Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has signed a new Gateway hotel in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, marking another step in its North India expansion. The greenfield property, located in the bustling Gomti Nagar district, will feature 215 rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and a bar. Guests will also have access to a spa, gym, and swimming pool.
The hotel is designed to cater to both business and social events, offering over 8,000 square feet of banqueting space, pre-function areas, and conference facilities. This makes it a significant addition to Lucknow's MICE and corporate hospitality landscape, a segment that continues to grow as the city develops as a commercial and administrative hub.
Strategic growth in Uttar Pradesh
Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President of Real Estate & Development at IHCL, highlighted the importance of Lucknow in the company's regional strategy. "Lucknow continues to witness steady growth driven by infrastructure development and expanding business activity. This signing strengthens IHCL’s presence in one of North India’s key commercial and administrative centres," she said.
With this addition, IHCL will operate 64 hotels in Uttar Pradesh, including 27 under development. The state has become a focal point for the hospitality group, which is also expanding in other key Indian cities. The new Gateway property is expected to appeal to both domestic and international business travellers, as well as leisure visitors drawn to Lucknow's rich cultural heritage and architectural landmarks.
Varun Gavri, Director of Kripanidhi Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., the partner in this venture, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. "With its strategic location and the strength of IHCL’s hospitality expertise, the hotel will serve the evolving needs of travellers," he said.
The Gateway brand, positioned as IHCL's upscale offering, has been steadily growing across India. This signing aligns with the group's broader strategy of expanding its presence in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, which are witnessing increased business and leisure travel demand. Lucknow, as the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a key market for both corporate and government-related travel.
IHCL's expansion in North India is part of a wider trend of hotel groups targeting secondary cities. As infrastructure improves and air connectivity expands, destinations like Lucknow are becoming more accessible to both domestic and international visitors. The city's Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport has seen increased flight frequencies, further boosting its appeal as a business and leisure destination.
The new Gateway hotel will also contribute to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and supporting the growth of the hospitality sector in the region. With its comprehensive facilities, including banqueting and conference spaces, the property is well-positioned to attract corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings.
IHCL's commitment to strategic locations is evident in its recent signings across India. The company continues to focus on expanding its portfolio in high-growth markets, leveraging its strong brand equity and operational expertise. This latest signing in Lucknow underscores that commitment, adding to the group's already substantial footprint in Uttar Pradesh.
As the hospitality industry rebounds from the pandemic, hotel groups are increasingly looking to secondary cities for growth. Lucknow, with its blend of heritage and modernity, offers a compelling proposition for both business and leisure travellers. The new Gateway hotel is set to play a key role in meeting this demand, providing world-class amenities and IHCL's signature hospitality.
