VIVANTA BY TAJ – SRINAGAR, KASHMIR
December 11, 2009

Srinagar, 11 December, 2009: The Indian Hotels Company Ltd is proud to announce its foray into Srinagar, in Jammu and Kashmir, thus expanding its footprint in northern India. A management contract for a hotel under the upper upscale brand Vivanta by Taj was signed on, December, 10, 2009 at Srinagar with SAIFCO Hill Crest Hotels Pvt. Ltd, part of a well-known business house in the state

Strategically located on a hilltop, the hotel location is 20 kms. away from the new airport. The six acre property which will be named “Vivanta by Taj – Srinagar, Kashmir” will have 89 rooms at the time of opening; with suites and guest rooms spread out in villas, each of which provide a breathtaking view of the valley. Amongst these are a Presidential Suite of over 2500 sq. ft. & 5 other suites.

Vivanta by Taj is designed to deliver a vibrant, contemporary experience with touches of surprise & combining the charming hospitality that is the hallmark of the Taj, with a vivacious twist! The services at Vivanta - Srinagar will consist of an all day dining restaurant, a tea lounge, and a specialty restaurant. Recreation facilities like an expansive spa and fitness centre will add to its charm. Large meeting & banqueting facilities & a business centre complete the experience.

Mr Veer Vijay Singh, Chief Operating Officer, Taj Upper Upscale Hotels said on the occasion “We are delighted to announce this addition to the Vivanta family. Vivanta Srinagar will give guests an exceptional holiday experience with its gorgeous location, our imaginative service and state of the art amenities.”

Over the last few years, the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir has seen a distinct upswing. The Indian Hotels Company Ltd has tapped into this upsurge and has added to its portfolio in keeping with its domestic expansion plans.

Highlighting the need for such a property in Srinagar, Mr D K Beri, VP Business & Corporate Affairs, Indian Hotels Company Ltd said “We are highly appreciative of the warm response to this project by the state government and welcome the presence of the Honorable Chief Minister, Mr Omar Abdullah. The Taj believes that Srinagar has potential to be developed as an important tourist hub. Vivanta – Srinagar fits into this bracket as there is a growing market to cater to the tourist who would like a contemporary & creative experience, with some of the traditional charm. This property in Jammu and Kashmir is, for us a meaningful step in expanding our national portfolio.”

Srinagar, the summer capital of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, situated at an altitude of 1730m above sea level is known for its natural beauty, Mughal gardens, lakes, historical monuments and golf courses. The location of the hotel will offer panoramic views of stunning snow clad mountains in the winters, the famous Tulip Garden in the summer, and the Dal Lake – popularly know as the Jewel in the Crown of the Kashmir Valley.

About Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces (www.tajhotels.com)
Established in 1903, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest and finest group of hotels, comprising 66 hotels in 45 locations across India with an additional 15 international hotels in the Maldives, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa, and the Middle East and South Africa. From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Rajput palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivalled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, has completed the centenary of its landmark hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai. Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is part of the Tata Group, India's premier business house.

About SAIFCO Hill Crest Hotels Pvt Ltd
SAIFCO Hill Crest Hotels Pvt Ltd is a part of the SAIFCO Group of Industries. It is a well established business family of Srinagar; they have a diversified business which comprises of Cement, Real Estate, Flour Mills, etc in the state of Jammu & Kashmir.

For further information please contact Tarini Mathur, Vaishnavi Corporate Communications at 022 66568787 or email tarini.mathur@vccpl.com.
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