Categories: Travel

IHCL and AweSpace lead the way, ET TravelWorld

In a strategic move to capitalise on India’s emerging tourism destinations, especially Lakshadweep and Ayodhya, which are currently in the limelight amidst various reasons, AweSpace Ventures, a prominent real estate transaction advisory firm, is set to develop bespoke residential retreats in Ayodhya and Lakshadweep. The company said it is seeking substantial INR 100 crore funding to meet the surging demand for luxury travel experiences across the country.

Ayodhya, renowned as a temple town, has witnessed a remarkable transformation, particularly with the much-anticipated consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir scheduled for January 22. AweSpace plans to redefine opulent living in Ayodhya, catering to a diverse demographic, including the growing interest in spiritual tourism.

Vijay Naraayanan, Co-Founder and CEO of AweSpace Ventures, expressed excitement about this ambitious endeavour, highlighting Ayodhya’s shift from a spiritual hub for senior citizens to a sought-after destination for families, couples, and millennials.

Simultaneously, AweSpace Ventures has identified Lakshadweep as a prime location for boutique bespoke villa projects, leveraging its pristine beauty and global acclaim. The move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit, showcasing Lakshadweep’s pristine beaches and captivating snorkeling experiences.

However, AweSpace has reconsidered its initial plans to expand into the Maldives, redirecting its focus to Lakshadweep amid offensive comments by Maldivian ministers against India. The company said it aims to offer fully-furnished ultra-luxurious villa estates and mansions across approximately 150 acres in prime tourist destinations, including Goa, Alibaug, Mashobra, Udaipur, and the Nilgiri Hills.

Government-led tourism activities, managed by SPORTS (Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports), include the iconic Paradise Island huts. A new proposal under the Smart City initiative aims to introduce a 90-room hotel. In the private sector, India’s first water villa project, initiated by an Indian group, stands out as a major endeavor.

Meanwhile, The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of two Taj-branded resorts on the islands of Suheli and Kadmat in Lakshadweep. The Greenfield projects, set to open in 2026, underscore IHCL’s commitment to sustainable development in pristine locations.Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, noted that the resorts aim to create a minimal footprint while preserving the fragile eco-system of Lakshadweep. Suheli Island will host a Taj resort with 110 rooms, including 60 beach villas and 50 water villas, while Kadmat Island will feature 110 rooms, including 75 beach villas and 35 water villas.

“This signing is in line with IHCL’s pioneering spirit, which has put several destinations such as Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa and Andamans on the global tourist map. We see significant potential in Lakshadweep, with its pristine beaches and coral reefs set amongst the Arabian Sea. The two world-class Taj resorts will attract international as well as national travellers.”

With both AweSpace Ventures and IHCL leading the way, Ayodhya and Lakshadweep are poised to become havens for luxury travel enthusiasts seeking bespoke and sustainable experiences.

Ayodhya is set to become a global tourism hub, expecting over three lakh daily visitors in the next few years, reveals Dikshu Kukreja, the master planner of the project. Drawing inspiration from Vatican City, Cambodia, Jerusalem, Tirupati, and Amritsar, Kukreja emphasizes efficient land use, minimal congestion, and preserving Ayodhya’s cultural heritage.