Sayaji Hotels Expands into Sikkim with Launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Gangtok

Gangtok, May 2026: Sayaji Hotels announces the launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Gangtok, marking its entry into one of India’s most captivating hill destinations. Set in the serene neighbourhood of Tathangchen, near the iconic Ridge Park, the hotel offers a refined stay experience in a city where mist-covered mountains, vibrant culture, and spiritual calm come together seamlessly.

Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,650 metres, Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital, is often described as a “jewel of the Eastern Himalayas” and is known for its sweeping views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. From winding mountain roads and lush valleys to monasteries, lakes, and bustling promenades, the city presents a rare balance of natural beauty and urban charm.

Strategically located just minutes from the Ridge and within easy reach of MG Marg, the city’s lively pedestrian boulevard, Effotel by Sayaji places guests at the centre of Gangtok’s cultural and social landscape. The Ridge Park itself, lined with Himalayan flora and scenic walkways, is a beloved local landmark, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

Designed for the modern traveller, the hotel features 32 thoughtfully appointed rooms, including Deluxe King, Deluxe Twin, and a spacious Suite. Each space reflects a clean, contemporary aesthetic paired with functionality, making it ideal for both leisure travellers exploring the region and business guests seeking a comfortable retreat in the hills.

At the heart of the dining experience is The Cube, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, serving a multi-cuisine menu in a relaxed, contemporary setting—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Speaking on the launch, Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels, said, “We are delighted to bring the Effotel by Sayaji experience to Gangtok, a destination that continues to grow in prominence among both leisure and experiential travellers. With this launch, we aim to offer a smart, comfortable, and well-connected stay option that complements the city’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Gangtok represents an exciting addition to our expanding footprint in emerging leisure markets across India.”

Sharing his thoughts on the opening, Sangay Tenzing Norbu, Managing Director and owner of the property, added, “We are proud to introduce Effotel by Sayaji to Gangtok, a city that holds immense potential as a year-round travel destination. This hotel has been envisioned as a space that reflects the region’s warmth and spirit while delivering the quality and consistency for which Sayaji is known. We look forward to welcoming guests and being a part of their Gangtok experience.”

Conveniently accessible, the hotel is located approximately 130 km from Bagdogra Airport and 120 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, offering connectivity while maintaining the charm of a quiet hillside retreat.

With this launch, Sayaji Hotels continues its expansion into high-potential leisure destinations, reinforcing its commitment to delivering smart, stylish hospitality experiences tailored to today’s evolving traveller.

Sayaji Hotels Marks Its Arrival in Sasan Gir with The Forest Chapter by Sayaji

A soulful escape into the wild, redefining experiential hospitality

Sasan Gir, Gujarat, 7th May 2026: Expanding its footprint in experiential hospitality, Sayaji Hotels proudly announces the launch of The Forest Chapter (TFC) by Sayaji, Sasan Gir — a boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Gujarat’s wilderness. Designed as an immersive, nature-led forest staycation, the resort marks the debut of Sayaji’s new sub-brand, The Forest Chapter, dedicated to curated stays in India’s most pristine landscapes.

Located near the famed Gir National Park, the resort invites guests to slow down and reconnect with nature through thoughtfully designed spaces and intuitive hospitality. Enhancing this connection further, the property offers locally immersive experiences, allowing guests to engage meaningfully with the region’s rich biodiversity, culture, and natural surroundings.

The retreat features 25 well-appointed cottages and villas, including Premium Cottages, Superior Cottages, and Suite Villas, each crafted to blend rustic charm with modern comfort. Spacious interiors, earthy aesthetics, and serene surroundings create a tranquil forest escape for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Culinary experiences at the retreat are equally immersive, with Ember & Leaf offering a multi-cuisine dining experience inspired by local flavours and global techniques. A rooftop café concept further elevates the experience, allowing guests to dine under open skies. Beyond accommodation, the resort also features curated outdoor spaces, including a landscaped lawn ideal for intimate gatherings, celebrations, and bespoke events.

