Agartala, May 20, 2025: In a significant step toward transforming Tripura’s tourism landscape, a lease agreement was signed on Monday between the Tourism Department and the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) to establish a five-star heritage hotel at the historic Pushpawant Palace.

The formal signing ceremony took place at the TIFT Conference Hall in the presence of Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury. The upcoming hotel will be developed under the prestigious Taj brand, promising a blend of royal heritage and modern luxury.

“This is a glorious day for us. Whenever we travel outside the state and see Taj hotels and other big names, we used to wonder when such a day would come for Tripura. Today, that dream has taken a concrete shape,” said Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha.

Built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the Pushpawant Palace is steeped in history. Once used as the Governor’s residence, the palace will now be repurposed into a heritage hotel that preserves its architectural grandeur.

“This palace, which holds immense historical and architectural value, was lying unused for a long time. After the BJP-led government came to power, we decided to ensure its proper utilization,” Dr. Saha said.

The Chief Minister confirmed that the hotel will feature approximately 100 rooms, including four exclusive suites. “These rooms will reflect the royal tradition, not the usual commercial look of regular hotels,” he said, adding, “This will open new doors for Tripura’s tourism. Tourists from abroad, especially through chartered flights via the Tata Group chain, will not only stay in this heritage hotel but also explore other tourist destinations in our state.”

Highlighting employment benefits, Dr. Saha said, “This project will generate around 200 jobs for people in Tripura. It wasn’t easy—there were challenges, but we resolved them through continuous dialogue. We have handed over 7.78 acres of land for this purpose.”

The lease agreement follows an earlier MoU and marks the official commencement of the project, which is expected to be completed within two to three years.

Senior officials including Tourism Department Secretary Uttam Kumar Chakma, PWD Secretary Kiran Gitte and Secretary PK Chakraborty were also present at the signing ceremony.