IHG Hotels & Resorts has recently signed an agreement to set up a Holiday InExpress Hotel in Ayodhya, which is expected to open in mid-2028.
The development is part of IHG's strategy to expand its presence in high-growth markets in India, especially spiritual destinations where tourism is increasing.
Holiday In Express is IHG's most significant and fastest-growing hotel brand, with over 3,000 properties worldwide. It is known for its accessible and comfortable accommodations and streamlined services. The Ayodhya property will aim to support the growing demand for spiritual and leisure tourism and cater to meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions for MICE travellers.
Ayodhya has emerged as one of India's most popular tourist destinations in 2024, with over 110 million visitors recorded in the first half of the year alone. The Holiday Inn Express Ayodhya's strategic location, close to the city's airport, railway station, and main temple complex, makes it an easily accessible option for visitors. The hotel will feature 125 well-appointed rooms, an all-day dining area, a fitness centre, a business centre, a parking space, a laundry room, and a spacious meeting room.
Sandeep Jain, MD South West Asia IHG Hotels and Resort,s commented: "We are thrilled to announce the signalling of Holiday Inn Express Ayodhya. Ayodhya has become one of India's most preferred tourist destinations in 2024. With Holiday Inn Express Ayodhya's strategic location, the hotel will benefit predominantly from spiritual tourism year-round. The hotel is poised to offer a unique stay experience, mixing world-class hospitality, comfort and convenience with an easy connection to the city's spiritual heritage."
Jain added, "This signing reaffirms our commitment to expand IHG's presence in secondary markets, including those with significant cultural and religious appeal, as the number of travellers to these markets continues to grow, driving demand for quality accommodation."
Abhishek Jain, the hotel's owner, said, "We are delighted to partner with IHG Hotels and Resorts to introduce Holiday Inn Express to the holy city of Ayodhya. By amalgamating our local expertise with IHG's global standards, we aim to create a distinguished destination that will become a preferred choice for domestic and international travellers. With a high visibility and strategic location, the hotel will set new standards for hospitality in Ayodhya."
The development of this new property responds to Ayodhya's growing popularity as a key destination for cultural and spiritual tourism. Its proximity to the city's main attractions and the transport hub positions it as a convenient choice for visitors exploring the area or attending to religious and cultural norms.
With this agreement, IHG strengthens its footprint in the Indian hospitality market while focusing on emerging secondary markets as high-potential destinations due to increased travel demand. This venture underlines the strategic shift toward regions with both cultural and religious significance while ensuring accessibility and hospitality for a growing number of visitors.
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