Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), the largest hospitality group in India, has announced plans to open a Taj hotel in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. This new project is part of IHCL’s strategy to cater to the growing spiritual tourism market in the region. Developed in partnership with the Solitaire Group, the hotel is expected to open its doors in 2026.
Taj Ayodhya: A Luxurious Destination
The upcoming Taj Ayodhya will span 7.2 acres and feature 300 rooms, including 29 luxury villas designed by renowned fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani. Guests will enjoy premium amenities such as an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty eateries, a J Wellness Circle spa, a gym, a swimming pool, and a kids’ club.
For events and gatherings, the hotel will offer over 34,000 square feet of banqueting space. Conveniently located near the Lucknow-Ayodhya Highway, it is just a 20-minute drive from the iconic Ram Mandir, one of India’s most popular pilgrimage sites.
IHCL: Vision for Spiritual Tourism
Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, emphasized the importance of Ayodhya as a growing spiritual destination. He stated, “IHCL has a strong presence in India’s key spiritual hubs, and this project aligns with our strategy to develop spiritual tourism circuits. Ayodhya is witnessing remarkable growth as a pilgrimage destination, and we are proud to bring the Taj brand to this historic city.”
In addition to Ayodhya, IHCL is also expanding its presence in other spiritual hubs. The company is adding 100 more rooms to Taj Ganges in Varanasi and strengthening its footprint in destinations like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Prayagraj, and Vrindavan.
Solitaire Group Collaboration with IHCL
Shivani Jaiswal and Mayank Jaiswal of the Solitaire Group expressed their excitement about partnering with IHCL for this landmark project. They stated, “We are thrilled to collaborate with IHCL to bring the Taj brand to Ayodhya. This hotel will set new standards for luxury and hospitality in the city.”
Ayodhya, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, is a city steeped in mythology and history. It attracts millions of pilgrims every year, especially during festivals like Deepotsav Ayodhya, Ram Navami Mela, and Shravan Jhula-Mela. The addition of Taj Ayodhya is expected to enhance the city’s appeal to both domestic and international tourists, offering them a luxurious stay while exploring the city’s spiritual heritage.
With the launch of Taj Ayodhya, IHCL’s presence in Uttar Pradesh will grow to 31 hotels, including 18 under development. This expansion reflects the company’s dedication to contributing to the state’s hospitality and tourism growth.
