Changanassery gets its first global hotel brand, Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery
The upcoming hotel will be the first internationally branded property in the city, set to boost business and tourism in the region.
IHG Hotels & Resorts, a leading global hotel company, has finalized a franchise agreement with KGA International Trades Private Limited to develop the Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery in Kerala, India. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2027, this signing underscores IHG’s commitment to strategic expansion into high-potential secondary markets across India through strong partnerships.
Holiday Inn Express, IHG’s largest and fastest-growing hotel brand with over 3,200 properties worldwide, is designed to offer straightforward, smart, and efficient stays for today’s short-term travelers. The brand’s Generation 5 design concept enhances the guest experience with contemporary, adaptable public spaces and thoughtfully designed rooms, making it a top choice for both business and leisure travelers globally.
Located in Changanassery, a prominent town within Kerala’s Kottayam district, the area is a popular year-round tourist destination known for its picturesque backwaters, historic religious sites, and natural beauty. The Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery will be an integral part of KGA Mall, a mixed-use development currently under construction. The hotel will feature 90 well-appointed rooms, a variety of food and beverage options, a banquet hall for over 100 guests, a swimming pool, a multiplex, a family entertainment center, and numerous national and international retail outlets. Its strategic location near the central business district will benefit from its proximity to key demand generators in nearby cities such as Kochi, Alleppey, Pathanamthitta, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Mr. Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to announce the signing of Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery, which signifies our continued growth in important secondary markets across India. This hotel will introduce international brand standards to a high-potential micro-market in Kerala that currently lacks quality hospitality options. This also marks our second collaboration with KGA Group, building on the success of our partnership for Crowne Plaza Kochi. Such long-term alliances are founded on shared values and trust, and we are pleased to strengthen our relationship with this new signing.”
He added, “With our renowned Holiday Inn Express brand, we have a unique opportunity to elevate the city’s hospitality landscape. Our goal is to deliver the consistent, reliable service and global standards that IHG is known for, while embracing the unique charm of Changanassery and meeting the increasing demand for quality accommodation among corporate, transit, and leisure travelers.”
Mr. K.C. Eapen, Director & CEO of KGA Group, speaking on behalf of KGA Group Chairman, Mr. K.G. Abraham & the Board of Directors, stated: “Following our successful collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts for Crowne Plaza Kochi, we are delighted to partner with them again on this new venture in Changanassery. The development of Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery is part of our broader vision to introduce modern infrastructure and foster business opportunities in the region. We believe the combination of the mall and the hotel will establish it as a key destination for both local residents and travelers.”
He further noted, “KGA Group, established in Kuwait in 1977 as ‘Naser M Al Baddah & Partner Gen. Trading. & Contracting. Co. W.L.L.’ (NBTC) in the oil and allied industries, intends to expand its presence in the hospitality sector by adding six more hotels over the next six years.”
Changanassery is steadily emerging as a significant regional hub in Kerala, supported by a blend of religious tourism, natural attractions, and growing local commerce. The Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery is ideally positioned to become the preferred choice for both domestic and international guests seeking efficient, high-quality hospitality.
