Gangtok: Northeast is set to have another luxury destination as the world-renowned The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts is set to open its first business establishment in Sikkim.

On December 5, the luxury brand announced the signing of a management agreement for a 140-room hotel in Ranka in Sikkim, marking its foray into Northeast India. Owned by Gangtok-based SIBIN Group, The Leela's Sikkim project will be located approximately 10 kilometres from the capital city, on a 17-acre plot overlooking Gangtok Hill.

“[The Leela Sikkim] is poised to redefine the hospitality landscape of the region with its inspirational design, thoughtful programming, and the brand’s renowned signature services," the company said in a statement, adding that the hotel will begin operating in 2026.

“Sikkim remains a pristine destination with the right blend of urbanization, rich cultural heritage, and unexplored natural beauty," said Anuraag Bhatnagar, the CEO of The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts. “This expansion is in lockstep with the growing demand from discerning global leisure traveller to experience meaningful and transformative journeys.”

“This expansion is a testament to the company’s strategy to grow in key leisure and resort destinations across the country," a spokesperson said. “With this partnership and the investments we are making, the project Leela Sikkim will soon emerge as one of the country's most sought-after leisure and wellness destinations," Neel Chhetri, the proprietor of Sibin Group, said.

Earlier this year, The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts was recognized among the three top World’s Best Hotel Brands by readers of Travel+Leisure USA, a travel magazine based in New York City. Founded in 1986 by Padma Bhushan awardee C.P. Krishnan Nair, the chain is currently owned by Canada’s Brookfield Asset Management.