Kumarakom, Kerala: Kumarakom’s position as one of Kerala’s leading luxury backwater destinations has received a significant boost following the acquisition of The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa by ITC Hotels for an enterprise value of ₹205 crore. 

ITC Hotels signed definitive agreements in May 2026 to acquire 100% of Zuri Hotels & Resorts Private Limited, the company that owns the resort. The transaction was structured on a debt-free and cash-free basis. The acquisition marked ITC Hotels’ entry into Kerala with its first owned resort in the state. 

Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, The Zuri Kumarakom occupies an 18-acre property with private waterfront frontage. The resort has 72 keys, including 38 villas and cottages, built around a five-acre man-made lagoon. Its facilities include restaurants, event spaces and approximately 20,000 square feet of spa and wellness facilities. 

The acquisition is particularly significant for Kumarakom because it strengthens the destination’s appeal in the premium and luxury tourism segment. ITC Hotels plans to undertake extensive renovation before relaunching the property under its luxury brand. According to the company’s July 2026 update, the renovation programme is already underway, and the resort is expected to reopen as an ITC Hotels-branded luxury resort and spa by Q3 FY27. 

ITC Hotels has said that the renovated resort will draw inspiration from Kerala’s traditional architecture, including elements of local woodcraft and stonework. The company also intends to leverage its culinary, wellness, loyalty and distribution capabilities to position the property as a premier leisure and MICE destination. 

The development comes at a time when Kumarakom continues to attract visitors seeking premium accommodation, Ayurveda, houseboat experiences and the natural beauty of the Vembanad backwaters. The entry of a major national luxury hospitality brand could further raise the destination’s profile among high-value domestic and international travellers. 

For Kumarakom, the ₹205-crore investment represents more than a hotel acquisition. It signals continued confidence in the long-term potential of Kerala’s luxury backwater tourism sector and could encourage further investment in high-quality hospitality infrastructure across the region.