Rishikesh Is Slowly Replacing Goa And Kerala As India’s Most Popular Tourist Spot And We Will Tell You Why. (Image: Canva)
For years, destinations like Goa and Kerala have been on top of India’s travel map. Attracting people for their beaches, backwaters and vibrant culture, these two destinations have been a complete delight for tourists. However, in the recent years, a shift has been seen – one which has positioned Rishikesh as the new favourite among travellers, especially those who are seeking more than just a vacation.
Being a small town which is located along the banks of Ganga river in Uttarakhand, Rishikesh has been luring all sorts of travellers – from spiritual seekers to adventure junkies and from digital nomads to slow travellers.
Popularly known as the ‘Yoga Capital Of The World’, Rishikesh is popular amongst Indians and foreigners alike as many priests, sages and real yogis live there. The city is entirely vegetarian and alcohol-free, which may seem unbelievable, considering its tourist footfall. Most rainfall is expected between July and August so its always better to visit the city before or after.
File photo of Rishikesh. (Image: Canva)
Why Is Everyone Travelling To Rishikesh?
One of the primary reasons for Rishikesh’s growing popularity is its spiritual aura. This place, for a long time, has attracted seekers of inner peace and balance. Every year, thousands visit ashrams and wellness retreats for authentic yoga teacher training programs, meditation workshops, and Ayurveda-inspired healing practices.
Unlike the commercial yoga studios found in bigger cities, Rishikesh offers a more grounded and traditional approach. Whether you are staying for a weekend retreat or a month-long course, there is something about this place which will heal you from within. The daily Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, the chants that echo through the hills create a spiritual atmosphere that is both calming and transformative.
File photo of Rishikesh. (Image: Canva)
This is not it. Rishikesh is also a magnet for adventure tourism. From white-water rafting on the Ganga river to cliff jumping, zip-lining, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding Himalayas, the town offers a bizarre adrenaline rush like no other.
Additionally, sustainability and conscious tourism are also two major factors that have contributed into an increase in number of tourists. Many eco-stays, homestays, and retreats here are now offering low-impact and environmentally responsible lodging options. There is also a growing emphasis on clean eating and mindful consumption.
File photo of Rishikesh. (Image: Canva)
Last but not the least, accessibility has played an important role too. With the new Char Dham highway project and an improved connectivity from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, travelling to Rishikesh has become easier than ever.
Ascott Ignites India’s Hospitality Scene, Oakwood’s Grand Debut in Tirupati to Transform Pilgrimage Tourism and Business Travel Landscape in Andhra Pradesh
Home»Hotels And Resorts In India» Ascott Ignites India’s Hospitality Scene, Oakwood’s Grand Debut in Tirupati to Transform Pilgrimage Tourism and Business Travel Landscape in Andhra Pradesh
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Ascott ignites India’s hospitality scene with a bold move that’s set to make waves. Now, Oakwood’s grand debut in Tirupati promises to transform pilgrimage tourism and business travel, redefining the landscape in Andhra Pradesh.
Tirupati has always been a magnet for devotion. But today, Ascott ignites India’s hospitality scene with fresh ambition, bringing Oakwood’s grand debut into the spotlight.
Meanwhile, this grand debut in Tirupati is not just another property opening. It’s a sign that pilgrimage tourism and business travel are merging in powerful new ways across Andhra Pradesh.
Moreover, questions swirl. How will Oakwood’s grand debut in Tirupati transform experiences for pilgrims and business travelers alike? Could this be the spark that fully ignites India’s hospitality scene in tier-2 cities?
One thing is certain: Ascott’s move is bold, Oakwood’s grand debut is thrilling, and Tirupati—and all of Andhra Pradesh—is about to witness a new chapter unfold.
Tirupati’s Magnetic Pull—Spiritual and Economic
Tirupati is not just a city; it’s a phenomenon. It’s the revered home of the Sri Venkateswara Temple, drawing more than 24 million visitors annually. Every day, waves of pilgrims pour into the city seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
However, there’s another transformation underway. Tirupati is evolving into a real estate and industrial hotspot. New business parks, manufacturing hubs, and commercial corridors are rising beside centuries-old temples. This dual identity—sacred and commercial—is redefining what travelers expect from Tirupati’s hospitality sector.
Oakwood Arrives with a Bold Vision
Enter Ascott’s announcement. The company has sealed a deal to open a 120-unit Oakwood-branded serviced residence in partnership with KBR Homes India Private Limited.
