The Leela Palaces, Hotels And Resorts Announces Its Foray Into Northeast India With The Signing Of A 140 Room Hotel In Sikkim

Hyderabad, December 2023: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, one of India’s leading luxury hotel brands, today announced the signing of a management agreement for a 140-room hotel in Ranka in Sikkim, marking the foray of the brand into Northeast India. Owned by the SIBIN Group, the project Leela Sikkim is located approximately 10 kilometres from the capital city, on a 17-acre plot overlooking the Gangtok Hill. Slated to open in December 2026, The Leela Sikkim is set amidst the serene backdrop of the Himalayas and is poised to redefine the hospitality landscape of the region with its inspirational design, thoughtful programming and the brand’s renowned signature services.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts said, “We are delighted to introduce The Leela brand into Northeast India with the project Leela Sikkim. Sikkim remains a pristine destination with the right blend of urbanization, rich cultural heritage and unexplored natural beauty. This expansion is in lockstep with the growing demand from the discerning global leisure traveller to experience meaningful and transformative journeys that are an authentic expression of a region’s natural beauty, heritage, cuisine, and culture.”

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Neel Chhetri, Proprietor, Sibin Group said, “I am excited to partner with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts to bring this uber luxury brand to Sikkim. We are confident that with this partnership and the investments we are making, the project Leela Sikkim will soon emerge as one of the most sought-after leisure and wellness destinations in the country and will help us to showcase the hidden Himalayan treasure to the world.”

The Leela Sikkim will offer guests a tranquil and luxurious experience complete with a range of leisure and wellness facilities and thoughtfully curated services. The resort will feature 35 independent luxury villas including 20 wellness villas, 13 twin villas, and a 6-room double storey villa and 88 luxury rooms in a hotel block. A range of dining options with an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, a wellness restaurant and a lounge bar will also be offered. Guests will also be able to enjoy a state-of-the-art wellness centre and a casino along with a host of other indoor and outdoor activities.

Announcing its foray into the Northeast, The Leela takes pride to introduce Sikkim – a mystical Himalayan destination to leisure travellers and is embracing the hill state with authenticity to provide unforgettable experiences for guests to savour the true culture, art, wellness, flavours and the natural beauty of this unexplored region. This expansion is a testament to the company’s strategy to grow in key leisure and resort destinations across the country.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels And Resorts Expands Their Footprint In South India

With The Opening Of Its Second Hotel In God’s Own Country, Kerala 

~Introduces A Magical Backwater Experience With The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel~

Kerala 2023: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts announced the opening of its second hotel in God’s Own Country, The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, further consolidating its presence in Kerala and fortifying its resort portfolio. The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel perfectly complements The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel, and builds on the brand’s presence in the coastal state with the two resorts offering very distinctive and unique backwater and beach experiences, completing the much sought-after and serenely beautiful Kerala itinerary.

A two-hour drive from Thiruvananthapuram airport, this picturesque resort is a tiny hamlet perched on the banks of the shimmering Ashtamudi Lake, formed by the confluence of the 8 lakes, offering a magical backwater experience that flawlessly balances barefoot luxury with rustic charm. Placid, serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and swaying coconut trees create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Thoughtfully curated experiences unlock the magic and mystery of the locale and offer an enriching cultural immersion into the destination amidst an awe-inspiring setting.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said, “We are delighted to welcome The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, an exciting new addition to our brand portfolio. Kerala has historically been one of our key markets and strategically significant to our growth in the region. The resort marks another milestone in our journey as we continue to grow in the most alluring leisure destinations across the country. This expansion is in lockstep with the growing demand from the discerning global leisure traveller to experience meaningful and transformative journeys that are an authentic expression of a region’s beauty, heritage and culture.”

Commenting on the opening, Dr Ravi Pillai, Chairman RP Group said,” I am excited to see our partnership with The Leela brand evolve and I am confident that together we can play a key role in transforming the tourism sector in the region. The coming together of Raviz and The Leela provides the unique opportunity to place Kerala at the heart of global leisure and wellness travel and further reimagine and elevate the high standards of hospitality that exist in the region with unparalleled levels of luxury and warm and gracious service – both of which The Leela brand is known for.”

Integrating the foundational principles of environment and sustainability, the resort is elegantly poised in harmony with local history, evidently enchanting and magnifying the culture and heritage of the destination through inspired design narratives that reference Kerala’s rich architectural heritage.

