The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL),, has unveiled its latest venture with the signing of a Taj-branded resort in Kollam, Kerala, on April 2, 2024. This resort marks a Brownfield project for IHCL and With the addition of this resort, IHCL’s portfolio in Kerala will encompass 20 hotels across its Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, and Ginger brands, including six under development.
Mr Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of IHCL, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This signing fortifies IHCL’s enduring presence in Kerala. Kollam, with its rich historical significance as a seaport city and its captivating natural beauty, stands as a promising tourist destination. Serving as the southern gateway to Kerala’s famed backwaters, it holds immense potential. We are delighted to partner with Mr Chacko Paul on this endeavour.”
Nestled along the scenic Thirumullavaram Beach spanning 13 acres, the resort offers nearly 600 feet of pristine beachfront. It will house 205 rooms, each offering stunning vistas of the Arabian Sea. The resort will boast a range of facilities including an all-day diner, a speciality vegetarian restaurant, a trendy bar, a luxurious spa, an inviting swimming pool, and a fully equipped gym. With over 20,000 sq. ft. of versatile banqueting space and expansive lawns, it promises to be an ideal venue for corporate functions and social gatherings.
Mr Chacko Paul, Managing Director of M/s. Joy’s The Beach Resort Pvt Ltd, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with IHCL, renowned as India’s hospitality leader, in developing this resort. With their track record of pioneering new destinations, we are confident that IHCL will elevate Kollam’s stature on the global tourist map.”
Mr Chacko Paul, a respected hotelier with properties in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, including Travancore Heritage in Chowara, Thiruvananthapuram, and Le Pondy in Pondicherry, also served as the former President of the South Kerala Hoteliers Forum, a prominent organization in the region.
The Ultimate Destination for Nature Enthusiasts
Located serenely along the shores of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River, Kollam beckons as a haven for leisure seekers, renowned for its backwaters, beaches, islands, and profound cultural heritage manifested in ancient temples, churches, and mosques. Drawing travellers in search of rejuvenation, it offers authentic Ayurvedic treatments amidst its tranquil surroundings.
Formerly known as Quilon, Kollam rose to prominence as the cashew capital of the world in the early 20th century. With a history steeped in significance, it once served as the capital of the Venad province, earning the moniker ‘Desinganadu’ during the reign of King Jayasimha of the Venad dynasty. Nestled in the southern expanse of God’s Own Country, adjacent to the enchanting Ashtamudi Lake—a symbol of Kerala’s backwaters—Kollam flourished as a hub of international trade, owing to its natural harbour, Neendakara, attracting renowned merchants, missionaries, and explorers like Ibn Battuta, Vasco da Gama, and Henrique Henriques.
Kollam’s allure extends beyond its natural splendour, with palm-fringed waterways, historic landmarks, and a vibrant cultural mosaic. The annual Kollam Fest, held on the expansive Ashramam Grounds—a former British-era aerodrome—offers a glimpse into the city’s rich culture, heritage, and burgeoning tourism prospects.
The region is adorned with ornate architectural wonders, from historical relics to numerous temples, reflecting the distinctive architectural style of the area. Kollam’s cultural legacy is further enshrined in the creation of the Malayalam calendar, or Kollavarsham, in 825 CE, under the auspices of a royal decree by H H Udayamarthanda Varma—a calendar subsequently adopted throughout Travancore and the Chera kingdom’s provinces.
Nestled amidst scenic beaches and tranquil backwaters, Kollam offers an unparalleled retreat for nature enthusiasts, leaving an indelible imprint on the soul. Renowned as Kerala’s primary fishing hub, the district benefits from abundant coastal and freshwater resources, enhancing its natural allure.
Thirumullavaram Beach, situated 6 km north of Kollam, stands as a secluded haven and picturesque picnic spot. Nearby, Nyarazhcha Para, or Sunday Rock, emerges during low tide, alongside the majestic Mahavishnu Temple, adding to the region’s charm and allure.
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