Speaking on the launch, Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels, said, “With the introduction of The Forest Chapter, we are proud to unveil a new hospitality vertical that reflects the evolving preferences of today’s traveller — one that seeks deeper connections with nature, authenticity, and immersive experiences like jungle safari. This launch marks a significant milestone for Sayaji Hotels as we expand beyond our established portfolio into thoughtfully curated, destination-led retreats. Sasan Gir, with its rich biodiversity and untamed beauty, is the perfect beginning to this journey.”

Adding to this, Manish Boghra, Managing Director, The Forest Chapter by Sayaji, Sasan Gir, said, “It is an honour to bring The Forest Chapter to Sasan Gir, a destination that holds immense natural and cultural significance. Our vision was to create a retreat that not only complements its surroundings but also elevates the overall hospitality offering in the region. With Sasan Gir offering year-round safari experiences, unlike many wildlife destinations that remain closed during the monsoon, guests have the unique opportunity to explore the wilderness across seasons. We believe this property will offer a distinctive blend of comfort, authenticity, and meaningful experiences like jungle safari, setting a new benchmark for nature-led stays in the region.”

Strategically located with convenient access to Rajkot International Airport and Junagadh Railway Station, the retreat offers both accessibility and seclusion, making it an ideal getaway for urban travellers. With this launch, Sayaji Hotels continues to evolve its portfolio by blending its legacy of warm hospitality with new-age experiential travel offerings. The Forest Chapter is envisioned as a growing collection of retreats across India’s most captivating natural destinations.

Sayaji Hotels Enters Amravati with Enrise, Targeting Emerging City Demand

Strategically positioned to cater to rising demand, this business hotel in Amravati combines scale, connectivity, and modern hospitality offerings.

Mumbai, Maharashtra – April 2026: Strengthening its footprint across emerging destinations in India, Sayaji Hotels announces the launch of Enrise by Sayaji, Amravati, a contemporary hospitality destination designed to redefine the city’s social and business landscape. Strategically located on NH-6, Nagpur Highway, this business hotel in Amravati blends modern design, expansive event spaces, and thoughtful service, setting a new benchmark for hospitality in the Vidarbha region.

Amravati, known for its rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance, and growing prominence as an educational and commercial hub, is steadily emerging as a key destination in Maharashtra. With proximity to Nagpur and seamless road and rail connectivity, the city is witnessing a surge in business travel and large-scale social celebrations, making it an ideal location for Enrise by Sayaji’s newest offering.

With 82 well-appointed rooms, Enrise Amravati offers a comfortable yet refined stay experience across categories, including Grande, Grande Twin, Executive Grande, and Premium Grande rooms, each thoughtfully designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers.

A standout feature of the property is its extensive banqueting and event infrastructure, making it one of the largest event destinations in the region. This hotel in Amravati boasts eight versatile venues, including grand indoor halls such as Mahal, Jewel, and Solitaire, alongside sprawling outdoor spaces like Vrindavan and Vatika, as well as a dedicated amphitheatre ideal for wedding pheras and cultural gatherings. With capacities ranging up to 2,000 guests, this hotel in Amravati is poised to become a preferred venue for weddings, corporate conventions, and large-scale celebrations.

Complementing the stay and event offerings is Momentt, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, serving a curated selection of multi-cuisine dishes in a warm and inviting setting.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Ajay Kanojia, Director of Operations, Sayaji Hotels, said, “With Enrise by Sayaji, our vision is to bring thoughtfully designed hospitality experiences to emerging cities that are on the cusp of growth. Amravati is a market with immense potential, and this property reflects our commitment to delivering scale, quality, and consistency across every touchpoint - from rooms and dining to large-format events.”

Mr. Swapnil Soni, Director, Maniratna Group LLP, added, “We are delighted to partner with Sayaji Hotels to bring a landmark hospitality destination to Amravati. This property has been envisioned as a space where the city can celebrate its biggest moments - from weddings to community events, while also catering to the evolving needs of modern travellers.”

With its strategic location, expansive venues, and signature Sayaji hospitality, Enrise by Sayaji, Amravati is set to become a key destination for both travellers and the local community, bringing together comfort, scale, and memorable experiences under one roof.

