Lemon Tree Hotels Limited (LTHL) has received a Letter of Award (LoA) from the Directorate of Tourism Shillong, Government of Meghalaya, for the redevelopment, operation, and maintenance of the Orchid Hotel in Shillong, under a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model as part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). This marks the first PPP initiative for Lemon Tree Hotels, signaling a significant move into the redevelopment of government-owned properties.

As part of the agreement, Lemon Tree Hotels will redevelop the property and relaunch it under its premium Aurika Hotels & Resorts brand. The newly branded Aurika, Shillong is expected to be operational within the next three years, featuring approximately 120 rooms, including suites, and offering a variety of high-end amenities. These include an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a fitness center, a spa, and expansive banquet facilities, ensuring a luxurious and holistic guest experience. The hotel will also feature recreational spaces, adding to its appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travelers.

The location of the Orchid Hotel is strategic, situated in the Polo Market area of Shillong. This prime site offers scenic views of the city and is easily accessible, being just 2 kilometers from the bus terminus and within reach of key transportation hubs such as the Guwahati Railway Station (97 km) and Umroi Airport (32 km). This makes the hotel an attractive option for both domestic and international tourists seeking to explore the natural beauty of Meghalaya, often referred to as the "abode of the clouds."

The redevelopment of the Orchid Hotel is part of the broader tourism development efforts in Meghalaya, a state renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is a major tourist destination and the project aligns with the government's efforts to enhance the state's infrastructure and tourism offerings.

In line with the terms of the LoA, Lemon Tree Hotels will establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), which may potentially be a Joint Venture (JV), subject to approval by the company’s Board of Directors. The SPV will be tasked with executing the concession agreement between the company and the Government of Meghalaya and implementing the project. The hotel will benefit from several incentives, including capital subsidies and GST reimbursements, under the Meghalaya Industrial & Investment Promotion Policy (MIIPP)-2024 and the Uttar Poorva Transformative Industrialisation Scheme (UNNATI)-2024.

Lemon Tree Hotels' Chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Patanjali G. Keswani, expressed excitement over the award, stating that the redevelopment of the Orchid Hotel will contribute to the company’s growing portfolio and further strengthen the presence of the upscale Aurika brand. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it ventures into the development and operation of high-end properties in key tourist locations across India.

The company’s portfolio spans a range of hotel segments, from economy to upscale brands, including Aurika, Lemon Tree Premier, Lemon Tree Hotels, and Red Fox by Lemon Tree Hotels, among others. This diverse portfolio ensures that Lemon Tree Hotels caters to a broad spectrum of travelers, from budget-conscious to luxury seekers.

Lemon Tree Hotels' operations span across more than 190 hotels in India and internationally, including recent expansions into Dubai, Bhutan, and Nepal. The company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, differentiated hospitality services has positioned it as a prominent player in the Indian hotel industry.

The redevelopment of the Orchid Hotel aligns with the company’s growth strategy of expanding its presence in key tourist destinations, offering modern amenities and services that meet the evolving expectations of travelers. With a focus on quality, service, and innovation, the Aurika brand is set to redefine the hospitality experience in Shillong.

In conclusion, the redevelopment of the Orchid Hotel in Shillong under the Aurika brand represents a key step in Lemon Tree Hotels’ journey toward expanding its luxury offerings while contributing to the development of Meghalaya’s tourism infrastructure. With a projected opening within three years, the property is set to become a landmark hotel in the region, drawing both domestic and international visitors to explore the natural beauty and culture of the area.