can be attributed to serendipity again. “We were able to catch IHCL’s attention and get them interested in our development. It has been a great partnership, something that we respect and cherish. Not just because they are incredible as a hospitality brand, but the House of Tatas has a legacy of trust and ethical business practices, all of which we deeply resonate with. We have now seven hotels with them and god willing, a lot more are to follow.”

Of course, the eastern region has lagged behind most other parts of the country economically, and that is reflected in the hospitality sector as well. Kolkata, Bengal and pretty much the entire eastern region are currently not at par with the rest of the

country in terms of ARRs or RevPar, admits Neotia. “There was probably a period when the supply was high. The demand is picking up. International traffic has generally been low. We did receive a lot of guests from Bangladesh, but not from the Western world. I think that's gradually changing. So, we should soon get to the point where the other cities are right now. Of course, Kolkata is a cheaper city than Mumbai and Delhi. Sure, the prices will be a lot lower than those in the other metros, but I think the gap is narrowing. Kolkata may be reasonably well served by many brands, but if you look at West Bengal in general, and particularly the tourist destinations, there are very few branded hotels outside the city.”

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Taj City Centre New Town showcases an excellent collection of art; art and the artisanal touch at the banquet area of Taj City Centre Patna; the evening ritual at Raajkutir, KolkataIHCL SeleQtions.

Neotia believes that India has barely scratched the surface of the vast potential of the hospitality sector in India. “Looking at our geographical spread, our ancient history, and the archaeological sites we have, the flora and fauna, the beauty, the culture, the diversity, I think there is a lot of built and natural heritage that speaks for us. Yet, India has not attracted that many travellers.”

Just to look at his hospitality arm: The Ambuja Neotia Group owns more than 750 keys across its portfolio, and another 500 keys are being added on. In a bid to expand their portfolio, last year, the Ambuja Neotia Group acquired the luxury boutique Tree of Life hotels for an undisclosed amount. This year, IHCL acquired a majority stake in the Tree of Life business.

The many convergences

When it comes to the macro picture, many stars have aligned to ensure that we may be living in the golden era of hospitality and tourism in India.

The Indian government has been building a road and highway network at a speed never seen before, one of its major achievements, which has helped the hospitality and tourism industries. “The government's focus on infrastructure has made several remote locations more accessible. It’s not just roadways, but also new airports and trains,” says Neotia.

The government’s renewed focus on hospitality and tourism sectors has also played a crucial role. The other significant reason, in Neotia’s narrative, is the elevated global standing that India enjoys today. “That has significantly added to the allure of the country, the fact that people want to visit us.” The third, he says, is the rise in disposable income of many of our countrymen, particularly in the upper or uppermiddle-class segments. “Their willingness to spend on travel has increased.

“So many of these factors have aided us (in the hospitality sector), and we are really grateful for it. Tourism and hospitality industries are great employment generators not just for the people who are well educated, but even for those who have not had the opportunity to study much. This employment is crucial when it comes to India’s economic development.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The lounge at Taj Taal Kutir illustrates the hotel's overarching Art Deco theme; located near the Kolkata airport, the Taj City Centre New Town is an oasis of urban hospitality; sophistication meets cosiness at Taj Chia Kutir; the leisure hotels of the group, such as Raajkutir, are particularly noteworthy for their interiors

SPIRITUAL SELF

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Even the quickest glance at the shelves lining his libraries indicates his considerable interest in Indian philosophy. They hold Vedantic books on Upanishads, Puranas and Vedanta.

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“We often confuse religion and spirituality,” points out Neotia. “Religion is a doctrine that people follow as a part of a ritual practice of a certain religion. Spirituality, as I understand it, offers you some insight into how life works. At a fundamental level, life is a continuum. Hindus believe that our life today is a continuum of a past life, and it will continue in the future. Then there is that other strong belief in the philosophy of karma, or every action has an equal and opposite reaction. As you will sow, so shall you reap, if not in this life then the next. We believe that the benefits and/ or troubles you face in this life are the consequence of actions in a past life. Now, we can of course wonder if this is true, but I can't think of any other reason why people would be born unequal. I can't think of any other reason why even a two-year-old child is molested. What crime could someone have committed at that age? There are many unexplained things. And the only way you can derive some kind of logic from this apparent madness is the belief that this must be a part of a larger karmic cycle, all of which we can't see or fathom. I think karma is a fundamental aspect of life.”



He admits that beliefs like these aren’t easy to balance with the demands of modern life. “It's not to say that we haven't transgressed or we don't transgress, but we should be conscious that when we transgress, there will be consequences.”

My artistic sensibility is intrinsically part of my nature and my hotels are an expression of that sensibility. A lot of that sensibility developed through my experiences as a child being brought up in a family that loved art."

Future tidings

At the moment, the growth of the Ambuja Neotia Group’s ₹1,500 crore hospitality vertical, Neotia affirms, is focussed around the eastern region for the time being, though the recent purchase of the Tree of Life has ensured presence in north and west India. “In future, we may add opportunities in the religious and spiritual segment, as well as high tourist footfalltourist regions such as Goa, Pondicherry and Coorg,” says Neotia.

When it comes to owned properties and developing new greenfield properties, the Ambuja Neotia group is presently focused mostly in the east. There are eight projects under construction and there are eight more at various stages of planning/signing/ designing. The total investment would be in the range of ₹1,600 to ₹1,800 crore. “We have seven projects signed up with IHCL, but we have another five under development. As and when they are ready to be presented to our preferred partners, IHCL, we will be doing so. For any reason a particular project doesn't fit their scheme of things or the property is next to another IHCL property, we would opt for some other brand.”

Neotia reveals that the share of the company’s revenues from hospitality was in the range of 10% till 2020, and has moved up to 25% of the group’s revenue in 2024. Ambuja Neotia’s hospitality arm is involved in a joint development with the Apeejay Group, led by the indomitable Priya Paul, to construct a Park hotel as well as apartments. This is a collaboration worth watching out for. Paul and Neotia are equally rooted in Kolkata’s culture and art but have a very different design sensibility. While Neotia’s is luxurious and artinfused, Paul’s is contemporary and restrained.

Eye on art

Neotia’s aforementioned leisure hotels are steeped in art, and it is worth budgeting extra hours just to take in the architecture and design during a stay. His hotels are resonant with constant references to the Bengal’s vibrant culture and aesthetics and reflect his sensibilities.

“This artistic sensibility is intrinsically part of my nature and my hotels are an expression of that sensibility,” muses Neotia, almost reluctant about praising his inputs in the hotels. “A lot of that sensibility developed through my experiences as a

Taj Raajkutir brings alive the grandeur of Kolkata's raj baris

child being brought up in a family that loved art. I don't think I have done much except express those childhood impressions by choosing (the right kind of) art and presenting it in a particular manner. Of course, we are conscious that there’s a context and place and are careful about how we can incorporate some of that into the experience.

Every one of his hotels is set into the cultural and geographical context of the destination, “particularly those in destination that enjoy bountiful nature… mountains, rivers, and jungles. Our attempt is always to do a silent hotel or a hotel that isn’t in conflict with the outside world. We are conscious that luxury travel needs a certain level of creature comforts. We also try to make the interior somewhat pleasant and nice though understated, because we want people to focus on the outside. I often say that when we make these hotels, the deity is outside, whether it's the mountain, river or jungle. We are sitting in our sort of safe cocoon, amidst the beauty of nature. So, we need this space to be comfortable but silent, not distracting us from enjoying the beauty outside that God has created.”

From an entrepreneurial perspective, art has been more of a passion than an aspect to be monetised, he says. “I may, at best, have a developed eye for aesthetics that lets me discern what art would look good in which location. We want to offer opportunities to young artists. Except for iconic one or two art

Spaces at Taj Taal Kutir capture the glamour and sophistication reminiscent of the 1930s golden age.

Taj Chia Kutir: a haven of breathtaking views, nestled within the historic Makaibari Tea Estate.

AMBUJA NEOTIA GROUP: AT A GLANCE

Education

A personal area of interest for Neotia, the group now has the Neotia University, and Neotia Skill Development Academy, which empowers individuals with essential skills to join the modern workforce through targeted training programmes and industry partnerships. The CII-Suresh Neotia Centre of Excellence for Leadership serves as a facilitator for the development of leaders, thereby promoting economic and industrial growth in India and, especially, the eastern region.

Hospitality

The group is increasingly becoming known for its hospitality offerings, which include about 10 hotels in eastern India and many more in the pipeline. Additionally, the recent acquisition of Tree of Life added about 14 hotels (now expanded to 18 hotels) in northern India, the majority stake in which has now been acquired by IHCL, which is looking at scaling up the number to 100 properties by 2030. Then there are several restaurants, including Uno, Sonar Tori, The Orient, Afraa and Bombastic. QSR format outlets include Loafer’s Café, Tiffin and Tea Junction. The group also has many clubs and banquet spaces.

Health

The group has a distinctive presence in the healthcare segment, especially in Kolkata. Under Ambuja Neotia Healthcare Venture Limited, there are hospitals, diagnostic centres, clinics and mother and child centres. They are now expanding fast by adding 1,500 beds with an investment of ₹1,700 crore over the next four to five years in Bengal, Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Assam.

From residential complexes and leisure homes to entire townships, the group is a leading name in the real estate sector in the state. Neotia followed up the success of his real estate project, Udayan, in Kolkata with Ulhas in Bardhaman, Urvashi in Durgapur, Utsa and Ujjwala in New Town, Kolkata, and Uttorayon in Siliguri, amongst others. Business parks such as Ecospace, Ecocentre and Ecostation have further cemented the presence of the group as an enviable creator of real estate properties. The inauguration of City Centre Salt Lake marked the group's entry into the retail sector, under the brand City Centre. This expansion included the well-appreciated City Centres in New Town, Haldia, Siliguri, Raipur, and, most recently, Patna.

CITY. STATE. COUNTRY.

 My first introduction to Neotia was not through any of his businesses but rather through a musical initiative. Jaya Hey, an audio and visual tribute to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore on his 150th birth anniversary, featured 39 leading musicians of the country, including names such as Pandit Jasraj, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Girija Devi rendering the national anthem that ensured simultaneous goosebumps and welling of the eyes. Harshavardhan Neotia himself recited the English translation with a gravitas providing a glimpse into his values even to those who have never met him. The anthem was updated in 2022 for the 75th anniversary of India’s independence, with a matching number of performers.

 Neotia, who was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 for his work in social housing— reflective again of his values—has been known for his deep and very personal involvement with Kolkata, his karmabhumi. He, along with his wife, Madhu, have contributed to enriching the cultural life of the city. Describing his relationship with the city, he says, “It's an emotive issue. Like your mother, the motherland is a very important part (of your identity). Of course, in a larger sense, we look at the country as the motherland, but in a more regional sense, you look at the place you were born in as your motherland.”

 He admits that he loves living in Kolkata and immerses himself in the city’s unique rhythms. “Fortunately, my city gave me some opportunities early in life, and I was able to build on that and live here. I love living here as I love the people in this city. I loved my childhood. I was able to find enough work to justify being here. I know many of my friends have moved on to other places, and they often have cited lack of opportunity.”

 The Neotias reside in a house, well, a compound of three dwellings—they are a joint family still—in Ballygunge that amply reflects the bhadralok culture of the city. Those who have been to the house speak of a plethora of art (five generations of the family have been collecting art, so it is now a considerable collection), an amply stocked library, baithak for frequent musical soirees, impeccable décor—an overall impression of refinement that brings in the culture of the region—layers of Bengal (well, Kolkata’s) refinement over Marwar’s entrepreneurial traditions. His office, too, where we are meeting, has an eclectic collection of art in several mediums, while the corridors are generously lined with shelves of books.

 A huge influence on him has been the river Ganga. “Not only because of its sacred relevance to us but also because something about the river and something about boats plying on the river is so therapeutic, so beautiful. The Ganga flowing through Raichak is wide and beautiful. It never fails to enchant me, surprise me, and make me fall in love with it every time I visit there. I have a small home on the river, which is my little space to escape to once in a while.”

“

Fortunately, my city gave me some opportunities early in life, and I was able to build on that and live here. I love living here as I love the people in this city."

pieces, most of the artists we buy are younger, aspiring ones. We just pick up works that seem aesthetically nice.”

Ancestral influences

A lot of his sensibilities towards various cultural aspects, art and nature stems from his upbringing. The Neotias migrated to Kolkata more than a century ago but ensured that their roots in the local culture go deeper than that of an average migrant. “If I look back, when I was being exposed to all these experiences and interactions as a young man, I resisted it because I was more interested in spending time with my friends. But I was the only son in a joint family with three sets of

parents (my father had two older brothers, and we all stayed together). So, I had to be around when guests visited our home. Most times, I would be annoyed at the idea of being pulled away from my friends. But, in those days, you could never say no to your parents.”

These childhood impressions, experiences, learnings, and interactions have helped engender a rich imagination and create a tapestry of ideas. “They occasionally find expression in some way. I don’t make a conscious attempt to be different. My attempt is to leverage these early life experiences to create what naturally feels right at a given point in time. Of course, like everybody else, I have made enough mistakes, which I regret. Thankfully, the mistakes are fewer than the things I got right.”

Values and influences

His greatest influence, Neotia says, is his family. “When I say my family, I include my wife and children. They may not have influenced me like the people we consider icons would, but they think differently. We are an argumentative family,” he wryly smiles.

Taj Ganga Kutir is a heriatge property with beautiful vistas of the river.

“My parents have been a very important (influence). Not just my immediate parents, but my uncles and the larger family, particularly my grandparents. Early in life, I was quite drawn to spirituality thanks to my great grandfather who influenced me in my teen years. My exposure to the writings of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo and Mahatma Gandhi has played a role, too. I had the chance to extensively read their writings when I was in my early 20s, and I continue to read them today. They have shaped my perspective about life and the world.”

Then there are influences of the business success stories. Walt Disney, for instance, has inspired Neotia. “I admired the way he created his company. Back home, the legendary success of the Tata group, the Birlas, and the Ambanis have helped shape my thinking.” He notes the outpouring of grief from Indians on Ratan Tata’s death. “It was because of the legacy of trust that he built. Not so much necessarily for all the various products that he produced, but for the way he ran that institution. That code of ethics stands as an inspiration to all of us.”

Neotia’s interest in real estate has led him to work with several legendary architects. “Among the first architects I worked with was a relatively unknown Shri Ashok Nayak. He was instrumental in holding my hand and teaching me the basics of architecture.

“

You can be somewhat lazy and manage life, but you can't really get away from having success without having integrity. People must trust you, whether it's your colleagues, your family, your customers, or your shareholders."

Prabir Mitra, a celebrated architect from Kolkata, was a very important influence in my life. He loved me like a son and taught me a lot. And then I had the chance to work with Balkrishna Doshi (popularly referred to as B.V Doshi), who became a lifelong mentor and father figure. He remained one of the greatest influences on my life till the last days. I had a fantastic opportunity to work with Charles Correa. I saw the genius at work from close quarters. The younger architects I work with now are all fantastic people, and I learn from them too. We have a lot of fights on projects that we do together, but I think it's important to have that kind of intense dialogue. From those dialogues, hopefully, emerge better products.”

Unsurprisingly, the values Neotia prioritises most are integrity and trust. “You can be somewhat lazy and manage life, but you can't really get away from having success without having integrity.

People must trust you, whether it's your colleagues, your family, your customers, or your shareholders. At the end of the day, that's the currency that is most difficult to create, easy to destroy and very important to nurture.”

Unsurprisingly also, Neotia is a voracious reader and has been one his entire life. “I'm a bibliophile. My eyesight is causing some stress if I read too long, and it bothers me. It is disappointing that I can't read as much as I want to. Fortunately, you have a lot of content available digitally in audio. So my content consumption is not less than two to three hours a day, sometimes on YouTube or podcasts. Getting serious content every day is an important part of my life. Maybe a part of it is news. A lot of it includes chats and talks.”

Neotia’s rare combination of values and leadership has ensured that his group is not just eastern India’s leading real estate player, but is setting benchmarks in the hospitality market. His might yet be the most transformative role in raising the profile of Kolkata and the eastern region.

ABOVE: Inspired by the rhododendrons or guras that grow in abundance, Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa, Gangtok, pays ode to local design and culture. BELOW: Raajkutir's rich interiors transport you to Bengal's colonial past.

HIGHWAY

HAVENS

India's expressway resorts and highway hotels are emerging as hotspots for road trippers, wedding parties, and corporate conferences seeking off-the-grid destinations and unconventional venues.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

Back in 1986, when destination resorts weren’t really a thing, Neemrana, founded by the very innovative and audacious hoteliers Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg, bought a dilapidated 15th-century fort palace about 10kms. from the Delhi-Jaipur highway, restored it painstakingly, and created what is considered India’s first resort within driving distance of two cities.

It has taken almost 38 years for Indian hoteliers to realise the inherent potential offered by India's ambitious highway expansion, which is not only connecting the country but also giving rise to a new breed of hospitality experience: the highway hotels and leisure resorts. (see Box: In Numbers for more information)

Redefining the highway hotel and expressway resorts

For travellers, this is good news as they can soon hope to find luxurious and premium accommodations, diverse amenities, and offbeat experiences just off the tarmac. “The expressway networks have linked many cities, from Delhi to Hyderabad, Chennai to Bengaluru, with beautiful locations nearby. You don’t need to catch a flight, which anyway has become very expensive due to rising fossil fuel costs. Put your kids and dog into a car, and drive down to any of these resorts. It is convenient because you are still close to home, and yet not in town,” says Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, who has been championing the cause of highway hotels for over 20 years.

India continues to construct about 1,000 to 2,000kms. of road network every month, which amounts to 12,000 to 15,000kms. every year. Manav Thadani, Founder-Chairman, Hotelivate, says they have been observing a shift in demand for hotels along highways, a segment once associated with basic amenities and convenience rather than sophistication. “Out of the 100 feasibility studies we typically conduct in a year, around 15-20% now fall into what we might term ‘highway hotels.’ A decade ago, we saw three to four feasibility studies for hotels on what are now regarded as highways; today, that figure has grown to 15 to 20.”

Major hotel groups seem keen on exploring these locations, though they often avoid the term ‘highway hotel,’ which traditionally evokes images of basic roadside stops like dhabas. “Many hospitality groups are already leveraging the potential offered by the Sohana Elevated Corridor and the Dwarka Expressway. Taj has just signed up a property there, and so has Marriott and Hilton,” he adds. With improved connectivity and ongoing infrastructure projects—such as the Dehradun Expressway that will

reduce travel time to Delhi to just 2.5 hours—road travel is becoming more appealing.

Thadani talks about a young hotelier developing a unique sports resort near Neemrana on the DelhiJaipur highway. “It will be a vibrant, youth-oriented hotel featuring an array of sporting activities, designed to appeal to a younger, active crowd. In addition to these recreational offerings, the resort will also serve as a venue for weddings, blending adventure with celebration,” he says.

Two distinct segments

Bakaya says that the highway and road network presents a massive opportunity in two very distinct segments: the luxury resorts targeted towards leisureseeking destination vacationers and road trippers, as well as destination weddings, and the functional highway hotels and motels, catering to road trippers who want a clean, hygienic, safe hotel to stop over in the night while on a road journey.

Highway hotels: A more sophisticated version of traditional properties, they cater to guests seeking affordable, efficient accommodations without compromising on comfort. The target audience: either business travellers on a cross-country, or those journeying long distances who need convenient, reliable places to stay, besides destination weddings and MICE events.