Sayaji Hotels Introduces ‘The Forest Chapter’

An Immersive Sanctuary in the Wild

Mumbai, Maharashtra – April 2026: In a world that rarely pauses, Sayaji Hotels unveils The Forest Chapter - a new experiential hospitality brand rooted in India’s wild landscapes. Bringing together immersive forest resort experiences and thoughtfully designed jungle resorts, the brand invites travellers to step away from the noise and rediscover a deeper connection with nature, self and place.  

Reimagining the idea of a forest stay, The Forest Chapter goes beyond the conventional getaway to offer something more intuitive and grounded. Each retreat is envisioned as a soulful sanctuary, where immersive stays spark inner discovery and a deeper connection with the natural world.  

At the heart of The Forest Chapter lies a design philosophy that is raw yet refined - spaces that feel deeply connected to their surroundings while offering warmth, comfort and care. Rooted in the wisdom of the wild, every forest resort is crafted to evoke stillness, reflection and a sense of unhurried living. Here, architecture and experience exist in quiet harmony, allowing the landscape to take the lead.  

The Forest Chapter brand debuts with three distinct jungle resorts in Sasan Gir, Jawai and Madhai, each shaped by its unique terrain. From the lush wilderness of Sasan Gir to Jawai’s dramatic granite formations, and the tranquil backwaters of Madhai, every destination offers a different expression of the wild. Each forest stay is not just a place to visit, but a chapter - distinct, evolving and deeply personal.  

Experiences are curated with intention, encouraging guests to engage with their surroundings at their own pace. From guided jungle safaris and forest trails to cultural immersions, wellness rituals and under-the-sky moments, every interaction is designed to be sensory yet unobtrusive. Here, discovery is not rushed - it unfolds naturally.  

Ms Saba Dhanani, Corporate Head, Marketing & Communications, Sayaji Hotels, said: “The Forest Chapter is a deeply intentional brand - one that invites travellers to slow down, disconnect from the noise and reconnect with themselves and the natural world. Every element, from design to experience, is crafted to evoke stillness, reflection and a quiet sense of belonging. It is not just about where you stay, but how you feel while you are there and what you take back with you.”  

With this launch, Sayaji Hotels enters the experiential hospitality space with a renewed focus on meaning, emotion and connection. Building on its legacy of warmth and guest-centricity, the group reimagines hospitality through a lens that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in nature.  

Mr Raoof Dhanani, Managing Director, Sayaji Hotels, said: “For over four decades, Sayaji Hotels has been committed to delivering heartfelt hospitality, ensuring every guest feels truly valued. With our foray into the eco-tourism landscape, we aim to extend this same warmth to modern travellers seeking immersive, meaningful experiences.”  

At its essence, The Forest Chapter is shaped by instinct and stillness - an experience that lingers long after the journey ends, like a quiet echo of the wild that calls you back.  

Sayaji Hotels Strengthens National Presence with Strategic Property Sign-Ups in Q3

Mumbai, India, Q3 FY25 — Sayaji Hotels Ltd, one of India’s most trusted hospitality brands, announced the signing of five new properties during Q3, further reinforcing its expansion strategy across high-potential business, leisure, industrial and destination-led markets.

The newly signed properties are located in Nagpur, Chakan, Pune, Sasan Gir, Lonavala and Ranjangaon MIDC. These locations have been strategically selected for their strong economic fundamentals, tourism appeal and long-term hospitality demand.

Each destination aligns with Sayaji Hotels’ vision of building relevant, experience-driven properties across diverse travel segments:

• Nagpur – A fast-growing commercial and connectivity hub in Central India, catering to both business and leisure travellers.
  
  

• Chakan, Pune – One of Maharashtra’s fastest-growing industrial corridors, driving consistent demand from corporate and transit travellers.
  
  

• Sasan Gir – A high-potential leisure destination near a distinctive natural landscape, ideal for destination-led and experiential hospitality.
  
