Royal Orchid Metropole Mysore, a part of Royal Orchid Hotels, was presented the INTACH–SATTE award for best Heritage Hotel in India.

Royal Orchid Metropole is a perfect blend of the old and the new charm, set amidst the graceful old-world charm of the Raj. The Hotel, built by His Highness Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodiyar of Mysore in the early 20th century, was restored and renovated by Royal Orchid Hotels Limited in 2004.

Speaking about the renovation, Mr Chender Baljee said, "We have taken utmost care while renovating the hotel to preserve the harmony and balance of the heritage structure."

The criterion for winning the award was mainly focussed on responsible tourism by the hotel with views to promote the art and culture in their vicinity. Prior to the award function the panel visited the shortlisted heritage structures to select the best heritage hotel for the year. The heritage hotel comprises thirty old-world well furnished rooms with modern amenities to match with the international standards. The hotel also offers two restaurants Tiger Trail, offering Indian cuisine; Shikari, an outdoor barbeque, and Hi Tea, a 24-hour café and a lively bar Scandel.

Royal Orchid Hotels will also open its first international resort in 2010 at Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Royal Orchid is listed in the Bombay & National Stock Exchanges (BSE & NSE) and is governed by an independent board of eminent directors.

DHNS