Bakaya contends, “City hotels are expensive, and will continue to get more expensive as the economy grows. If someone, for example, lives in Jaipur and is travelling to Gurgaon for work, he or she may opt to stay at a premium highway hotel a little distance from Gurgaon at much cheaper rates, than in the city itself. The only criteria they would have: the presence of essential amenities such as clean rooms, good dining options, and quick service at a reasonable price point.”

He remembers how Reliance's foray into highway motels, a concept with much potential in India, had to be abandoned a few years ago, as the

AJAY BAKAYA

MANAGING DIRECTOR, SAROVAR HOTELS & RESORTS

“The highway and road network presents a massive opportunity in two very distinct segments: the luxury resorts targeted towards leisureseeking destination vacationers and road trippers, as well as destination weddings, and the functional highway hotels and motels, catering to road trippers who want a clean, hygienic, safe hotel to stop over in the night while on a road journey.”

built properties along highways and expressways. These ground-plus-one structures will feature comfortable rooms with modern accommodations, EV charging stations, highway dhaba restaurants, retail partnerships, ATMs, paid parking, car wash facilities, and banquet spaces.

Luxury leisure and destination resorts: Historically, the term ‘highway hotel’ has evoked images of barebones roadside stops meant primarily for short overnight stays. Yet, India’s new leisure resorts are breaking away from this stereotype. Modern establishments such as Fairmont Jaipur and The Leela Palace Jaipur, located along the bustling Delhi-Jaipur highway, epitomise this change.

idea was far ahead of its time. SOH’s research throws up quite a few reasons why this ambitious project seems to have stalled: acquiring suitable land parcels along highways in India was a complex and lengthy process, often involving multiple stakeholders and regulatory hurdles. And the highways were few and far in between, and often of bad quality.

That’s the story of the past as India rapidly creates a national highway and expressway network of higher quality, and states continue to ease land acquisition processes. TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts has already announced the setting up of a new vertical, hi-way MOTELS, to offer conveniently located, modular-

As brands seize these opportunities, Thadani underscores the importance of clear terminology in defining the leisure market’s appeal. “Instead of ‘highway hotels,’ a term like ‘expressway resorts’ better reflects the modern, upscale nature of these properties and their ability to offer a full spectrum of hospitality experiences."

Leisure destination resorts along the expressways are at the other end of the spectrum from functional highway hotels. “They offer luxury accommodations, sophisticated dining, and curated experiences,

rivalling premium hotels within city limits and making expressway resorts a destination in their own right,” says Bakaya. “Such resorts appeal to families, corporate groups, and wedding parties looking for immersive, extended stays and a range of experiences.”

He believes that there is higher potential in the leisure resorts segment than the functional highway hotels one. “It is a very low-risk segment. Land costs are cheaper, particularly if you are five or 10kms. away from the highway, in a country or village atmosphere.” His advice to developers: look at a 100-key property (not more), spread out over a large acreage, with an abundance of natural beauty to attract the discerning, elite traveller.

Navigating the challenges

Creating successful expressway resorts entails overcoming several challenges:

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Location is Key: Easy accessibility, proximity to attractions, and scenic landscapes are crucial for attracting guests.

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Amenities Matter: Developers must tailor amenities to their target audience, whether it's family-friendly facilities, business centres, or adventure activities.

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Safety and Security: Bakaya says the biggest challenge would be ensuring the safety of guests, especially solo travellers and families in more isolated locations. “The fire and safety measures created would have to be of top-notch quality,” he contends. “Also, resorts and hotels will have to shut their gates after a particular time, say by 9 at night, and allow only guests who have pre-booked.”

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Land Acquisition: This could continue to be a challenge, particularly since land acquisition is a state subject and cannot be governed by a central policy. “A lot of the land in the countryside comes under agricultural land categorisation and the process to convert it into non-agricultural land is a lengthy process,” says Bakaya.

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Consistent Quality: Providing consistent service and amenities across properties that may be remote or far from urban centres requires a rigorous approach to quality control and operational efficiency, believes Thadani.



Talent Retention: Hiring and retaining skilled staff in less populated regions can be difficult. “To attract talent, leisure and luxury resorts will have to offer competitive wages, housing, and additional benefits,” says Bakaya.

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A Bit of Romance: While functional hotels can operate in any safe and secure destination along the expressways and highways, a destination resort requires the location wrapped in a bit of romance and nostalgia. “The location for such a resort has to be chosen carefully so you can build a narrative and story around it. It should also abound in natural resources. Just having good amenities within the resort will not work,” says Bakaya.

MANAV THADANI

FOUNDER CHAIRMAN, HOTELIVATE

“As brands seize these opportunities, it is important to understand the right terminology to use in defining the leisure market’s appeal. Instead of ‘highway hotels,’ a term like ‘expressway resorts’ better reflects the modern, upscale nature of these properties and their ability to offer a full spectrum of hospitality experiences.”

Luxury resorts close to Expressways

In India, several luxurious resorts near highways and expressways already offer easy access and convenience for road travellers, ideal for short getaways and relaxing retreats. Among the notable:

Venture off the Delhi-Jaipur highway (NH8) and journey 10km. into the heart of the Aravalli range, where a heritage fort, carved into the ancient rock, awaits. The resort blends historic charm with modern luxury and is known for its grand architecture and scenic views.

Neemrana Fort Palace

Treehouse Resort, Jaipur

A two-hour drive from Jaipur brings you to Treehouse Resort, which integrates treehouses or wooden cottages with luxury comforts, surrounded by views of the Aravalli Mountains.

The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa

Veer off the GurgaonSohna Road in Haryana, and you stumble across this spa oasis with a countryside ambience. It offers a spa, wellness programs, and lush surroundings.

The Leela Palace Jaipur

Evocative of Jaipur’s regal design language, with chattris, domes and arches, The Leela Palace Jaipur is 11 miles or 18km. from the City Palace, and is known as a stellar destination resort close to NH52. It's designed to resemble a traditional royal mahal (palace), with grand courtyards, intricate details, and sprawling gardens.

The Gateway Resort Damdama Lake, Gurgaon Also close to the Gurgaon-Sohna road, this IHCL resort offers lakeside views and adventure activities, making it ideal for families and groups seeking an active yet relaxing weekend retreat close to Delhi

Mapping India's Expressway Boom

Delhi–Mumbai Expressway:

The longest expressway in India at 1,386kms., connecting Delhi to Mumbai, will reduce travel time to 12 hours. It will cross key states of Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, unlocking economic potential across these regions.

Mumbai–Pune Expressway: India's first expressway, covering 94.5kms., is a vital route linking Mumbai and Pune, bolstering connectivity between Maharashtra's two major cities.

Purvl Expresswanchaay: Spanning 340kms., it connects Lucknow to Ghazipur, facilitating access to eastern Uttar Pradesh and connecting with northern India's economic corridors.

Ganga Expressway: Set to span 594kms. upon completion, linking Meerut with Prayagraj, and enhancing connectivity to industrial and agricultural areas across Uttar Pradesh.

Bengaluru–Chennai Expressway: A 262kms. route, it strengthens connectivity between two tech and industrial hubs in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu,

supporting trade, tourism, and commuter flow.

Agra–Lucknow Expressway: This 302km. long expressway has cut travel time within Uttar Pradesh, forming part of a network facilitating rapid transit and regional economic growth.

Delhi–Meerut Expressway: Reduces travel time between Delhi and Meerut, promoting development within the National Capital Region (NCR) and easing congestion across northern routes.

Mumbai–Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg: The 701km. expressway long that not only reduces travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur but also enhances economic opportunities in Maharashtra’s interiors.

Bundelkhand Expressway: This 296km. route links Bundelkhand to the Agra–Lucknow Expressway, improving access to this historically underdeveloped region and boosting regional growth.

Northeast Connectivity Projects: Over 9,900kms. of new highways across Assam, Meghalaya, and other northeastern states are transforming regional accessibility, essential for economic and tourism development.

Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway: At 610kms., network strengthens links between eastern and northern regions, aiding trade and tourism.

Hyderabad–Visakhapatnam Expressway: Stretching over 597kms., it will enhance connectivity and growth between key cities in southern India.

Dehradun Expressway: The 201km. long expressway reduces travel time, encouraging tourism to the Himalayan foothills.

Surat–Nashik–Solapur Expressway: The 420km. long expressway connects industrial and agricultural centres in the western region.

Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Expressway: Spread over 670kms., it will support tourism and pilgrimage routes to religious sites in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.

Kanpur–Lucknow Expressway: The 63km. long expressway provides rapid transit between two key cities in Uttar Pradesh.

Amritsar–Bathinda–Jamnagar Expressway: One of the longest expressways in India, sprawling over 1200km., it will connect the northern regions with the western coast, expanding trade routes.

Eastern Peripheral Expressway and Dwarka Expressway in Delhi play crucial roles in diverting traffic, reducing congestion, and supporting urban development with modern infrastructure. These highways are critical for India’s economic expansion, providing strategic connections across remote areas and major economic zones.

FAST FACTS

India's Road Network Fuels Hospitality Growth

India's road network is undergoing a massive expansion, fuelling a boom in the highway hotel sector.

As of December 2023, the country boasted over 150,000km. of national highways and 186,528km. of state highways. Furthermore, the expressway network is rapidly growing, with 5,930km. operational and another 11,127km. under construction. This translates to more controlledaccess highways with 120 km/h speed limits, facilitating faster and more efficient travel.

This trend contributes to the expansion of India's overall hospitality market, valued at $26.6 billion in 2023 and projected to grow at a 5% CAGR through 2032. The highway hotel segment, encompassing branded and independent properties, is capitalising on this growth through strategic investments and government initiatives such as the Swadesh Darshan scheme, which aims to enhance tourism infrastructure along popular routes.

How the government can help

Although tourism and land acquisition are primarily governed at the state level, government policies play a crucial role in supporting the expressway resort market. “Streamlined approval processes, incentives for developers, and improvements in the surrounding infrastructure are vital to encouraging investment and the sustainable growth of this sector,” contends Bakaya.

From an investor's perspective, securing swift and efficient approvals for projects is paramount. Unfortunately, the current reality in many places is a bureaucratic labyrinth where approvals languish, entangled in red tape and questionable practices. This ‘pain point’ significantly hinders investment. Many states boast of single-window clearance systems, but the reality often falls short of the promise. To address

For developers, a few critical considerations would be:



Strategic Location: Sites that offer easy access, proximity to scenic spots or attractions, and good visibility from major highways are ideal.



Tailored Amenities: Developers should adapt amenities to suit the preferences of their target clientele, whether that’s providing family-oriented facilities, business centres, or recreational options.



Brand Partnerships: Collaborating with established brands can lend credibility and attract guests who seek trusted hospitality experiences.



Technology Integration: Using digital solutions like contactless check-ins and online booking systems can enhance guest convenience and streamline operations, especially for a techsavvy clientele.

this, a streamlined, transparent, and time-bound approval process is crucial, says Bakaya. He proposes:



Centralised Digital Portal: Establish a government agency portal where investors can submit all necessary documentation online. This portal should provide clear guidelines on required documents and offer a standardised format for submission.



Time-Bound Approvals: Implement a strict timeline for processing applications. “If no response is received within a specified period (e.g., two to four weeks), the application should be automatically deemed approved. This would

The Indian Ministry of Tourism has introduced a voluntary scheme to support and elevate motel projects, which sets standards for facilities and services, and brings consistency across the growing motel sector in India. Under this scheme, motels can seek approval from the HRACC, which evaluates projects against a set of established criteria.

inject much-needed efficiency and predictability into the process,” he says.



Financial Incentives: States such as Odisha and Tamil Nadu are leading the way with attractive financial incentives. Odisha offers up to a 30% capital subsidy, while Tamil Nadu provides capital subsidies and even covers employment costs for two years. “Such incentives can be powerful catalysts for attracting investment, especially in new and innovative sectors.”



Sector-Specific Incentives: Rajasthan's offer of industrial electricity rates is a good example of a sectorspecific incentive. “Tailoring incentives to the needs of specific industries can further encourage investment in those sectors,” says Bakaya.

By adopting these measures, states can create a more investor-friendly environment, attract significant capital, and foster economic growth. The proactive approach of states like Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan demonstrates the potential benefits of such policies. As more states witness the positive impact, others are likely to follow suit, creating a competitive and conducive investment landscape across the country.

The Indian Ministry of Tourism, from its end, has introduced a voluntary scheme to support and elevate motel projects, which sets standards for facilities and services, and brings consistency across the growing motel sector in India. Under this scheme, motels can seek approval from the Hotel & Restaurant Approval & Classification Committee (HRACC), which evaluates

projects against a set of established criteria. The approval process offers flexibility: motels may apply at the project stage—based on plans and documentation— or once they are operational if they meet the committee’s standards.

Once approved at the project stage, motels receive a five-year validity on their certification, though it ends either three months before expiration or when the motel opens for business, whichever comes first. Applications must include information on key areas such as motel amenities, the background of promoters, site details, project specifications (like room features, accessibility, and eco-friendly initiatives), and architectural designs. With this scheme, the Ministry aims to foster a higher standard of service and infrastructure in motels nationwide, ultimately enhancing the experience for India’s roadtravelling public.

Navigating the future

As India’s highway network continues to grow and traveller preferences evolve, highway hotels and leisure resorts are poised for significant expansion. The expansion of road infrastructure in regions like the Himalayas and the Northeast signals future growth, transforming once remote locations into accessible destinations, says Thadani. “While wellness tourism has seen moderate growth post-COVID, weddings remain a consistent demand driver, filling hotels for up to 100 days annually.” By understanding the unique needs of road travellers, destination seekers, and the wedding market, and crafting memorable experiences around these, expressway resorts and highway hotels can redefine hospitality along India’s highways.

OPPOSITE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Ranveer Brar in the markets of Finland; Lucknow's gentle culture is seen in the softer flavours; Brar in the Himalayas; a serene Lapland landscape.

TO LAPLAND FROM LUCKNOW

HOW TRAVEL FLAVOURS CHEF RANVEER BRAR'S LIFE AND CUISINE

The taste of laal maas in Rajasthan, the joy of a simple laddoo shared with a village elder, and the unique flavours of a Tuscan trattoria are souvenirs Chef Ranveer Brar collects on his travels. Join him as he explores how food connects us to people, places, and cultures.

AS TOLD TO POOJA BHULA

I remember the travel itself as an early experience. The train journey, rhythm, changing views with fields and bridges, people we’d meet, food we’d share, food at different stations and the charm of getting back before the train moves. I'd feel alive, present. Every summer we’d go to Punjab to harvest wheat. After a point, you get fed up. So Dad’s travel allowance was good news, and every alternate year we would travel to different parts of the country. I vividly recall the trip down south with dad and his friends. We spent time in Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kochi…travelling all the way to Kanyakumari from Lucknow, like a hop-on, hop-off trip. It was also special being together as a family. Otherwise, in middle-class families, dad’s always working, and you hardly see him.

I had a semi-fauji upbringing. From age three to 10, I lived with my uncle, who was in the army. My parents considered it better for education. I'd go wherever he got transferred——to Jhansi, Devariya, Shamli, Dehradun, etc. I had a great time. It shaped me. Libraries, squash

courts, physical activities...I had access to resources for self-development that a regular middle-class kid wouldn’t normally have access to. Staying in different places also makes you fearless. I wasn't a people's person. I'm still an introvert, though it doesn't seem like that. Travelling made me appreciate people, develop empathy, and see the world differently. You’re more aware. Your friends, teachers, surroundings, weather, dialect, how people interact, everything changes...so you learn to adapt. I loved adapting.

Growing up in different places, I saw a connection between people’s nature and what they eat. Now, it’s up for debate whether the food shapes them or vice versa. In Lucknow, people are softer, say aap. The finesse is immediately visible in the softer flavours, biryani, double-minced kebabs, everything. Then come to Devariya near Bihar’s border. Primarily farmers, people there are good-hearted, but the culture is to say things as they are, and that reflects in the rawness of the original chokha cooked using mustard oil. The soft, ghee litti-chokha is a sheheri (city) thing. Many Indian cities and towns are deeply rooted in their culture, which reflect in their cuisines. Even in the little Tuscan village of Barbarino, slow-cooked roasts mirror the time people

Ranveer Brar loves the waterfront at Boston, where in lived for five years.

spend speaking to you. In contrast, global cities such as New York are so multicultural, that it's difficult to pinpoint what the city is. It’s a lot of things, a lot of times. So with every precinct, the vibe, hoardings, grocery shops and restaurants change; two blocks down, you may feel you’re in mini Greece.

What I pick up from New York and Paris

Live in New York once, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in Paris, but leave before it makes you a hopeless romantic. I merely did vocational courses to upgrade myself while living in Boston, but my three-year hospitality diploma is from Lucknow. When you’re out there making a living, (you meet) so many people fighting to make ends meet and stories of how people made it big, so your sphere of inspiration broadens. That makes you a better person.

Travelling for TV shows was difficult initially: You’re on a schedule, two days in Ahmedabad, then Hyderabad, and so on, whereas travelling for me meant soaking things in. But I started seeing it from a different lens. The same research,

E AT AROUND

WOR L D THE

RANVEER BRAR’S RESTAURANT GUIDE

Nolla, Helsinki: Zero-waste, seasonal flavours and local, organic products are this restaurant's hallmarks.

Noma, Copenhagen: The five-time no.1 winner of the World’s 50 Best Restaurant list, Rene Redzepi's Noma previously set to close in 2033 to now live on till spring 2025.

Attica, Melbourne: This innovative depiction of Australia's unique ingredients and culinary diversity, including 'the First People' is the jewel in the city's crown.

The Bombay Canteen, Mumbai: is celebrated not just for the food, but also its homage to India’s rich culinary heritage.

Indian Accent, Delhi: Chef Manish Mehrotra might have hung up his apron at the Indian Accent, but his legacy lives on.

Sonar Tori, Kolkata: Known for genuine Bengali cuisine, it offers diners a blend of lost, aristocratic recipes and rustic rural classics.

Le Procope, Paris: A living witness to Parisian history, this small cafe is where the likes of Voltaire and Rousseau frequented, and Napoleon made plans. Napoleon's hat's still there.

Dishoom, London: What they’ve done with Indian food is outstanding and inspiring. Dhishoom pays homage to Bombay’s Irani cafes and classic Bombay dishes.

Bungalow, New York: Chef Vikas Khanna's diner takes you through India’s 28 states, Indian clubhouses and other reimagined classics.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Noma, Copenhagen, the world's best restaurant will take its last bow in 2025; Nolla, Helsinki, pays special attention to sustainability; Chef Ranveer Brar inspects ingredients.

stories, people, conversations, eateries, and dishes I’d otherwise stumble upon gradually, were all coming to me easier, in a very concise way. I also realised that many people you meet during travel shows, you’ll definitely meet again and pick up from where you left off.

Some memories just get stamped: Like that of Shanti Devi, a widow we met outside Jodhpur in a Bishnoi village. She raised three kids to be doctors and lawyers just by cooking at an Anganwadi. When I asked her about her favourite thing to eat, she said the laddoos you get on 15th August and 26th January in school. She’s 68! Her joy and gratitude for something so simple was a very fulfilling thought.

Another is Surendraji of Vishala, an outdoor, vegetarian restaurant built around a temple on the outskirts of Ahmedabad. Meals are offered as prasad first. The setting and his spiritual outlook towards food are inspiring and helped me re-establish that relationship with food as a kid. Making meethe chawal at the Gurdwara for langars was my introduction to cooking. Sometimes you lose this when it becomes a profession; you get into the economics.