  

• Lonavala – A premier hill destination known for leisure stays, destination weddings, corporate retreats and sports-led experiences.
  
  

• Ranjangaon MIDC, Pune – A key industrial and manufacturing zone supporting steady business and long-stay travel demand.

The expansion is led by Pawandeep Singh Mago, Director – Business Development, who heads sign-ups and strategic collaborations for the brand. His focus remains on aligning with asset owners in markets that offer scalable growth, strong infrastructure and operational sustainability.

Sharing insights on the expansion, Sumera Dhanani, Corporate Head – Business Development, Sayaji Hotels Ltd, said:

“Our Q3 signings reflect a well-balanced mix of business, industrial, leisure and destination-led markets. Each location has been evaluated for its long-term relevance, connectivity and alignment with Sayaji’s hospitality philosophy. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on building meaningful partnerships and delivering consistent, guest-first experiences across every market we enter.”

All upcoming properties will be developed in line with Sayaji Hotels’ brand standards, offering thoughtfully designed spaces, contemporary amenities and the brand’s signature “Yours Truly” service experience. These signings further support Sayaji Hotels’ 2026 Brand Vision of expanding its footprint across strategic markets while strengthening its presence in high-demand destinations nationwide.

Sayaji Hotels Expands Strategic Presence with Business-Centric Effotel by Sayaji in Sangli​

Sangli, Maharashtra, March, 2026: In a significant development for Western Maharashtra’s hospitality landscape, Sayaji Hotels announced the launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Sangli, the group’s newest property under its Effotel brand. Strategically located within Shiv R City Mall on Sangli-Miraj Road, the property marks a timely entry into Sangli, a city long known for its robust commercial and agricultural activity yet notably underserved in quality branded accommodation.​

This addition makes Effotel by Sayaji, Sangli, the third Effotel property in Maharashtra, joining its sister properties in Sarola, Pune district, and Navi Mumbai, reinforcing the group’s deepening commitment to the state and its vision of bringing mid-upscale hospitality to Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets.​

Effotel by Sayaji, Sangli offers 59 thoughtfully appointed guest rooms across five categories: 15 Grande Rooms (284 sq. ft.), 34 Premium Grande Rooms (309 sq. ft.), 6 Executive Grande Rooms (373 sq. ft.), 2 Grande Suites (506 sq. ft.), and 2 Premium Suites (766 sq. ft.), catering to business travellers, leisure guests, and discerning long-stay visitors alike. 

Dining at the property is set to be a key highlight, with two distinct food and beverage outlets: The Cube, an all-day dining restaurant with a capacity of 120 covers, and Good Old Days, a bar seating 30 guests, catering to both hotel residents and local patrons seeking quality dining experiences in the city.​

The hotel features two versatile banquet spaces, Jardin 1 and Jardin 2. Jardin 1 spans 4,295 sq. ft. and can accommodate up to 350 guests in theatre-style seating, while Jardin 2 covers 2,355 sq. ft. with a capacity of 150 guests in a theatre format. Together, they position Effotel by Sayaji, Sangli as a well-equipped MICE and social event destination in the city, a significant advantage in a market that has historically lacked premium banqueting facilities.​

Widely regarded as the Turmeric Capital of India, Sangli is a thriving agrarian and commercial hub also known for its grape cultivation. Conveniently located just 7 km from Sangli Railway Station and 50 km from Kolhapur Airport, the property ensures easy access for both domestic travellers and regional visitors.​

The property’s location is particularly strategic given Sangli’s proximity to Kolhapur, a major cultural and commercial centre housing the revered Mahalakshmi Temple and a rapidly growing business district, as well as access to notable regional attractions including Chandoli National Park in the Western Ghats, Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Sangli Fort, and the serene Dandoba Hills Forest Reserve. 

