Ilara Hotels & Spa Redefines Indian Hospitality with Personalised Luxury Experiences

Ilara Hotels & Spa has become renowned for its personalised care and luxurious living aesthetics. Founded in 2012 by Bivan Choudhury and his wife, Goshmi Seth, this hotel chain has made a name for itself by offering a distinctive blend of luxury and cultural authenticity across its 17 properties nationwide.

Drawing from his extensive industry experience, Bivan recognised a need for hotels that could offer premium amenities without compromising on the warmth of personal interaction. “The inspiration for founding Ilara Hotels & Spa came from a passion for hospitality and a desire to create serene, luxurious environments that provide our guests with unparalleled comfort and relaxation”, he shares.

What truly sets Ilara apart is its commitment to incorporating regional culture into each property. From cuisine to architecture, every element is carefully curated to reflect the spirit of the location. Goshmi elaborates, “Each Ilara property is designed to reflect its local culture and community. We work closely with local artisans and businesses to infuse authenticity into our guest experience.”

Throughout the company’s remarkable growth, the Ilara team has continued to flourish. Bivan emphasises, “By empowering my team and creating a supportive environment, we align personal growth with the company’s objectives.” This philosophy has nurtured a culture of innovation and excellence that runs through every aspect of the guest experience.

Under the leadership of Bivan and Goshmi, the team includes seasoned professionals across marketing, operations, finance, and the culinary arts. Key members include Rahul Kaushal (Director of Operations), Chandrasekhar (Chief Financial Officer), Ashok (Senior Manager of Operations), Raja Mohammed and Samson (Heads of Operations), Chakradhar (Head of Marketing), and Clayton Carter (Head of Food and Beverages).

Technology is an essential part of Ilara’s operations. From seamless check-ins to personalised room settings, the brand employs innovative methods to enhance guest satisfaction. Hinting at future developments, Bivan says, “We’re particularly excited about the possibilities of AI and IoT in further personalising guest interactions.”

Alongside luxury, sustainability is a core value at Ilara. “We are committed to sustainable practices—using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and investing in renewable energy sources,” says Bivan. This forward-thinking approach not only reduces environmental impact but also resonates with the growing segment of eco-conscious travellers.

Looking to the future, Ilara is preparing for expansion across major metropolitan cities in India, further cementing its status as a premier luxury brand. However, growth at Ilara is not purely about scale. Goshmi adds, “We’re preparing by investing in smart technology and enhancing our sustainable practices to meet evolving guest expectations.”

Ilara Hotels & Spa has received prestigious national and international accolades, including the National Fame Awards, International Excellence Awards, India Business Awards, and Asian Iconic Awards. The journey to this level of success has not been without challenges. “One of the biggest challenges was finding the right balance between luxury and sustainability,” Bivan admits. Yet, these challenges have only reinforced the brand’s determination to innovate and improve.

For aspiring entrepreneurs in the hospitality sector, Bivan offers this advice: “Be genuinely passionate about what you do and remain resilient. The hospitality industry can be demanding, but a strong vision and adaptability will help you overcome challenges.”

Ilara Hotels & Spa is a testament to what can be achieved through vision, hard work, and a heartfelt commitment to guest satisfaction. In a competitive industry where excellence is the benchmark, Ilara continues to set new standards, promising a bright future for Indian hospitality. The brand is now also exploring opportunities in smaller towns and cities, focusing on management consulting and franchising partnerships with existing hotels.

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