I’d never thought I’d settle in Bombay, I’d never worked here: Having lived largely in Lucknow and Delhi, I found Bombay (or Mumbai) cold and unnerving. Too ‘what’s in it for me’, and hence had reservations about how long I’d stay. I wanted to return to Delhi in the first six months. But the city just grew on me, and there’s no other place I’d rather be. Mumbai looks at people differently—at who they are and not what they have, getting work done and moving to the next thing. I hadn’t realised, I too had become businesslike and focused. Ten years in the US had changed me and readied me for Mumbai. Eventually, as they say, if you stay here for three monsoons, the city won’t let you go. That’s basically what happened.

How travelling influences my work as a chef: Eventually, chefmanship is expression. Al Pacino once said the most important thing in acting is learning your words. You learn them again, and again, so you can forget them. Cooking’s similar—you keep doing it till it’s an extension, an expression of you. So the richer my experiences and broader my sphere of thought and travel became, the better, and more thought-provoking my cooking became. These days, most of my menus, also Kashkan specials, are purely based on my travel memories—the black chicken I had in Meghalaya, the laal maas in Rajasthan, etc. Food in a restaurant, you realise, is very different from the original ecosystem. And that’s how it’s supposed to be. So I try to recreate that moment, memory, and feeling of eating there. I also want to promote great artisans and single-dish, multi-generational, legacy eateries I find on my travels. We’re trying to do that—with unique concepts,

mostly hyperlocal, sustainable and artisan-first—at Bengaluru International Airport, where I’m helping to set up restaurants and lounges for T2 airport.

Feeding the NRIs: I understand the NRI’s perspective, emotions and void they feel, and how food can fill them. That’s an exciting space I’ve tried working in the last few years. When it comes to working in other countries, every country comes with policy and regulation challenges. 80% are the same, 20% vary based on demographics, population, country or city. For me, it’s slightly easy because I cook Indian food and have lived abroad for 10plus years.

Travelling for movies is my escape from being Ranveer: For travel shows, I’m just Ranveer when the camera rolls. Being Ranveer all the time can be overwhelming. The challenging yet fun part of working in films is that you have to be somebody else. In Buckingham Murders, I'm Daljeet Kohli. So I see movies as an escape and travel to reset, and get into character. Before this movie, I went to Auroville for seven days—did my calorie part, ate local, and walked around in shorts all day. Nobody recognised me. It allows me to stop and observe, which has been key to my acting because it’s mostly people you observe that you translate on screen. My years of cooking for people and observing them has really helped me as an actor. During shoots, I like staying in character, so I don't go out

to chill and prefer the shoots to be outside Mumbai as I don't have to return home and be Ranveer again.

What type of traveller am I? An experienced eating traveller! It’s important for me to understand what grows where and how it is cooked. I like travelling to meet and talk to people, understand places, the vox-pop scenario, cultural genesis and the contemporary pulse. Visiting museums is second on my list. The usual touristy stuff comes third.

Destinations I love returning to

Italy: Not many know this, but for the longest, I trained in Italian food. I’ve trained under Antonio Carluccio (called the godfather of Italian gastronomy) and opened Italian restaurants. So I have a great affinity for the cuisine and culture. Italy’s very much me. In Tuscany, I’ve spent a lot of time amidst olive groves. Tuscany and Sicily are more about small trattorias, vineyards and wine houses, where they do small tasting menus. Barbarino’s La Campagna is a favourite. Go to any mom-and-pop restaurant, you’ll love it.

Boston: I was there so long, it’s very me. I always say go to the North End, go to the waterfront.

Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Sweden…I love Nordic countries for the peace and pace, the joy on people’s faces, and the detox that the aura and environment brings you. In Finland, Rovaniemi, the Laplands, Arctic area are where the fun lies. Even in Sweden, go to the Laplands. Copenhagen is more about restaurants for me; a lot of Nordic restaurants are favourites. Helsinki has one of the most underrated restaurant scenes—Savoy is fantastic, Nolla has outstanding sustainable cuisine. I highly recommend Gustav's in Rovaniemi.

Villages of Bengal: I am a big fan of Pather Panchali and all of Satyajit Ray's movies. I love how they come to life in rural Bengal—Bankura, its outskirts, villages bordering Bangladesh—that seems frozen in time. Having grown up in a village, I hold village life dear.

Benaras and Mathura: There’s something magical about them. The age, character, and energy clearly present in these two cities are very calming for me.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Brar loves Italy's cuisine and culture; the peace and pace of Nordic countries such as Denmark resonates with the intrepid chef; Brar is drawn to the age, character, and energy of spiritual sites like Mathura.

Luxury restaurants are going green, with bold vegetarian menus that embrace flavour, health, and sustainability.

PLANT POWER

VEGETARIAN FINE DINING TAKES CENTRE STAGE

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

LEFT: From Avatara Dubai comes Kasalika, a green banana chaat served with avocado chutney and khakra.

RIGHT: Bocchan Kabocha Croquette, or croquettes made from Japanese pumpkin, à la Wasabi by Morimoto.

In the world of fine dining, where luxury was once synonymous with rich meats and decadent ingredients, a fresh trend is taking root: vegetarianism. Over the past decade, the global shift towards plant-based diets has found its way into Michelin-starred menus and the kitchens of the world’s most revered chefs.

In 2001, Chef Alain Passard, the visionary behind the threeMichelin-starred L'Arpège in Paris, made waves by removing red meat from his menu to focus on vegetables. Twenty years later, in 2021, Daniel Humm, chef-owner of New York’s Eleven Madison Park, turned heads when he relaunched his restaurant with a completely plant-based menu after the pandemic shutdown. Yet, long before Passard and Humm embraced plant-forward cuisine,

Italian chef Pietro Leemann blazed a trail with Joia, an all-vegetarian restaurant in Milan that received its Michelin star in 1996. Leemann is now widely regarded as the chef who brought natural, vegetarian cuisine into Italian fine dining.

The statistics speak

Globally, vegetarianism is on the rise. A 2021 Statista study shows that approximately 10% of the world’s population identifies as vegetarian, and the numbers continue to grow, especially in the west. In the UK, the vegetarian population has more than doubled in the last five years, with around 14% of people now identifying as vegetarian. The US is also seeing a surge in plant-based eating, with 23% of Americans having reduced their meat consumption, according to analaytics company Gallup.

In India, a country where around 31% of the population is vegetarian according to a 2020 study, the demand for luxury vegetarian dining options is growing. The millennial generation, with its focus on health and wellness, is driving this trend, pushing high-end hotels and restaurants to innovate and expand their vegetarian offerings.

The Veganuary campaign was initiated by the UK-based non-profit

BHUPENDER NATH

FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR, PASSION F&B

GROUP

“A plant-forward restaurant can be just as profitable, or even more so, compared to one serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, depending on the market and operational efficiency.”

Masque's Sunchoke ghassi, podi and cashew chutney served with a koji dosa and chilli achar takes you on a veritable trip across south India.

BELOW:

Kaalayah,

CHEF RAHUL RANA

EXECUTIVE CHEF, AVATARA DUBAI

“We want to inspire even passionate meat-eaters to appreciate the complexity of vegetarian cuisine. We use ingredients like Kashmir's vivid saffron, heirloom vegetables, and millets to create a menu that’s both familiar and unique.”

organisation Veganuary in 2014. The campaign has since expanded globally, including in India, where it encourages people to try a vegan lifestyle for the month of January. Veganuary India’s 2024 campaign saw significant engagement, with over 128,000 Indians signing up to participate. This initiative reflects a growing interest in veganism within India, aligning with global trends toward more sustainable and compassionate dietary choices.

Why plant-forward?

Ethics, health, and sustainability

What might have once seemed niche or limiting has become a defining feature of modern haute cuisine, shaped by growing concerns over sustainability, health, and ethical consumption. “The shift away from animal products is driven by increasing awareness of food production issues,” says Chef Marcin Popielarz of Gdynia, Polandbased White Rabbit located within Hotel Quadrille. Though he observes little demand for vegetarianism among his guests, Popielarz believes that global health concerns— including digestive disorders and a rise in early-life gastrointestinal cancers—are prompting the dietary shift. “Vegetables offer a safer choice for balanced health, making plant-based eating an appealing alternative,” he adds.

Chef Manisha Bhasin, Corporate Executive Chef, ITC Hotels, opines: “The accessibility of plant-forward cuisine, unlike vegan diets, also attracts people. It helps to prioritise a plant-based diet without any strict rules, and people who do not want to fully eliminate animal products can also switch to plant-based food. This plant-forward trend is likely to keep evolving, driven by innovation in plant-based proteins and ongoing interest across the world. It will also help make the world more sustainable and make people opt for health-focused food choices.”

RIGHT: The interiors of Avatara Dubai toe a florainspired-line.

from Avatara Dubai, brings together corn ghewar, mustard greens and pickled radish.

The Maldives, Middle East and beyond: vegetarianism gains ground

In the melting pot and global cuisine hub that is Dubai, Avatara stands as the only Michelinstarred pure vegetarian restaurant, founded in 2022 by Passion F&B Group. “Dubai’s cosmopolitan demographic, open to new trends, made it the ideal location to pioneer a high-end vegetarian experience,” says its Managing Director Bhupender Nath. Executive Chef Rahul Rana and Chef Himanshu Saini (the latter oversees all culinary offerings by the multibrand group) observed the lack of creative vegetarian options, dominated by paneer and potato. Avatara challenges that norm by celebrating vegetables often overlooked due to bitterness or unfamiliar flavours. “We want to inspire even passionate meat-eaters to appreciate the complexity of vegetarian cuisine,” says Rana. Avatara has now reached Indian shores, with its first outpost opening in Mumbai’s Santacruz to rave reviews for its innovative approach.

South and Southeast Asia— regions steeped in vegetarian culinary traditions—are also making strides in plant-based fine dining. In Bangkok, renowned Chef Gaggan Anand introduced a vegetarian tasting menu at his restaurant, embracing global sustainability trends and Indian vegetarian heritage. Singapore’s three-Michelin-starred Odette also offers a plant-forward tasting menu that blends French finesse with Southeast Asian flavours, showcasing vegetarianism as a rich avenue for culinary creativity.

Almost 3,098kms from Dubai, as the crow flies, is the Maldives, the tropical island famous for its decadent resorts. Among them is Atmosphere Kanifushi, a luxury resort in the Lhaviyani Atoll, which has recognised the need to

offer more plant-forward dining experiences. In 2014, Kanifushi made a bold move by establishing Just Veg, the Maldives’ first exclusive vegetarian restaurant, catering to a growing demand for creative, high-quality vegetarian cuisine. Today, Just Veg stands as a pioneer in the region, earning top ratings for its inventive approach to vegetarian dining.

A key highlight in the restaurant’s journey has been the 'Just Veg Festival,' where worldclass plant-forward cuisine takes centre-stage. Central to the success of Just Veg has been its longstanding collaboration with Chef Fabrizio Marino, which dates back to its inception. Known for his avant-garde approach to vegetarian cuisine, Chef Fabrizio periodically visits Atmosphere Kanifushi to refresh and innovate the menu. His influence blends Italian techniques with a nod to local flavours, ensuring that the restaurant’s offerings remain fresh, exciting, and relevant.

What makes Chef Fabrizio’s approach unique is not just his dedication to vegetarianism but also his spiritual beliefs. A devoted follower of Lord Krishna, the famous tastemaker's spirituality permeates his cooking. He sees food as a way to connect with others on a deeper level, often speaking about how the act of creating and sharing a meal is an expression of love and devotion. While Chef Fabrizio is not based full-time at the resort, his involvement has been instrumental in shaping the identity of Just Veg. His seasonal visits to the island allow him to bring new concepts and flavours that elevate the dining experience. This hands-on approach has helped the restaurant maintain its top-rated status, consistently receiving rave reviews from guests for its commitment to quality and creativity.

As Just Veg celebrates its 10th anniversary, it continues to lead the

CHEF FABRIZIO MARINO

JUST VEG, ATMOSPHERE KANIFUSHI MALDIVES

“The decision to open a vegetarian restaurant was not just about food—it was building something ethical, sustainable, and meaningful. This is the same concept I bring to Just Veg at Atmosphere Kanifushi. It's about doing something good for people and the planet, and letting things unfold naturally.”

Avatara Dubai's Panasa stars Coorg-spiced jackfruit.

unforgettable dining experience for global heads of state and delegates.

TG RAMAN

F&B DIRECTOR, ATMOSPHERE KANIFUSHI MALDIVES

“Vegetarian

restaurants can benefit from lower food costs since plant-based ingredients are often more economical than meats or seafood. However, the cost of exotic plantbased ingredients, like truffles or morels, can offset these savings.”

India’s vegetarian renaissance in luxury hospitality

India has long been the heartland of vegetarianism, but today’s wave of high-end, plant-based dining reflects the country’s evolving luxury hospitality landscape. Leading this transformation, five-star hotels are championing innovative vegetarian offerings with new flair. ITC Hotels is at the forefront, elevating vegetarian cuisine through its sustainable dining initiative—most notably at Royal Vega, which emerged from the brand’s focus on sustainability and deep-rooted culinary traditions. "Menus are featuring more innovative dishes that highlight millets, vegetables, legumes, grains, and plant-based proteins,” shares Bhasin. In fact, for the G20 summit last year, ITC Hotels' culinary offerings showcased the versatility of millets in both Indian and global cuisines, providing an

In Mumbai, Sofitel BKC’s Tuskers is a vegetarian haven. “As a luxury hotel in Mumbai, we wanted to celebrate both our cultural heritage and the local demand for exceptional vegetarian dining,” says Director of Food & Beverage and Culinary, Sidney Dcunha. Post-pandemic, Tuskers has seen a notable rise in both footfall and revenue as diners flock to savour its authentic Rajasthani, Marwari, and Gujarati dishes, reimagined with a sophisticated touch.

Beyond Indian cuisine, vegetarian demand is reshaping menus at unexpected and iconic venues like Wasabi By Morimoto at the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai.

“In view of the diverse vegetarian cultures in India and the festive seasons, we offer several vegetarian options at the restaurant—though Japanese cuisine is not really vegetarian friendly,” says Executive Chef, Amit Chowdhary, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai. “We did this consciously when 

way in redefining vegetarian dining in the Maldives.

Just Veg restaurant at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives redefines vegetarian cuisine in the heart of the Maldivian archipelago.

The heart behind Just Veg

A key highlight of the journey at Just Veg in Atmosphere Kanifushi has been the 'Just Veg Festival,' where world-class plant-forward cuisine takes centre stage. SOH had the exclusive opportunity to understand Chef Fabrizio Marino's philosophy, and partake his plant-powered pairings at the Just Veg Festival. The festival showcased limited-edition menus, melding Mediterranean and Asian influences, offering guests a weeklong adventure in flavour.

Chef Fabrizio Marino curated an extraordinary plant-based dining experience, each course expertly paired with a fine wine. The appetiser combined coconut foam, pumpkin curry purée, fresh apples, broccoli, and tomatoes, drizzled with a vibrant raspberry, mint, and turmeric sauce, and was complemented by the elegant Guy Charbaut Rosé (France) with its red berry and floral aromas.

For the main course, guests enjoyed Gnocchi, delicate potato dumplings with lemon in beurre blanc, topped with almonds and a hint of liquorice, paired with Martín Códax Lías Albariño (Spain), a wine boasting bright citrus and white peach aromas with a creamy, minerally finish.

The Caramelised eggplant followed, bringing oriental-inspired flavours with glazed aubergine and crunchy chickpeas, elevated by the complex Glenelly Lady May Cabernet Sauvignon (South Africa), which offered notes of blackberries, cherries, and subtle spice.

The meal concluded with the dessert—a delicate yogurt and honey ice cream with osmotic strawberries and crunchy crumble—paired with Viñátigo Malvasia Aromatica (Spain), a tropical, floral wine with refreshing acidity, creating a sweet, light finale to an exquisite meal.

We caught up with Chef Fabrizio during the festival as it unfolded to discuss his journey with Just Veg, its evolution over the past decade, and the exciting future of plant-forward dining in the Maldives. Excerpts

Can you share how your relationship with the restaurant and the resort has evolved over the years?

I was working as a sous chef under my mentor Pietro Leemann at Joia, and managing the kitchen, handling emails, and overseeing a pretty big operation, when, one day, I received a really interesting email from the F&B manager at Atmosphere Kanifushi. They had opened an all-inclusive five-star resort in the Maldives, and they had a vegetarian restaurant called Just Veg. He asked if I’d be interested in coming for a couple of weeks to set up the menu. Interested? Of course, I was! (Laughs)

That’s where it all started. The experience was beautiful, but I was alone, and I didn’t know anyone—the staff, the management. It was

my first time in the Maldives, and my English wasn't great back then (it’s still not perfect). But cooking has its own language. Even if you don’t understand every word, you understand what needs to be done. People can see what you're doing, and there’s an unspoken connection that happens naturally. So, despite the challenges, I led with heart. The general manager, the F&B manager who had reached out, and the entire team—from the waiters to the chefs and housekeeping—were so welcoming and we became friends almost instantly.

The feedback from the guests was incredible. I remember thinking this was something special. After that, I started coming back regularly—once or twice every year.

After a couple of years, I left Chef Leemann’s restaurant and began freelancing and travelling. I told the Kanifushi management that I was no longer working at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and they could find someone else to take Just Veg forward. But they said, 'No, we want you.' By that time, our relationship had grown beyond titles or labels. And here I am, 10 years later!

How have your travels and exposure to different cultures, particularly those with rich vegetarian traditions like India and Japan, influenced your approach to creating vegetarian dishes?

I've been fortunate to travel and meet people from Japan, Korea, and other parts of Asia—not for work, but purely for food. My destinations are always chosen with food in mind. Countries like India, Japan, China, and Southeast Asia have deep traditions of vegetarian cuisine, and it's important to learn from cultures that truly understand and perfect vegetarian food.

In Europe, particularly in Italy, we do have a vegetarian tradition, but it’s often linked to times of poverty or scarcity. Vegetables are what we eat when we can’t afford meat—otherwise, it's all about chicken, beef, etc.

My cooking style is rooted in western vegetarian cuisine, but with clear influences from the east or with some Asian influences, particularly in the spices and flavours. It’s not fusion per se, but there’s a hint of that.

In Italy, we have beautiful Tuscan ingredients, and they can be used with Asian techniques to enrich the experience of vegetarian food. I don't mean we cook like Indians or Japanese, but

we incorporate certain techniques to create a more complete, peaceful, joyful, and flavourful experience. When guests dine at my restaurant, Maggese in Tuscany, they often say they don't notice a difference between traditional cuisine and what I serve—because the techniques, ingredients, and philosophies I use make the dishes just as rich and satisfying.

It takes a certain level of awareness and understanding to propose this kind of cuisine, and that's why I find myself interested in everything, not just food.

When you tweak the menu at Just Veg, what does the process look like from the initial idea to execution, and how do you ensure it’s suited for the unique setting of Just Veg?

Usually, when I'm in Italy working on my restaurant’s menu, I start to think about what could work for Just Veg. It’s all about adaptation. Cuisine operates on different levels—first there’s intuition, then execution. The techniques stay the same, but the setting and equipment differ.

Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned the process beautifully, as we blend two minds and two experiences. For example, they don’t have a combi-oven here like I do in Italy—they have a tandoor. They don’t use a frying machine, they have a wok. So, I adapt the menu to suit what’s available at Just Veg.

BELOW: A deep-fried wheat shell (puri, of the Indian paani puri fame) is teamed with coconut foam, pumpkin curry purée, fresh apples, broccoli, and tomatoes, drizzled with a vibrant raspberry, mint, and turmeric sauce.

RIGHT: A yogurt and honey ice cream paired with osmotic strawberries and crunchy crumble.

FAR RIGHT: Gnocchi, with lemon in beurre blanc, almonds and a hint of liquorice.

Before I come to the resort, I send a detailed email with everything—from the dishes, techniques, ingredients, to the supply list. It’s a thorough process, usually taking about two months of planning. By the time I arrive, they know exactly what I want, and I know what’s possible with the resources available here.

In your experience, are you seeing a greater acceptance of plant-forward or vegetarian cuisine? How has that shift been for you?

Yes, people are awakening—it's a natural process. There's a difference between what's natural

and what's normal. Natural is what life wants, spontaneous and instinctive. Normal is shaped by our perspectives—it's considered normal to eat beef, for example, but there's a distinction. If you can sense this difference, you can begin to understand where the future is heading.

When I first decided to open a vegetarian restaurant, I was deeply influenced by my mentor in Milan, Chef Pietro Leemann, though at that time, I wasn't yet a vegetarian myself. Later, I realised that if I was going to dedicate myself to something as important as running a restaurant, I wanted it to align with my values. So, the decision to open a vegetarian restaurant was not just about food—it was about creating the right environment for myself and for others. It was a brave decision, not an easy one, but I wanted to build something ethical, sustainable, and meaningful. This is the same concept I bring to Just Veg at Atmosphere Kanifushi. It's about doing something good for people and the planet, and letting things unfold naturally. Just Veg was the first fully vegetarian restaurant in the Maldives and still remains a favourite, judging by the reviews we receive.

I understand sustainability is close to your heart, especially with your background—your mother’s vegetable-heavy dishes from the garden and your mentor’s connection to natural cuisine. Given the limited indigenous produce on these islands, how do you approach sustainability when proposing new dishes for Just Veg?

I believe everything is possible; it’s just a matter of time and planning. Here, the key is choosing the right suppliers—those who are closest, with the best quality ingredients, and reducing the distance and packaging. We actually tried growing hydroponic vegetables close to the main kitchen here on the island, but the energy needed to produce just a few salads was too much. The soil here is very different from places like Europe, India, or Sri Lanka. So we source fresh fruits and vegetables

from Sri Lanka, the best spices from Kerala, and when we need ingredients from further afield like Japan or Indonesia, we follow the same process we use in Europe—request, and it arrives.

We’re still exploring the idea of having a garden, though. If we change the soil in a small area, we could start growing things like eggplants, tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumbers. On some Maldivian islands, you can find local cucumbers and a few sun-resistant cabbages. But mostly, the local treasure here is coconut. It’s everywhere! We use a lot of coconut in our dishes. In fact, yesterday, I was counting how many dishes we use it in—there are loads! (Laughs)

We do try to get organic produce, but the priority is always quality and reducing waste, especially packaging. When the boats arrive with supplies, separating everything is crucial. We make sure the packaging is recyclable, and we focus on doing what we can to reduce our ecological impact.

Do you have a favourite Indian dish?

I’m not sure of all the names, but I’ve met so many Indian chefs—north, south, east, west—and they’ve cooked so many dishes for me. I love the different breads—chappati, paratha, roti. They even taught me how to make them. Indian bread is just beautiful. And the way they balance the spices in their cooking? It’s a mystery to me! Slowly, I’m learning. They use garam masala, cumin, chili, turmeric, curry leaves, cinnamon sticks, cloves... I ask them, ‘But aren’t some of these already in garam masala?’ And they say, ‘Yes, but it’s different!’ (Laughs)

Just yesterday, I tried something that really blew my mind—small, crispy balls made of semolina. They break the top and fill it with potatoes, chickpeas, all these flavours. Oh yes, paani puri! What an experience! It’s watery, juicy, sour, spicy, fresh, crispy, tender—all these sensations in one bite. I think it’s the most impressive thing I’ve tried!

The Caramelised Eggplant has glazed aubergine and crunchy chickpeas in leading roles.

CHEF VARUN TOTLANI

HEAD CHEF, MASQUE, MUMBAI

“Regional and traditional ingredients are at the heart of everything we do at Masque. Our menus spotlight micro-cuisines, borrow from home rituals, tribal wisdom and royal kitchens, exploring new food journeys through our research and flavour development.”

Wasabi by Morimoto started, and gradually increased vegetarian dishes. They now contribute to almost 50% of the menu, driven by positive feedback.” Similar changes, though to a lesser extent, are taking place at other Taj favourites such as Loya and Shamiana.

But sophisticated, flavourful, and culturally resonant food creations are not seen only in fivestar restaurants. Masque, Mumbai's culinary beacon, has redefined India's gastronomic scene since its inception in 2016. Celebrated for its innovative 10-course tasting menus, the restaurant seamlessly blends traditional Indian ingredients with avant-garde techniques, offering diners a unique exploration of the nation's diverse flavours—both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. “Our menus spotlight microcuisines, borrow from home rituals, tribal wisdom and royal kitchens, exploring new food journeys through our research and flavour development at Masque Lab,” says Head Chef Varun Totlani. One of the courses in their current menu is their take on Chattisgarh’s farra made with black rice from Manipur. Another takes the diner on a tour of the south with the Sunchoke ghassi, podi and cashew chutney served with a koji dosa and chilli achar. It’s all rounded off with a sinful breadbased dessert. Truly, a gastronomic journey that traverses the country, and beyond.

The power of local and fresh ingredients

India’s rich tapestry of regional ingredients is finding fresh expression in the plant-forward menus of today’s fine-dining scene. For top chefs, sourcing local, fresh ingredients and foraging for unique flavours is essential to creating exceptional cuisine. Chef Totlani crafts seasonal tasting menus that change as the seasons do, creating a “familiar yet new” experience for global and local diners alike. “The joy,” he says, “is in delighting guests with something new each time.”

Chef Rana at Avatara Dubai similarly taps into India’s vegetarian heritage, drawing from the country’s regional spice palette. “We use ingredients like Kashmir's vivid saffron, heirloom vegetables, and millets to create a menu that’s both familiar and unique,” he explains. “We want our diners to savour India’s rich vegetarian heritage with intriguing textures and flavours. Also, using fresh, highquality food enhances flavour and supports local farmers.”

Chef Bhasin of ITC Hotels also champions indigenous ingredients, such as morels from Kashmir and fiddlehead fern from the Himalayas, in her culinary approach. “The diversity of India’s vegetarian ingredients brings depth to our menus,” she states, “offering diners a genuine taste of Indian flavours in an elevated setting.”

At Tuskers in Mumbai, Dcunha emphasises the importance of seasonal, regionally sourced produce: “We focus on seasonal vegetables, particularly in our daily-changing thali menu, to support sustainability.”

In Mumbai, Masque’s culinary team takes this philosophy further, travelling across India to uncover lesser-known ingredients and incorporate them into seasonal menus. “We make our own koji, which, on our main course, is heroed as a soft, crispy dosa,” shares

Tuskers at Sofitel BKC, Mumbai, serves Rajasthani, Marwari, and Gujarati dishes with a sophisticated touch.

CHEF MARCIN POPIELARZ

WHITE RABBIT, GDYNIA

“Plant-based cuisine is the future; it is the only alternative to the current process of societal health degradation.”

its Head Chef, who also relies on Masque Lab to experiment with traditional techniques like fermentation.

In Poland, Chef Popielarz embraces local foraging and works closely with suppliers to source wild herbs and native ingredients. This philosophy, he believes, not only elevates flavour but also respects the local ecosystem.

ITC Hotels supports this ethos by aligning their approach with the Indian government's 'Vocal for Local' initiative—by promoting local agriculture and sourcing fresh, regional ingredients. “Using this kind of produce is critical in terms of freshness and flavour,” says Chef Bhasin.

Busting the myth: protein and nutrients in vegetarian cuisine

It’s a common misconception that vegetarian meals lack protein and essential nutrients, but chefs are dismantling the myth of nutrient-deficient vegetarian

cuisine. At Avatara, Chef Rana’s dishes like Horsegram galouti and Coorg spiced jackfruit celebrate rich flavours while delivering a balanced nutritional profile. “Each item on our menu is designed to provide the nourishment our guests need,” he says, educating diners on the health benefits of dishes like Green pea chokha and Raw banana varuval

Chef Popielarz similarly combines legumes, nuts, and vegan cheese cultures in inventive, protein-rich dishes. “We focus on natural sources of protein, such as legumes and fibre-rich whole grains,” he says, embracing foraged ingredients that bring unexpected nutritional value. Supporting this approach, Chef Bhasin highlights regional ingredients like the fiddlehead fern, high in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which provide an ideal option for vegetarians. “It’s about using local ingredients that celebrate Indian terroir while delivering essential nutrients,” she notes.

ABOVE: Madhurima, from ITC Hotels' G20 menu, features cardamom-scented banyard millet pudding, fig-peach compote and ambemohar rice crisps.

RIGHT: Khatta Meetha Khumra from ITC Hotels.

CHEF MANISHA BHASIN

CORPORATE EXECUTIVE CHEF, ITC HOTELS

Veg-only ventures

PROFITS IN PLANT POWER

A veg-only restaurant has unique financial dynamics shaped by rising consumer interest in health, sustainability, and ethical dining.

“Vegetarian restaurants can benefit from lower food costs since plantbased ingredients are often more economical than meats or seafood,” says TG Raman, F&B Director at Atmosphere

options, depending on the market and operational efficiency.” Veg-only restaurants can achieve strong profitability by balancing innovative, high-quality offerings with cost-effective sourcing and targeted marketing.

Socio-economic conditions: Premium pricing requires a customer base with disposable income. Local cost of living and operating expenses play a role.

Competitive landscape:

“The accessibility of plantforward cuisine, unlike vegan diets, helps to prioritise a plant-based diet without strict rules. People who do not want to fully eliminate animal products can also switch to plantbased food.”

Kanifushi Maldives, which opened the Maldives’ first vegetarian restaurant Just Veg. By avoiding the expense of premium meats, they maintain leaner food costs, which positively impacts gross margins.

"However, the cost of exotic plant-based ingredients, like truffles or morels, can offset these savings, making ingredient sourcing a critical, balanced activity."

Bhupender Nath of F&B Passion Group, which runs Dubai’s only Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant Avatara, notes, “A plant-forward restaurant can be just as profitable, or even more so, compared to one serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian

“While plant-forward concepts require skilled chefs to deliver innovative menus, potentially raising labour costs, they avoid the expense of specialised culinary skills for meat preparation,” explains Chef Manisha Bhasin from ITC Hotels. Marketing is another unique aspect; these restaurants often target specific clientele, creating loyal followings through campaigns appealing to health-conscious diners and sustainable eaters.

She lists out factors that determine the location or city in which Royal Vega is expanded:

Market demand:

Understanding the local demographics is crucial, especially given the prevalence of health-conscious, eco-conscious, and vegetarian consumers.

Assessing market saturation and identifying niche opportunities through a unique selling proposition are essential.

Location and accessibility: Highvisibility locations with proximity to fresh produce markets or local farms support cost-effective sourcing of highquality ingredients.

Regulatory environment: Compliance with local regulations, from kitchen layout to waste management, is vital. Tax incentives or grants for sustainable businesses may be available.

Local culture: Community values around sustainability and a vibrant food culture can be supportive. Events like wellness festivals can enhance visibility.

Culinary osmosis: Indian vegetarian cuisine and global influence

Indian vegetarian cuisine is increasingly shaping global food trends, with its bold spices, vibrant flavours, and unique use of vegetables, resonating in the global shift towards plant-based diets. Globally, chefs are also inspired by the rich diversity of Indian ingredients and techniques, integrating elements like lentils, millets, and Indian grains into their own menus for both flavour and nutrition. Indian street food culture has gained popularity worldwide, influencing culinary approaches to vegetarian, plant-based cuisine.

CHEF AMIT CHOWDHARY

EXECUTIVE CHEF, THE TAJ MAHAL PALACE MUMBAI

“Though Japanese cuisine is not really vegetarian friendly, we have gradually increased vegetarian dishes at Wasabi by Morimoto. They now contribute to almost 50% of the menu, driven by positive feedback.”

“Indian regional cuisines are gaining worldwide recognition, with guests showing increased interest in local specialities,” says Dcunha, emphasising how this thoughtful approach to vegetables aligns with global preferences for plant-based fare.

Conversely, vegetarian trends from abroad are flowing back into Indian kitchens. “Indian chefs are experimenting with fusion cuisines, incorporating international flavours and techniques into traditional dishes,” Chef Bhasin notes, adding that the planet-wide emphasis on sustainability is prompting Indian cuisine to focus more on local, seasonal ingredients.

At Avatara, Chef Rana brings this interplay to life with dishes like Kalingam (Grilled watermelon) paired with stone fruit pickle and tomato water, and Coorg-spiced jackfruit (Panasa). “Our menu showcases the diversity of Indian cuisine while embracing global trends in plant-based eating,” he explains. Dishes like the Dahi Bhalla Petit Gâteau (Badak) blend

traditional Indian ingredients with innovative presentations, appealing to adventurous diners and those seeking comfort in familiar flavours.

This culinary osmosis fosters creativity and adaptation, enriching both Indian and global food landscapes.

The future of vegetarianonly dining

The outlook for vegetarian restaurants, both in India and globally, is incredibly promising as plant-based diets become increasingly mainstream. Driven by health, environmental, and sustainability concerns, the demand for vegetarian and plantbased dining options is on the rise. Chef Bhasin notes, “The trend of vegetarianism is gaining positive momentum, leading to an increase in vegetarian restaurants. This shift reflects changing consumer preferences and broader acceptance of plant-based eating.”

At Avatara, Chef Rana envisions a future where vegetarian dining

THIS SPREAD RIGHT: Musk Melon with Brandy Jelly, Wasabi by Morimoto.

CENTRE: Chef Masaharu Morimoto and Chef Amit Chowdhary at the 20th anniversary celebration of Wasabi by Morimoto (FAR RIGHT).

Blue Zones and the longevity of vegetarianism

The concept of Blue Zones—regions where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives—has played a role in reinforcing the value of plant-based diets. Communities in Okinawa, Japan, and Ikaria, Greece, where people live well into their 90s, have been observed to consume primarily plant-based diets rich in vegetables, legumes, and grains. The connection between longevity and vegetarianism provides a compelling argument for adopting plant-based eating, both from a health perspective and as a sustainable choice for the future. These dietary habits offer a broader context for the rise of vegetarianism, proving that plantbased lifestyles are not just a trend but a path towards wellness and longevity.

SIDNEY

DCUNHA

DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE AND CULINARY, SOFITEL BKC, MUMBAI

“We've observed an increase in both footfall and revenue at our vegeterian restaurant Tuskers, as more guests prioritise healthconscious dining choices post-pandemic.”

is not merely an alternative but a celebrated choice. “As chefs continue to innovate and showcase the diversity of plant-based ingredients, vegetarian cuisine will attract a wider audience, transforming perceptions and enriching culinary landscapes,” he explains. Chefs like Marcin Popielarz are embracing plantbased cuisine not only as a dietary option but as a necessary shift for societal health and environmental sustainability. “Plant-based cuisine is the future; it is the only alternative to the current process of societal health degradation,” he asserts. Popielarz underscores that we must redefine “meals made from animal tissues as a privilege,”

pointing to the environmental and health impacts of mass animal agriculture.

In India, vegetarianism is rooted in tradition, providing a solid foundation for growth. The rich heritage of Indian vegetarian cuisine allows chefs to develop menus that feature regional specialities and healthy, innovative options, appealing to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. As restaurants continue to diversify menus, experiment with plant-based meats, and adopt new techniques, vegetarian-only dining is poised to become an exciting, sustainable, and increasingly mainstream choice for diners everywhere.

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GLAMOUR UNDER THE STARS

India has a long history of luxurious outdoor living. The royalty once traversed the country with lavish tented camps, enjoying the finest comforts amidst nature. Today, that royal tradition is accessible to all, as glamping re-imagines this heritage for the modern traveller.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

Glamping can be described in various ways. For instance, Antony Thomas, CEO & Founder, Luxeglamp EcoResorts, defines it as “glamorous camping, an experience that combines the excitement of camping with the luxury and comfort of a highend hotel. Instead of traditional tents and sleeping bags, glamping accommodations often include stylish, fully-furnished tents, domes, yurts, or cabins equipped with comfortable beds, electricity, private bathrooms, and sometimes even spa-like amenities”.

To those new to this trend, glamping in India is an ageold tradition. Remember those luxurious tents and caravans that the Maharajas and royalty of India travelled with while heading out to a shikar or even a few days out

with friends and family? There was wine, there were cooks who served up the finest of dishes, and there were beautifully decorated tents.

While the world has discovered glamping today, India has forever been a paradise. However, it was only accessible to royalty in the past. Until now, when glamping is a rapidly growing vacation idea. Major players such as The Ultimate Travelling Camp, Glamp Wilderness, and Luxeglamp EcoResorts, as well as individual glamping resorts, from Sujan Jawai to Riverside Glamping, are capitalising on India's diverse geography by offering luxury accommodation equipped with modern amenities such as air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. “This appeals to a wide audience, particularly younger generations seeking adventure, sustainability, and a closer connection to nature. As the market expands, expect further diversification and innovation in glamping offerings, catering to the evolving preferences of domestic and international tourists alike,” says Rahul Jindal, Founder, Glamp Wilderness Bengaluru.

In the new-age glamping resorts, munificent space is allocated to sleeping accommodations. Sharp-nosed entrepreneurs are cutting a swathe of luxury in natural surroundings

Set in a plain near the Aravallis, the award-winning Suján Jawai offers a varied landscape of hills, grasslands and sandy riverbeds.

ANTONY THOMAS

CEO & FOUNDER, LUXEGLAMP ECORESORTS

across India’s vast landscape. The glamping resorts and sites dovetail caravanserais with luxury tents, nature and adventure in one seamless whole.

Manish Goyal, Co-founder, Sukoon Wellness Retreat in Kanatal, says, “The glamping boom is fuelled by diverse landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and a focus on sustainability. From luxury desert camps in Rajasthan to eco-friendly retreats in Kerala and the Himalayas, glamping offers a unique blend of adventure and comfort. India's rich biodiversity and relatively lower costs compared to western countries enhance its appeal. As travellers seek off-the-beatenpath experiences, glamping provides the perfect opportunity to connect with nature, heritage and exclusivity, while enjoying luxurious accommodation and activities like wildlife safaris and spiritual retreats.”

Rahul Jindal, founder of Glamp Wilderness Bengaluru, approach to glamping is slightly different and more global in its very definition. He says, “Cabin-style pods are popular in the UK for glamping. Here, in India, however, people put up tents of canvas and call it glamping. But those are luxury tented resorts. We offer cabin-style glamping with all modern-day amenities within a mango orchard. The focus is on the outdoors. We host bonfires and barbeque movie nights.”

