Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the opening of Avantika by the Ganges – IHCL SeleQtions in Varanasi. The launch adds a distinctive new dimension to IHCL’s portfolio in one of the world’s oldest living cities and reinforces the company’s multi-brand presence in this spiritually significant destination.
Varanasi continues to attract visitors from across the globe for its deep-rooted spiritual, cultural and historical importance. With this opening, IHCL expands its footprint in the city while offering a hospitality experience that blends heritage, devotion and contemporary comfort.
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Leadership Perspective on the Opening
Commenting on the opening, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said,
“Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities, continues to draw seekers from across the globe for its spiritual significance. IHCL has been an integral part of this journey with a multi – brand presence in the city. The opening ofAvantika by the Ganges – IHCL SeleQtionsadds a dimension to our brandscape, offering guests a sanctuary that blends timeless traditions with contemporary comforts.”
A Sanctuary on the Banks of the Ganges
Located on the banks of Kashi, Avantika by the Ganges – IHCL SeleQtions is a 43-key property positioned as a spiritual sanctuary in the heart of Varanasi. The hotel enjoys close proximity to key spiritual landmarks, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Kaal Bhairav Temple, making it an ideal base for pilgrims and culturally inclined travellers.
The rooms and suites are designed to reflect harmony between spirituality and modern living. Inspired by the balance of the five elements, the interiors combine thoughtful design with panoramic views of the River Ganges, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere for guests.
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Dining and Wellness Experiences
The hotel features an all-vegetarian restaurant, Dhanushkoti, which draws inspiration from traditional Varanasi kitchens. The menu focuses on timeless local flavours, with ingredients sourced locally to maintain authenticity and freshness.
In addition to dining, guests have access to a well-equipped fitness centre, spa and salon. These facilities are designed to complement the property’s holistic positioning, supporting physical wellness alongside spiritual exploration.
Owner’s Perspective
Speaking about the collaboration, Mr. K. Shiva Prasad, Managing Director, Srivaari Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, owning company – Avantika by the Ganges – IHCL SeleQtions, said,
“Varanasi holds deep spiritual significance, and Avantika by the Ganges was envisioned to reflect that essence. Partnering with IHCL allows us to preserve this heritage while offering authentic hospitality.”
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Varanasi: A Timeless Destination
Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Revered for its sacred ghats along the River Ganges, the city is a magnet for spiritual seekers, cultural enthusiasts and history lovers. The opening of Avantika by the Ganges – IHCL SeleQtions adds a contemporary yet culturally sensitive hospitality offering to this iconic destination.
About Indian Hotels Company Limited
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a portfolio of brands that blend warm Indian hospitality with world-class service. These include Taj, Claridges Collection, SeleQtions, Tree of Life, Vivanta, Gateway and Ginger.
Incorporated by Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group, IHCL opened its first hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace, Bombay, in 1903. Today, IHCL has a portfolio of 602 hotels, including 247 hotels in the pipeline, across four continents, 14 countries and over 250 locations. IHCL is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalisation and is listed on the BSE and NSE.
