The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) is accelerating its expansion under its “Accelerate 2030” plan, having signed and opened five new hotels in strategic locations across India and South Africa in less than a month.
Since May 20, 2025, IHCL has secured agreements for several new properties, including Vivanta Mysuru (signed on June 10), Gateway McLeodganj (signed on June 4), Taj Pushpabanta Palace in Agartala (signed on May 21), Taj Alibaug Resort & Spa (opened on May 20), and Taj Safari Lodges in Kruger National Park, South Africa (signed on May 29).
Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President of Real Estate & Development at IHCL, shared further details about the newly signed Vivanta Mysuru, located near the Hebbal Industrial Area. This 115-key greenfield project will feature modern amenities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, and meeting rooms. Venkatesh noted, “This signing aligns with our strategy of expanding in rapidly growing economic and cultural destinations.” This hotel marks IHCL’s 26th property in Karnataka, with 12 currently under development.
The Gateway Hotel in McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh, adds to IHCL’s portfolio in Northern India. The 65-key property offers expansive views of the Dhauladhar ranges and is conveniently close to the Dalai Lama Temple. This signing is part of IHCL’s ongoing effort to enhance its leisure offerings in key destinations such as Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala.
The Taj Alibaug Resort & Spa, which recently opened in Maharashtra, represents a significant milestone in IHCL’s initiative to capture the upscale leisure market in India. This 156-key coastal retreat boasts several restaurants, wellness services through the J Wellness Circle, and large event spaces, all while combining elegant architecture with the rustic charm of Alibaug. “The launch of Taj Alibaug marks IHCL’s entry into this micro-market, further strengthening our presence in Mumbai’s leisure circuit,” stated Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO of IHCL.
Meanwhile, Agartala’s Taj Pushpabanta Palace, a former royal residence being developed in partnership with the state government, has also been signed. This historic palace will undergo meticulous renovations, with most of its 100 guest rooms housed in a new wing. As part of its “Accelerate 2030” strategy, IHCL plans to invest INR 2,500 crore in the Northeast, aiming to expand its footprint to 30 hotels by the end of the decade.
The Taj-branded safari lodges in South Africa’s Balule Game Reserve, located within Kruger National Park, offer a luxurious yet immersive safari experience complete with spa services, fine dining, and customized game drives. Chhatwal emphasized, “As the demand for purpose-led travel grows, Taj’s unique offerings combine expert-led safaris with conservation-focused design.” This strategic move is designed to attract global leisure travelers seeking experiential luxury in distinctive locations.
IHCL’s comprehensive strategy positions it well to influence the next phase of Indian hospitality as the country’s tourism sector recovers. As travelers seek curated international experiences alongside meaningful local getaways, IHCL is deepening its presence not only in India’s leisure and cultural hubs but also expanding its luxury portfolio into untapped global markets.
In addition to adding nearly 500 new rooms to its expanding portfolio, IHCL is also working on an ambitious plan to double its consolidated revenue to INR 15,000 crore, broaden its hotel offerings, and achieve a 20% return on capital employed.
This rapid growth underscores IHCL’s commitment to solidifying its multi-brand dominance in the hospitality sector. With a target of 700 hotels by 2030, IHCL is aggressively expanding its portfolio to achieve its revenue goals and maintain a significant presence both in India and abroad.