The Aman-i-Khás resort, at the periphery of the Ranthambore National Park, home to India’s many tigers, is one of the finest examples of a truly inimitable glamping resort in India. The tented accommodation, with every single luxury facility you would want—from a comfortable bed to a bathtub, a spa closeby, a fire pit around which you sit and gossip every evening, have

“Influencers, with their authentic stories and stunning visuals, are transforming how we perceive travel. They showcase not just the premium stays but also unique experiences, sparking wanderlust and building trust.”

a drink, or a cup of Rajasthani masala chai, or just read and lounge, dining under the stars or in a tented dining space, a beautiful library, and a private butler on hand to ensure you vacation like royalty.

On the other side of the spectrum is Glamp Wilderness in Bengaluru (see box for more information), a glamping resort set up by the people behind Loom Crafts, which affords travellers a sense of adventure, peace and a closeness to nature that we

Glamping resonates particularly well with younger generations seeking adventure, sustainability, and a closer connection to nature. Seen here is Luxeglamp, Munnar.

rarely find in our everyday life. Loom Crafts, known for crafting prefab outdoor furniture, has invested approximately ₹7 crore in a 24-room glamping property, which prioritises the outdoor experience and features landscaped spaces, innovative designs, and amenities such as outdoor Jacuzzis and caravans.

Built with prefab structures that can be dismantled and relocated, the project offers flexibility and minimises environmental impact. Looking to expand beyond Bengaluru, Loom Crafts is partnering with landowners through lease or revenue-sharing agreements, showcasing their commitment to sustainable and immersive hospitality experiences. Says Jindal, “Think outdoor Jacuzzis on expansive decks, cosy caravans, and daybeds with views of

THIS PAGE: Aman-i-Khás is set within 10-aces of pristine wilderness at the edge of Ranthambore. Its tented suites and world-class amenities recall the royal entourages of yore.

Glamp Wilderness

At Glamp Wilderness, the serenity of nature blends seamlessly with the luxury of a high-end resort, offering a distinctive glamping experience right in the heart of Bangalore.

Glamp Wilderness offers adventure featuring a thoughtfully designed blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. From handcrafted pizzas to BBQ nights and bonfires, the glamping retreat provides

immersive dining and recreational experiences for those looking to relax in nature and enjoy a spot of adventure and indulgence.

Among its various accommodation offerings:

Luxury cabins on wheels: India’s first luxury modular cabins feature a private outdoor Jacuzzi and spacious deck within a tranquil five-acre mango grove. Plush interiors and a

WHERE NATURE MEETS LUXURY

dedicated space for dining or lounging deliver comfort in every detail.

One-bedroom cabins: Ideal for families and groups, the retreat's interconnected cabins offer 455sq.ft. of luxurious interiors and expansive decks for serene evenings spent outdoors.

The amenities

The retreat has one restaurant, Elate, where

guests dine on global and local dishes while soaking in stunning views of the mango orchard. The Verve Pavilion is the gaming area, complete with a pool, table foosball, chess, and classic games, all by a tranquil lotus-adorned pond. The retreat also offers a spacious, well-equipped banquet and conference hall for corporate events and weddings, with state-ofthe-art AV equipment, highspeed Wi-Fi, and catering options.

the great outdoors—a far cry from the typical balcony view. Launched in late January, this venture reimagines outdoor living. It's a testament to Loom Crafts' commitment to innovation and their vision for the future of outdoor hospitality.”

The glamping phenomenon

The slow life movement is influencing human experience through concepts such as slow food and slow travel. And yet traditional camping is giving way to a more luxurious experience due to the sheer discomfort inherent in basic living facilities. Within India, the glamping market is poised for significant expansion, fuelled by a growing interest in eco-friendly travel, wellness experiences, and luxury escapes in off-the-grid locations. While comprehensive data specific to India is limited, industry reports suggest a promising future. For instance, Grand View Research and GMI Insights estimate the global glamping market will touch USD 19.9 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 17.3%.

Several factors contribute to the growing popularity of glamping in India:

 Experiential travel: Millennials and Gen Z travellers seek experiences beyond traditional sightseeing. Says Thomas, “Glamping fits perfectly into the broader trends of experiential and sustainable tourism. It allows travellers to enjoy nature, adventure, and cultural experiences in scenic locations, such as the Himalayas, deserts, or tea plantations, blending luxury with outdoor adventure. It provides a personalised and memorable experience, thus meeting the rising demand for unique getaways.” Travellers often go fishing, hiking, berry

gathering, or foraging in a forest, experiences not accessible in traditional hotel accommodations.

“As the world increasingly seeks authentic and sustainable travel options, glamping presents an exciting opportunity to explore the country's diverse beauty,” says Jindal.

 The lay of the land: India, a vast continent with a complex labyrinth of various landscapes, rich cultural heritage, forests, rivers and oceans, is an exciting glamping destination. The peaks of the Himalayas to an arid Thar Desert, lush Western Ghats and coastal beaches are an ideal backdrop for glamping experiences.

 Connectivity meets adventure: The digital generation, particularly those who work from remote corners of the world, are natural adapters to glamping as a way to vacation. Beyond the traditional comforts of luxury accommodation, glamping sites provide high-speed internet, co-working spaces, and communal areas, catering to the needs of digital nomads, and offering them a way to mesh together work and a rejuvenating escape. 

RAHUL JINDAL FOUNDER, GLAMP WILDERNESS, BENGALURU

“Cabin-style pods are popular in the UK for glamping. Here, in India, however, people put up tents of canvas and call it glamping. But those are luxury tented resorts. We offer cabin-style glamping with all modern-day amenities within a mango orchard. The focus is on the outdoors. We host bonfires and barbeque movie nights, besides nature trails.”

Glamp Wilderness marries rustic charm with modern amenities.

The Glamping Sites You Should Know About

Several key players have emerged in India's glamping market, offering diverse experiences and accommodations.

The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC)

Known for the seasonal Chamba Camp in Thiksey, Ladakh and the Kohima in Nagaland, TUTC provides high-end glamping experiences with lavish amenities and curated local experiences. The tents are designed to provide a cosy retreat after a day of exploration, with amenities like plush bedding and teak wood wardrobes.

Suján Jawai, Rajasthan

Situated in Rajasthan's Jawai Leopard Conservation area, Suján Jawai blends luxurious camping with wildlife experiences, offering bespoke safaris and stunning natural surroundings.

Aman-i-Khás

Located on the edge of Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Aman-i-Khás offers tented suites and world-class amenities, catering to wildlife enthusiasts seeking comfort, luxury and an immersive experience in the forest.

Sawai Shivir, Ranthambore

The glamping resort comes with AC/ heating, rain showers, and spa treatments. It is located just 10 minutes from Ranthambore National Park. Explore the wilderness with an in-house naturalist.

Riverside Glamping, Rishikesh

Several luxury operators offer riverside glamping experiences in Rishikesh, combining yoga retreats with stays near the Ganga, allowing guests to connect with nature and spirituality.

Tara Mountain Sarai, Ladakh

The Zanskar Valley is home to luxury tents that offer warmth with sal wood beds and fluffy blankets. Enjoy mountain biking, yoga, cooking classes, and farm-to-table Ladakhi cuisine.

The Bison, Kabini

Experience rustic luxury with waterfront tents, private bonfires, and guided safaris led by wildlife photographer Shaaz Jung. Witness elephants grazing at sunset and explore the wilderness of Bandipur and Nagarhole National Parks.

Glampeco, Manali

Find comfort in geodesic domes with heaters and warm duvets, offering expansive views of the Dhauladhar range, even as you day hike and zip-line across the valley.

Elsewhere, Goa

Stay in beachfront tents facing a serene creek. Here, you will be served Goan, Indian, and European cuisine. Participate in yoga sessions, and relax with rejuvenating massages.

Grassroots, Wayanad

Located in Kerala, Grassroots Wayanad provides intimate glamping experiences in safari tents with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, attracting ecotourists and wellness seekers.

Eco Glamp

The serene Saklana Valley and Kaudia Forest in the mid-Himalayan range is home to Eco Glamp. Accessible from Dehradun Airport or Rishikesh, it boasts a diverse range of glamping accommodation. Immerse yourself in nature with their signature forest bathing and jungle trekking experiences and dine on traditional pahadi cuisines.

Luxeglamp

Luxeglamp, with glamping resorts in southern India’s scenic destinations such as Kodaikanal and Munnar (with Coorg opening soon), marries luxury and nature immersion. It provides eco-friendly accommodations, including domes and bubble glamps, along with activities like horse riding and birdwatching.

Sukoon, Vikasnagar

The eco-friendly glamps in Dakpathar, Vikasnagar feature hotel-like amenities such as cosy rooms, air-conditioning, and comfortable bathrooms. By integrating local architecture, flavours, and traditions, Sukoon creates a harmonious balance between luxury, nature, and cultural exploration.

MANISH GOYAL CO-FOUNDER, SUKOON WELLNESS RETREAT, KANATAL

“The glamping boom is fuelled by diverse landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and a focus on sustainability. From luxury desert camps to eco-friendly retreats, India's rich biodiversity and relatively lower costs enhance its appeal.”

 High-revenue potential: Glamping properties often command premium rates due to their unusual appeal and luxurious amenities. While requiring lower capital investments than traditional hotels due to a lack of dense structures (the built structure is limited to the lobby, and maybe the restaurant), they offer attractive returns.

 Sustainability and social impact: Glamping in India has the potential to contribute positively to native communities and environmental conservation efforts. By employing local staff, sourcing materials and produce from the region, and promoting responsible tourism practices, glamping sites can generate economic opportunities and support sustainable development. The focus on minimal environmental impact and conservation awareness can help protect India's natural beauty and biodiversity. “By minimising construction and encouraging eco-conscious practices, it

offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature responsibly. This unforgettable experience creates lasting memories while leaving minimal footprint on the environment,” says Sanjay Sharma, CEO, Eco Glamp Kanatal. At Eco Glamp, for instance, not a single tree has been sacrificed to construct a permanent structure. “We ensured minimum carbon footprint in its development. The sustainability of the ecosystem and local community was a priority. Eco Glamp initiated a waste management system in Kanatal and we are trying to keep the destinations clean.”

 Social media and influencer marketing: Social media is a driving force behind glamping's growth, with influencers playing a key role. "Influencers, with their authentic stories and stunning visuals, are transforming how we perceive travel," says Thomas. “They showcase not just the premium stays but also unique experiences, sparking wanderlust and building trust.”

Glamping can leverage India's diversity of landscape and wealth of cultural experiences, like this one located in stunning Ladakh.

Glamping resorts may provide immersive experiences in remote locations, but are tethered to the world with high-speed net connectivity

SANJAY SHARMA

CEO, ECO GLAMP, KANATAL

“Glamping is experiencing over 14% of annual growth in India and will trend at the same pace till 2032.”

Goyal emphasises the importance of user-generated content and reviews in establishing credibility and encouraging travellers to explore glamping. "Customer reviews are essential for glamping sites," he says. In a highly competitive market, peer reviews are crucial for driving bookings, especially for glamping, where travellers rely heavily on authentic experiences and recommendations.

The inherent challenges

While the glamping sector in India holds immense potential, it also faces certain challenges. There are several regulatory complexities. Setting up glamping sites in protected areas or ecologically sensitive zones often involves navigating complex regulations and obtaining necessary permits.

Then there is the challenge of the seasons. Monsoons, for instance, in certain regions are intense, and impact the accessibility and operation of glamping sites, requiring careful planning and infrastructure considerations. Remote locations that offer rare glamping experiences may have limited infrastructure, requiring additional investments in power, water, and connectivity.

Where do we go from here?

Despite these challenges, the future of glamping in India appears interesting. The growing preference for sustainable and experiential travel will bolster the sector's growth. As the market matures, it is likely to witness further diversification, with

glamping sites offering specialised experiences catering to niche interests, such as wellness retreats, adventure activities, and cultural immersion programs.

Government of India’s Ministry of Tourism, recognising glamping's potential for sustainable tourism, is actively promoting its growth. Initiatives such as constructing glamping sites within national parks have encouraged private investment in eco-friendly accommodations. This has led to a surge in glamping locations in stunning destinations like Rishikesh and Jaisalmer.

Sharma informs, “Glamping is experiencing over 14% of annual growth in India and will trend at the same pace till 2032.”

Glamping offers a captivating blend of luxury, adventure, and sustainability. By embracing innovation, prioritising ecoconscious practices, and collaborating with local communities, India's glamping industry will make remarkable strides, offering unforgettable experiences in stunning natural landscapes.

RESTORING A MAHARAJA’S LEGACY

Sawai Man Mahal in Jaipur is a masterclass in adaptive reuse. It showcases the beauty of Rajputana royal architecture, which has been meticulously restored to offer a sustainable and culturally rich hospitality experience.

Sequestered deep in the sprawling 47-acre Rambagh Palace estate , Sawai Man Mahal, Jaipur from IHCL’s Taj luxury palace hotels celebrates the legacy of Maharaja Sawai Man Mahal—buccaneer, diplomat, polo player, and the last ruler of the princely state of Jaipur.

The sandstone-coloured hotel with white fringes and trimmings offers a maudlin experience of Jaipur’s regal past. Ashok S Rathore, Area Director – Operations and General Manager, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, says “Situated in the heart of Jaipur and adjacent to the 19th century living legacy of Rambagh Palace, Sawai Man Mahal carries with it an illustrious history that spans centuries. Originally a modest four-room pavilion during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, the palace witnessed numerous transformations, evolving from a quiet pavilion into a royal residence that hosted nobility and dignitaries.”

DEEPALI NANDWANI

ASHOK S RATHORE

AREA DIRECTOR – OPERATIONS AND GENERAL MANAGER, RAMBAGH PALACE, JAIPUR

The palace property, much like other Rajasthani palaces, particularly in the former Dhundhar region (of which Jaipur princely state was a part), embraces the architectural elements of Rajputana (bold forms, vibrant colours, and emphasis on courtyards, jaalis and verandahs) and Mughal (symmetry, formal gardens, and intricate ornamentation) styles.

Repurposing the past

Over the years, the four pavilions from the Maharaja’s time had been repurposed into a convention centre to host important gatherings, offering a venue for discourse and assembly.

However, the most recent transformation of Sawai Man Mahal is perhaps its most significant. It has been meticulously reimagined as a luxury heritage hotel that offers the comforts of modern hoteliering. Rathore says, “We saw profound importance in preserving not just the architectural grandeur but also the rich cultural heritage that defines

“We saw profound importance in preserving not just the architectural grandeur but also the rich cultural heritage that defines Sawai Man Mahal. The decision to restore and transform it into a heritage luxury hotel was driven by its potential to tell the story of Rajasthan’s glorious past.”

The Mughal-style garden features centuries-old trees and courtyards with mature trees.

Sawai Man Mahal. The decision to restore and transform it into a heritage luxury hotel was driven by its potential to tell the story of Rajasthan’s glorious past, offering guests an experience that is as immersive as indulgent.”

Adaptive reuse

The adaptive reuse of Sawai Man Mahal exemplifies a thoughtful approach to revitalising historic buildings. IHCL entrusted the restoration to IDEAS, a Jaipurbased firm known for its sensitive restoration of heritage properties. “IDEAS skilfully integrated stateof-the-art modern amenities, creating a space where historical charm and contemporary convenience coexist,” says Rathore. “This evolution showcases the building's enduring relevance."

THE KEY RESTORATION POINTS:

 Preservation of historical elements: The restoration prioritised preserving the palace's original architecture, including the entrance, antique cannons, structures, intricate motifs, and design features like pillars and domes, which offer a tangible link to its past. Rathore notes, “From the grand arches and delicate jaali work to ornate interiors, every detail was restored to its former glory.”

 Sustainable practices: Sustainability was at the core of the restoration to ensure that the transformation was also environmentally responsible. “Eco-friendly materials were used in the construction process, and energy efficiency was enhanced through innovative solutions like solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and smart thermostats,” says Rathore. “The property minimises its environmental footprint, making the hotel both future-ready and eco-conscious.”

 Cultural and historical significance: The project has preserved a vital piece of Jaipur’s cultural and historical heritage, offering guests an authentic experience steeped in history. “In doing so, the project also contributes to Jaipur’s reputation as a hub for cultural tourism,” says Rathore.

In the lobby, the vintage door, originally from Rambagh Palace, takes the spatial centre stage.

The spaces

Sawai Man Mahal is reached by veering right past the Haathi Darwaza (Elephant Gate) instead of continuing straight towards Rambagh Palace. From the lobby, the walk to the suites is a stroll through stately gardens as sunlight dapples through ancient trees.

Each of the 51 rooms and suites seamlessly blend indoor comfort with the beauty of the outdoors. French doors open onto a private courtyard, where you can relax in a wicker armchair and soak in nature. On the courtyard walls are niches inset with thikri mirror art— elaborate patterns handmade from stone and glass.

Within, sunlight bounces off the polished white marble floor, illuminating the plush kingsize bed draped in fine linens. A vintage writing desk invites you to pen a postcard, work or lose yourself in the pages of a good book. Every detail has been curated to create an atmosphere of refined luxury and effortless relaxation. “The heritage structure was fitted with modern conveniences such as luxurious bedding, high-speed internet, advanced climate control systems, and spa-like bathrooms,” says Rathore. “The use of lustrous white marble ensures the room stays cool during Rajasthan’s hot summers.”

Select suites offer private plunge pools for an exclusive touch of indulgence. Spacious royal bathrooms provide a lavish bathing experience.

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: The Premium King Bed has a private courtyard, a vintage-style bathroom, and flourishes of Rajputana design elements.

Design-forward public spaces

The languid public spaces have a timeless quality about them. Graceful arches, courtyards and colonnades frame views of the surrounding landscape. The gardens and fountains invite you to embrace a leisurely life. Cool off in the turquoise waters of the swimming pool, or relax on a plush lounger and wicker furniture.

Sunlight streams through the expansive lobby to light up the arches, the vintage ornamental door, and the marble floor. “The grand lobby mirrors the opulence of royal hospitality—the most striking being the 187-year-old Golden Gate. The idea was to welcome our guests into a grand setting that connects them to the heritage of the palace,” says Rathore.

For celebrations, the gilded banquet hall lit by sparkling chandeliers is the venue on offer. “We wanted to leverage the available convention areas in the complex and create luxurious and palatial venues for highend weddings, elaborate conferences and more,” says Rathore. The corridors connecting the lobby to the banquet hall serve as conduits that guide guests through the palace. “They were designed as fluid pathways that maintain a visual and sensory connection to the natural surroundings, with large Rajputana-esque arches and strategically placed views of the courtyards, allowing guests to engage with the outdoors as they move through the hotel.”

The gilded banquet hall, lit by sparkling chandeliers, is connected by a corridor to the lobby, and features the famous mirror or Aaraish work of Rajasthan.

THE INFLUENCE OF RAMBAGH PALACE

 Ashok S Rathore, Area Director –Operations and General Manager, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, reveals how the iconic palace hotel next door has influenced Sawai Man Mahal: "Rambagh Palace, with its stature as a celebrated royal residence, did play a significant role in influencing the design of Sawai Man Mahal, evident in the shared architectural language—ornate arches, stonework, and sprawling courtyards—reflecting the regal Rajputana style.”

 Architectural elements like the 24-pillared hall evoke the grandeur of the City Palace, while the opulent lobby, graced by the 187-year-old Golden Gate from Rambagh Palace, further connects the two properties. The open, garden-centric layout of Sawai Man Mahal, inspired by Rambagh's design, immerses you in a placid setting.

