Indian Hotel Chains Chart Global Expansion

Indian hospitality companies are spreading their wings far beyond the country's borders, charting expansion plans in the UK, West Asian countries, and even in the African continent, even as Indian tourists flock to international destinations.

- AKSHARA SRIVASTAVA

On Thursday, the country's largest hospitality chain, Tata group-owned Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), announced its debut in South Africa's Kruger National Park with three luxury lodges.

"As the demand for purpose-led travel continues to grow, Taj with its differentiated offerings brings exceptional safari experiences. Our foray into Kruger National Park builds on this legacy, offering travelers an authentic connection with nature," said Puneet Chhatwal, managing director and chief executive officer at IHCL.

The company, which expects to achieve double-digit growth in the financial year 2025-26 (FY26), plans to open 30 hotels in the year, which will also include a 126-key Taj property in Frankfurt by the fourth quarter. The company's international expansion will be through the capital-light model.