Mr. Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager at Sayaji Hotels, said, “Sangli has always been an economically active and culturally significant city, yet it has not had the branded hospitality infrastructure its stature deserves. Effotel by Sayaji, Sangli changes that narrative. This is not just another hotel opening; it is a commitment to elevating the travel and events experience for an entire region. With our Effotel brand, we bring the promise of quality, warmth, and value to markets ready to embrace it. The Kolhapur-Sangli belt represents tremendous potential for business and leisure travel, and we are proud to be the first from our portfolio to plant our flag here.”​

Mr. Avinash Gangwani, Director, LKG Lifestyle LLP, shared, “When we envisioned this project, we saw a clear gap. Sangli is a city that punches well above its weight economically, but visitors and business delegations have had very few quality accommodation options. Being part of the Effotel by Sayaji family brings not just a trusted brand name but a proven model of hospitality excellence. Now that we have handed over our property to Sayaji Group, we place complete trust in their exceptional services and operational expertise. We are confident this property will redefine Sangli’s position on Maharashtra’s hospitality map and will serve as a catalyst for the city’s growing tourism and corporate event ecosystem, especially given our proximity to the pilgrimage and tourism circuit around Kolhapur.”​

For families, pilgrims, corporate delegates, MICE groups, agri-trade professionals visiting Sangli’s markets, and tourists using Sangli as a base to explore the Kolhapur-Sangli belt, this property is set to become a natural first choice.​

Sayaji Hotels Expands Footprint with Six New Properties Across Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat.

India’s contemporary hospitality brand announces a robust expansion strategy, extending its signature “Yours Truly” experience in emerging destinations.

National, November 2025, Sayaji Hotels, a distinguished name in Indian hospitality celebrated for its signature “Yours Truly” service, has embarked on a bold expansion drive to strengthen its presence and redefine the country’s hospitality landscape. Earlier this year, the group announced a comprehensive plan highlighting its vision to enhance guest experiences across India. As part of this strategic growth initiative, Sayaji Hotels has signed six new properties in key locations — Mandav and Kanha in Madhya Pradesh, Baramati in Maharashtra, Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, and Bhavnagar and Junagadh in Gujarat.

This strategic development reinforces Sayaji Hotels’ commitment to expanding its footprint across India’s evolving hospitality landscape, tapping into destinations that are witnessing a surge in domestic travel driven by leisure tourism, business mobility and cultural exploration. Each new property has been thoughtfully selected to serve as a gateway for travellers seeking a blend of regional authenticity, contemporary comfort and the personalised warmth synonymous with Sayaji.

“For a long time, hospitality in India was centred around metro cities and established tourist destinations, while Tier 2 and 3 markets were often seen as secondary,” said Ms. Sumera Dhanani, Corporate Head Business Development, Sayaji Hotels. “That perception is changing rapidly. With better connectivity, growing local economies, and evolving traveller expectations, these cities are now becoming vibrant hospitality hubs. They offer guests culturally rich, authentic experiences that go beyond the conventional metropolitan stay — and that’s exactly where Sayaji sees tremendous potential, and we are expected to add another 2000 plus keys in the next six months.” 

With a bold vision for the future, Sayaji Hotels aims to significantly expand its portfolio in the coming years. By blending contemporary comfort with local culture, the brand seeks to redefine hospitality for the modern traveller—where warmth, authenticity, and attention to detail take centre stage.

SAYAJI HOTELS LIMITED EXPANDS ITS PRESENCE IN MADHYA PRADESH WITH THE SIGNING OF 6 NEW PROPERTIES

SAYAJI HOTELS LIMITED EXPANDS ITS PRESENCE IN MADHYA PRADESH WITH THE SIGNING OF 6 NEW PROPERTIES

Sayaji Hotels Limited will expand its presence in the state of Madhya Pradesh with the opening of 6 new properties by the end of 2023. The group currently operates 4 properties with 500 keys under the brands Sayaji Hotels, Effotel by Sayaji, and Enrise by Sayaji. The upcoming properties include Sayaji Gwalior, Effotel Bhopal, Enise Hoshangabad, Enrise Rewa, Enrise Harda, and Enrise Indore. Collectively these new properties will add 400 keys to Sayaji Group’s portfolio in Madhya Pradesh.