 While embodying regal luxury and referencing its more illustrious neighbour, Sawai Man Mahal distinguishes itself through intimate guest experiences. Private courtyards, outdoor dining, and lush gardens create a unique sense of place.

THE DESIGN PARADIGMS

The materials and patterns that define Sawai Man Mahal’s design:

LOCAL MATERIALS LIME PLASTERING CRAFTSMANSHIP

Locally sourced materials such as Jaisalmer sandstone, Ambaji white marble and Red Mandana stone adorn the corridors and guest rooms. “The distinctive patterns crafted from local sandstone tell a story of craftsmanship and tradition, while the use of regional materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability," says Ashok S Rathore, Area Director – Operations and General Manager, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur.

A striking feature of the restoration is Aaraish, a traditional lime plastering technique renowned for its durability and beauty. Employed for centuries in the construction of Rajasthan's forts and palaces, this hand-applied plaster creates a smooth, luminous finish. "By incorporating this age-old craft," notes Rathore, "the restoration preserves a key element of Rajasthani architectural identity and celebrates the skills of local artisans," ensuring that the legacy of this time-honoured technique endures.

The palace hotel shimmers with the artistry of Thikri work, a traditional Rajasthani mirror art. Tiny, meticulously cut mirror fragments are embedded into plaster, creating reflective patterns that dance and glimmer in natural light. This intricate embellishment adds a touch of regal splendour to select areas within the hotel.

STONE PATTERNS AND ORNAMENTATION

Corridors and pathways: The corridors and pathways of Sawai Man Mahal showcase Rajasthan's rich tradition of stonework. “Patterns crafted from locally sourced sandstone, marble, and Mandana stone embellish the passageways and corridors, transforming them into works of art and engendering an interplay of natural textures," says Rathore.

Pattern integration: The interiors of Sawai Man Mahal are a vibrant tapestry of Rajasthani patterns and craftsmanship, weaving a visual narrative that celebrates the region's rich artistic heritage. Rathore says, “Inspired by the motifs found in Rajasthan’s forts, palaces, and temples, these patterns infuse the space with a sense of cultural continuity.”

Dining in serenity

The al fresco dining area, La Terazza was conceived as an inside-outside space, centred around nature. The “idea was to craft an experience where guests are continuously engaged with nature, enhancing the sense of openness and tranquility that permeates the palace.”

Within, La Terazza is a vibrant space peppered with ceramic plates on the walls and sunlight streaming in. It spills over into verdant greenery with its outdoor setting and interplay of light, air, and the presence of several peacocks and birds, making dining a pleasure.

La Mesa (The Table) is a multi-cuisine restaurant with Spanish influences, inspired by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II's time as India's ambassador to Spain. The interiors feature natural elements, terracotta, wrought iron, and warm earthy colours. 1835, a library-themed lounge, is named after the year the foundation of Rambagh Palace was laid and pays homage to Maharani Chandravati and Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II. “It hosts an extraordinary collection of vintage photographs, the Maharaja’s helmet, and trophies. Additionally, a collection of 120-year-old library books adds a scholarly touch, evoking the intellectual and cultural pursuits of the royal family. These preserved elements serve as living relics of the palace’s history, allowing guests to get a rare glimpse into their private life,” says Rathore.

Challenges in restoring a royal palace

Transforming Sawai Man Mahal from a convention centre into a luxurious heritage hotel presented a unique challenge of “introducing contemporary elements in a way that felt natural within the palace’s historical context and not seeming out of place”, says Rathore. This was achieved through a sensitive design approach that preserved key architectural elements.

Centuries-old trees, courtyards, and gardens posed difficulties due to their defined boundaries and existing layouts which included mature trees and gardens. These were thoughtfully integrated into the design and reimagined in a way that celebrated the existing flora. Courtyards were created around the old trees, and gardens were preserved to provide a naturefilled environment for guests.

Sawai Man Mahal is a beacon of Rajputana hospitality, encapsulating the timeless allure of Jaipur explored through the lens of contemporary luxury. The water fountains, spacious courtyards, breezy gardens, and craftsmanship make Sawai Man Mahal an ideal getaway for sybaritic travellers.

THIS SPREAD: Rajasthan, and Jaipur's, design flourishes are everywhere, from embellished ceilings and walls to patterns and motifs across the hotel.

GREENER PATHWAYS TO HOSPITALITY

With its LEED v4.1 (O+M) Platinum Certification, Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, the first hotel in India to earn this recognition, sets a benchmark in sustainable hospitality, and achieves a monthly ROI of ₹ 42 lakhs.

In the hospitality industry, few sectors are as energy-intensive as hotels, where resource consumption is high, and operational demands are constant. From sprawling lobbies to meticulously climate-controlled rooms, the environmental impact of hotels is undeniable. This high-impact sector, however, has also taken a lead in sustainability, embracing innovations that address energy, water, and waste on a large scale. As guests become increasingly eco-conscious, the importance of building sustainable hotel operations has shifted from an option to an expectation.

In response to this, global accreditation programs like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) by US Green Building Council (USGBC) provide guidelines for sustainable practices and offer a prestigious benchmark for environmental excellence. LEED’s Operations & Maintenance (O+M) certification, in particular, offers a comprehensive framework for existing buildings, focusing on optimising operations without the need for large-scale reconstruction. For properties such as Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road (ORR), originally constructed in 2008, this certification provided a roadmap to modernise and align with sustainable standards.

The Bengaluru hotel’s recent achievement of LEED v4.1 Platinum Certification for Operations & Maintenance marks a significant milestone—not only for the hotel itself but for India’s hospitality industry as a whole. As the first hotel in the country to receive this certification, Radisson Blu Bengaluru ORR has set a precedent for the sector. This ambitious sustainability journey has been led by Austin Roach, Managing Director of Roach Lifescapes, and Chairman, Radisson Blu Bengaluru ORR (the hotel is a venture by the former company). His commitment to environmental stewardship guided the hotel through the demanding certification process. “Sustainability is not about following a trend,” he emphasises, “but is a sincere way of life. We are deeply committed to the environment and we are acutely aware of the impact that the hospitality industry alone can have on our planet.”

A journey of commitment and innovation

Built 16 years ago, Radisson Blu Bengaluru ORR wasn’t initially designed with today’s sustainability expectations in mind. But in recent years, the hotel has made transformative upgrades to qualify for the LEED certification. The hotel’s chairman and his team undertook a series of impactful steps, focusing on energy conservation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly practices to meet the stringent requirements of LEED v4.1. Among these, the installation of a 3MW solar power plant stands out. “We have a production capacity of 15k to 19k units per day,” says Roach. “Our

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

daily consumption is 11k to 13k units per day,” demonstrating a surplus that allows the hotel to operate as a net-zero energy building.

Additionally, the hotel’s biogas plant plays a central role in its circular waste management. Processing up to 500kg of kitchen waste daily, the biogas system generates between 35 and 45kg of green gas, which is then utilised for cooking. The leftover high-quality organic sludge is used to fertilise the gardens. “Our goal was to reach 100% circularity as far as organic waste management is concerned,” Roach explains. This level of selfsufficiency is a rare accomplishment in India’s hospitality sector.

AUSTIN ROACH

CHAIRMAN, RADISSON BLU BENGALURU OUTER RING ROAD

“Sustainability is not about following a trend, but is a sincere way of life. We are deeply committed to the environment and are acutely aware of the impact that the hospitality industry alone can have on our planet.”

Sustainability in action: immediate and lasting impacts

Today, Radisson Blu Bengaluru ORR reaps significant savings as a result of these eco-initiatives. By using its own biogas and solar power, the hotel not only reduces its dependency on external resources but achieves substantial monthly savings. “The ROI from these initiatives is around ₹42 lakhs per month,” Roach notes, underscoring the financial wisdom behind the environmental efforts. The hotel’s advanced rainwater harvesting system, which captures and reuses rainwater for domestic purposes and cooling, offsets approximately 35-40% of its water consumption. "Over 40% of the roof area is used for harvesting water and storing it in the sump. The balance is diverted to the borewell recharge pit," reveals Roach. It is interesting to note that overall, the hotel uses 50% less water today than it did in the past—even with higher occupancy levels across its guest rooms and banquet spaces.

Engaging guests and the community

The hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond internal operations to include guest and community engagement. A sign in the elevators reads, 'This building is powered by green energy,' which serves as both a point of pride and a conversation starter for environmentally conscious guests. Additionally, the hotel operates its own water bottling plant, using glass bottles to eliminate single-use plastics—a move that has helped prevent over a tonne of plastic waste annually. Staff members also receive regular training on sustainable practices, ensuring that each employee understands and supports the hotel’s eco-friendly goals. “We make it a priority to educate our guests about our sustainability efforts,” says Roach, adding that the hotel’s sustainability messages are visible throughout the property. “We encourage guests to make environmentally conscious choices that support our green goals.”

LESSONS FROM RADISSON BLU’S GREEN JOURNEY

Advice for hotels aspiring to LEED certification

Austin Roach, Managing Director of Roach Lifescapes, shares key insights from Radisson Blu Bengaluru’s journey to LEED Platinum certification for Operations & Maintenance

Rising energy costs make sustainability smart business: "Energy costs have been steadily rising, so adopting sustainable practices is just good business sense,” says Roach. “Our own investment in solar energy and water bottling systems yielded returns far beyond expectations.”

Adopt a “Reduce, Reuse, Repair, and Recycle” mindset: Roach emphasises, “We’ve significantly reduced costs through practices that tap into natural resources like solar power, water conservation, and recycling food waste into energy.”

Start with small, impactful changes: For hotels beginning their sustainability journey, Roach recommends practical steps: “From offering linen change options to recycling food waste, even modest efforts can create a positive ripple effect."

Make sustainability a collective mission: Roach stresses the importance of engaging staff and guests alike. “We train our team on sustainability daily and encourage guests to opt for eco-friendly choices. This makes sustainability more than a policy—it’s a shared responsibility.”

Future goals and sustainability initiatives

Looking ahead, Radisson Blu Bengaluru ORR plans to deepen its sustainability efforts. On the anvil is the installation of an advanced version of ultra-filtration and reverse osmosis system to treat excess recycled water for domestic use. Expanding its electric vehicle fleet for guest transportation is also on the horizon, further reducing the hotel’s carbon footprint. Roach sees these goals as natural extensions of the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. “We believe that more and more hotels will follow this path towards sustainability in the future,” he says.

The journey to LEED v4.1 Platinum

Certification has been both challenging and rewarding for the hotel and its leadership team at Roach Lifescapes. Through careful planning, bold steps, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the hotel exemplifies how sustainability can be woven into the fabric of luxury hospitality. As Roach reflects, “The path to sustainability isn’t without challenges, but it’s incredibly rewarding. And we’re just getting started.”

With the hotel's 3MW solar power plant producing more electricity than it can consume, Radisson Blu Bengaluru ORR effectively operates as a net-zero energy building.

THE BRAND EDIT

SOH lists out unique products and services that add value to the hospitality industry and redefine the guest experience.

TÊTE-ÀTÊTE 131

Founder Prashant Dalmia showcases Acespace's innovative, sustainable veneers that enhance interiors of hospitality projects.

IN SPOTLIGHT

MOST SOUGHTAFTER PRODUCTS

YAAHVI BY NIKITA BANSAL'S DAWN & DUSK COLLECTION BLENDS DESIGN AND NATURE

Yaahvi’s Dawn & Dusk Collection, crafted by Nikita Bansal, captures the beauty of nature’s fluidity and the passage of time. The Twilight Hanging Lamp mirrors twilight’s captivating colours, while the Totem Hanging Lamp draws inspiration from totems as spiritual icons. Both pieces, blending glass and mild steel, reflect the collection’s essence of embracing life’s everchanging journey.

X factor: Timeless elegance meets artistry

Instagram: @yaahvibynikitabansal

Contact: +919717858687

LIFE N COLORS INTRODUCES REGAL CEILING WALLPAPER INSPIRED BY INDIA’S HERITAGE

Life n Colors unveils a ceiling wallpaper collection that reimagines the planes overhead as immersive canvases, inspired by India’s royal heritage. Designs like the Maharaja Maharani Canopy and Stories Ethnic Theme blend Mughal art, Persian carpets, and Rajput paintings, filling spaces with intricate motifs and vibrant colours. These luxurious wallpapers bring depth and character to any room, offering a modern twist on historical elegance for those seeking a conversation-starting décor.

X-factor: Ceilings reimagined as immersive canvases

Website: www.lifencolors.com

Contact: +919310845706

EXPERIENCE VERSATILE COOKING WITH HINDWARE'S OTTAVIO 80L OVEN

The Hindware OTTAVIO 80L Built-in Oven revolutionises your kitchen with 14 versatile cooking functions, from air frying and defrosting to rotisserie grilling and pizza baking. Its sleek black design, tripleglazed door, and user-friendly features like soft-close doors and intuitive LED knobs make it both stylish and efficient. With precision temperature control and essential accessories, this oven makes gourmet cooking a delight for every chef.

X-factor: Versatile cooking functions

Available in: 80L capacity

Website: www.hindwarehomes.com

Contact: 1800-3010-2273, 1800-103-3300

SOURCES UNLIMITED BRINGS TIMELESS ELEGANCE IN GLASS LIGHTING WITH MUUTOS BY PRECIOSA

Muutos by Preciosa, brought to India by Sources Unlimited, is a masterful lighting collection that blends the age-old art of glass-blowing with modern design. Each piece, meticulously hand-blown using century-old wooden moulds, radiates fluid elegance and delicate beauty. With subtle reflections and shifting tones, Muutos lights bring a dynamic, tactile experience to any interior, making them perfect for luxury spaces seeking both sophistication and warmth.

X-factor: Delicate craftsmanship; understated elegance

Website: www.sourcesunlimited.co.in

Contact: +918510098000

CURVES MEET CRAFT IN ANDBLACK’S LOOP COLLECTION

The LOOP Collection by design studio andblack’s Jwalant Mahadevwala and Kanika Agarwal reshapes contemporary furniture with fluid, looped designs that blend strength, elegance, and functionality. At the heart of the series is the idea of a single surface made from a single material, elegantly bent and twisted into seamless loops that create both strength and visual intrigue. Each piece offers more than meets the eye, redefining norms of ergonomics and structure while establishing a language that resonates on both an aesthetic and emotional level. Each piece—from the sculptural bookshelf to the inviting jhoola—evokes a sense of wonder, turning furniture into art. The Ahmedabad-based collection captures the essence of parametric design and imaginative form, inviting users into a tactile experience that merges emotion with utility.

X-factor: Seamless fusion of art and functionality

Website: www.andblackfurniture.com

Contact: Kanika Mahadevwala +919909721443; Drishti Korat +919712977383 5

SOH RECOMMENDS

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

VENOSA COLLECTION BY RR DÉCOR BRINGS MEDITERRANEAN ALLURE TO INTERIORS

RR Décor’s Venosa collection captures the timeless charm of Italy’s Cinque Terre with fabrics that combine Italian tradition and contemporary style. Inspired by Vernazza’s vibrant colours and antique architecture, Venosa features rich earthy tones of mustard and deep gold, balanced with accents of turquoise and coral. The luxurious quilted velvet adds texture and sophistication, making these fabrics ideal for curtains and upholstery. Perfect for creating sanctuaries of understated luxury, Venosa transforms interiors with effortless grace.

X-factor: Italian-inspired elegance with a contemporary twist

Website: www.rrdecor.com

Contact: 011-41731107, 011-41601108, 011-46113555

PARTNERS PRODUCTS&

FROM VISION TO VENEER

Founder Prashant Dalmia shares how Acespace is elevating veneer solutions with innovation, sustainability, and collaborations across the hospitality sector.

Can you tell us about the journey of Acespace? How did the brand come to life, and what inspired its entry into the veneer industry?

The story of Acespace began in 2015 in a way I never could have imagined. My background was far removed from this world—I’m a Chartered Accountant and an MBA, with years of experience at ICICI Bank and Morgan Stanley. My entrepreneurial journey actually started in the medical field, so when it came to veneer, I was completely in uncharted territory.

But here’s what I discovered: there was a huge gap in the market. Designers working on hotel projects, retail residences, and more were looking for something the industry wasn’t offering. And I was drawn to fill that gap, driven by a growing passion for this incredible product. Veneer, I realised, isn’t just a material. It’s part science, part art, and wholly about passion. That combination captured my imagination and set me on this journey of craftsmanship and innovation.

What sets Acespace apart in the veneer market? What unique features, innovations, or services distinguish your brand from competitors?

I don’t see myself as a veneerselling brand but as a veneer solutions partner. Our approach is simple: provide tailored veneer options for every category of project—from residences to largescale hospitality, commercial spaces, retail environments, highend villas, and even beachside properties.

What truly sets us apart is our flexibility. We offer the same veneer in multiple thicknesses, forms, and backings, customised to suit the requirements of each site. This ensures our solutions fit seamlessly into any design vision.

We make a design professional's life easier by engaging with them daily, understanding their challenges, and creating innovative solutions. For instance, when we submit veneer samples, we ensure they’re polished, saving our clients valuable time during the approval process. Even the sheets we send

for review come with a polished corner, giving designers a clear idea of the post-finish look without any extra effort on their part.

Our offerings go beyond standard veneers. We robustly provide natural, hybrid, and dyed veneers, as well as milled and fluted panels, marquetry, laser-cut designs, handcrafted finishes, and customisations that align perfectly with architects’ and designers’ creative needs.

Can you shed light on Acespace’s growth trajectory? How has the company expanded its offerings or market presence over the years?

From humble beginnings in a small suburban warehouse in Mumbai to establishing one of the largest experience centres in the heart of the city, Acespace has come a long way.

Today, we’re proud to collaborate with the country’s top architects, leading hotel brands, renowned PMCs, and OEMs. In just a few years, we’ve expanded our hospitality footprint from 1-2 projects in 2018-2019 to 15-20 projects in 2024-2025.

Our veneer sales reflect this remarkable growth too—rising from 6 lakh sq.ft. in 2018-2019 to nearly 20 lakh sq.ft. in 2024-2025.

How do Acespace veneers cater to the specific needs of the hospitality sector?

We’ve introduced a large range of dyed and hybrid veneers in a variety of modern colours, textures, and sizes. What makes them truly special is their consistency—both in grain and colour—ensuring a seamless look across even the largest projects. This eliminates the usual challenges of inconsistencies, giving clients, architects, and designers the freedom to focus on their vision without compromise.

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We’ve also introduced prepolished veneers specifically for large-scale projects. This innovation significantly reduces the time spent on-site polishing, making the process faster and more efficient while delivering impeccable results.

From Shimla to Kanyakumari, and from Rajkot in the west to Guwahati in the east, Acespace is delivering excellence across India. We are proud to collaborate with some of the country’s most prestigious hospitality brands, including Marriott International, IHCL, EIH, Radisson Hotel Group, Hyatt Hotels, ITC Hotels, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, etc and many more.

Sustainability is becoming a critical focus. How does Acespace align with this trend? Are there eco-friendly practices, certifications, or material sourcing processes you follow?

Our veneers come exclusively from FSC-certified plantations across Europe, the US, Africa, South America, and Asia—ensuring environmental sustainability and responsible forestry. Beyond sourcing, our manufacturing process champions eco-conscious practices, incorporating lowemission glue and sustainable substrates like HDHMR and tissue backings.

What are some of the most innovative or high-demand products in your veneer collection?

