The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C today announced the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, the second hotel in India from the iconic luxury hotel brand. Situated in the heart of Pune’s captivating downtown and across from the prestigious Poona Golf Club, the hotel is ideally located for travelers seeking to take in the sights and unique experiences of this dynamic metropolis. With a storied history of nearly 1600 years, Pune is commonly referred to as the Oxford of the East and is considered the epicenter of academia in the country. Its carefully designed gardens, grand architecture and renowned museums, in addition to a diverse culinary scene and emerging start-up community, have increasingly made it a destination for regional and international travelers alike.
“We are delighted to bring the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton to Pune, a city that blends the splendor of the past with the pulse of the present, and the promise of the future,” said Lisa Holladay, Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton. “Through locally inspired design, culinary offerings and programming, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune will create an experience that is authentic to the city, facilitating a deeper connection between our guests and the destination.”
Set to elevate luxury in Pune, the hotel’s design reflects a seamless union of classical grandeur and timeless sophistication, offering both traditional and modern points of view. Small details such as design motifs inspired by Indian silhouettes and classic chandeliers gracefully evoke a sense of place. Celebrating the history and spirit of the city, guests will be invited every evening to toast to golden hour at Aasma, the hotel’s rooftop lounge, where they can learn the meaning behind the venue’s name and enjoy skyline views. Locally relevant experiences such as a sourcing trip for sustainable ingredients or a joint golf tour with a Pro at the adjoining Golf course are also available for guests who are interested in exploring the neighbourhood.
The hotel features 198 elegantly appointed guestrooms and 35 plush suites, designed to be refined and relaxing sanctuaries that are also the largest in the city. The Ritz-Carlton, Pune offers an exceptional Presidential Suite that is spread across 3,154 sq. ft and includes two bedrooms, a walk in closet, a spacious living room and dining area, private bar and in-suite treatment room. Guests staying on the Club Level floors will enjoy access to a signature Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, an urban sanctuary on the 18th floor that features picturesque views of the golf course, private check-in, a dedicated Club Concierge, and a variety of culinary presentations throughout the day.
Celebrating the region’s distinct culinary scene, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune captures the essence of the destination with five signature dining experiences. Gourmet world cuisine at Three Kitchens and Bar welcomes guests by offering three residential-style kitchens. The modern Japanese restaurant Ukiyo features a long sushi counter and robata grill complemented by an expansive selection of sake while The Ritz-Carlton Tea Lounge brings the time-honored custom of afternoon tea to the city. Vida Bar & Grill is a craft cocktail destination and Aasma, a rooftop lounge serving Indian cuisine, captivates with 180-degree views of the golf course and inventive adaptations from the royal kitchens of India.
“We are extremely pleased to debut The Ritz-Carlton in the evolving city of Pune, and expand our portfolio in major destinations in India,” said Neeraj Govil, Senior Vice President, South Asia at Marriott International. “Pune is a top choice for affluent travelers and international tourists seeking enriching experiences, and this opening reflects our continued commitment to provide those travelers with opportunities to explore destinations like Pune.”
The 25,000 sq. ft. wellness floor includes a Fitness Studio and Yoga Deck, allowingguests to maintain their wellness routines even while traveling. The Ritz-Carlton Spa with its 8 treatment rooms and Express Pods combines bespoke services, custom facials and unique treatments steeped in Ayurveda traditions and chakra energy inviting guests to indulge in relaxation while they immerse themselves in discovery of the local culture.
The hotel also boasts 35,000 square feet of elegantly designed banquet facilities are suited to gatherings of all kinds, from business meetings to social affairs. With access to a beautiful outdoor foyer and deck area, the ballrooms are perfect for intimate gatherings and romantic weddings alike.