IHG Accelerates Growth with 1st Holiday Inn Express in Kottayam, Boosting South India Presence!

IHG Signs Holiday Inn Express in Kerala’s Changanassery, Expanding Presence in South India

IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement with KGA International Trades Private Limited to develop a Holiday Inn Express in Kottayam Changanassery, Kerala, India. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2027, the hotel highlights IHG’s ongoing strategy to grow in secondary Indian markets through alliances with established regional partners.

Holiday Inn Express, the largest brand in IHG’s portfolio, has over 3,200 hotels worldwide and is designed to provide smart and efficient stays for short-term travellers. Featuring the Generation 5 design, the brand continues to adapt to evolving guest preferences with modern shared spaces and functional rooms.

Changanassery, located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, is a year-round destination known for its scenic backwaters and religious landmarks. The upcoming Holiday Inn Express will be part of KGA Mall — a mixed-use development — and will offer 90 rooms, dining venues, a banquet hall for over 100 guests, a swimming pool, a multiplex, a family entertainment centre, and retail stores featuring both domestic and international brands. The hotel’s location near the central business district allows access to nearby towns, including Kochi, Alleppey, Pathanamthitta, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated:

“We’re pleased to sign Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery, supporting our focus on growth in secondary Indian markets. This development brings international hospitality standards to a region with increasing demand and limited quality accommodation options. It also represents our second collaboration with KGA Group, following Crowne Plaza Kochi — a relationship built on mutual trust and aligned goals.”

He added,

“With Holiday Inn Express, we aim to enhance the local hospitality landscape by offering dependable service and consistent guest experiences, while reflecting the character of Changanassery. This will help meet the rising needs of corporate, leisure, and transit travellers.”

Speaking on behalf of the KGA Group Chairman, Mr. K G Abraham, and the Board of Directors, Mr. K C Eapen, Director & CEO, KGA Group, said:

“Following our earlier success with IHG on Crowne Plaza Kochi, we are happy to partner again for this new hotel project in Changanassery. This aligns with our long-term vision to support regional infrastructure and economic development. The combined offering of the mall and the hotel is expected to attract both residents and travellers.”

He added,

“KGA Group, originally based in Kuwait since 1977 under NBTC (Naser M Al Baddah & Partner Gen. Trading & Contracting Co. W.L.L.), is now looking to expand its footprint in hospitality. We plan to add six more hotel projects over the next six years.”

Changanassery is gaining attention as a regional hub driven by religious tourism, natural attractions, and local business activity. The new Holiday Inn Express aims to serve domestic and international travellers seeking quality, efficient hospitality in the area.