The Leela Reimagines Its Coorg Retreat as a Forest Sanctuary

On a breezy July morning in 2026, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts announced a fresh chapter for its Coorg retreat. The property, tucked away in the mist‑laden hills of the Western Ghats near Madikeri, is now officially called The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary. The announcement, issued from the company’s Mumbai headquarters, came with a spirited quote from CEO Anuraag Bhatnagar: “This re‑imagining marks an important milestone for a destination that is deeply rooted in its surroundings, and it reflects our commitment to timeless Indian hospitality blended with modern luxury.”

The sanctuary spreads across roughly 76 acres of evergreen forest and coffee plantations. Within that green carpet sit 71 villas – a mix of duplex, family‑size and private‑pool options – plus the flagship Sunbeam Presidential Villa, a four‑bedroom residence that promises unrivalled privacy.

Eco‑conscious travellers will notice the property’s IGBC Platinum certification, a testament to the brand’s push for sustainable design. The resort’s carbon‑reduced footprint is evident in its use of locally sourced timber, solar panels and rain‑water harvesting, while still delivering the plush comforts The Leela is known for.

Wellness takes centre stage at the new sanctuary. A sprawling 27,000‑sq‑ft wellness centre offers yoga decks, Ayurvedic treatment rooms and a state‑of‑the‑art fitness hub. Adjacent to the centre lies a serene seven‑acre lake – perfect for sunrise meditation or a quiet paddle. For guests arriving by air, a private helipad ensures a seamless touch‑down amid the clouds.

Dining options have been thoughtfully curated to echo the locale’s rich flavours. Luma serves all‑day lake‑front fare, while Zen brings Pan‑Asian delicacies to the forest floor. The Cellar and 92 Degrees celebrate Coorg’s coffee heritage with expertly brewed cuppas and gourmet pairings.

Beyond the villas and spa, The Leela invites visitors to truly immerse themselves in nature. Guided forest walks, plantation trails, bird‑watching excursions, waterfall treks, cycling routes and stargazing sessions are on the agenda. Each experience is designed to let guests feel the pulse of the Western Ghats while enjoying five‑star service.

The re‑branding follows The Leela’s acquisition of the Coorg property, which was announced earlier that year in March. The move dovetails with the chain’s 40th‑anniversary celebrations and its broader strategy to deepen its presence in India’s most ecologically sensitive destinations.

In short, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary promises a harmonious blend of luxury, sustainability and authentic regional charm – a place where guests can unwind, rejuvenate and, perhaps most importantly, reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the forest.