IHG Hotels and Resorts Signs New Management Deal to Open Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala in 2027, Expanding the Leisure Tourism Sector of India

Published on December 11, 2025

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Emproy Hospitality LLP for developing Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala, which is scheduled to open its doors in 2027. This will further strengthen IHG’s portfolio in the essentials category and fortify its increasing footprint in India’s burgeoning leisure tourism market.

Located in the scenic town of Lonavala, renowned for its lush greenery and favorable weather throughout the year, the Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala is poised to present the perfect retreat for globetrotters in quest of a placid escape. Situated on the NH-48 Expressway, the venue promises easy access to the facility, thus becoming highly appealing to both domestic and international visitors who travel across one of India’s main highways.

Resort Features and Guest Experience

True to the Holiday Inn brand’s ethos, which is renowned for comfort and guest-focused innovation, the new resort will offer 100 well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation and convenience. Guests can enjoy a variety of facilities, including three dining options, a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center, ensuring a holistic resort experience.

The resort will cater to a wide range of travelers, from families looking for a weekend retreat to business professionals seeking a relaxing environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its blend of relaxation and recreational options, Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala is poised to become a key player in the region’s growing leisure tourism sector.

Strengthening IHG’s Footprint in India’s Leisure Destination Market

This new project is part of IHG’s broader strategy to expand its portfolio in India, a country known for its thriving tourism industry. IHG currently operates 51 hotels across six brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts®, Crowne Plaza®, voco™ Hotels, Holiday Inn Resort®, and Holiday Inn Express®. The company’s pipeline includes an impressive 72 hotels slated to open within the next 3-5 years, further underscoring IHG’s commitment to growing its presence in India’s fast-developing leisure and hospitality markets.

As the demand for domestic tourism continues to rise, particularly in popular weekend getaway destinations like Lonavala, IHG’s Holiday Inn Resort brand is well-positioned to meet the needs of travelers seeking comfort, value, and convenience in their accommodations.

Future Growth in India’s Hospitality Sector

The opening of Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala reflects a broader trend in India’s hospitality growth, particularly in leisure and weekend tourism. As more travelers look for short, accessible breaks, destinations like Lonavala are becoming increasingly attractive. This growing demand for weekend getaways is expected to drive a surge in hotel development, particularly in destinations near major cities and key transport corridors. IHG’s decision to expand its portfolio in such a high-demand area reflects a long-term vision for growth, focusing on premium yet accessible accommodations that cater to both leisure and business travelers.

The expansion of holiday resorts and wellness tourism offerings like the Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala highlights the sector’s shift toward wellness-driven travel and authentic local experiences. With an increasing number of middle-class travelers and young professionals seeking affordable yet luxurious escapes, India’s resort and leisure segment is expected to see consistent growth, offering exciting opportunities for hospitality brands in the coming years.

Looking Ahead: The Role of IHG in India’s Growing Hospitality Landscape

As India’s hospitality sector continues to grow, particularly in leisure and weekend tourism, IHG is poised to expand its footprint significantly. The launch of Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala is a key part of the company’s future growth strategy, not just for the region, but for the entire Indian hospitality market. The resort will serve as a model for future developments, combining comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and recreational facilities that appeal to the evolving needs of the domestic and international traveler.

In addition to leisure resorts, IHG’s continued investment in luxury brands and expansion into new regions in India will contribute to the ongoing diversification of the country’s hospitality industry. As the market matures, IHG plans to continue supporting sustainable tourism, focusing on local integration and ensuring its resorts meet the growing demand for experiential travel that highlights India’s rich cultural and natural offerings.

A Strong Future for IHG in India’s Hospitality Sector

The Holiday Inn Resort Lonavala is a big leap forward for IHG in consolidating its presence in India’s fast-growing leisure tourism market. The resort is well-positioned to become one of India’s biggest players in tourism and hospitality, given the prime location, modern amenities, and competitive advantages it has over other properties in ensuring guest satisfaction. As the sector continues to grow, so does the company’s commitment to offering high-quality, accessible accommodation to sustain growth and ensure business success in the Indian market that caters to both domestic and international tourists’ desire for unique retreats.

Image Source: IHG