IHCL Signs New Gateway Hotel in Sarnath; Set to be City’s Largest

SARNATH, VARANASI – The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s leading hospitality group, has officially announced the signing of a new Gateway branded hotel in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. This Greenfield project, developed in collaboration with Raj Hotels, is poised to redefine the hospitality landscape in one of the world’s most significant spiritual hubs.

A New Landmark for Spiritual Tourism Strategically located near the sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, the new Gateway Sarnath will be the largest hotel in the city, featuring 160 well-appointed rooms. The project aims to provide a seamless blend of contemporary comfort and spiritual tranquility for domestic and international pilgrims alike.

The hotel will feature a comprehensive suite of modern amenities, including:

Dining: An all-day diner and a stylish bar.

Wellness: A state-of-the-art fitness center and a swimming pool.

Events: A massive 6,500 sq. ft. banquet hall and specialized meeting rooms, making it a premier destination for corporate conferences and large-scale social gatherings.

Strengthening the Spiritual Circuit This signing is a key part of IHCL’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in India's emerging spiritual destinations. By introducing the re-imagined Gateway brand to Sarnath, IHCL complements its existing luxury and upscale presence in Uttar Pradesh, which already includes iconic Taj, SeleQtions, and Vivanta properties.

"Sarnath holds immense significance for Buddhists worldwide. We are delighted to partner with Raj Hotels to bring the Gateway brand to this historic city, elevating its hospitality infrastructure," stated Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL.

Why This Matters for Varanasi As the spiritual tourism circuit in Uttar Pradesh continues to see a massive surge in footfall, the addition of a high-capacity branded hotel in Sarnath will:

Boost Local Economy: Create significant employment opportunities for the local community.

Enhance Connectivity: Provide a premium stay option for travelers visiting the wider Varanasi region.

Modernize Infrastructure: Offer world-class MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities in a previously underserved area.