Luxury Unveiled in Rajasthan as Accor Introduces Raffles and Sofitel Legend to Ranthambore and Jaipur

Hotel News: In an ambitious expansion into one of India’s most historically vibrant regions, global hospitality giant Accor is bringing its ultra-luxury hospitality experience to the royal state of Rajasthan. In partnership with the esteemed Indian conglomerate Sukhani Ventures, Accor will introduce two of its most iconic and storied brands—Raffles Hotels & Resorts and Sofitel Legend—to the heart of Northern India, offering travelers an unmatched blend of heritage, glamour, and immersive luxury.

Set against the mystique of the ancient lands of Ranthambore and the architectural grandeur of Jaipur, these upcoming developments promise to redefine luxury tourism in India. This Hotel News report explores how the prestigious Raffles Ranthambore and Sofitel Legend Sukh Bagh Jaipur are poised to become landmark destinations for discerning travelers from around the world.

Raffles Ranthambore Where Regal Wilderness Meets Timeless Hospitality

Scheduled to open by mid-2027, Raffles Ranthambore will bring the legendary Raffles experience to one of the most captivating wildlife destinations in the world. Nestled within the storied Ranthambore National Park—a former hunting ground of Jaipur’s Maharajas turned internationally renowned tiger reserve—the resort will cater to families, nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seekers with a penchant for immersive luxury.

Spanning 63 ultra-luxury villas, including 15 exquisitely designed tented accommodations, the resort will reflect Raffles’ hallmark blend of sophistication, romance, and old-world charm. A standout feature will be the majestic honeymoon suite, promising a once-in-a-lifetime escape into the wild elegance of the region. Each villa will be infused with the distinctive touch of globally celebrated designer Jeffrey Wilkes, while IDEAS Architects will lend their architectural expertise to ensure a seamless blend of royal tradition and contemporary opulence.

Guests can expect the signature Raffles Long Bar, famed for its association with the iconic Singapore Sling, and the renowned Raffles butler service—a symbol of personalized attention and discreet luxury. The resort is designed to immerse guests in the region’s rich natural and cultural history, offering curated wildlife excursions, tranquil lakeside experiences, and the chance to connect with the region’s soul through art, cuisine, and storytelling.

According to Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, the selection of Ranthambore as a site for Raffles was a natural choice. “This extraordinary destination, where history and wildlife intertwine, provides the perfect setting for our legendary hospitality,” he said. “Raffles Ranthambore will offer an unforgettable experience—one that blends a sense of adventure with the enchanted glamour our guests cherish.”

Sofitel Legend Sukh Bagh Jaipur A Regal Affair in the Pink City

While Raffles offers an escape into the wilderness, Sofitel Legend Sukh Bagh Jaipur, set to open by late 2028, will provide a luxurious sanctuary within the bustling cultural heart of Rajasthan. The new property will rise in the Kukas Amer region of Jaipur—an area known for its serene landscapes, proximity to major forts and palaces, and popularity among wedding and corporate event planners.

The Sofitel Legend brand, which has charmed cities like Hanoi and Aswan with its elegance and historical gravitas, is making its debut in India with this urban oasis. Spanning a lush 21-acre estate filled with carefully landscaped gardens, equestrian paths, tranquil water features, and palatial architecture, the hotel will feature 260 guestrooms and 41 exclusive suites, each steeped in French elegance and local tradition.

With 6,500 square meters of event space and sprawling lawns, the hotel will be tailor-made for grand Indian weddings, society galas, international conferences, and other large-scale events requiring a refined and picturesque setting.

“Jaipur offers the perfect backdrop for our next chapter,” remarked Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems. “This hotel will reflect the French elegance and cultural storytelling that defines our legendary collection of living legacy hotels, where history is made.”

Sukhani Ventures Building the Future of Indian Luxury Hospitality

At the heart of this transformative project is Sukhani Ventures, a dynamic Indian firm known for its real estate, infrastructure, and hospitality ventures. Mr. Vikram Sukhani, Chairman and Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, calling it a significant moment for luxury tourism in India.

“We feel honored to partner with Accor to bring these extraordinary resorts to Rajasthan,” said Mr. Sukhani. “For a truly one-of-a-kind luxury experience, Raffles Ranthambore will blend glamour with the spirit of adventure, while Sofitel Legend Jaipur will merge French elegance with the city’s royal past. These two offerings will redefine the hospitality landscape in India.”

The developments underscore the growing importance of Rajasthan—not only as a destination for cultural tourism but also as a global hub for luxury travel, destination weddings, and high-end wildlife tourism.

Accor’s Bold Indian Expansion Continues

Accor currently operates over 70 properties in India under its extensive portfolio of brands. The announcement of these two high-profile openings further underscores Accor’s long-term commitment to the Indian subcontinent, particularly in catering to high-net-worth individuals and international travelers seeking immersive experiences.

Raffles Ranthambore will be the brand’s third location in India, joining Raffles Udaipur and the recently unveiled Raffles Jaipur. The Sofitel Legend Sukh Bagh Jaipur marks the first Sofitel Legend property in India and the third Sofitel overall, joining other prestigious projects in the pipeline such as Sofitel Jaipur Jawahar Circle (2028) and Raffles and Fairmont Goa (2030). Other recent additions to Accor’s India portfolio include Fairmont Mumbai, Pullman Chennai Anna Salai, Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar, and Novotel New Delhi City Centre.

By integrating deep cultural appreciation with cutting-edge luxury, Accor is not merely expanding its footprint in India—it is helping reshape the country’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Crafting Cultural Destinations Not Just Hotels

What sets these two upcoming properties apart is their shared commitment to not merely existing as places to stay but as immersive cultural destinations. Raffles Ranthambore will let guests experience the poetic wild with unparalleled comfort, while Sofitel Legend Sukh Bagh Jaipur will offer a majestic modern interpretation of the region’s royal legacy. Together, these hotels will serve as portals to Rajasthan’s soul—filled with mystery, history, flavor, and refinement.

In the age of discerning travelers seeking deeper connections and authenticity, Accor’s strategic focus on design, heritage, and personalization is a winning formula. Rather than offering generic luxury, these properties are sculpted to evoke emotion, celebrate storytelling, and leave lasting impressions.

With an eye on sustainability, curated guest experiences, and a reverence for the local communities and crafts, both projects represent not just a business expansion—but a cultural evolution.

And as India’s tourism sector continues to evolve into one of the world’s most dynamic, partnerships like that between Accor and Sukhani Ventures signal a new chapter—one that celebrates India’s grandeur while embracing global luxury standards.

The world will be watching as these two icons take shape—one deep in the wilds of Ranthambore and the other in the storied cityscape of Jaipur. Both promise to set benchmarks not just for Indian hospitality, but for luxury experiences worldwide.

For the latest on Hotel Openings in the Asian region, news, keep on logging to Bangkok Hotel News.

Hotels in Asia Experiencing a Powerful Resurgence Despite Global Uncertainty