The Leela opens nature-inspired Forest Sanctuary in Coorg

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, India’s only pure-play luxury hospitality brand, has unveiled The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, the new identity for its recently acquired retreat in Coorg. The reimagined identity reflects the property’s extraordinary setting amidst 76 acres of ancient forests, coffee plantations and the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats, while reinforcing The Leela’s vision of creating distinctive luxury destinations that are deeply rooted in their surroundings.

Celebrating 40 years of authentic Indian luxury The Leela Palace launches The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary into its portfolio of palaces, hotels and resorts, as one of its most immersive nature led experiences. The Forest Sanctuary branding epitomises Coorg’s true spirit where the forest isn’t simply the backdrop, but creates the experience itself. Awash in nature guests escape the demands of daily life and reconnect with everything that makes nature special; interpreted through attentive luxury, genuine Indian hospitality and transformative wellbeing.

Rich in lush forests, biodiverse flora and fauna, centuries-old coffee estates and a Kodava culture that’s thousands of years strong, Coorg is one of India’s most desirable luxury leisure destinations. It’s also a natural extension of The Leela’s philosophy to create experiences that are deeply connected to the places they’re in. As such, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary immerses you in the destination beyond simply staying there.

Nestled within one of Coorg’s oldest coffee estates, the IGBC Platinum-certified retreat has been designed in harmony with its natural surroundings. Drawing inspiration from Kodava heritage, estate living and the rhythms of the forest, its contemporary architecture blends seamlessly with local craftsmanship and the landscape, creating an atmosphere where mist-filled mornings, birdsong and the ever-changing forest canopy become an integral part of every stay.

Commenting on the unveiling, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said: “The unveiling of The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary represents an important milestone in our journey of creating destinations that are deeply rooted in their surroundings. As we continue to expand our portfolio across India’s most remarkable destinations, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary reflects our belief that the most memorable luxury experiences are those that celebrate the unique character of a destination rather than simply existing within it.”

Everything about the destination has been intentionally designed to enhance the guests’ relationship with nature. From 71 luxurious villas – duplex villas, family villas & private pool villas, to the uber luxury four-bedroom Sunbeam Presidential Villa – the jewel in Coorg Palace Resort’s crown that gazes out over acres of woodland.

Activities like leisurely walks through forest and plantation trails, birding, venturing into waterfalls, cycling through picturesque lanes & sleeping under a starlit sky allow guests to experience Coorg at a leisurely pace. Together, they celebrate the extraordinary biodiversity, culture and slower rhythms that define the region.

Dining celebrates the flavours and stories of the destination. Luma offers lakefront all-day dining centred on seasonal ingredients, while Zen presents refined Pan-Asian cuisine. Guests can unwind at The Cellar, explore Coorg’s celebrated coffee heritage at 92 Degrees, or experience the signature Estate to Brew journey through one of the region’s oldest coffee plantations, combining estate walks, curated tastings and storytelling that brings centuries of coffee culture to life.

At the centre of the retreat is a serene seven-acre lake. Private helicopter services land guests at a helipad located on the property. Guests can unwind and rejuvenate with personalised therapies, yoga, mindfulness and nature-inspired rituals at the retreat’s 27,000-square-foot wellness centre, outdoor treatment areas and Vinyasa Yoga Deck that sits on the banks of the lake.

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary reflects The Leela’s continued commitment to crafting extraordinary destinations that celebrate India’s diverse landscapes, cultures and traditions. With 24 hotels currently operating and in pipeline in key gateway cities and marquee leisure destinations, The Leela continues to redefine True Indian Luxury through experiences that are deeply rooted in place and remembered long after the journey ends .