Chennai, Sep 07: On September 15, 2026, ITC Grand Chola proudly marks 14 years of redefining luxury hospitality in Chennai, having established itself as one of South India’s most iconic destinations where timeless heritage, world-class hospitality, award-winning culinary experiences and sustainability come together seamlessly.
Since opening its doors in 2012, ITC Grand Chola has emerged as a landmark destination in the city, welcoming guests from across the world while setting benchmarks in luxury, responsible hospitality, cuisine, wellness, conferences and celebrations. Over the years, the hotel has become synonymous with grand architecture, exceptional service and meaningful experiences rooted in the cultural fabric of Tamil Nadu.
A Tribute to Tamil Nadu’s Glorious Heritage
Rooted in the rich cultural legacy of Tamil Nadu, ITC Grand Chola draws inspiration from the grandeur of the illustrious Chola dynasty. Spread across eight acres, the hotel’s architecture pays homage to some of South India’s most celebrated architectural masterpieces, including the Brihadeeswara Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram Temple and Airavateswara Temple.
From its intricately carved facades and majestic public spaces to the awe-inspiring Sangam lobby, every element of the hotel reflects a deep reverence for India’s artistic and cultural traditions. The iconic Grand Staircase, featuring the symbolic Wheel of Life design, remains one of Chennai’s most photographed architectural landmarks.
The hotel today offers 522 elegantly appointed guest rooms and 78 serviced apartments, complemented by one of the country’s largest integrated conferences, banqueting and exhibition facilities, making it a preferred destination for global summits, business gatherings, weddings and celebrations.
The Epitome of Responsible Luxury
At the heart of ITC Grand Chola’s journey lies the philosophy of Responsible Luxury, a defining ethos of ITC Hotels that demonstrates how sustainability and luxury can coexist harmoniously.
The hotel has been a sustainability pioneer since inception, becoming one of the largest LEED Platinum-certified hotels during its inception and subsequently achieving both LEED Zero Carbon and LEED Zero Water Certifications, reinforcing its commitment towards responsible operations and environmental stewardship.
From energy-efficient infrastructure and water conservation practices to eco-embedded products, eco-easy services and eco-sensitised associates, every aspect of the hotel’s ecosystem reflects its commitment to creating sustainable hospitality experiences.
Further strengthening its environmental credentials is Sunya Aqua, ITC Hotels’ pioneering zero-mile water initiative, where water is purified, bottled and served in reusable glass bottles within the hotel, significantly reducing the use of single-use plastics and transportation-related carbon emissions.
Beyond environmental sustainability, Responsible Luxury at ITC Grand Chola extends to preserving local traditions through its architecture, cuisine, wellness offerings, service rituals and guest experiences, creating meaningful connections between guests and the destination.
Chennai’s Celebrated Culinary Destination
Over the past 14 years, ITC Grand Chola has transformed Chennai’s culinary landscape through its diverse portfolio of award-winning restaurants, bars and gourmet experiences.
Today, the hotel offers one of the most comprehensive fine-dining portfolios in the city through distinctive dining destinations including Avartana, Peshawri, Royal Vega, Ottimo Cucina Italiana, Pan Asian, Madras Pavilion, Café Mercara Express, Fabelle, Yura Artisanal Scoops and Ritvah, alongside the celebrated bars Cheroot Malt Bar and Tranquebar.
Among its most acclaimed culinary destinations is Avartana, which has garnered national and international recognition for its progressive interpretation of South Indian cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional flavours with contemporary techniques and presentation. From the robust flavours of the North-West Frontier at Peshawri and royal vegetarian fare at Royal Vega to authentic Italian cuisine at Ottimo, globally inspired offerings at Pan Asian and artisanal chocolate creations at Fabelle, each culinary destination reflects the hotel’s commitment to excellence, authenticity and innovation.
A Destination for Every Generation
Over the years, ITC Grand Chola has evolved into more than a luxury hotel, becoming a destination where business travellers, families, gourmands, wellness seekers and local communities come together to celebrate memorable moments.
From hosting heads of state, global dignitaries, celebrities and business leaders to landmark weddings, international conferences, culinary showcases and cultural events, the hotel has remained an integral part of Chennai’s social and hospitality landscape.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
As ITC Grand Chola celebrates its 14th anniversary on September 15, the hotel continues to stand as a symbol of Chennai’s growing prominence on the global hospitality map. Blending heritage with innovation, sustainability with luxury and world-class hospitality with authentic South Indian warmth, ITC Grand Chola remains committed to creating enriching experiences and memorable moments for guests from around the world.
Fourteen years since its inception, the hotel continues to honour its founding vision: to be a destination in itself, where culture, cuisine, wellness, celebrations and responsible luxury come together in one extraordinary experience.