This new Oakwood development promises a striking mix of modern elegance and versatile living. Guests will find all-day dining, a stylish Oakbar, a sparkling swimming pool, and a fully equipped fitness center. Each of the 120 units is designed to cater to a range of traveler needs—from solo pilgrims seeking quiet comfort to corporate travelers demanding seamless connectivity and convenience.
Meanwhile, the project’s location in central Tirupati ensures that visitors remain close to both the spiritual core and the buzzing business zones of the city.
A Strategic Bet on Tier-2 Cities
Ascott’s decision to plant Oakwood’s flag in Tirupati is no coincidence. Across India, tier-2 cities are witnessing explosive growth. These cities are capturing investment, expanding infrastructure, and attracting travelers seeking experiences beyond the traditional metros.
Moreover, the demand for branded, reliable accommodations in such cities is surging. Business travelers want properties that match international standards. Pilgrims, too, increasingly seek premium stays offering both comfort and tranquility after long spiritual journeys.
Oakwood’s arrival signals confidence in this new wave of urban transformation. Tirupati, with its dual identity as a spiritual beacon and industrial center, perfectly embodies the opportunity.
KBR Infratech’s Local Expertise
Behind this landmark project stands KBR Homes India Private Limited—a subsidiary of KBR Infratech, a Bangalore-based giant with over three decades of experience in civil infrastructure.
This partnership brings together KBR’s local knowledge and Ascott’s global hospitality prowess. The result? A development that promises not just luxury but also deep relevance to Tirupati’s unique culture and business pulse.
KBR’s extensive background in residential and commercial projects ensures that the Oakwood property will be crafted to meet the highest standards. For Tirupati, this means world-class hospitality infused with regional authenticity.
What This Means for Travelers
For travelers, the implications are immense. Oakwood’s new address in Tirupati introduces a premium international-standard option in a city where accommodation has traditionally catered to mass tourism.
Pilgrims can now combine spiritual journeys with modern luxury. Business travelers, arriving for meetings in Tirupati’s growing industrial zones, will find a haven offering all the services expected of an international brand.
Additionally, the presence of Oakwood may attract new segments of travelers who previously overlooked Tirupati as a leisure or business destination.
Impact on Tirupati’s Hospitality Market
The hospitality landscape in Tirupati is poised for a shake-up. Oakwood’s entry will likely push existing hotels to elevate their offerings. Guests will begin to expect not only clean rooms and proximity to the temple but also amenities like international dining, fitness facilities, and tailored services.
Furthermore, Ascott’s investment underscores Tirupati’s emergence as a destination capable of sustaining high-end developments. It signals confidence to other international brands that Tirupati can support upscale hospitality ventures.
Broader Implications for India’s Tourism Industry
Ascott’s Tirupati move fits into a broader trend shaping India’s tourism industry. Travelers are increasingly exploring destinations outside traditional metros, driven by curiosity, business needs, and spiritual pursuits.
Cities like Tirupati stand at the intersection of cultural heritage and modern growth. These urban centers offer fertile ground for hospitality brands willing to venture beyond the obvious choices.
Moreover, international players like Ascott bring global standards that can uplift the overall quality of hospitality in emerging cities. This benefits not just travelers but local economies, creating jobs, spurring infrastructure growth, and enhancing regional visibility.
A Glimpse into Tirupati’s Future
As cranes dot Tirupati’s skyline and new highways snake through the hills, the city is visibly transforming. Oakwood’s arrival is both a symbol and a catalyst of that change.
Pilgrims will continue to flock to the Sri Venkateswara Temple, seeking spiritual connection. Yet alongside them will be business delegates, leisure travelers, and global explorers eager to experience a city where ancient devotion and modern progress blend seamlessly.
In the coming years, Tirupati may stand as a case study for how India’s religious hubs can evolve into sophisticated urban centers without losing their soul.
The Road Ahead
The Oakwood project is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a statement of belief in Tirupati’s future. It’s an acknowledgment that even the most traditional destinations are ready for modern transformation.
Travelers now have the chance to witness this evolution firsthand. Ascott’s bold step into Tirupati signals that the city’s story is only beginning—and that the chapters ahead will be written in both ancient prayers and the sleek lines of modern architecture.
For anyone planning a visit to Tirupati—whether drawn by devotion, business, or pure curiosity—one thing is clear: the city is rising. And with Oakwood’s arrival, it’s ready to welcome the world in a way it never has before.
