IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a franchise agreement with KGA International Trades to develop the Holiday Inn Express Kottayam Changanassery in Kerala. The hotel is slated to open in the first quarter of 2027 and reflects IHG’s strategy of expanding into high-potential secondary markets in India.

This marks IHG’s second collaboration with the KGA Group, following Crowne Plaza Kochi. Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated, “This hotel will bring international brand standards to a high-potential micro market in Kerala that is currently underserved.” He highlighted that Holiday Inn Express would cater to the growing demand for quality accommodation among corporate, transit, and leisure travellers.

KGA Group Chairman KG Abraham and CEO KC Eapen shared that the development aligns with their vision of bringing modern infrastructure and business opportunities to the region. The hotel, part of the under-construction KGA Mall, will offer 90 rooms, banquet space for over 100 guests, multiple F&B options, a multiplex, swimming pool, and a family entertainment centre. Strategically located near Changanassery’s business district, the property will attract demand from nearby cities including Kochi, Alleppey, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.