‘Our hotel has recorded 6% YOY growth in occupancy and 10% growth in ADR’

Radisson Blu is gearing up for substantial growth in Rajasthan and beyond, with a strategic focus on Udaipur as a prime location. In a conversation, with Asmita Mukherjee, Mahesh Singh Jasrotia, Vice President of Operations at Radisson Blu Udaipur, revealed ambitious growth plans of the brand, such as opening the Fairmont Palace in Udaipur, envisioned to deliver an unmatched guest experience and redefine luxury standards in Indian hospitality. This expansion strategy is complemented by upcoming properties in Jaipur and Mumbai, chosen for their vibrant tourism, cultural appeal, and growing corporate presence.

Can you share if there are any upcoming expansion strategies for Radisson Blu in Udaipur or other key regions? Are there specific markets you are focusing on for future growth?

We are aiming to expand our business by establishing hotels with a particular focus on Rajasthan and other regions in India. The launch of the Fairmont Palace in Udaipur is a key part of this strategy. We have designed this property to provide an unmatched guest experience and world-class amenities. The Fairmont Palace is set to transform the Indian hospitality landscape, redefine excellence, and establish new benchmark standards for the luxury hotel segment.

We also have upcoming properties planned in Jaipur and Mumbai. Mumbai, as the financial capital of India, is an obvious choice due to its status as a large metropolitan hub for corporate, entertainment, and fashion industries. Additionally, Jaipur is a significant market in Rajasthan, known for its pink-hued architecture, cultural heritage, delectable local cuisine, and religious landmarks. This city remains a major tourist attraction, making it an excellent location for our establishment.

What makes Udaipur such a strategic location for a hotel, particularly in balancing the demands of business and leisure travel?

Udaipur stands out as an extraordinary destination that seamlessly blends stunning scenic beauty with top-notch infrastructure, making it ideal for both leisure travel and high-profile corporate events. As a burgeoning hub for business travel, Udaipur offers exceptional rail, road, and air connectivity, bolstered by ongoing infrastructure enhancements. The Maharana Pratap Airport (Dabok) links the city to major metropolitan centers such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with exciting plans for an integrated terminal set to launch by 2026. This enhanced connectivity is already driving an increase in inbound tourism and promises continued growth in the future.

Recognizing the potential for expansion, we have strategically diversified our offerings beyond a single niche. This proactive approach has empowered us to align our business development strategies and marketing campaigns to attract a broader clientele.

Our results speak volumes. We have successfully hosted high-profile events, including Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal’s pre-wedding celebrations and Neil Nitin Mukesh’s wedding, in addition to prestigious gatherings such as awards nights and elite conferences. Recently, we organized the GST conference and the Sustainable Financial Working Group (SFWG) meeting under India’s G20 Presidency. Furthermore, our venue was chosen as the backdrop for the launch of the movie Khel Khel Khel Khel Mein, further establishing our strong appeal within the entertainment industry.

How has Radisson Blu Palace Resort and Spa, Udaipur performed in terms of RevPAR, Occupancy Rates and Average Daily Rate (ADR) over the past year?

For the last 12 months, Radisson Blu Palace Resort and Spa, Udaipur, has delivered excellent performance on all the RevPAR, Occupancy Rates, and Average Daily Rate (ADR). Our hotel has recorded 6% YOY growth in occupancy and 10% growth in ADR making our metrics have been at par and in line with the industry benchmarks for luxury properties in Udaipur. For further improvements in these numbers, we are taking some strategic steps.

What are the current demand trends driving the luxury hospitality sector in Udaipur? Do you foresee any shifts in the types of travellers, particularly in the balance between international tourists and domestic travellers?

Environmental conscience has become an inherent part of guests’ psyche. We anticipate that this growing emphasis on eco-friendly luxury among domestic travellers, complemented by international visitors seeking responsible tourism, is in focus.

In line with that, we emphasise energy-efficient solutions such as solar energy, which powers our property through a plant located near Bikaner to cater to increasing domestic tourist influx. Our approach to natural daylight—ensuring public spaces and meeting rooms are illuminated naturally—also resonates with guests valuing sustainability. Sensor-based lighting and energy-efficient LED installations further optimise energy use.

In this dynamic industry, travellers are exploring high-end experiences within India. The resurgence of domestic travel, partly driven by a post-pandemic shift towards local tourism, is also evident in Udaipur. In 2023  alone, 179 Mn domestic tourists entered the state while the foreign tourist arrival stood at only 1.7 Mn. This displays that the number of local tourists will be the backbone of the hospitality sector in the long term.

Are there any new offerings, facilities, or initiatives we can look forward to at Radisson Blu Palace Resort and Spa, Udaipur in the near future?

At the Radisson Blu Palace Resort and Spa in Udaipur, a heartfelt commitment to enhancing guest engagement has led to several thoughtful initiatives that resonate with the preferences of today’s travellers. Every evening, the resort offers a collection of curated cultural activities, fostering a sense of community and connection. One of the highlights is a local bazaar set within the hotel, where guests are encouraged to participate, allowing local artisans to showcase and celebrate their skills. This initiative not only provides a platform for these talented individuals but also strengthens the bond between the resort and the local community, enriching the cultural experience for everyone involved.

The resort’s dedication to sustainability beautifully complements its hospitality. With an atrium lobby designed to maximize natural light and exterior walls painted white to minimize heat absorption, the ambiance is both inviting and eco-conscious. The thoughtful implementation of rainwater harvesting, well-planned horticulture, and on-site composting and sewage treatment plants reflects a genuine care for the environment, ensuring that nature remains at the heart of the guest experience.

These eco-friendly practices resonate deeply with guests who seek accommodations that align with their values. To cater to families, the resort has also introduced Game Galaxy, a vibrant gaming zone that invites individuals of all ages to enjoy time together in a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Looking ahead, the resort is excited to expand its offerings with 100 new rooms, wellness facilities, and unique dining concepts—developments that have already received warm and positive feedback from guests. By focusing on cultural enrichment, sustainability, and family-friendly experiences, the Radisson Blu Palace Resort and Spa has truly become a cherished destination for domestic travellers, international guests, and those celebrating special milestones. The heartfelt dedication to guest satisfaction and loyalty is evident, creating memorable experiences for all who visit.

What is your outlook for the luxury hospitality market in Udaipur and broader India in the next few years? Are there any particular challenges or opportunities that you believe will shape the future of the sector?

The future of luxury hospitality is indeed bright for Udaipur and India, as this is poised to unlock multiple prospects of growth. With grand weddings and MICE events in Udaipur, this becomes one hub associated with all types of premium events and high leisure tourism. Looking at the bigger picture in India, we foresee growth in wellness tourism and, hence, the need for luxury hotels to reposition their services. Today, guests are looking for a much more personalised experience beyond the bed-and-breakfast kind of accommodation—more holistic well-being programmes, experiential stays, and environment-conscious services. With a growing interest in sustainable travel, properties will need to incorporate green practices into operations. At Radisson Blu, we’ve already embraced such changes with initiatives like solar-powered energy systems and in-house water purification plants.

However, the entry of new players into the market has increased competition, and changing customer expectations demand constant innovation. Domestic travellers now want luxury experiences within India, a massive opportunity requiring more localised offerings. In the long run, the ability to adapt to changing market trends will determine success.