Taj, Radisson to open hotels in Amritsar

To cash in on the growing demand of hotel rooms in Amritsar, not only local players but also major national and international hospitality chains are setting up new properties in the city. Among the prominent ones are Radisson, Holiday Inn and Taj Properties, according to sources. Experts in the hospitality sector say there is lot of demand of quality rooms in the city, especially from the NRI community and foreigners, besides high-end domestic tourists.

Recently, IHHR Hospitality Private Limited announced the opening of its five-star luxury hotel, Ista, in Amritsar. Ista Amritsar is the third in chain after Ista Bangalore and Ista Hyderabad.

Speaking to Business Standard, X-Cell Hotel Consultancy President Narbir Singh said, “Being one of India’s most popular religious tourist destinations, Amritsar has vast untapped potential in the area of hospitality. On an average there is demand of 200-250 good quality rooms, especially in the five-star category, from foreigners and NRIs. So, in order to serve that segment, major chains are planning to set up their properties. With infrastructure coming up, we expect NRIs would like to stay there for 2-3 days in order to enjoy their visit to the holy city for the Golden Temple, retreat at Wagah border, Durgiana temple etc. He added in absence of good quality rooms, people used to come in the morning and preferred going back the same day. “I am confident that these ventures by Radisson, Holiday Inn, Taj Properties will boost religious tourism as well as business prospects in the city and attract a lot of foreign and Indian travelers,” he said.

Experts also feel that since Amritsar is well connected with international flights, there is vast potential for the hospitality sector.

CII Punjab State Council Chairman Gunbir Singh said, “In 2007, we projected about 2,500 rooms would be added in Amritsar alone in next three year, but my perception is we are going to exceed the target.To support this sector, the government must encourage the industry, and also promote the tourism sector in the state.”