Global hospitality company Accor has announced the launch of its premium eco-luxury brand Mantis in India with the signing of Mantis Nagarhole, a wildlife-focused luxury retreat planned near Nagarhole National Park. The project marks the brand’s official entry into the Indian hospitality market and highlights the growing demand for luxury nature tourism experiences across the country.
Scheduled to open in 2028, the eco-resort will be developed near the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Spread across nearly 13 acres, the property will feature 31 premium cottages and rooms designed to provide immersive wildlife and forest-based experiences. The resort aims to attract travellers seeking luxury stays combined with adventure, wellness and sustainable tourism.
The upcoming retreat will include multiple guest facilities such as an all-day dining restaurant, spa, gym, swimming pool, bar and outdoor viewing areas overlooking the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors will also be offered curated experiences including guided jungle safaris, nature walks and cultural activities designed to showcase the biodiversity and traditions of the region.
According to Accor, the project will follow a sustainability-focused development model aligned with the Mantis brand philosophy of responsible tourism. The resort plans to emphasise biodiversity conservation, energy-efficient infrastructure and community engagement while reducing environmental impact. The company stated that eco-conscious travel experiences are becoming increasingly important among modern luxury travellers.
The project is being developed in partnership with a South India-based hospitality group led by Hirehal Jairaj Balram, which has interests across hospitality and real estate sectors. Ranju Alex noted that Indian travellers are increasingly preferring experience-led tourism focused on nature, wellness and sustainability, making wildlife destinations a key growth segment for the company.
The Nagarhole region has steadily emerged as a major eco-tourism and wildlife destination attracting both domestic and international travellers. With luxury hospitality brands expanding into forest and conservation regions, Karnataka continues to strengthen its position in India’s premium wildlife tourism market. Accor currently operates 74 hotels across India under brands including Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel and ibis.