The Leela Palaces Signs Agreement for New 80-Room Luxury Desert Resort in Jaisalmer

The Leela Palaces Announces Foray into Rajasthan with Signing of The Leela Jaisalmer, a Luxury Desert Oasis

JAISALMER, RAJASTHAN – In a landmark move that expands its footprint into India's most storied royal state, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the signing of a management agreement with The Godwin Group for The Leela Jaisalmer. Slated to open in 2026, this 80-room luxury Desert Resort and Spa will be the brand's first property in Rajasthan, marking its strategic entry into the fabled "Golden City."

Spread across a vast 30-acre canvas of desert landscape, the resort is poised to become a sanctuary of bespoke luxury, offering an immersive experience in the heart of the Thar Desert, near the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A Desert Sanctuary of Luxury and Calm

Conceptualized as a serene retreat, The Leela Jaisalmer is designed to be an oasis that harmonizes with its breathtaking surroundings while delivering unparalleled luxury.

Curated Amenities in a Golden Landscape

The resort will feature a host of world-class amenities, including:

• Elegantly designed rooms and luxurious tented villas that offer a authentic yet opulent desert living experience.

• An expansive spa and salon for holistic wellness and rejuvenation.

• A dedicated kids’ club and a swimming pool for family recreation.

• Multiple dining venues showcasing local and international cuisines.

• A scenic man-made lake enhancing the desert oasis ambiance.

• A pillarless ballroom and sprawling outdoor lawns, positioning the resort as a premier destination for weddings, milestone celebrations, and curated corporate gatherings.

Leadership Insights: A Shared Vision for Luxury

The partnership brings together The Leela's legacy of hospitality with The Godwin Group's development prowess, united by a vision to showcase Rajasthan's rich heritage.

A Strategic Expansion into Evocative Landscapes

Anuraag Bhatnagar, Whole-time Director & Chief Executive Officer of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, commented on the strategic significance, stating, “We are delighted to announce our foray into Jaisalmer with our first Desert Resort and Spa. Rajasthan continues to hold immense potential for luxury travel, with Jaisalmer emerging as a preferred destination for global travellers. This signing strategically expands our footprint in one of India’s most evocative landscapes and aligns with our vision to curate distinctive properties that celebrate the essence of India.”

A Commitment to Heritage and Place

The developers from The Godwin Group echoed this sentiment. Chiranjeev Singh Bajwa, Director, Godwin Palace & Hotels Pvt. Ltd., said, “We are excited to partner with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts to bring their distinguished legacy of luxury hospitality to Jaisalmer. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to showcasing India’s rich heritage through experiences that blend world-class standards with a deep sense of place.”

Tanveer Singh Bajwa, Director, Godwin Palace & Hotels Pvt. Ltd., added, “Jaisalmer has long enchanted travellers with its golden landscapes and living history. Together with The Leela, we look forward to creating a desert sanctuary that captures the Golden City’s timeless allure and reimagines luxury for today’s traveller.”

The Leela Jaisalmer is set to redefine luxury hospitality in the region, offering a new benchmark for immersive, high-end travel experiences that are deeply connected to the culture and beauty of Rajasthan. Its opening in 2026 is highly anticipated by luxury travelers and the hospitality industry alike.