Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has signed a new Tree of Life resort on the banks of Chilika Lake in Odisha, marking the group’s first property in the state. The greenfield project, developed in partnership with Sanjay Gadodia, Director of Scania Steels and Powers Ltd., is slated to open with 30 keys and a range of facilities including an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a meeting room, a swimming pool, and a spa.
Strategic Move into Experiential Destinations
The signing reflects IHCL’s broader strategy to expand into destinations with strong experiential appeal, a segment that has seen growing demand from both domestic and international travellers. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President of Real Estate & Development at IHCL, noted: “The rising preference for nature-led, lesser-explored destinations reflects a shift in how guests are choosing to travel.” Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, is home to over 160 bird species and the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, offering a distinct natural setting for immersive stays.
This move aligns with similar trends across the hospitality industry. For instance, ITC Hotels recently signed a management deal for a 143-key Welcomhotel in Ayodhya, while IHCL itself signed a 105-key Taj hotel in Dharamshala, both targeting culturally rich and less-penetrated markets.
Design and Amenities
The resort will be situated directly on the banks of the lagoon, providing unobstructed views from all guest rooms. Facilities include an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a spacious meeting room suitable for small corporate retreats or events, and leisure amenities such as a swimming pool and spa. The property is designed to integrate with its natural surroundings, offering guests a close connection to the lake’s ecosystem.
Sanjay Gadodia expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating: “This development will reflect the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.” The partnership underscores a growing trend of hotel groups collaborating with local developers to tap into emerging leisure destinations.
Industry Context
The signing comes as major hospitality players accelerate their presence in India’s secondary and tertiary leisure markets. Marriott International recently crossed the 10,000-property mark globally with the opening of JW Marriott Ranthambore Resort & Spa in India, while Leisure Hotels Group opened Samsara Resort in Mussoorie, expanding its Uttarakhand portfolio to 15 properties. These moves indicate a sustained appetite for experiential, nature-led accommodations among both developers and travellers.
For travel professionals, the Chilika Lake resort represents a new option for clients seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in India, particularly those interested in birdwatching, dolphin spotting, and cultural immersion. The property is expected to appeal to both leisure travellers and small MICE groups looking for a serene setting.
IHCL’s Tree of Life brand, known for its boutique, eco-conscious properties, continues to grow as part of the group’s diversified portfolio. The Odisha signing adds to a string of recent developments, including the Taj hotel in Dharamshala and other projects across India.
