IHCL and Ambuja Neotia Forge Landmark Pact for 15 New Hotels Across India

A Journey of Vision: Expanding Horizons in Hospitality

In a defining moment for Indian hospitality, the Indian Hotels Company Limited, India’s largest hospitality group, has joined hands with Ambuja Neotia Group, a titan in real estate and luxury living, to establish 15 new hotels under a capital-light arrangement. This bold expansion will elevate their partnership to more than 40 hotels, heralding a new age of destination-driven hospitality in the country.

IHCL’s storied legacy—spanning iconic locations such as Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa, and the Andaman & Lakshadweep Islands—is now set to illuminate the East and North East. The alliance will unlock the unexplored charm of these regions, showcasing their unique culture and natural beauty on both national and global tourism maps.

The Blueprint for Growth

What’s in Store?

• 15 new sites across West Bengal, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh, covering a blend of greenfield, brownfield, and conversion projects.

Brand Focus:

• Taj resorts in Sunderban, Darjeeling, Shimla, and Rabong
• SeleQtions hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri
• Tree of Life in Lataguri
• Select destinations to feature Taj-branded villas in Darjeeling, Sikkim, Lataguri, and Raichak

Completion Timeline: Most projects will launch over the next five years, with at least half opening in less than five years.

“Having pioneered destination development in places like Rajasthan, Goa, and the Andamans, we’re excited to bring that same vision to the East and North East in partnership with the Ambuja Neotia Group.” — Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL

This expansion follows the acclaimed partnership for Tree of Life and leverages IHCL’s reputation for world-class service, recognized as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand by Brand Finance.

Ambuja Neotia: Pioneers of Eastern Grandeur

Based in Kolkata, the Ambuja Neotia Group has shaped Eastern India’s landscape through landmark projects in real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and education. Their innovative spirit is visible in everything from affordable township developments like Udayan to luxury escapes such as Raichak on Ganges and Taj Chia Kutir.

With a vision for sustainable growth, Ambuja Neotia has brought to life business parks, lifestyle malls, and educational institutions, making a lasting impact on work, living, and culture in the region.

“The North East, the unexplored region of India, has tremendous potential for bespoke luxury travel. Our ongoing collaboration with IHCL is a testament to the region’s growing promise.” — Harshavardhan Neotia, Chairman, Ambuja Neotia Group

IHCL: Setting the Gold Standard in Indian Hospitality

Founded in 1903 with the opening of the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, IHCL now operates a vast portfolio—360 hotels across 13 countries and over 150 locations—with 123 additional properties in the pipeline. IHCL's leading brands include:

• Taj Hotels (India’s Strongest Brand 2025)
• SeleQtions
• Tree of Life
• Vivanta
• Gateway
• Ginger

A strategic focus on management contracts underpins its rapid, asset-light expansion—reinforcing IHCL’s commitment to nurturing new markets and authentic local experiences.

The Future: Luxury Meets Potential

• Unlock premium and bespoke travel across East and North East India.
• Add over 1,000 luxury rooms to the growing portfolio.
• Boost sustainable, regional tourism development while generating new jobs and opportunities.