With 93 tastefully appointed rooms that reflect the traditional Nalukettu aesthetic of Kerala, the resort is home to a bevy of accommodations including rooms, suites and experiential houses, embodying historic charm that seamlessly blend the old and the new and serve as a window to the resort’s breath-taking natural settings. A charming décor permeates each room and traditional artefacts and furnishings steeped in culture, pay homage to the history and culture of the locale. Guests can choose between the Tower Wing or the Heritage Wing or elevate their experience by upgrading to one of the two available private plunge pool villas. The resort also features two unique traditional experiential houses offering the THARAVADU Experience - namely Erattupetta and Anchal which have a rich history of more than 200 years. Those seeking ultimate luxury can reserve a private getaway with a tranquil backwater cruise on Mahayana - the quaint houseboat that comes with all the comforts of a hotel and is evocative of everything that is quintessentially Kerala.

The resort houses four unique dining venues - Keraleeyam the multi-cuisine restaurant, Portico Café, serving comfort food, Raanthal - the floating dining experience and Zirkon, the aqua-themed bar. Each venue presents mesmerizing views of the tranquil Ashtamudi Lake and the abundance of nature surrounding it. The fresh produce sourced locally imbues the cuisine with regional flavours, while simple aromas infused with delicate spices create an epicurean delight of incredible sights, flavours, and tastes in everything ranging from delectable authentic Kerala Sadhyas to grand feasts. The highlight on the menu is Fish Nirvana, the resort’s very own curated signature recipe, which also has a vegetarian version in Paneer Nirvana.

The resort’s Favourite Kerala Ayurveda and Spa interweaves authentic Ayurvedic healing traditions with therapeutic and relaxation treatments that use specially formulated organic blends that soothe the mind, body, and soul. An extensive menu of rejuvenating massages, Ayurveda therapies, and detoxification programmes inspired by traditional techniques ensure an authentic and immersive wellness experience.

Leisure facilities at the resort also include an outdoor swimming pool flanked by azure waters and tropical foliage for the ultimate lakeside getaway and a fitness centre equipped with state-of-the-art equipment surrounded by panoramic views.

Whether it is an intimate soiree or a grand celebration, the resort offers a selection of inviting spaces for events and meetings of various sizes and types. From traditionally inspired architecture that provides a charming, yet elegant setting to tranquil gardens and picturesque lake vistas that offer an enchanting backdrop, every event is infused with local traditions and bespoke services that add a touch of culture, authenticity, and personalization.

Whether you seek solace in tranquility, rejuvenation in wellness journeys, indulgence in distinctive culinary encounters, or exploration in the destination, this hidden paradise invites travelers to truly disconnect and soak in all that is quintessentially Kerala.

Appointment | Madhav Sehgal appointed as the General Manager of The Leela Palace Bengaluru

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, announced the appointment of Madhav Sehgal as the General Manager of The Leela Palace Bengaluru. In his role, Madhav will lead the operations of The Leela Palace Bengaluru, and work towards strengthening its leadership positioning within this highly competitive luxury market.

Madhav is an accomplished hotelier and brings with him over two decades of diverse hospitality experience having worked across markets like India, UAE, and Canada. His multi property operational experience, leadership skills and comprehensive understanding of the business are distinguishing facets of his career. With innovative and proactive strategic planning and strong interpersonal and people skills, he is focused on ensuring stellar standards of guest service which are synonymous to The Leela brand are benchmarked and maintained.

Prior to joining The Leela, Madhav was the General Manager at Andaz Delhi and Hyatt Delhi Residences. His previous assignments include The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi, The Imperial Hotel New Delhi, Renaissance and Marriott Hotels in Canada, Fairmont Abu Dhabi and Hyatt Hotels in Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai amongst others. Through his career journey, Madhav has established, and pioneered trend setting standalone F&B venues and positioned these with strong independent brand identities.

Madhav’s academic qualifications include a 3-year Diploma in Hotel Management, a Bachelor of Arts in Tourism Studies and a Post Graduate Diploma in Hotel Management Systems from Niagara College, Niagara Falls, Canada.

Commenting on the appointment, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts said, “It is a pleasure to have Madhav onboard to lead this iconic property. We are confident that with his vast hospitality experience, passion and commitment to the industry and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of today’s discerning traveller, Madhav will spearhead the hotel as it continues to evolve and strengthen its positioning as one of the most desirable hotels in the world.”

