MUMBAI: Who said luxury stays were only for metros? Dusit International, Thailand’s hospitality heavyweight, is going deep into India’s belly—and we’re not talking about Bangkok curry. After dipping its toes in the Himalayas with dusitD2 Fagu in Shimla, the brand is doubling down with a fresh batch of hotels in under-served but high-potential Indian cities. From Bhiwadi to Manali, the roadmap is equal parts spa, strategy and some serious swagger.
Dusit’s new game plan includes opening six properties across tier two and tier three cities like Raipur (200 keys), Bhiwadi (165 keys), Lonavala (120 keys), Kolkata (220 keys), and luxury boutique escapes in Kasol and Manali (40 keys each) under the Dusit Collection banner. It’s the brand’s way of sprinkling its signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality across India’s scenic but often overlooked travel gems.
"India represents an exceptional growth opportunity for Dusit – across major metros and particularly in tier two and tier three cities, where premium hospitality options remain limited despite strong demand," said Dusit International VP – development (global) Siradej Donavanik. "The country’s tourism industry is evolving rapidly... We aim to create exceptional stays that resonate deeply with Indian travellers."
Fresh off the December 2024 launch of its dusitD2 Fagu in Shimla, the company also inked deals for three more properties in Karnataka, including the wellness-centric Devarana Sakleshpur – A Dusit Retreat (expected to open in 2028), and two Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts.
With a portfolio stretching from ultra-luxury Devarana to millennial-ready ASAI Hotels, Dusit isn’t aiming for mass expansion. It’s curating destinations with a wellness bent, premium design ethos, and genuine local flavour. Think essential oils meet essential Instagram content.
The hospitality giant is also walking the sustainability talk. Its Tree of Life programme aligns with the UN’s sustainable development goals through 31 measurable criteria — planting not just properties but purpose. From reducing impact to upskilling talent, Dusit is setting up more than just beds. It’s crafting a hospitality ecosystem, including local education through Dusit Hospitality Education.
All this fits into Dusit’s global ambition of signing over 100 hotels in the next five years, across emerging markets like Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Japan, and India. With its seamless blend of Thai flair and local insight, the group wants to turn every stay into an experience, not just an expense.
