IHCL Expands with SeleQtions Hotel in Digha
Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the signing of a new SeleQtions hotel in Digha, West Bengal, marking another step in its strategy to expand across emerging tourism destinations in India.
The project is a greenfield development, reinforcing IHCL’s focus on building fresh hospitality infrastructure in high-potential leisure and cultural hubs. The signing also continues the company’s collaboration with the Ambuja Neotia Group, a longstanding partner in hospitality development.
Digha Emerges as a Key Coastal and Spiritual Destination
Digha, located along the Bay of Bengal, has long been known as one of Eastern India’s most popular beach destinations. However, its positioning is now evolving beyond traditional leisure travel.
According to Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development at IHCL, the destination is witnessing increased interest due to its growing relevance in spiritual tourism, which is expanding its visitor base year-round.
This combination of coastal appeal and cultural significance is enhancing Digha’s hospitality potential, making it an attractive location for branded hotel developments.
SeleQtions Digha Designed for Leisure and Social Experiences
The upcoming IHCL SeleQtions Digha will feature 56 keys, offering a boutique-style hospitality experience aligned with the brand’s focus on distinctive properties rooted in their location.
The hotel’s design will cater to both leisure travellers and event-driven guests, with facilities including an all-day dining restaurant and a bar. In addition, the property will incorporate spacious meeting and event venues, making it suitable for social gatherings and small corporate events.
Recreational amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa will further enhance the guest experience, positioning the hotel as a well-rounded leisure destination.
Partnership with Ambuja Neotia Strengthens Regional Development
The project is being developed in partnership with Ambuja Neotia Group, with Giriraj Damani, WTD, CEO and CFO – Ambuja Neotia Hospitality, highlighting the significance of the collaboration.
He noted that bringing the SeleQtions brand to Digha will contribute to elevating the region’s hospitality infrastructure, aligning with the broader development of the destination.
Such partnerships between established hospitality operators and regional developers are playing a crucial role in expanding branded hotel presence in emerging markets across India.
Tourism Potential and Attractions in Digha
Digha continues to attract travellers for its wide beaches, serene shoreline, and natural beauty, making it a preferred getaway for visitors from Eastern India.
The destination also offers a range of attractions, including:
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New and Old Digha beaches
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Talsari Beach
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Digha Science Centre
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Marine Aquarium & Regional Centre
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Amarabati Park
These attractions contribute to Digha’s growing appeal as a multi-dimensional tourism destination, supporting both short leisure trips and extended stays.
IHCL Strengthens Presence in West Bengal
With the addition of the Digha property, IHCL’s portfolio in West Bengal will expand to 17 hotels, including nine currently under development.
This growth reflects the company’s strategy of strengthening its presence in high-growth regional markets while catering to diverse travel segments through its portfolio of brands.
The SeleQtions hotel in Digha is expected to further reinforce IHCL’s footprint in Eastern India while supporting the destination’s evolution as a key coastal and cultural tourism hub.