In the hospitality sector, veneers with consistent grain and colour, like hybrid and dyed veneers, are highly sought after. These innovations have addressed the longstanding issue of veneer inconsistencies, providing seamless aesthetics across projects. With a vast and ever-expanding

range of these veneers, we continue to introduce fresh designs, offering unique and tailored solutions to elevate hospitality spaces.

How has Acespace collaborated with architects, designers, and the hospitality sector to drive innovation in veneer design?

In the past four years, we’ve proudly partnered with nearly 50 architects, interior designers, and hotels to craft unique artworks and innovative designs using veneers. Our collaborations with the design fraternity have grown steadily, showcased through events, exhibitions, store displays, and print media.

As trusted partners of leading hotel groups, we work directly with their head offices across the country, bringing their creative visions to life with new veneer innovations and bespoke designs for their properties.

What’s next for Acespace? Are there new product

lines, technologies, or markets you’re looking to explore?

Acespace is committed to providing the finest veneers to the industry while continuously introducing innovative designs, colours, textures, and techniques that elevate every space with unique opulence.

As the market expands rapidly—with new hotels, retail stores, commercial spaces, IT parks, premium villas, and large institutions emerging at an unprecedented pace—Acespace is poised to double its volume within the next two years.

Our focus remains on team growth, innovation, product quality, availability, value for money, exceptional service, and sustainability.

By understanding architects’ design needs and addressing client pain points, we are confident in achieving our ambitious goals and shaping the future of veneer solutions with purpose and passion.

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RIDING THE WAVE OF DESTINATION WEDDINGS

Two centuries ago, Udaipur was hailed as the "most romantic spot on the continent of India". Today, that allure is fuelling a hospitality boom, with luxury hotels vying for a piece of the destination wedding business, even as MICE events and leisure tourism pick up.

SUMAN TARAFDAR

"The most romantic spot on the continent of India."

That’s how British administrator James Tod described Udaipur. Writing in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, or about two centuries ago, he moonlighted as an Orientalist scholar and penned several works, including Annals and Antiquities of Rajast'han. This work, perhaps, is credited with conjuring up images of Rajasthan as a destination characterised by majestic palaces, grand havelis, oasis-like lakes, gentle hills, vast open deserts, and colourful costumes.

Perhaps Tod had it right after all. When it comes to Indian weddings, especially those leaning towards ‘bigger and fatter’, the destination most think of is the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur. The erstwhile capital of Mewar, this over 450-year-old city has struck gold in destination wedding branding. This, in turn, has seen hospitality majors rush to sign up to unfurl their flag in this City of Lakes.

SHUTTERSTOCK

A quick look at any booking site reveals that the rates, even in this shoulder season, are through the roof. At leading branded hotels in and around Lake Pichola, the per diem rates are above ₹60,000, with The Leela even topping the ₹70,000 mark, and the Taj Lake Palace just a shade below. Even homestays seem to command rates unseen in any other market in India. Industry reports have consistently put ADRs in Udaipur amongst the highest in the country, occasionally even the highest. It might be the only destination to command an annual city average topping ₹10,000.

Even with the recent spurt, the industry estimates demand to outstrip supply. The ‘trinity’ of Pichola hotels—Taj Lake Palace (opened 1971), The Leela (opened 2009), and Oberoi Udaivilas (opened 2007), barely have 250 keys between them. As the older hotels have limited capacity, the demand has seen the opening of many resort hotels designed specifically to cater to events—Mementos, Taj Aravali, Aurika, and Raffles, to name a few. All of them are well away from the city centre, but then that is an advantage. Most guests seem content within the hotel premises.

Compared to many other destinations, Udaipur has relatively little to offer in terms of attractions, with the usual mix of temples, bazaars and havelis dominating the ‘old city’, also the tourism hub. Its interconnected lakes are still the most popular tourism destination, and even with little visible effort at offering modern amenities, a balmy boat ride—weather permitting—remains the chief attraction.

And yet, tourists can’t seem to have enough. Hoteliers have taken note. New hotels are opening in the city across all hospitality segments, including luxury, midmarket, and economy. Rockwood Hotels, which owns the 245-key Radisson Blu that opened over a decade ago, is now adding a Fairmont, scheduled to open later this year. Both domestic and global hospitality chains have opened hotels or have openings slotted in the near future. Udaipur’s economy is growing too, and the city has been designated a ‘smart city’ by the federal government. If you want a Udaipur wedding, we suggest you plan well in advance. There have been instances of weddings being scheduled depending on the availability, and wait times can top more than a year.

PARVINDER BUAL CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER – OPERATIONS (IHCL) & GENERAL MANAGER TAJ LAKE PALACE, UDAIPUR

BOSE GENERAL MANAGER, MEMENTOS

BY ITC, UDAIPUR

We catch up

with general managers of the leading hotels to understand the current trends in the city’s hospitality sector, and what the future portends.

KAMAL SINGH GENERAL MANAGER, AURIKA, UDAIPUR

SANDIPAN

What are the top factors that currently make Udaipur a leading destination for hospitality development in India?

Parvinder Bual: Udaipur has emerged as a premier destination for hospitality development in India, a transformation profoundly shaped by IHCL. As a pioneer in preserving and presenting the city’s rich tapestry of history, we have masterfully managed its 'Living Legacies'—magnificent palaces that echo the grandeur of a bygone era and have successfully woven the magic of Tajness into the very fabric of Udaipur, elevating it to new heights as a sought-after destination.

Udaipur has witnessed a remarkable surge in tourist traffic, clocking in record numbers last year. This influx is fuelled by the city's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making it a coveted destination for both domestic and international travellers.

By operating iconic palaces such as the Taj Lake Palace and Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, we have created an enchanting experience where guests can step into the shoes of royalty. We also manage the spectacular Taj Aravali Resort & Spa, a stunning hill resort nestled amidst the Aravalli Range, which has become a popular destination for destination weddings, MICE and staycations.

Udaipur boasts some of the highest average room rates in India, a testament to the exquisite experiences that the city offers. This premium positioning not only highlights Udaipur’s enchanting charm but also underscores the immense profitability that draws further investments into the hospitality sector.

Sandipan Bose: Udaipur is a popular and picturesque travel destination. The city’s rich heritage and culture, showcased through its stunning architecture, beautiful lakes and romantic ambience, offer a distinct blend of historical charm and modern luxury.

What have been the biggest transformations in the city’s hospitality in the previous few years?

Parvinder Bual: Udaipur has witnessed a breathtaking transformation in its hospitality landscape over the past few years, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. This evolution is characterised by a series of remarkable developments that highlight the city’s resilience, adaptability, and unwavering allure as a leading destination for travellers in India.

The past two years have heralded a renaissance in Udaipur’s hospitality scene, marked by a robust expansion of prominent hotel brands eager to capture the hearts of visitors. At IHCL, we have expanded our footprint and brought in various

“Udaipur’s rich heritage and culture, showcased through its stunning architecture, beautiful lakes and romantic ambience, offer a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury.”

- S A N D I PA N B O S E

The Lily Pond at Taj Lake Palace. Udaipur's architectural heritage is referenced in the design of the hotel.

brands. Most recently, we have unveiled the 96-key Ginger Udaipur at Shastri Circle, a strategic addition that caters to the burgeoning mid-market segment. With two more properties in the pipeline, IHCL is poised to further enrich Udaipur’s vibrant portfolio, reinforcing the city’s appeal as a diverse and dynamic destination. Complementing this expansion, amã Stays & Trails invites guests to immerse themselves through local experiences that resonate deeply with the soul of Udaipur.

In the post-pandemic world, Udaipur has emerged as a premier hotspot for destination weddings and a hub for domestic tourism. The city’s mesmerising landscapes, steeped in history and romance, have become a canvas for unforgettable celebrations.

Kamal Singh: Udaipur has experienced significant transformation in recent years, marked by the emergence of numerous luxury and heritage hotels. Heritage hotels, in particular, have been instrumental in preserving the city’s rich history and architectural charm. The city has also seen a rise

ABOVE

and an ideal venue for a destination wedding.

ABOVE RIGHT: The Darbar Hall at Taj Fateh Prakash Palace. The hotel enjoys a central location between the Shambu Niwas Palace, where the Mewar royal family lives, and the City Palace Museum.

LEFT: ARRs in Udaipur are among the highest, averaging at G10,000 for the simplest rooms.

in boutique hotels and homestays, which provide more intimate and authentic experiences. They typically feature local design elements and decor, offering guests a taste of Udaipur's vibrant culture.

Additionally, Udaipur's culinary scene has expanded, with a variety of restaurants now serving traditional Rajasthani dishes and international cuisines. These developments have significantly enhanced Udaipur as a tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the globe.

Sandipan Bose: Udaipur’s hospitality landscape has seen significant transformation over the years, propelled by a burgeoning demand for luxury experiences, sustainability and cultural immersion. This evolution has been marked by luxury resorts, boutique and heritage properties, and heightened emphasis on wellness and holistic experiences. Furthermore, the city's hospitality industry has prioritised sustainable tourism, seamlessly integrating local culture and experiences into its offerings.

As a result, Udaipur has successfully repositioned itself as a worldclass destination, appealing to a wide range of travellers seeking luxury and cultural immersion. Hoteliers are adaptive and have curated services that offer an unparalleled blend of sophistication, authenticity and unforgettable experiences.

LEFT: The Magical Forest is a charming venue at Mementos by ITC, Udaipur,

To what extent has Udaipur’s positioning as a wedding destination propelled the city’s hospitality segment?

Kamal Singh: Udaipur has firmly established itself as a top wedding destination in India, significantly boosting the city’s hospitality sector. The influx of wedding travellers has led to a surge in demand for luxurious accommodations, wedding venues, and specialised services. Hotels and resorts have customised their offerings to meet weddingrelated needs, providing dedicated planners, banquet halls, and tailored packages.

This growing wedding tourism industry has also spurred the development of new infrastructure, including enhanced transportation facilities, convention centres, and event venues. Udaipur's reputation as a wedding destination has gained international acclaim. The city's historical charm and diverse offerings continue to make it a highly desirable choice for couples seeking unforgettable wedding celebrations.

Sandipan Bose: India is probably the largest wedding destination globally and luxury weddings at exotic locations continue to showcase India’s rich cultural tapestry. Udaipur has emerged as a coveted wedding destination in India and internationally. The influx of big, high-end weddings has led to an increase in demand for luxury accommodations, bespoke services and unique experiences. Known for its regal ambience, exquisite architecture, palatial settings and scenic natural splendour with breathtaking landscapes, Udaipur provides an idyllic setting for opulent and enchanting nuptial celebrations. India’s hospitality industry has evolved to cater to the growing demand for destination weddings, blending traditional Indian hospitality with modern amenities like Mementos Udaipur, which offers an ideal setting for hosting a grand wedding celebration.

Parvinder Bual: Udaipur’s emergence as a premier wedding destination has significantly transformed the city’s hospitality segment, casting a spell that enchants couples from around the globe. With its ancient palaces, tranquil lakes, and breathtaking vistas, Udaipur has become a coveted location for destination weddings—driving hotel occupancy rates to new heights. The destination wedding industry has blossomed into a multi-crore sector, contributing substantially to the local economy and providing employment for over 10,000 individuals, all while fostering the establishment of numerous hotels, resorts, and guesthouses tailored to this burgeoning market.

The city’s rich cultural heritage further enhances the wedding experience, as many couples choose to weave local traditions into their ceremonies. Udaipur’s positioning as a leading wedding destination has not only propelled its hospitality segment into a new realm of luxury and service but has also solidified its status as a key player in India's tourism landscape, where every wedding unfolds as a grand celebration against

the backdrop of one of the world’s most enchanting cities.

What is the current room inventory of your hotel? And of the city?

Sandipan Bose: Mementos Udaipur currently has a capacity of 117 villas, strategically positioning itself within the competitive city inventory. As the hotel scales its operations, we are witnessing a discerning trend of transient leisure travellers gradually transitioning from lakeside hotels towards a luxury getaway in the Unseen Udaipur. This shift reflects Mementos Udaipur’s capability to provide exclusive, unique experience that emphasises quality family time, complemented by numerous options for activities and engagements.

Mementos Udaipur is envisioned to go beyond the aesthetics, while also focussing on rejuvenation, relaxation and memorable experiences. The Mementos Guide, a specially curated offering, features tailored tours showcasing the rich heritage, food and culture of Udaipur.

“Udaipur has firmly established itself as a top wedding destination in India, boosting the city’s hospitality sector.”

- K A M A L S I N G H

Parvinder Bual: Udaipur boasts a total inventory of 1,634 rooms, including approximately 500 luxury rooms, 1,000 mid-market rooms, and 134 economy rooms, reflecting the city’s commitment to accommodating a diverse range of visitors and enhancing its appeal as a premier travel destination. At the Taj Lake Palace, there are 83 rooms, complemented by 65 rooms at the Taj Fateh Prakash Palace. The Taj Aravali Resort & Spa adds another 176 rooms to the city’s upscale offerings. Expanding beyond luxury, the Raajsa Kumbhalgarh—IHCL SeleQtions features 176 rooms, while Ginger Udaipur provides 96 budgetfriendly options.

Kamal Singh: Aurika, Udaipur features 139 rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and lakes. We have two other hotels— Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, which has 48 rooms, and Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels at Urban Square, Udaipur, with 68 rooms. We have also signed a new Lemon Tree Hotel in Udaipur, set to open in FY’27. This hotel will offer 54 well-appointed rooms and suites.

What are the top sources of tourists for your hotel, by revenue? What is the split between leisure/FITs/social events, business and MICE guests/events for your hotel?

Kamal Singh: The hotel mainly caters to social events, with weddings being a significant focus,

TOP: A bird's eye view of Mementos by ITC, Udaipur, whose 117 suites and villas wind up the hillside.

BOTTOM: Aurika, Udaipur was the first of Lemon Tree's upscale hotels and is every bit charming as its name (which means golden in Latin).

contributing 40% of our revenue. FITs and travel trade account for about 35%, while the remaining 25% comes from retail/ online channels.

Sandipan Bose: The hotel thrives on a diverse blend of business contributions, including social events, MICE and FIT. The property has also firmly established itself as a premier luxury wedding destination. The hotel offers breath-taking backdrops for guests seeking unforgettable wedding experiences, coupled with exquisite venues, MughalRajput architecture and attentive services. The property is a favoured destination for travellers from nearby regions and major metropolitan markets such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

What are the main opportunities for growth for the city’s hotels?

Parvinder Bual: Udaipur stands at a pivotal moment of opportunity for growth in its hospitality sector, with several promising avenues for expansion that can be harnessed to enhance the city's appeal as a toptier destination.

The rise in domestic tourism, particularly from urban centres such as Ahmedabad and Mumbai, presents a steady influx of visitors eager to experience Udaipur's enchanting landscapes and rich cultural offerings. This trend is further amplified by the city's burgeoning reputation as a favoured destination for weddings and leisure travel, drawing couples and families looking for unforgettable experiences.

Udaipur is also emerging as a key hub for MICE, driven by new banquet facilities and conference spaces in new hotels. This diversification into MICE tourism can attract corporate clients looking for distinctive locations

for their events, further bolstering the hospitality sector. Continued improvements in infrastructure, including enhanced connectivity and upgraded amenities, will support this growth trajectory. The government’s focus on developing tourist circuits and fostering publicprivate partnerships can facilitate the necessary advancements, creating a more accessible and attractive environment for travellers.

Additionally, there is significant potential for eco-tourism and adventure sports, which can appeal to a different segment of travellers seeking active and immersive experiences. Udaipur’s rich cultural heritage can be leveraged to develop themed experiences that draw in tourists with a passion for history and local traditions, encouraging longer stays.

Kamal Singh: Udaipur’s rich culture and history offer a fantastic opportunity to enhance guest experiences through cultural events, local tours, and workshops, creating a unique selling point. With the growing trend in wellness tourism, hotels can attract health-conscious travellers by incorporating spa services, yoga, and wellness retreats, providing an ideal getaway.

Set amidst the Aravalli Hills, Taj Aravali Resort is spread over 27 acres.

The city has long been an ultimate choice for leisure travel. However, with the demand for accommodations, city hotels attract traditional leisure guests and the growing segment of bleisure travellers. As more professionals combine work with leisure, hotels have come up with tailored packages that meet the needs of these guests. This includes experience-driven offerings such as flexible meeting spaces, high-speed internet and business support service, weekend packages and leisure amenities like wellness and relaxation initiatives. These offerings help build trust among guests while attracting a broader range of travellers and further enhancing brand presence in the competitive market.

In order to cater to these growing interests, Mementos Udaipur has a variety of bespoke experiences crafted to give you a taste of once-in-alifetime adventures. You may take your pick from ‘Hiking the majestic Aravallis’, find inner peace under the enchanting glow of the moon with Moonlight Yoga, have your premier screening at the private movie theatre Silverscreen or visit the games launch pad.

How would you rate the state’s policy for hospitality and tourism – and what would you like to see changed?

Parvinder Bual: Rajasthan has demonstrated a commendable commitment to fostering the hospitality and tourism sectors through its various policies, notably the Rajasthan Tourism Policy 2020 and the

“Udaipur stands at a pivotal moment of opportunity for growth in its hospitality sector.”

-

PA RV I N D E R B U A L

an increasing number of highan increasing number of The Gangaur is the signature Taj Lake Palace dining experience.

Rural Tourism Scheme. These initiatives are designed to promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices, ensuring that the local communities benefit while preserving the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. By prioritising these elements, the state has not only enhanced local livelihoods but has also positioned itself as a model for other regions in India.

One of the standout achievements of Rajasthan is its recognition of tourism as an industry, making it the first state in India to grant this status. This landmark decision has unlocked a plethora of benefits for hospitality establishments, including tax rebates and incentives that bolster the sector's growth. Such forward-thinking policies have contributed significantly to the overall enhancement of the hospitality landscape, enabling hotels and resorts to invest in quality service, infrastructure, and sustainable practices.

The results of these initiatives are evident in the substantial increase in tourist numbers, with domestic arrivals witnessing an impressive growth of over 65% from 2022 to 2023.

Kamal Singh: Rajasthan's tourism and hospitality policy has made significant strides in promoting cultural heritage and improving infrastructure, such as transport and connectivity. However, while there are efforts towards sustainable tourism, the policy could benefit from more comprehensive measures to protect the environment and preserve cultural heritage.

Overall, Rajasthan's tourism and hospitality policy can be rated positively, with strengths in cultural promotion and infrastructure but opportunities for growth in sustainability.

1,000 MERCURES AND COUNTING

Accor's Mercure brand has just hit a major milestone: 1,000 hotels worldwide. This makes it the second largest brand in the Accor group, and a testament to its idiosyncratic approach of blending international standards with local charm.

SUMAN TARAFDAR

Mercure is present in 65 countries and at 1,000 addresses.

Seen here is Mercure Chandigarh Tribune Chowk, the newest Mercure in India.

Mercure, part of Accor’s midscale segment, which also includes Novotel, is a 51-year-old brand present in 65 countries, with 1,000 addresses. Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye at Accor, says “Reaching 1,000 addresses is not just a milestone, it’s a testament of Mercure's dedication to delivering authentic, locally inspired hospitality across the globe.” As the group puts it, the brand is rooted in its surroundings, and every hotel has its unique personality enhanced by its enthusiastic hoteliers.

