Shillong: Meghalaya’s tourism sector is set for a significant leap forward with the announcement of a landmark public-private partnership (PPP) project.
Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd will invest Rs 124 crore to transform the Orchid Hotel in Shillong into a 130-room luxury Aurika Hotel, promising to elevate the state’s hospitality landscape.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma underscored the project’s impact, calling it “a game-changer for Meghalaya tourism,” with plans to attract both domestic and international visitors while promoting Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.
The agreement guarantees significant revenue for the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), including an upfront payment of Rs 5 crore and an annual lease rental of Rs 2.5 crore.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh hailed the development as a pivotal step in positioning Meghalaya as a premier destination. He highlighted the sector’s role in job creation, which currently supports 50,000 people, with potential growth of 60% in the coming years.
Prashant Mehrotra, Chief Operating Officer of Lemon Tree Hotels, expressed excitement about expanding the brand’s footprint in Meghalaya. “This project reflects our dedication to blending world-class hospitality with the vibrant local culture of Shillong,” he said.
Spread over 1.15 acres, the luxury hotel is expected to be completed in three years, marking a milestone in Meghalaya’s tourism infrastructure and boosting its appeal among high-end travellers.
Key highlights of the Aurika Hotel project:
• Investment: Rs 124 crore
• Capacity: 130 luxury rooms
• Annual lease rental: Rs 2.5 crore to MTDC
• Upfront payment: Rs 5 crore
• Completion timeline: Three years
The initiative aligns with Meghalaya’s vision to emerge as a top tourist destination by 2025, reflecting the state’s commitment to fostering sustainable tourism and economic growth.
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