Thomas Cook (India) Limited announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, has launched its second property in Ayodhya, named Sterling Saryu Ayodhya. This expansion deepens Sterling’s presence in the vital pilgrimage hub, focusing on comfort-led retreats rooted in faith and heritage. The new resort is strategically located near key temples and transport links, catering to the rising demand for dependable, high-quality stays among multi-generational spiritual travelers.
Sterling Expands Footprint in Ayodhya
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited has announced the opening of Sterling Saryu Ayodhya, marking its second operational resort in the city. This launch is a direct continuation of Sterling’s destination-led growth strategy, specifically targeting India’s significant spiritual and pilgrimage circuits.
Focus on Pilgrimage Travel Needs
The company notes that Ayodhya has seen sharp growth in visitor movement, driven by infrastructure upgrades. This shift necessitates travel offerings that prioritize comfort, reliability, and calm, especially during peak seasons. Sterling Saryu Ayodhya is designed to meet this evolving demand by providing dependable accommodations.
Accommodation and Amenities
Inspired by the sacred River Saryu, the resort offers varied accommodations, including Cocoon Rooms for deep rest and Junior Suites for extended stays. Essential amenities include the all-day dining restaurant, The Saryu Café, which serves vegetarian flavors, and a well-appointed banquet hall suitable for group travel and gatherings.
Strategic Location for Circuits
The resort is well-connected, serving as a convenient base for extended heritage journeys across North India. It provides easy access to key regional hubs such as Lucknow (~135 km), Prayagraj (~170 km), and Varanasi (~200 km), enabling guests to structure meaningful travel circuits centered on Ayodhya.
Leadership Commentary
Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, stated that the launch deepens their presence in Ayodhya, focusing on delivering comfort and reliability for faith-led travelers. Mr. Rishi Uppal, Director of Kalyan KK Hotels India Pvt Ltd (a partner), emphasized the rapid growth in demand for organized, comfort-led hospitality in India’s spiritual destinations, viewing Sterling’s expertise as crucial to meeting this vision.
Sterling Holiday Resorts Overview
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited manages a portfolio spanning 58 unique destinations across India, operating over 3,700 keys. The company is a 100% independently managed subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) and is part of the Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited group.
Source: BSE
