Goa police recently uncovered a significant scam involving individuals posing as hotel operators and deceiving tourists through fraudulent listings on reputable booking platforms. Four people from Hyderabad and Jaipur were arrested for duping over 500 victims, resulting in a loss of several crores of rupees. The scam, which had been ongoing since 2022, involved listing non-existent properties on platforms like Booking.com and collecting advance payments. The police investigation revealed the criminals exploited booking platform loopholes to exploit unsuspecting tourists, mainly by convincing them to make immediate payments for non-existent villas.Read more

Oyo has announced plans to expand its presence in India's religious tourism sector by adding 500 hotels across prominent pilgrimage destinations, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Haridwar, and Puri, this year. This strategic move comes in response to the increasing demand for quality accommodations, driven by government initiatives such as the PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan schemes. Ayodhya, emerging as a key spiritual tourism hub, will witness the addition of over 150 hotels. The initiative aligns with predictions that religious tourism will generate USD 59 billion in revenue by 2028 and create 140 million jobs by 2030.Read more

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached Hotel Trinetra Resorts and Hotel Green Orchid in Patnitop, Jammu and Kashmir, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Valued at INR 14.93 crore, the properties were allegedly constructed beyond legal limits on encroached land in restricted zones. The investigation stems from a CBI FIR, which accused hotel operators and Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) officials of regulatory violations and financial irregularities. The ED's action highlights systemic lapses and potential collusion, reinforcing its commitment to combating financial crimes and upholding zoning regulations in ecologically sensitive areas.Read more

Mumbai's iconic Sea Rock Hotel, a landmark property with a rich history, will soon make a comeback as Taj Bandstand under the Indian Hotels Company Ltd. (IHCL). The construction of this luxury sea-facing property in Bandra is set to begin in the latter half of 2025, pending necessary approvals. This will mark IHCL's fifth luxury property in Mumbai, further solidifying its presence in the upscale hotel segment. The hotel's redevelopment comes after decades of setbacks, including legal disputes and environmental clearance hurdles.Read more

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has ordered the liquidation of Tulip Hotels after it failed to secure a resolution plan during the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP), initiated by Yes Bank over an INR 900 crore default. Despite the statutory 180-day timeline, no bids were received, and the Committee of Creditors (CoC), led by J C Flowers Asset Reconstruction with a 70.83% voting share, opted against an extension. The Mumbai NCLT bench approved the liquidation on January 16, 2025, appointing a liquidator to oversee the process in compliance with the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) guidelines.Read more

The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj is hosting millions of devotees, with 1.75 crore participating in the 'Amrit Snan' on Makar Sankranti. Attendees can choose from a variety of accommodations, including luxury tents by TUTC at INR 70,000-INR 1 lakh per night, offering en suite bathrooms and guided tours. Mid-range options like Kumbh Camp India Adhvanta start at INR 14,000, while budget stays by UPSTDC range from INR 1,500 to INR 35,000. Packages like MakeMyTrip's "Soulful Kumbh" at INR 28,695 per person provide additional convenience. Visitors are encouraged to book early, as demand is high for this spiritually significant gathering.Read more

ITC Hotels, now operating as an independent, debt-free listed entity, plans "accelerated growth" under Managing Director Anil Chadha. With 4,000 rooms in 45 properties in its pipeline, the chain aims to expand from 13,000 rooms in 140 hotels to 18,000 rooms in 200 hotels by 2030, focusing on asset-light managed properties. Backed by INR 1,500 crore from ITC Ltd, the company is poised for growth in India and internationally with new projects in Nepal and Sri Lanka. ITC Hotels' revenue mix has shifted post-pandemic, with room rentals contributing 52%. The brand remains bullish on India's growing demand and infrastructure development.Read more

Vriti Gothi

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has revealed plans to launch a Gateway Hotel in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, marking a significant addition to its portfolio in northern India. The new property will feature 80 rooms along with amenities like a restaurant, bar, pool, and event spaces, catering to both business and leisure travellers. Developed in partnership with Dhaulashree Hotels Private Limited, the hotel aligns with IHCL's strategy to expand its footprint and boost regional tourism. This move builds on IHCL's legacy of delivering exceptional hospitality and strengthening its presence in key markets, including Uttarakhand.Read more

As Navi Mumbai prepares for the Coldplay concert in January 2025, a significant rise in hotel prices has been observed. A report by Sciative Solutions reveals that hotel rates for various categories, ranging from budget to luxury, have increased sharply compared to September 2024. Budget accommodations have seen a decrease in availability, while mid-range and luxury hotels have witnessed substantial price hikes. Hotels close to the venue have seen the most significant jumps, with some rooms increasing in price by more than two and a half times. Early demand for luxury properties has also led to these hotels selling out months in advance. This study underscores the power of dynamic pricing, highlighting how AI-driven tools help hotels optimise their pricing strategy to capitalise on major events.Read more

Sarovar Hotels has announced the launch of a 304-key Royal Tulip hotel in Kathmandu, Nepal, expected to open in the first half of 2025. This hotel, developed in collaboration with Massif Hotel, will surpass Nepal's largest existing hotels. Targeting mountaineers, pilgrims, and business travellers from India and Southeast Asia, the property will offer competitive room rates, making it an attractive destination for weddings and events. Sarovar Hotels is also expanding with additional properties planned across India, Africa, and more. They expect a 12-13% revenue growth in 2025 due to an increase in new properties.Read more