IHG Hotels & Resorts has entered into a franchise agreement with KGA International Trades Private Limited to develop the Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery in Kerala, India. The hotel is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027 and will be part of the KGA Mall, a mixed-use development currently under construction.
Holiday Inn Express is IHG’s largest and fastest-growing brand globally, with more than 3,200 hotels. The new property will feature 90 rooms, food and beverage options, a banquet hall for over 100 guests, swimming pool, multiplex, family entertainment centre, and various retail offerings. Its location near the central business district aims to attract visitors from nearby towns such as Kochi, Alleppey, Pathanamthitta, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Sudeep Jain, Managing Director for South West Asia at IHG Hotels & Resorts 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 also marks our second collaboration with KGA Group, following the successful partnership for Crowne Plaza Kochi. Such long-term partnerships are built on shared values and trust, and we are pleased to strengthen our relationship with this signing.”
He added: “With our renowned Holiday Inn Express brand, we have a unique opportunity to elevate the city’s hospitality offering. Our goal is to deliver the consistent, reliable service and global standards that IHG is known for, while honouring the distinctive charm of Changanassery and addressing the growing demand for quality accommodation among corporate, transit, leisure travelers”
K C Eapen, Director & CEO of KGA Group spoke on behalf of Chairman Mr. K G Abraham & the Board of Directors: “After the successful partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts for Crowne Plaza Kochi, we are pleased to join hands with them again for a new project in Changanassery. Development of Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery is part of our broader vision to bring modern infrastructure and business opportunities to the region. We believe the combination of the mall and the hotel will make it a key destination for both natives and travellers.”
He also added: “KGA Group, based in Kuwait since 1977 in Oil and Allied industries, recognized as ‘Naser M Al Baddah & Partner Gen. Trading. & Contracting. Co. W.L.L.’ (NBTC), intends to expand its presence in hospitality industry by adding six more hotels over the next six years.”
Changanassery has become an important regional centre due to religious tourism and natural attractions as well as increasing local commerce.
IHG operates 50 hotels across six brands in India including Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas; InterContinental Hotels & Resorts; Crowne Plaza; voco Hotels; Holiday Inn Resort; and Holiday Inn Express. There are plans for an additional 63 hotels across these brands within three-to-five years.
