The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary is set to redefine nature-led, wellness anchored Indian luxury with a 71 all-villa property amidst 76 acres of lush landscape near Madikeri.
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, India’s only pure play luxury hospitality brand, today announced a marquee acquisition of an ultra-luxury resort in Coorg, marking the brand’s entry into immersive, nature-led and wellness anchored hospitality. The 71 all-villa property, set within 76 acres of lush landscape near Madikeri and surrounded by coffee and spice plantations, will be unveiled as The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary later this year.
The acquisition, which coincides with The Leela’s 40th anniversary, introduces the brand’s first Sanctuary and extends its portfolio into one of South India’s most compelling leisure destinations. Situated in the Western Ghats with proximity to both Bengaluru and Mangaluru, Coorg is distinguished by its rolling coffee estates, mist-laden hills, scenic waterfalls, storied Kodava heritage and consistently high air quality – attributes that underpin enduring premium demand from the discerning global traveller.
The IGBC Platinum-certified resort has been designed in harmony with its natural setting, with architecture that blends contemporary form with local craftsmanship and the textures of its surroundings. The property benefits from significant land reserves that support thoughtful densification, with a first phase adding 19 keys to bring total inventory to 90 villas.
The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary features four dining venues spanning global and regional cuisines, including bean-to-cup coffee experiences rooted in the region’s plantation heritage. A 27,000 sq. ft. wellness centre forms the foundation of a broader approach to restoration and longevity – drawing on Ayurvedic tradition, modern recovery science and Aujasya by The Leela, the brand’s signature wellness programme. A 7-acre lake forms the tranquil heart of the sanctuary, while a private helipad ensures seamless access for travellers. The property is further distinguished by its expansive four-bedroom presidential villa with a private pool and integrated wellness facilities, positioning it among South India’s most immersive forest sanctuaries.
The property’s nature-led experiences, holistic wellness journeys and destination-inspired culinary programming align closely with The Leela’s philosophy of celebrating the spirit of place. Together, these elements position the resort as a rare, slow-luxury sanctuary and one of India’s most distinctive leisure destinations.
For four decades, The Leela has shaped the global expression of true Indian luxury. This acquisition reflects The Leela’s strategic expansion toward high-value leisure destinations defined by natural capital and cultural depth. Over the coming months, the property will integrate signature Leela brand standards, service rituals and distribution strength before formally commencing its next chapter as The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary.