The Leela Group Marches Forward With New Properties And Sustainability

The Leela Hotels and Resorts has been a beacon of luxury and excellence in India's hospitality industry for over three decades. With its unwavering commitment to delivering the finest experiences to its guests, the brand has continually set the standard for what it means to be a luxury hotel in India. As the hospitality landscape evolves, The Leela is keeping pace and leading the way with new properties and a sharpened focus on sustainability and experiential travel. These momentous developments for the Group were showcased at The Leela Mosaic 2024 on August 7th, 2024, held at The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences. The event was graced by senior leadership from the existing 12 properties and the upcoming The Leela Hyderabad. Expanding Horizons: New Properties and a Diverse PortfolioThe Leela's portfolio is a testament to its ability to blend luxury with cultural authenticity. From the stunning palatial property on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur to the beachside retreat in Kovalam, each Leela hotel offers a distinct experience that reflects the local environment and architecture. The brand's consistent focus on luxury, regardless of location, ensures that you're guaranteed an unparalleled stay whether you're a business traveller in Gurugram or a holidaymaker in Kerala.With new properties on the horizon, including a highly anticipated hotel in Ayodhya, The Leela is set to expand its reach while maintaining its core identity. This growth is not just about increasing the number of rooms but about carefully selecting locations and designing hotels that enhance the guest experience and align with the brand's luxurious ethos."We've always been market leaders purely because of the kind of detailing that goes into our operations," says Shridhar Nair, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Leela Ambience Gurugram. "From the very inception, The Leela has been clear in its vision to cater exclusively to the luxury segment."Meeting the Demand for Experiential TravelIn the last decade, the demand for experiential travel has surged, with guests seeking more than just a place to stay. Recognising this trend, The Leela has developed unique itineraries and experiences that immerse guests in the local culture and environment. One such offering is the Leela Palace Trail, an itinerary that takes guests through the brand's most iconic palaces in Delhi, Jaipur, and Udaipur. "Staying at the top of the luxury segment means we must continually offer something extraordinary," says Nair. "We've recognised the trend toward experiential travel and have been actively building unique experiences across all our hotels."A Pioneering Commitment to SustainabilityIn an era where sustainability has become a key concern for travellers, The Leela is taking significant steps to minimise its environmental impact. Since its acquisition by Brookfield in 2019, a leader in renewable energy, The Leela has intensified its focus on sustainability. The brand has implemented various green initiatives, from commissioning solar power projects to eliminating single-use plastics across its properties. Today, nearly 75 per cent of the power consumed by The Leela Hotels is sourced from solar energy—a remarkable achievement that underscores the brand's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint."Our biggest advantage is the support from Brookfield, which has allowed us to take on sustainability as a major initiative," Nair explains. "Right from commissioning solar power projects to reducing fossil fuels and achieving ESG and CSR certifications, we've made substantial progress in the last five years."The Future of Luxury and SustainabilityAs The Leela continues to grow, its focus remains on providing luxury experiences that resonate with modern travellers. The brand's commitment to sustainability is not just a trend but a fundamental shift in how it operates. "Sustainability is the most significant trend that will continue to shape the industry," Nair emphasises. With increasing awareness and demand for sustainable practices, both from domestic and international tourists, The Leela is poised to lead the way in integrating luxury with responsible tourism.