Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has expanded its footprint in Uttarakhand with the opening of Corbett Hideaway, Jim Corbett – IHCL SeleQtions. The 80-key resort, set on seven acres along the banks of the Kosi River, is positioned as a tranquil base for travellers exploring one of India's most celebrated wildlife destinations.
The property features private sit-outs with river views, landscaped gardens, and open spaces designed to blend with the natural surroundings. Dining options include Ija, an all-day restaurant serving authentic Kumaoni cuisine, and the Himmaleh Bar & Deck, an alfresco venue overlooking the water.
Strategic expansion in a key wildlife market
Gaurav Pokhariyal, Chief Operating Officer of Full-Service Business at IHCL, said, “Corbett is one of India’s most sought-after wildlife destinations, drawing travellers with its natural beauty and thriving ecosystem. The addition of Corbett Hideaway - IHCL SeleQtions strengthens our presence in Uttarakhand and furthers our partnership with Leisure Hotels Group with the addition of its sixth resort to the IHCL portfolio.”
The resort offers a range of curated experiences, including guided jungle safaris, birdwatching excursions, river rafting, and visits to the Garjiya Devi Temple. These activities are designed to appeal to both leisure travellers and the growing segment of experiential tourists seeking deeper engagement with the region's biodiversity.
Vibhas Prasad, Director of Leisure Hotels Group, commented, “This opening builds on our legacy, bringing together our deep-rooted understanding of the destination with IHCL’s expertise to create experiences that are both authentic and enriching.”
The launch comes as India's domestic travel market continues to show strong demand for wildlife and nature-based tourism. IHCL's SeleQtions brand, which curates distinctive properties with local character, has been a key vehicle for the group's expansion into non-metro and leisure destinations.
For travel professionals, the new property adds inventory in a high-demand corridor. Corbett National Park attracts a mix of domestic and international visitors, and the resort's location along the Kosi River offers a differentiated stay option compared to more conventional jungle lodges.
Leisure Hotels Group, which has deep roots in Uttarakhand, has been instrumental in developing hospitality infrastructure across the state. The partnership with IHCL allows the group to leverage the latter's distribution, loyalty programme, and operational expertise while maintaining local authenticity.
The resort is expected to benefit from growing interest in responsible travel and conservation-focused tourism. Its proximity to the park's core zones, combined with activities such as birdwatching and river rafting, positions it well for both FITs and group itineraries.
IHCL's broader strategy includes expanding its portfolio across India's key leisure circuits, with a focus on destinations that offer year-round appeal. Uttarakhand, with its combination of wildlife, hill stations, and pilgrimage sites, remains a priority market for the group.
For agents and tour operators, the new property provides an additional option for clients seeking a blend of wildlife adventure and comfort. The resort's all-day dining and bar facilities also make it suitable for corporate retreats and small MICE events, though the primary focus remains leisure.
As the hospitality sector continues to recover and evolve, openings like Corbett Hideaway signal confidence in the long-term prospects of India's wildlife tourism segment. With the backing of IHCL's brand and distribution, the property is well placed to capture a share of this growing market.