Announcing the development, Jameel Sayed, Director – Business Development, Sayaji Hotels Ltd. said, “Madhya Pradesh has transformed itself into a major industrial hub, besides being in the forefront of culture and tourism. The region has witnessed a steady inflow of leisure and business travelers from across the globe. However, there has been an acute shortage of hotel rooms to meet the needs of discerning travelers. We are pleased to bridge this gap by adding six new properties in the State which will be operational next year. Sayaji Hotels, with its strategic location, luxurious rooms, a host of banqueting and F&B facilities will appeal to travelers in this region”.

This rapid expansion in Madhya Pradesh exemplifies the consistency in the quality of its services and stays across all the Sayaji Hotels irrespective of the region it operates in. Moreover, the owner-centric strategy adopted by Sayaji Hotels is highly appreciated by its partners, enabling it to rapidly expand its presence under asset-light alliances and management contracts model.

Sayaji Hotels is India’s premier upscale lifestyle hospitality brand, renowned for its bespoke experiences, signature hospitality, and ushering new standards of opulence in the 4-star and 5-star hotels category. The group’s flagship 5-star property in Indore is one the most sought-after destinations for weddings and the only hotel in the city to introduce the grill restaurant concept in India- Kebabville. The group plans to have 50 operational hotels nationally in the next 3 years.

NEWS| Sayaji Hotels enters into strategic partnership with majority stake in Intellistay Hotels

With this move, Sayaji Group of Hotels will now operate 2,772 rooms across 41 operational hotels with a series of new hotel launches in the pipeline.

Hospitality brand Sayaji Hotels on Tuesday announced a strategic partnership with a majority stake in integrated asset-light hotel management company Intellistay Hotels that will add 27 hotels to its current collection of 14 properties. The partnership will add 27 hotels in 15 cities to Sayaji Hotels' current collection of 14 properties with its existing brands 'Sayaji Hotels', 'Effotel by Sayaji' and 'Enrise by Sayaji', the company said in a statement.

"We are delighted to welcome Intellistay Hotels with its portfolio of highly successful brands to the Sayaji Hotel family.

"This strategic alliance gives us a significant presence in key leisure and metro markets where Intellistay Hotels has already established its footprints," Sayaji Hotels Managing Director Raoof Dhanani said.

Currently, Intellistay Hotels operates 1,350 rooms and plans to add 1,000 rooms with 20 hotels across the country by the second half of 2022.

With this move, Sayaji Group of Hotels will now operate 2,772 rooms across 41 operational hotels with a series of new hotel launches in the pipeline.

"We will leverage our shared expertise to enhance our market share, expand our product portfolio and provide best-in-class offerings for the guests.

"We believe this partnership will create new avenues for growth and reinforce Sayaji Group of Hotels as one of the fastest-growing hotel chains in the country," Sayaji Hotels Vice-President (Operations and People) Rakshit Sharma said.

Sayaji Hotel Indore appoints Dev Thakur as the Director of Food & Beverages

Sayaji Hotel Indore has appointed Dev Thakur as the Director of Food & Beverages. A passionate hospitality professional with 15+ years of experience in world’s finest hospitality brands, he brings to the table, his expertise in fast paced environment and high volume operations with multiple styles of service. Well versed with the food & beverage operations of luxury hotels, destination resorts, upscale & midscale hotels.

Prior to this, he was associated with multinational chains, such as Marriott International, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts Hyatt International, Hilton Hotels and Accor Hotels in India.

Senior Management of Sayaji Hotels announces to forgo their salary for an indefinite period

Key Take Away

In the wake of the Covid-19 crisis, Suchitra Dhanani, founding director of Sayaji Hotels has announced to forego 100 percent of her salary for an indefinite period.

In similar lines, Saba Dhanani, Director of Operations, Sayaji Group, Sumera Dhanani, Business Analyst Manager and Jameel Sayed, Director of Operations would also forgo their salary for an indefinite period.

Hopefully this would help some of our staff who had been the pillar of our success story. This is the least we could do during the lockdown

For More Information

www.hotelierindia.com/business/10975-senior-management-of-sayaji-hotels-announces-to-forgo-their-salary-for-an-indefinite-period