IHG Expands Leisure Footprint with Holiday Inn Resort in Lonavala

An Invitation to Leisure: Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala to Open by 2027

IHG® Hotels & Resorts has taken a significant step forward by signing a management agreement with Emproy Hospitality LLP to develop a Holiday Inn Resort in Lonavala, a town famed for its picturesque green landscapes. Set to welcome guests in 2027, this new resort promises to elevate the leisure offerings in one of India’s most beloved getaway locations.

Prime Location and Features of the New Resort

Situated alongside the bustling NH-48 Expressway, the upcoming Holiday Inn Resort will benefit from outstanding visibility and seamless accessibility, making it a prime choice for travelers keen on venturing into the scenic hills of Lonavala. Reflecting the trusted Holiday Inn ethos, the resort plans to offer 100 comfortable rooms along with three distinct dining venues, catering to diverse tastes. Guests can also look forward to recreational amenities such as a sparkling swimming pool, rejuvenating spa, and a fully equipped fitness center.

Industry Insights and Strategic Vision

This development aligns perfectly with IHG’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the essentials category of hotels, particularly in India’s rapidly growing leisure markets. Lonavala, known for its lush greenery and temperate climate throughout the year, is an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking a nature retreat combined with modern comforts.

Statements from Leadership

• Sudeep Jain, Managing Director of South West Asia for IHG Hotels & Resorts, emphasized the strategic importance of Lonavala as a leisure hotspot and the company’s ambition to deepen its footprint by delivering recognized global brands with exceptional service.
• Rajeev Jain, Managing Partner of Emproy Hospitality LLP, expressed confidence that the new Holiday Inn Resort will set new hospitality standards in the region by blending IHG’s global expertise with local charm.

Historical Perspective on Hospitality Growth in India

The Indian hospitality sector has witnessed robust growth in recent decades, fueled by rising domestic tourism, expanding middle-class affluence, and increasing international traveler arrivals. Chains such as IHG have been instrumental in introducing globally recognized brands across the country, meeting the evolving expectations of guests. As part of its portfolio, IHG operates multiple hotel brands spanning luxury to midscale, catering to diverse market segments.

With over 51 hotels operating under six brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, voco, Holiday Inn Resort, and Holiday Inn Express, IHG is actively expanding, with a pipeline of 72 new hotels planned over the next 3 to 5 years. This expansion reflects a broader trend in Indian tourism, where destination-focused hospitality continues to emerge as a vital economic driver.

Table: IHG’s Presence in India and Growth Outlook

Prospects for Tourism and Hospitality in Leisure Destinations

Leisure destinations like Lonavala play a crucial role in the global tourism ecosystem, offering natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences. The development of quality accommodations often drives the growth of destination appeal, positively impacting local economies and supporting sustainable tourism development.

As such resorts expand, they tend to attract a diverse mix of visitors, from weekend travelers and families seeking beach and nature escapes to enthusiasts engaging in water sports, hiking, and cultural tours. Integration of modern recreational facilities, including wellness spas and fitness centers, enhances guests’ satisfaction, ensuring more extended stays and repeat visits.

The Tourist Area Life Cycle in Context

Understanding resort development can be aided by the Tourist Area Life Cycle, which includes stages like Exploration, Development, Consolidation, Stagnation, and potentially Rejuvenation. Lonavala currently fits well within the Development to Consolidation phase, characterized by increasing tourist footfall, growing infrastructure investments, and rising demand for premium hospitality services.

How This Development Connects with Sailing and Boat Rentals

Although Lonavala is an inland hill station, its location near lakes and water bodies offers opportunities to combine resort stays with boating and water-based activities. The establishment of a resort like Holiday Inn Resort in this picturesque area can invigorate demand for local recreational options, including sailing and boat charters at nearby lakes. Tourists often look to complement land-based relaxation with leisure time on the water, making such destinations attractive for boat rental services and yachting enthusiasts.

Moreover, as international and domestic tourism grow in such scenic regions, the synergy between hiking, spa relaxation, and boating activities enhances overall holiday experiences, potentially expanding the market for varied recreational watercraft charters.

List: Activities Commonly Enjoyed Around Leisure Resorts Like Lonavala

• Nature trekking and hiking through lush greenery
• Local cultural tours and handicraft shopping
• Water sports on nearby lakes, including sailing and kayaking
• Spa and wellness treatments within the resort
• Swimming and fitness activities
• Photography and bird watching

Conclusion

The upcoming Holiday Inn Resort in Lonavala signifies an important stride in expanding quality leisure accommodation in one of India’s most cherished hill destinations. Offering a blend of comfort, accessibility, and recreational facilities, it will likely draw more travelers to explore the scenic beauty of this region. This development also dovetails with broader trends where leisure destinations attract multi-activity tourism, including opportunities for sailing and boating on nearby water bodies.

For enthusiasts keen to integrate their holiday with yachting or boat rental experiences at coastal or lake resorts, the expansion of such hospitality offerings enhances destination choices worldwide. The GetBoat.com platform serves as an international marketplace, offering a rich variety of sailing boats and yacht rentals tailored to different tastes and budgets—making it easier than ever to connect with the water wherever the journey takes you.