IHCL Expands Tree of Life Resort in Panheli, Maharashtra: A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism

Mumbai, Nov 11 (PTI) Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) has announced the signing of a 28-key brownfield Tree of Life resort in Panheli, Raigad, Maharashtra. This strategic move aligns with IHCL's vision to expand its brand presence in drivable destinations, offering travelers a convenient and serene getaway.

Panheli, known for its natural beauty, is an ideal location for a quick leisure escape. Suma Venkatesh, IHCL Executive Vice President - Real Estate and Development, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership with Prabhat Jha. “Panheli's natural beauty makes it an ideal location for a quick leisure escape, in line with the ethos of expanding the brand's presence in drivable destinations. We are delighted to partner with Prabhat Jha for this project,” Venkatesh said in a statement.

With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 54 hotels across Maharashtra, including 27 under development. This expansion not only enhances IHCL's footprint in the region but also contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and promoting tourism.

The Tree of Life brand is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism, focusing on providing a unique and authentic experience for guests. The resort in Panheli will offer a range of activities and amenities that highlight the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area, making it an attractive destination for both domestic and international travelers.

In a related development, VFS Global Academy, the education and skilling arm of VFS Global, has partnered with the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha to upskill and empower over 70 local staff to enhance community participation in ecotourism. This initiative aims to enrich the eco-tourism experience for visitors while creating sustainable livelihoods.

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, spread across 350 square kilometres around the Hirakud reservoir, has already been recognized as India's best eco-tourism resort. The partnership will focus on enhancing community participation in ecotourism by upgrading skills in hospitality, language, etiquette, teamwork, and naturalist training for educational tours in and around Debrigarh Sanctuary.

Anshu Pragyan Das, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Divisional Forest Officer, highlighted the importance of the initiative. “Our partnership with VFS Global Academy focuses on enhancing community participation in ecotourism by upgrading skills in hospitality, language, etiquette, teamwork, and naturalist training for educational tours in and around Debrigarh Sanctuary,” Das said.

Over 70 community members working at Debrigarh Ecotourism as facility managers, safari drivers, eco-guides, boatmen, and naturalists will benefit from this programme. This initiative will not only improve the quality of services provided to visitors but also ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably among the local community.

Both IHCL's expansion in Panheli and VFS Global Academy's partnership with Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary underscore the growing importance of sustainable tourism in India. These projects not only enhance the travel experience but also contribute to the economic and social development of the regions they serve.