US, China, and India Drive Global Hospitality Market to Eleven Point Twenty-Six Trillion USD by 2034, Supported by Bleisure Travel and Digital Innovation: New Report
Home»HOTEL NEWS» US, China, and India Drive Global Hospitality Market to Eleven Point Twenty-Six Trillion USD by 2034, Supported by Bleisure Travel and Digital Innovation: New Report
Friday, July 11, 2025
The hospitality marketplace worldwide is set to see a stellar growth curve, with the marketplace set to reach a size of USD 11.26 trillion by 2034. Such a massive growth comes about through increasing travel demands, particularly in key areas such as the United States, China, and India. Such countries are the trailblazers of the sector’s transformation, bolstered by trends such as bleisure travel—combining business as well as holiday—and the explosive advancement of information breakthroughs. As ever-growing numbers of commuters blur the lines of work and play, and as technology continues to transform the guest experience, the hospitality marketplace itself contains the potential for unmatched growth. Spurred by such robust trends, the US, China, and India are the trailblazers, shaping the way towards a rosy future for the hospitality marketplace the world over.
The hotel and resort industry across the globe is undergoing a rare transformation, with the industry set to have a market size of USD 1.78 trillion by 2024 and a staggering growth to USD 11.26 trillion by 2034, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.3%. That monumental stride forward owes much to the rising travel need all over the world, shifting hospitality trends, and governments’ policy backing for tourism. Industry players are in for a first-of-its-kind phase of opportunities as the industry transforms to catch new consumer trends as well as new breakthroughs in technology. In that, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the drivers of the expansion, the upcoming challenges, as well as the emerging trends shaping the hotel and resort future.
Key Drivers of Market Growth
Its rapid expansion owes much to several drivers, led by the international tourist boom. International tourist spending will reach a whopping 1.9 trillion in 2024, fueled by increasing interest in wellness and experiential travel. “Bleisure” travel, which blends work and leisure, is giving rise to rooms that are workable as well as luxurious. That trend has been strengthened through flexible work-from-remote policies covering roughly 30% of the global labor base.
Government initiatives are equally significant while developing growth for the hotel and resort sector. Simpler visa policies and infrastructure construction, particularly for new tourist hubs like the Middle East, have helped boost tourist arrivals. High-spending travelers preferring personalized experiences flock to the luxury hotel segment, which accounts for a whopping 20.5% CAGR. Mid-market properties, too, are a contender, offering a better-quality yet budget-friendly option. But rising operational expenses, such as energy and personnel costs, as well as the rising pressure of alternative accommodation offerings like short-term rentals, are the chief roadblocks. Fortunately, AI-based personalization innovations and sustainability practices are helping breach these challenges, boosting guest satisfaction as well as operational efficiency.
Industry Outlook and Opportunities
Looking ahead, the resort and hotel global market is set to see unprecedented growth. In 2034, the market will likely grow to USD 11.26 trillion, which will create a USD 9.48 trillion opportunity, with a robust CAGR of 20.3%. North America will contribute a total amount of USD 3.69 trillion to the global market until 2034, thanks to robust international and domestic travel demand. Mid-range hotel rooms are set to contribute USD 707.83 billion in 2024, aiming at budgeted travelers, while the luxury hotel segment is set to retain the prominent growth track, thanks to the surging need for luxury experiences.
Asia-Pacific is another significant contributor to the market, led by the booming middle class of Chinese and Indians. Asia-Pacific will likely accumulate a 19.4% CAGR, registering immense potential for participants engaged with the hotel industry. Online platforms for booking, like online travel agents (OTAs) and hotel applications, are a significant contributor to the expansion of the market. Online bookings are set to generate 73% of the revenue of hotels as of 2029, another reflection of the significance of online platforms to the modern hospitality sector.
Stakeholder Strategies for Gaining Benefits through Market Growth
There is a need for stakeholders to adapt to shifting consumer demands as a way to benefit from the dynamic hotel and resort industry. Luxury hotel brands must create bespoke experiences, which include wellness retreats, cultural activities, and eco-friendly resorts, as a way to cater to the high-net-worth visitors. From a survey, 42% of Millennials are worried about environmentally friendly lodging, therefore, brands must include sustainability as part of their services.
Mid-range hotels can enhance their value proposition by offering services such as hi-speed Wi-Fi, flexible workspaces, and convenient access to business centers and family-friendly attractions. They become attractive to business travelers as well as family members seeking comfortable and affordable accommodation. Furthermore, hotels must adopt AI-based technologies and mobile applications to personalize the guest stay, and the estimations are for 60% of the hotels to adopt such technologies by 2030. The emergence of e-commerce platforms and OTAs, which are projected to grow at 8.0% CAGR, gives stakeholders a means to reach a global, technology-savvy consumer base. Furthermore, the increasing relevance of sustainability trends, e.g., energy-efficient building designs and minimizing wastages, becomes a differentiator for hotels with a green approach to operations. Stakeholders can also target the fast-growing regions, i.e., Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, to capture their maximum share of the market.
Report Summary: An Overview of the Report
This comprehensive study includes actionable data on the hotel and resort sector’s growth curve. Primary interviews were undertaken through interviews with industry leaders, while secondary analysis of budding trends in the marketplace was performed. Several segments by accommodation (hotels, resorts) are provided, along with segments by price (economy, mid-range, luxury) and mode (OTA, direct) and by geography (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa).
The report recognizes key trends such as bleisure travel, digitalization, and sustainability, which enable the stakeholders to get a comprehensive overview of the marketplace as well as the competition. The report becomes a crucial guide to comprehending the ever-evolving hotel and resort industry as well as identifying the best opportunities to expand.
Major Players in the Industry
Leading hotel and resort brands, including Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Accor Hotels, are actively expanding their portfolios through joint ventures and new concepts. Several of these brands, in 2024, are aiming for new marketplace entry as well as penetration of the luxury and extended-stay segments. IHG Hotels & Resorts, for instance, expands its footprint through a joint venture focused on the extended-stay and middle-range hotel segments, as well as investment in green initiatives such as solar-powered systems and AI-driven guest experiences.
Recent Developments Within the Marketpla
It is witnessing explosive innovation, with brands introducing cutting-edge solutions to take advantage of surging demand. For instance, global hotel chains began the use of prefabricated, modular hotel rooms for rapid installation when expanding into new emerging markets by 2024. Such rooms can save 20% of the construction time, enabling scaling up of operations in areas with fast-growing tourist activity.
Revenue growth for the leading hotel chains is all scheduled to record double-digit increases, led by differentiated luxury offerings, such as train-based travel services. High occupancy, and, indeed, tourism-driven segments are set to continue supporting the growth of the market. Long-stay hotels, in particular, are becoming favorites, as over a third of new 2024 hotel build-out projects are aimed at the segment. Eco-resorts, as well as health- and wellness-focused properties, are seeing robust demand, due to consumer sentiment for a sustainable as well as health-driven travel product.
Challenges and Solutions in the Industry
In spite of a bright future, the hotel and resort sector has considerable challenges, including higher operating expenses related to wages and energy, and higher short-term rental platform competition. Both are likely to squeeze profit margins, as analysts project a 60-basis-point decrease by 2025.
Hotels are bringing in the use of smart technologies to streamline things while delivering a better guest experience. Automated check-in systems and flexible lobby designs are becoming standard, allowing hotels to reduce labor costs while streamlining their operations. Several hotel chains are also concentrating on their own booking platforms to help mitigate the impact of OTA commissions, which amount up to 15-20% of the total booking costs.
Moreover, investments in sustainability projects, like renewable energy systems and waste management technologies, are helping hotels align with international environmental targets while attracting green consumers.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for the Hotel and Resort Industry
The hotel and resort sector across the globe will reach a value of USD 11.26 trillion by 2034, aided by a robust 20.3% CAGR. As trends like bleisure travel, digitalization, and sustainability are on the rise, the sector has huge potential for innovation as much as for growth. In order to stay ahead, stakeholders have to adopt AI-powered personalization, focus on their high-growth areas like Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, and conform to the rising consumer preference for environmentally friendly and wellness-oriented holiday experiences. By following a strategy, companies can benefit through the volatile hotel and resort sector and prepare themselves for the long haul.
Download: Full Report: https://www.factmr.com/report/hotel-and-resort-market
Viking will offer its first river cruises in India beginning in 2027, debuting the itineraries after seeing how guests enjoyed visiting the country on the line’s ocean cruises.
A rendering of accommodations on the Viking Brahmaputra. Photo Credit: Viking
Viking will sail the Brahmaputra River on the 80-guest Viking Brahmaputra. Viking will sail one 15-day itinerary that starts and ends in Delhi. The trip includes an eight-day river cruise and a guided land tour.
Travelers will have the opportunity to visit 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as they explore India’s Golden Triangle. Itinerary highlights include touring the Taj Mahal, seeing Jaipur’s Palace of the Winds and visiting Guwahati’s temple.
Viking will offer pre- and post-departure land extensions, including in Delhi, Dubai, Kathmandu and Cochin/Mumbai.
The Viking Brahmaputra will have 40 staterooms and will have the brand’s signature Scandinavian design. All staterooms and suites will have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a veranda.
