Unabashedly indulgent and set in stunning locales across India, Ananta Hotels has grand experiences for travellers from all walks of life
Words by Sakshi Dhingra
Indians are traveling in far greater numbers this year internationally, but we need not leave our shores to savour a world-class hospitality experience. With a dazzling array of properties that exude luxury and invoke a sense of inner bliss, Ananta Hotels and Resorts is at the forefront of a new wave of Indian hospitality brands creating unforgettable experiences for travellers. We catch up with Ashutosh Goyal, Director, Ananta Hotels & Resorts, to better understand the brand’s approach to crafting tailored experiences that delight.
As a young leader in the hospitality industry, how do you balance innovation with maintaining the cultural richness that defines Indian hospitality?
Our properties are strategically located in culturally rich spots across India, helping travelers discover the diverse heritage of our country. From the sacred town of Pushkar to the royal city of Udaipur, and our upcoming wellness resort in Ajabgarh, each location offers a unique cultural immersion. Our wildlife spots in Gir, Ranthambore, Ranakpur, and Bundi provide an adventurous twist, allowing guests to connect with nature and experience India’s wildlife up close.
Maintaining this balance involves a thoughtful integration of contemporary conveniences and sustainable practices with the warmth and personalized service that Indian hospitality is renowned for. Each property under the Ananta brand is designed to reflect the local heritage while offering modern comforts, creating a unique and memorable experience for our guests.
By focusing on this blend, I believe we can provide an unparalleled hospitality experience that honors our cultural heritage while meeting the evolving needs of today’s travelers. This approach allows us to stay innovative and competitive, without losing the essence of what makes Indian hospitality truly special.
The Jaisalmer property has won international awards for its design. How important is architectural innovation in creating a luxury experience for your guests?
Architectural innovation is crucial in creating a luxury experience for our guests, and our Jaisalmer property is a prime example of this philosophy in action. Deriving its shapes from the sand dunes of the Jaisalmer desert, this resort is planned with an organic layout that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings.
The design features low-rise structures interspersed with landscaped spaces, maintaining the area’s natural beauty. A single perimeter road minimizes traffic movement, making 90% of the 30-acre site a vehicle-free zone, ensuring a peaceful and immersive environment for our guests.
Public facilities such as banqueting areas, restaurants, and game zones are strategically placed on the western side of the site, close to the entrance. These structures are built with shotcrete, featuring undulating volumes that blend into the ground, mirroring the surrounding sand dunes.
Our 180 rooms are designed in small individual units, each with 4 to 6 rooms opening into gardens or terraces. These rooms are arranged in organic clusters inspired by traditional Indian villages, offering an authentic and culturally rich experience.
The architecture incorporates sheltered open spaces to reduce heat gain, responding to the desert climate. The room structures are built using adobe construction, making the project sustainable, economical, and highly energy-efficient.
Our Jaisalmer property embodies the character of traditional Indian villages, takes inspiration from the local landscape, and is designed to be climate-responsive. This level of architectural innovation enhances the guest experience by providing a unique, sustainable, and luxurious stay that resonates with the cultural and natural context of the region.
Your wellness resort in Ajabgarh spans 30 acres. How do you see the intersection of wellness and luxury evolving in the hospitality industry?
The intersection of wellness and luxury in the hospitality industry is poised for an exciting evolution, and our wellness resort in Ajabgarh exemplifies this future trend. Spanning 30 acres, Ajabgarh is designed to offer an unparalleled blend of opulence and holistic well-being. Future travelers will seek experiences that transcend mere accommodation, desiring environments that rejuvenate both body and mind.
At Ajabgarh, we are prepared to embrace this by integrating wellness into every aspect of the guest experience. From villas inspired by natural elements to personalized wellness programs that include yoga, meditation, and organic farm tours, we aim to provide a sanctuary where guests can disconnect from their daily stresses and reconnect with themselves.
Sustainability will also play a crucial role in the future of wellness and luxury. Ajabgarh will use eco-friendly materials like Eta gold limestone and incorporate solar energy harnessing, rainwater harvesting, and extensive landscaping to create an environmentally responsible retreat. This approach not only enhances the wellness experience but also aligns with the growing preference for sustainable luxury.
With your international education and global aspirations for Indian hospitality, how do you plan to position Ananta Hotels & Resorts in the international luxury market?
With my international education and global aspirations for Indian hospitality, I plan to position Ananta Hotels & Resorts as a premier brand in the international luxury market by emphasizing our unique blend of cultural richness, modern luxury, and strategic locations. Our strategy is deeply rooted in providing authentic and immersive cultural experiences that set us apart from other luxury brands.
We will highlight the authentic cultural experiences that Ananta offers. Each of our properties, from Udaipur to Ajabgarh, is meticulously designed to reflect the local heritage and traditions of its location. This commitment to authenticity creates a unique selling proposition that differentiates us from other luxury brands. International travelers today are looking for more than just luxury; they seek meaningful and immersive experiences that connect them to the local culture.
At Ananta, we provide experiential travel opportunities that allow guests to engage deeply with the rich Indian heritage, whether it’s through exploring the vibrant traditions of Rajasthan or enjoying a stay amidst the wildlife of Gir and Ranthambore.
As a third-generation leader, how are you adapting traditional hospitality values to meet the expectations of modern luxury consumers?
At Ananta Hotels & Resorts, we are deeply rooted in the timeless principles of Indian hospitality—warmth, personalized service, and a deep respect for our guests.
One way we achieve this is by seamlessly integrating experiential offerings with our traditional hospitality framework. Our properties are equipped to provide unique experiences that go beyond mere accommodation, from immersive cultural activities to personalized wellness programs.
For instance, guests can partake in yoga and meditation sessions, nature walks, and organic farm tours, allowing them to connect deeply with the local culture and natural surroundings. Additionally, our culinary offerings are designed to reflect both traditional and contemporary tastes, with menus that feature locally sourced, organic ingredients and a variety of dietary options, ensuring a rich and satisfying dining experience.