Appointment | The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts announces new VP Corporate HR

His last assignment was with HDFC ERGO as Vice President and Head – Talent Management, Performance, and Rewards, where he successfully anchored the transformation of key HR processes during the merger.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts announces the appointment of Gautam Srivastava as Vice President - Corporate Human Resources. In this role, Gautam will drive and implement the people strategy of the company, as it embraces the next new phase of its growth trajectory.

Srivastava brings with him over two decades of rich and diversified experience in Hospitality, ITeS, Banking, and Insurance. Prior to joining The Leela, he spent close to a decade in the Insurance industry with Max Life Insurance and Apollo Munich Health Insurance (Now merged with HDFC ERGO General Insurance). His last assignment was with HDFC ERGO as Vice President and Head – Talent Management, Performance, and Rewards, where he successfully anchored the transformation of key HR processes during the merger.

Graduating in Hotel Management with a specialization in Human Resources, Srivastava began his career with ITC Hotels as an Operations Management Trainee where he gained experience across hotel operations before transitioning to other industries. With his appointment at The Leela, he has found his true calling and says, “his life has come full circle”.

His experience includes leading the L&D team at a start-up phase in Convergys, where he won many accolades across industries and geographies – Technology, Banks, Telecom in the USA, UK, and Australia. He then moved on to HSBC Technology & Service Delivery to lead their L&D, Talent Management, OD, and Recruitment team, spearheading several Global HR transformation projects. Post this, he moved to Barclays Shared Services leading their Talent Acquisition.

“We are delighted to welcome Gautam to The Leela family and to have someone of his stature and extensive experience lead our Human Resources function. His vast knowledge of contemporary HR practices, execution skills, and ability to look at the larger picture is well-aligned with The Leela’s growth strategy and people commitment,” said Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts.

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Shridhar Nair joins The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as Vice President- Operations

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the promotion of�� Shridhar Nair as Vice President- Operations with immediate effect.

In his new role, Nair will handle the operations of The Leela group and will relocate to the Corporate Office in Mumbai by April this year.

“ We are delighted to have Shridhar lead the Operations at The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. With his profound market knowledge, strong business acumen and deep understanding of The Leela brand, we are confident that Shridhar will add tremendous value to the operations as The Leela continues on its next new phase of growth and development,” said Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts.

Shridhar Nair, a home grown talent of The Leela, joined the company in 1997 as a Management Trainee. For over two decades he has held several key positions across many properties of the group.

A winner of multiple awards including Hotelier India General Manager of the Year , HOSI Best General Manager and Business World General Manager of The Year amongst others, Shridhar Nair is an industry veteran recognized for his operational excellence. His vast experience, hands-on leadership style, ability to manage refurbishment and renovation projects across different hotels and resorts are distinguishing facets of his career journey with The Leela. His most recent position was General Manager The Leela, Goa.

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Vikram Choubal joins The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts as their Senior Vice President Design

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has appointed Vikram Choubal as Senior Vice President, Design and Technical Services.

Prior to joining The Leela, Choubal was Vice President, Project Management at Marriott International for South Asia.

In his new role, Choubal will provide technical support and oversee the design, planning and execution of all hotel projects within The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts portfolio. With over three decades of experience in hotel project management, Choubal has had a solid grounding in hospitality engineering, architecture, design, and construction.

“We are delighted to welcome Vikram to The Leela family and to have someone of his calibre and extensive experience lead our design and technical services team. Vikram brings with him the necessary expertise and a proven track record in project management and design development across  multiple brands, which will be extremely valuable to us as we embrace the next new phase of our growth trajectory,” said Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts.

Choubal began his career in the merchant shipping industry, sailing on oil tankers for 14 years, gaining hands-on experience of working with people across the world, before moving to the hospitality industry. His experience in the hospitality sector includes a stint with The Oberoi Group, heading engineering, operations and projects as Vice President, and IHCL (TAJ Hotels) as Vice President Projects prior to joining Marriott International.

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Vikram Aditya Singh joins The Leela Palace Udaipur as General Manager

Key Take Away

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the appointment of Vikram Aditya Singh as the General Manager of The Leela Palace Udaipur. 

He comes with a rich experience of over two decades wherein he has been associated with some of the iconic domestic and international hotels.

Singh has spearheaded many successful projects and has risen to fame with his distinguished approach and proficiency.

For More Information Click Below:

www.hotelierindia.com/operations/11221-vikram-aditya-singh-joins-the-leela-palace-udaipur-as-general-manager