The Leela debuts in Coorg with a Forest Sanctuary

When Captain C. P. Krishnan Nair opened The Leela Mumbai in 1986, he set out to create an Indian hospitality brand that could rival the world’s finest hotels while remaining deeply rooted in the country’s cultural heritage. Four decades later, The Leela has become synonymous with grand palaces, impeccable service and a distinctly Indian interpretation of luxury. 

Now, as it celebrates its 40th anniversary, The Leela is entering a new chapter with the acquisition of an ultra-luxury resort in Coorg, Karnataka, which will debut later this year as The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary. Set across 76 acres of lush landscape near Madikeri and surrounded by coffee and spice plantations, the 71 all-villa retreat marks the brand’s first Sanctuary concept and its debut in one of South India’s most sought-after leisure destinations.

Located in the biodiverse Western Ghats, Coorg has long captivated travellers with its rolling plantations, mist-covered hills, waterfalls and rich Kodava heritage. The region’s cool climate and consistently high air quality make it a compelling destination for travellers seeking restorative escapes rooted in nature.

Designed to blend seamlessly with its environment, the IGBC Platinum-certified resort combines contemporary architecture with local craftsmanship and materials that echo the textures of the surrounding forest. The property will initially offer 71 villas, with plans to add 19 more in the first phase of expansion, bringing the total inventory to 90 villas.

At the heart of the retreat is a 27,000 sq. ft. wellness centre that brings together Ayurvedic therapies, modern recovery treatments and Aujasya by The Leela, the brand’s signature wellness philosophy. A serene seven-acre lake anchors the property, while curated experiences like plantation-led coffee tastings and destination-inspired dining connect the guests deeply with Coorg’s landscape and culture.

The resort will feature four dining venues showcasing both regional and global cuisines, with a particular emphasis on bean-to-cup coffee experiences that celebrate the region’s plantation heritage. For travellers arriving in utmost privacy, a dedicated helipad ensures seamless access. The crowning accommodation is an expansive four-bedroom presidential villa complete with a private pool and integrated wellness facilities, positioning it among South India’s most exclusive forest retreats.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, says, “As we celebrate 40 Years of The Leela, this acquisition represents both a milestone and an evolution of the brand into nature-immersive, wellness-focused hospitality. We invest in destinations with cultural and ecological value, and Coorg strengthens our presence in South India while advancing our strategy of building a balanced portfolio across India’s most iconic landscapes. The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary offers a rare synthesis of wilderness, wellness and warmth of true Indian luxury for travellers who seek space, stillness and a genuine connection to nature.”

With the addition of Coorg, The Leela’s portfolio grows to 15 properties with more than 4,160 keys across 13 cities worldwide. With nine hotels currently in development (including upcoming openings in Agra, Ayodhya, Bandhavgarh, Mumbai, Ranthambore, Sikkim, Srinagar and Jaisalmer), the brand remains on track to expand to 24 properties over the next three years.

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