The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts wholly owned subsidiary Leela Luxe Hotels & Resorts has acquired an ultra-luxury resort in Coorg from Pai Vista Hotels Pvt. Ltd. for ₹560 crore, marking the brand’s entry into immersive, nature-led and wellness-anchored hospitality.
71-villa property set across 76 acres near Madikeri to open later this year
The 71 all-villa properties, spread across 76 acres of lush landscape near Madikeri and surrounded by coffee and spice plantations, will be unveiled later this year as The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary. The acquisition coincides with The Leela’s 40th anniversary and introduces the brand’s first “Sanctuary”, extending its portfolio into one of South India’s most compelling leisure destinations.
Situated in the Western Ghats and within convenient reach of Bengaluru and Mangaluru, Coorg is known for its rolling coffee estates, mist-covered hills, scenic waterfalls and the rich heritage of the Kodava community. Its high air quality and unspoilt natural setting continue to attract premium leisure travellers from India and overseas.
Move marks brand’s entry into nature-led, wellness-focused hospitality
Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts Chief Executive Officer Anuraag Bhatnagar said the acquisition represents both a milestone and an evolution for the brand into nature-immersive, wellness-focused hospitality. The company, he said, continues to invest in destinations with strong cultural and ecological value. Coorg strengthens The Leela’s presence in South India while advancing its strategy of building a balanced portfolio across India’s iconic landscapes.
The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, he added, offers a rare blend of wilderness, wellness and the warmth of Indian luxury for travellers seeking space, stillness and a deeper connection with nature.
Expansion aligns with strategy to strengthen presence in high-value leisure destinations
The IGBC Platinum-certified resort has been designed in harmony with its natural surroundings, blending contemporary architecture with local craftsmanship. The property also has land reserves to support future expansion, with a first phase adding 19 villas to take the total inventory to 90 keys.
A 27,000 sq ft wellness centre anchors the resort’s focus on restoration and longevity, while a seven-acre lake forms the tranquil centrepiece of the sanctuary. A private helipad ensures seamless access for guests.
With the addition of Coorg, The Leela portfolio now comprises 15 properties with over 4,160 keys across 13 cities globally, including seven owned, seven managed and one franchised hotel.
The group has nine hotels in the pipeline and plans to expand to 24 properties over the next three years, including in Agra, Ayodhya, Bandhavgarh, Mumbai, Ranthambore, Sikkim, Srinagar and Jaisalmer.