IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement with KGA International Trades Private Limited to develop Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery in Kerala, slated to open in the first quarter of 2027. The signing underlines IHG’s strategy to expand in India’s secondary markets through strategic collaborations.
The new hotel, to be part of the under‑construction KGA Mall mixed‑use development, will feature 90 well-appointed rooms alongside multiple dining outlets, a banquet space for more than 100 guests, a swimming pool, multiplex and family entertainment facilities. Its integration with retail and entertainment offerings reflects a comprehensive urban hospitality approach.
Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia at IHG, said, “We are excited to announce the signing of Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery, marking our continued growth across important secondary markets in India. This hotel will bring international brand standards to a high‑potential micro market in Kerala that is currently underserved by quality hospitality offerings.”
This marks IHG’s second collaboration with the KGA Group, following the successful Crowne Plaza Kochi partnership. The group aims to build modern infrastructure and elevate hospitality in the region. “We believe the combination of the mall and the hotel will make it a key destination for both natives and travellers,” said K C Eapen, Director & CEO of KGA Group.
We are excited to announce the signing of Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery, marking our continued growth across important secondary markets in India. This hotel will bring international brand standards to a high‑potential micro market in Kerala that is currently underserved by quality hospitality offerings. – Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia at IHG
Holiday Inn Express is the largest and fastest‑growing brand in IHG’s portfolio with over 3,200 hotels globally. The brand is designed for short‑stay travellers, offering simple and smart accommodations and streamlined services.
Changanassery, located in Kerala’s Kottayam district, is emerging as a cultural and commercial hub known for its backwaters, ancient temples and vibrant commerce. The new hotel aims to meet the rising demand for reliable branded stays from both domestic tourists and business travellers alike.
The signing comes as part of IHG’s broader growth plan in India, where the company currently manages around 50 hotels across six brands and has a pipeline of over 60 upcoming properties.
IHG’s leverage of its Holiday Inn Express brand enables travellers to expect consistent hospitality standards. The generation‑5 design concept of the brand delivers modern, functional spaces for guests, aligning with urban and transit market needs.
By introducing Holiday Inn Express to Changanassery, IHG aims to strengthen its presence in Kerala and capitalize on emerging demand in secondary markets. The project also demonstrates the importance of trusted local partnerships in achieving long‑term market growth.