IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with Vrindam Developers Private Limited to open voco Vrindavan, a new 130-key hotel in Uttar Pradesh's well-known pilgrimage town. The hotel is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2031.
Vrindam Developers makes its entry into the hospitality industry. In the case of IHG, it is strengthening its portfolio of luxury properties in North India.
A management agreement will see IHG operate the hotel and the developer will own the project.
Why Vrindavan?
Within the Braj area, Vrindavan welcomes pilgrims and holidaymakers all year round.
Data from IHG indicates that the combined annual footfall of Vrindavan and Mathura stood at over 90 million in 2024, as against 79 million in 2023. That's an increase of over 11 million visitors in just one year.
The number of visitors is set to hit between 110 and 140 million a year over the next decade. For hotel groups, the figures suggest there will be continued demand for good rooms, restaurants and function space.
Nandgaon is accessible via Delhi NCR, Agra and Mathura. Development is also likely to be aided by new projects such as the Banke Bihari Corridor and expressway upgrades.
What will the hotel provide?
The hotel will be a component of a mixed-use development which will feature hotel guestrooms and serviced apartments with common amenities. The hotel will feature 130 guestrooms and 13 suites.
Facilities Dining options will include three venues, an all-day dining restaurant, a restaurant and a lobby lounge. The hotel will have a swimming pool and gym.
Others who may find the event space beneficial are relatives and groups who plan to hold social gatherings, weddings, or corporate events. The property will comprise over 2,340m2 of meeting and event space in six locations, including a 1,400m2 ballroom.
Who is it for?
It is predicted to serve religious tourists, leisure visitors, meetings and social events. It will further strengthen the presence of IHG on the Braj circuit of tourism and is set to join a future Holiday Inn Express in Mathura.
IHG's India expansion
IHG has 53 hotels under seven brands in India and 110 additional properties in its pipeline over the next three to five years, which means the Vrindavan signing is just one part of a larger expansion plan.
What this means for travellers
It's not worth booking yet - the hotel is not scheduled to open for another four years. But the announcement indicates that big hotel groups will be investing in spiritual and cultural destinations as visitors continue to flock to them.
There has long been an eclectic mix of guest houses, ashrams and small hotels in Vrindavan, while an internationally branded property with event space in the town would be a new choice for visitors.
The hotel will also bring more stimulation for some of the local businesses, tour guides and event organisers for example.
Hotel project timelines may be subject to change. Please confirm the latest information with IHG closer to opening date.