The brand’s distinctive identity has helped it grow rapidly, especially in Europe, China and West Asia. “Mercure has built its identity around celebrating local flavour, where each hotel reflects the personality of its locale, and this approach continues to be at the heart of our brand’s vision,” points out Kerry Healy, Chief Commercial Officer, Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, Premium, Midscale & Economy division at Accor. “Our focus for the Mercure brand globally is centred on delivering authentic, locally inspired experiences that resonate with modern travellers who seek cultural richness and warmth in every stay.”

Mercure and India

In India, Accor’s India site lists four Mercure hotels—Mercure Hyderabad

KCP, Mercure Goa Devaaya Resort, Mercure Chennai Sriperumbudur and Mercure Chandigarh Tribune Chowk. Note, that the country also has 10 Grand Mercures, but they are—somewhat confusingly—a separate brand within the group. Indeed for India, Accor’s presence is largely through Novotel and Ibis brands, who together comprise about three-fourths of all of the group’s hotels in the country. Healy, however, is optimistic about the growth of the brand in India. “In India, Mercure is especially positioned to cater to a growing segment of travellers looking for quality, memorable stays that connect them to local heritage and culture. Our hotels across India showcase

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Starlight Bar at Mercure Bangkok Surawong; Mercure Dubai Deira; a dish from the 1,000-Hours of Local Flavours menu; Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre; Mercure Chandigarh Tribune Chowk.

the country’s diversity through curated experiences, authentic dining, and design that honours local traditions. This commitment to culturally immersive hospitality aligns with India’s vibrant tourism landscape, allowing Mercure to become a trusted choice for domestic and international guests seeking genuine local connections. We also have a robust pipeline of 30 hotels, including four Mercure hotels under development, further underscoring the group's commitment to the Indian market.”

India’s emerging middle class has grown from 300 million to 800 million in the last five years and is

THE TREASURES OF THE DESTINATION

Inspired by Mercury, the Roman god of travellers, Mercure hotels offer far more than just a place to sleep—but as the group puts it, they are a gateway to the destination, a warm invitation to discover and explore the locale. Since its founding just over five decades ago, Mercure has been dedicated to unveiling the treasures surrounding each address, delivering high-quality standards infused with a deep sense of place. Through its ‘Discover Local’ program, Mercure welcomes guests to Feel Local Everywhere.

anticipated to make up 47% of the country’s population by 2030, points out Healy.

“Coupled with the midscale segment’s rapid growth in India, it opens up tremendous potential for Mercure, especially as travellers with increased purchasing power seek quality and authenticity in their accommodation without compromising value. Mercure is well-suited to meet the demand to offer a personalised experience that resonates deeply with today’s midscale traveller. India’s diverse and vibrant destinations provide a natural canvas for Mercure’s unique offerings. By strategically expanding in emerging and established destinations across the country, we aim to connect with the discerning Indian traveller who values a genuine connection to the places they visit. Mercure’s ability to blend international standards with local charm makes it ideally placed to capture the loyalty of this expanding market.”

Accor’s strategy involves identifying key locations where Mercure's unique blend of international standards and local charm can resonate with both domestic and international travellers. Growth developments for the brand include the upcoming openings of Mercure Lucknow and Mercure Kathmandu in January 2025, as well as Mercure Bhubaneswar later in 2025. The group has also signed Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre, scheduled to open early in 2028, further exemplifying their dedication to this growth trajectory.

Expanding the Mercure portfolio in India presents certain challenges, admits Healy. The diverse and fragmented nature of the Indian market requires a nuanced understanding of regional preferences and cultural nuances. Navigating regulatory landscapes and securing suitable locations can be complex. To address these challenges, Accor collaborates closely with local partners and stakeholders, ensuring that each Mercure property reflects the local culture and community it serves. This approach allows the brand to create meaningful and memorable experiences for their guests while contributing positively to the local hospitality landscape.

1,000 celebrations

The brand marked the milestone by hosting celebrations, held recently in Mercure Dubai Deira, by inviting partners from Mercure hotels across the globe. “To mark this incredible milestone, the celebration recognises the fact that without our partners, without our guests, without our owners, this would have not been possible,” says Julia Schamne, Cluster General Manager of Mercure Dubai Deira.

Schamne says the hotel is quintessentially Mercure, offering a great location and therefore seeing a variety of guests. “The brand Mercure offers a springboard of exploration. It is the location which gives confidence to the guest to explore the rich culture. The hotel offers a great mix of business and leisure experiences.”

Also to mark the occasion, Mercure has launched the 1,000-Hours of Local Flavours (42-day) concept at select Mercure hotels worldwide, offering a culinary experience that highlights local food and beverages.

Mercure already has more than a sixth of Accor’s hotel inventory. Globally, the group is set to add more than 200 new hotels by 2028. How fast it can grow in India will be in evidence in the coming few years.

CAN CHALO INDIA REVIVE INDIA’S INBOUND TOURISM?

India’s inbound numbers are still to fully recover, indicating a significant gap—and potential—for the country. India courts international tourists with the Chalo India campaign.

India has been witnessing a surge of enthusiasm for travel in the last couple of years. That is the consensus within the sector and numbers have largely borne this out.

Compared to 2019—before COVID dealt a blow to the global economy and travel—in 2024, the hotel rates are up, domestic tourism has surged, and the general spend on travel is more per person and in absolute numbers. However, there is one space within the sector where the recovery is yet to match the 2019

SUMAN TARAFDAR

levels. Inbound travel, possibly impacted by global factors, is still to bounce back to the preCOVID era.

Over nine million foreign tourists visited India in 2023, according to the data released by the Union Ministry of Tourism. In 2019, India had clocked 10.9 million inbound travellers, and the estimate for 2024 is 10.1 million, according to the numbers available till June. A noteworthy twist is that the country topping India’s inbound tourist numbers for nearly a decade, Bangladesh,

has suddenly seen a fall since the political developments in that nation, which overthrew the previous administration. While the numbers are yet not in, anecdotal reports indicate a fall.

The Indian government has decided to offer visa-fee waivers for the first 100,000 tourists entering the country under the Chalo India initiative.

A just-released report, How India Travels 2024 – The Inbound Edit by Booking.com in collaboration with Accenture, states, “India’s rapid growth as an

FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS IN INDIA: ANALYSING THE GROWTH TRAJECTORY SINCE THE PANDEMIC

Source: India Tourism Statistics

Note: Growth for H2’24 has been extrapolated based on H1’24 growth (Inbound tourists are in millions)

INBOUND TRAVELLERS IN OTHER COUNTRIES VS. INDIA

international tourist destination is fuelled by a combination of its wealth of tourist attractions, competitive pricing, and strategic government initiatives”.

The report also highlights this crucial fact: India has taken steps to improve traveller experience by developing new destinations, modernising airports, and bolstering road and hospitality infrastructure. “Combined with enhanced connectivity and the integration of smart tourism digital tools, India is fast positioning itself as a must-visit destination,” it says. The report points out that Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from tourism have increased, reaching $15.3 billion in the first half of 2024, a 17.6% increase from 2023 and a 5.5% jump from 2019.

PRIMARY TRAVEL

PURPOSES FOR VISITORS

TO INDIA FROM JANUARY TO JUNE 2024

Source: India Tourism Statistics 2024

KEY LEISURE FACTORS INFLUENCING INBOUND TRAVELLERS' DECISION TO VISIT INDIA

ICONIC LANDMARKS (TAJ MAHAL, ETC.)

NATURAL LANDSCAPES (BEACHES, MOUNTAINS, ETC.)

SPIRITUAL / RELIGIOUS / PILGRIMAGE

CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS (MUSEUMS, ART GALLERIES, ETC.)

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES (ZIPLINING, KAYAKING, ETC.)

WELLNESS EXPERIENCE

SOCIAL (ATTENDING WEDDINGS, VISITING FRIENDS / FAMILY)

SHOPPING

LOCAL CUISINE (FOOD) VALUE FOR MONEY

Source: India Inbound: A Booking.com 2024 Survey

Here are some takeaways:

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More than half (52%) of inbound travellers seek India as a standalone destination, while a third (22%) intend to combine their visit with other Asian countries. This trend highlights India’s growing role as a primary destination and stopover in regional travel plans.

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The US, United Kingdom, Germany and the United Arab Emirates have emerged as top inbound source markets for India based on Booking. com search data as compared to 2023, reflecting a shift from traditional frontrunners such as China, Canada and Bangladesh. Hong Kong, Australia, Italy and Netherlands were new entrants in the top 10 inbound source markets.

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The Booking.com search data reveals that while major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Jaipur and Chennai remain popular and have consistently ranked as the top five cities in terms of searches, less conventional destinations are gaining traction. Off-the-beaten-path destinations like Hampi and Leh are rising in popularity, showcasing India’s diverse tourism offerings. Other emerging destinations such as Patnitop, Pahalgam, Madikeri, Vijayawada, and Khajuraho, among others, have shown a 2x or more yearon-year growth.

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Nearly half (44%) of inbound travellers have experienced India and want to visit it again. 40% are eager to explore India for the first time, according to the report.

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Travellers aim to explore multiple destinations within India. 41% intend to visit two to four destinations, while 35% plan to cover five to 10 locations, showcasing their desire for diverse experiences.

Leisure & Holiday Recreation

Diaspora

More than half (52%) of inbound travellers seek India as a standalone destination, while a third (22%) intend to combine their visit with other Asian countries.

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While 52% of travellers prefer to book complete travel packages, 40% opt to book individual components separately.

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Survey responses indicate that limited customisation options (49%), lack of bundled packages that combine flights, accommodation and activities into a seamless travel experience (51%) and information overload (43%) can hinder traveller experiences.

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Gen Z (51%) prefer to book each travel component separately, seeking greater control over their travel plans. 54% of millennials and 63% of baby boomers prefer all-in-one travel packages for convenience.

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Amongst the biggest planning concerns, 32% mentioned getting sick and 27% cited safety and security, with cultural differences (13%) and language barriers (12%) as the next big concerns. Source: India Inbound: A Booking.com 2024 Survey

CHINA THAILAND INDIA MACAO. CHINA SOUTH KOREA JAPAN HONG KONG. CHINA MALAYSIA AUSTRALIA TAIWAN

FICTION TO REALITY

Source: Unlock'24: The Trends in Travel from Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo

Globally, the impact of pop culture on hospitality decision making is evident across continents. Beyond affecting consumer choices, entertainment shapes travel experiences and even creates destinations. The daily dilemma of ‘What should we watch?’ or weekend considerations of ‘Where should we go?’ now extends beyond regular plans to shape travel choices. The impact of pop culture on the hospitality industry continues to expand and needs to be recognised. This article highlights a few examples which are influencing travel and tourism sector in 2024.

When HBO's immensely popular show The White Lotus premiered in 2021, the audience’s attention was divided between the mysterious ongoings in the show and the breathtaking landscapes of Maui, the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago where the first season was set. This trend continued with season two, which served as an Emmy award-winning commercial for Sicilian tourism. According to Google trends, after each episode aired, searches for terms like White Lotus Hotel, Sicily Hotels, and Sicily spiked

300% increase in searches to Hawaii and Sicily after The White Lotus season 1 & 2

200% increase in searches to Paris after the premiere of Emily in Paris season 3

significantly. The Four Seasons Hotels in both Maui and Sicily, cast as the fictional White Lotus Hotel in the show, garnered increased international attention. Expedia reported that the first two seasons of the series led to a 300% rise in travel demand to these locations.

As anticipation builds for the third season, which is set in Koh Samui, Thailand’s tourism minister has expressed optimism that the show will further enhance the country’s global tourism reputation. He also highlighted that the production is expected to generate THB 7.5 billion (US$200 million) in revenue for the country.

The ‘White Lotus effect’ is only an indicator of the powerful influence of media and pop culture on travel decisions. This impact is evident globally and across generations—from visits to King's Cross Station in London to find Platform 9 ¾ and the Hogwarts Express, to road trips to Goa for the Dil Chahta Hai fort, and visits to the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles for a La La Land experience.

Tourism is in its concert era

There is a new demand segment in hospitality—concert-goers. These are passionate fans who are willing to go any distance to see their favourite artist in action.

Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour, for example, is a dream come true not only for her fans in each city she performs in, but also for local hotel operators and governments.After the successful US leg, which generated $98 million in hotel room revenue, the world tour continued in late 2023, and its impact remains significant.

United Airlines reported a 25% increase in air travel demand for European destinations such as Lisbon and Madrid around the tour dates, while Milan saw a remarkable 45% jump compared to the previous year. The tour also boosts local economies through concert-related spending on taxis, food, train tickets, and retail. It is estimated that the ripple effect of Swift's multiple concerts contributed £1 billion to the UK economy.

The economic benefits have led to a gold rush among governments. In Southeast Asia, Singapore secured an exclusive deal to host The Eras Tour. This had a direct positive impact on the city’s hospitality sector.

160% increase in searches for Richmond, London after Ted Lasso season 2

150% increase in searches for Romania after Wednesday season 1

65% increase in searches for Norway after Succession season 4

45% increase in searches for Chicago after The Bear season 1 & 2

THE POP CULTURE PASSPORT

How entertainment drives global hospitality, as pop culture becomes a crucial tool for understanding and predicting tourism trends.

MANAV THADANI

, MRICS, FOUNDER CHAIRMAN, HOTELIVATE AND HARINYA SREENIVAS , ASSOCIATE STRATEGIC ADVISORY, HOTELIVATE

According to STR, hotels reported their highest YoY RevPAR growth and achieved a 90.8% occupancy rate over the six tour nights.

Other music festivals such as Coachella in the United States and Tomorrowland in Belgium draw large crowds with their highly anticipated lineups. The trend extends beyond music to fashion in cities such as Milan, Paris, and New York. Art events like Art Basel in Switzerland and the India Art Fair in New Delhi attracted nearly 100,000 visitors each in the last year. Similarly, the San Diego iteration of Comic Con drew 135,000 visitors in 2024.

Entertainment events have become tourist attractions integral to local economies, highlighting the importance of incorporating them into strategic planning for cities and hospitality businesses.

The happiest place on earth

Disney remains one of the most popular global destinations. In 2023, Magic Kingdom at Disney World in Florida attracted over 17 million visitors which is higher than many international cities and, in many cases, countries. Additionally, seven out of the top 10 theme parks in the world are affiliated with Disney.

However, Disney’s impact has grown beyond a simple day trip. Leveraging the success of its beloved cartoons, Disney destinations

evolved into comprehensive hospitality ecosystems. Since the opening of the Contemporary Resort hotel alongside Disney World in 1971, development has been relentless. Today, the park features over 25 hotels and resorts, alongside more than 200 food and beverage establishments, each of them with a theme. As Disney continues to expand, integrating franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Star Wars, it also presents potential for the expansion of the hospitality components.

Disney’s influence extends to economic impacts as well. In 2022, the Walt Disney Resort generated over $40 billion in economic

SCREEN TO SUITES - AIRBNB'S MOVIE-INSPIRED OFFERINGS

Source: Hotelivate Research

THEME PARK VISITORS 2023 (IN MILLIONS)

Source: Hotelivate Research

CROSS CULTURAL INFLUENCE

In the heart of Switzerland, in front of the Interlaken Casino, stands a statue of the region’s unexpected ambassador. Conferred that title for his contribution to Swiss tourism, the statue is that of the veteran Indian filmmaker, the late Yash Chopra. Through his films, Chopra inadvertently provided the country their most effective advertisement, drawing thousands of Indian tourists. India continues to rank among the top 10 source markets for Swiss tourism, standing out as only one of two nonEuropean country in this group, the other being the United States.

activity across Florida. Leveraging its success, the company has also recently announced that it will be extending its hospitality at sea with a Disney Cruise.

Disney provides a roadmap for not only building of new destinations but encouraging existing destinations to capitalise on pop culture buzz. Many destinations have already begun to offer experiences based on entertainment that featured them. Fans of Games of Thrones can experience King’s Landing through thematic tours in Croatia, while Tolkeinites can now experience Hobbiton in New Zealand. The success of these ventures demonstrates how harnessing pop culture can create a loyal tourist base, generate employment, and drive significant economic benefits.

The bottom line

Pop culture has become a crucial tool for understanding and predicting tourism trends. Customers now turn to Instagram and Netflix for travel inspiration as frequently as they do TripAdvisor or Booking.com. From influencing choice, to driving demand and shaping destinations, the impact of pop culture on travel and tourism should not be underestimated.

Manav Thadani, Founder and Chairman at Hotelivate, is a hospitality consultant, hotel owner, restaurant partner, food critic, uncensored speaker and occasional stage performer. Harinya Sreenivas is an Associate - Strategic Advisory at Hotelivate. A graduate of Glion Institute, Switzerland, she is an avid reader, sommelier and cinephile.

WERE YOU AWARE?

BY DEEPALI NANDWANI

Reliving the Nawabi culture

After Rajasthan’s royal families offered travellers a peek into their lavish lifestyles, it is now the turn of Lucknow’s nawabs to invite guests home. Rather, the government is doing so on their behalf. The rich Nawabi culture of Lucknow has disappeared and the once sumptuous homes are now decrepit. The UP government has drawn up a plan to restore five Nawab-era structures—Chattar Manzil, RoshanUddaula Kothi, Kothi Gulistane-Iram, Kothi Darshan Vilas, and Kothi Farhad Baksh—into heritage hotels. Most are now owned by the state government, acquired as the Nawabs disappeared into oblivion. Built as palatial homes between 1722, when Nawab Sadat Ali Khan took over as Nawab of Avadh, and 1856, when Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was arrested by the British, they will transport us back to a genteel era when art, architecture, design and culinary excellence flourished.

The airport beer experience

India’s first airport microbrewery just opened at MOPA and we couldn’t be more thrilled. The 5,000sq.ft craft beer haven, called Sussegado, stands outside the main airport building, in the space occupied by other dining outposts of big restaurant brands. It has that very vintage Goa vibe with some interesting craft beer options which pay homage to Goa’s culinary traditions—like Poder’s Pilsner, a crisp beer with the flavours of Goan bread; Kokum Gose, a tangy, German-style beer infused with the favourite local souring agent and fruit, kokum; as well as the classic English Ale. Come two hours earlier than a flight, ask for a brewery tour, and then sit down for some craft beer with the unbeatable view of the MOPA airport with hills in the backdrop.

The world’s only floating sanctuary

The world is home to just one floating wildlife sanctuary. And we are fortunate that it happens to be located be in India, in Manipur, a troubled state that has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. We hope that as things settle down, the world would discover a gem called Manipur, and an unusual wetland ecosystem, the Keibul Lamjao National Park. It is home to the endangered Sangai deer, a brow-antlered deer with sharp antlers that seem to protrude out from its brows. The best way to explore the sanctuary is a cruise through its complex water channels that support an amazing biodiversity. The cruise is a very short one given how smell sensitive the Sangai is. Even a whiff of humans can get a Sangai ex-communicated from the Sangai deer community. You will also spot several migratory brids that make the sanctuary their home, particularly during winters, otters, water hogs and such.

Have you heard of tea beer?

And while we are at the subject of beers, did you know that tea-infused beer is a thing now? It is a balance difficult to achieve, but once done, leads to a fabulously nuanced tea-infused craft beer. Goa’s Latambarcem Brewers, the first to sell craft beer in a bottle, has collaborated with Taiwan’s Jim and Dad’s Brewing Company to launch a Xiangzhuang Red Oolong tea-infused beer–MAKA di Oo-Long Blanche. It will soon be available only in Goa and Taiwan’s capitalcum-cultural epicentre Taipei.

JOURNEY OF EXCELLENCE

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