Sterling Holiday Resorts Expands Ayodhya Footprint with Second Property

Strengthening presence in India’s fast-growing pilgrimage destination

Sterling Holiday Resorts has opened Sterling Saryu Ayodhya, marking its second resort in Ayodhya and reinforcing its destination-led growth strategy focused on heritage and pilgrimage tourism. The expansion reflects the brand’s intent to build reliable, comfort-driven hospitality options in high-demand spiritual hubs, where infrastructure development and faith-led travel continue to accelerate.

Inspired by the River Saryu

Career Background

Named after the sacred River Saryu, the new resort has been designed as a calm and restorative retreat for pilgrims and heritage travellers. The property features Cocoon Rooms for short stays and Junior Suites tailored for extended visits, responding to evolving travel patterns in Ayodhya where guests often combine temple visits with regional exploration.

Dining, events and connectivity

Key Achievements

Sterling Saryu Ayodhya houses The Saryu Café, an all-day vegetarian restaurant serving familiar and wholesome flavours aligned with pilgrimage preferences. Common spaces and a dedicated banquet hall support group travel, family gatherings and small meetings. Strategically located, the resort offers convenient access to Ayodhya’s temples, ghats and transport hubs, while also serving as a base for travel to Lucknow, Prayagraj and Varanasi.

Leadership perspectives

Current Role & Responsibilities

Commenting on the launch, Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, said the second property deepens the brand’s commitment to Ayodhya, a destination where emotional and spiritual journeys demand dependable comfort and thoughtful hospitality.

Rishi Uppal, Director, Kalyan KK Hotels India Pvt Ltd, noted that rising demand for organised, quality accommodation in Ayodhya made Sterling an ideal operating partner, given its experience across heritage and pilgrimage destinations.