The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has officially opened The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, a luxury retreat set across 76 acres of ancient forests and coffee plantations in the Western Ghats. The property, located within one of Coorg's oldest coffee estates, is designed to offer an immersive experience in one of India's most biodiverse regions.
The retreat holds IGBC Platinum certification, reflecting its commitment to sustainable construction and operations. Architecture draws on Kodava heritage and estate living, using local craftsmanship to blend built structures with the natural environment. The property includes a seven-acre lake, which serves as a focal point for both recreation and dining.
Accommodation and Facilities
The sanctuary comprises 71 villas, including the four-bedroom Sunbeam Presidential Villa. Each villa is positioned to maximize views of the surrounding forest and plantations. Dining options include Luma, a lakefront restaurant, and Zen, which serves Pan-Asian cuisine. The wellness centre, Aujasya by The Leela, offers personalized therapies and yoga sessions.
Guest activities range from guided forest walks and plantation trails to birdwatching. The property also provides opportunities to explore the local coffee-growing heritage, which is central to the region's identity.
Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, stated: "The unveiling of The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary represents an important milestone in our journey of creating destinations that are deeply rooted in their surroundings."
The opening comes as the luxury hospitality sector sees growing demand for nature-immersive stays. The Leela currently operates 24 hotels, with several more in development across India. This property adds to a portfolio that includes urban landmarks and resort destinations.
Industry observers note that the Coorg sanctuary aligns with broader trends in wellness tourism, where travelers increasingly seek properties that combine luxury with environmental stewardship. The IGBC Platinum certification is a key differentiator in a market where sustainability credentials are becoming a booking factor for high-net-worth individuals.
The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary is positioned to attract both domestic and international luxury travelers, particularly those interested in eco-luxury and cultural immersion. The property's location in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds to its appeal for nature-focused itineraries.
With this launch, The Leela reinforces its strategy of expanding into India's lesser-explored regions, offering travel professionals a new option for clients seeking exclusive, sustainable retreats in the subcontinent.
