The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, India's premier homegrown luxury hospitality brand, has introduced The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary as the new identity for its recently acquired retreat in Coorg. The refreshed branding highlights the property's remarkable location within 76 acres of lush forests, coffee plantations, and the ecologically rich Western Ghats, while reinforcing The Leela's commitment to developing luxury destinations that are inspired by and connected to their natural surroundings.

Celebrating four decades of offering authentic Indian luxury, The Leela welcomes The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary into its distinguished collection of palaces, hotels, and resorts. Positioned as one of the brand's most immersive nature-focused retreats, the sanctuary is designed to place the surrounding forest at the heart of every guest experience. Rather than simply providing accommodation, the property encourages visitors to disconnect from everyday routines and embrace the tranquillity of nature through refined hospitality, personalised wellness, and meaningful cultural experiences.

Renowned for its pristine forests, historic coffee plantations, and vibrant Kodava traditions, Coorg has emerged as one of India's most sought-after luxury leisure destinations. The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary embodies the brand's philosophy of creating experiences that are deeply connected to the local environment, allowing guests to engage with the destination in an authentic and immersive manner.

Located within one of Coorg's oldest coffee estates, the IGBC Platinum-certified retreat has been thoughtfully planned to blend harmoniously with its surroundings. Influenced by Kodava culture, plantation living, and the rhythms of the forest, the property's contemporary architecture incorporates regional craftsmanship while preserving the natural landscape. Guests are welcomed by mist-covered mornings, melodious birdsong, and ever-changing forest vistas that become an integral part of their stay.

Speaking on the occasion, Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said that the unveiling of The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary marks another significant step in the brand's vision of creating exceptional destinations inspired by their locations. He noted that as The Leela expands across India's most iconic destinations, the new sanctuary reflects the belief that genuine luxury is created by celebrating the identity, culture, and environment of a place rather than merely occupying it.

The retreat features 71 elegantly designed villas, including duplex residences, family villas, and private pool villas. At the pinnacle of the accommodation offerings is the four-bedroom Sunbeam Presidential Villa, an exclusive residence that provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest landscape.

Guests can enjoy a carefully curated selection of experiences that showcase Coorg's natural beauty and cultural richness. Activities include guided walks through the forest, coffee plantation tours, birdwatching excursions, waterfall visits, cycling trails, and stargazing under clear night skies, offering an opportunity to appreciate the region's biodiversity and relaxed pace of life.

Dining at the retreat reflects the culinary heritage of the destination. Luma serves seasonal cuisine in a picturesque lakeside setting, while Zen offers an elegant selection of Pan-Asian specialities. Guests can also relax at The Cellar, discover Coorg's renowned coffee traditions at 92 Degrees, or participate in the Estate to Brew experience, which combines plantation walks, coffee tastings, and engaging storytelling that traces the region's centuries-old coffee legacy.

At the centre of the property lies a serene seven-acre lake, complemented by a private helipad that provides convenient access for travellers from across India. Wellness is a defining aspect of the retreat through Aujasya by The Leela, the brand's signature wellness philosophy inspired by India's ancient healing traditions. Housed within a 27,000-square-foot wellness facility, along with outdoor therapy spaces and the Vinyasa Yoga Deck overlooking the lake, guests can experience personalised treatments, yoga sessions, mindfulness practices, and nature-inspired therapies designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary further strengthens the brand's vision of creating distinctive luxury destinations that honour India's diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and traditions. With a portfolio of 24 operational and upcoming hotels across major gateway cities and leading leisure destinations, The Leela continues to set new benchmarks in Indian luxury hospitality by offering experiences that are deeply connected to their surroundings and leave lasting impressions on every guest.

Adventure travelers can now explore farther and prepare more effectively thanks to a new strategic alliance between EF Adventures and Backcountry. The partnership brings together EF Adventures, a leading provider of guided active travel experiences, and Backcountry, a premier online destination for outdoor equipment and apparel.

As part of the collaboration, Backcountry becomes EF Adventures' preferred outdoor gear partner. Travelers booking EF Adventures trips will gain access to expertly curated gear recommendations, exclusive discounts on outdoor apparel and equipment, and membership benefits through Backcountry Summit Club Plus. In return, Backcountry customers will enjoy special offers and added perks on select EF Adventures hiking, cycling, and multi-activity tours.

A major highlight of the partnership is the planned launch of The Backcountry Tour Collection, powered by EF Adventures. These specially designed departures will cater to outdoor enthusiasts by blending EF Adventures' immersive travel experiences with Backcountry's outdoor expertise. Some departures are expected to feature appearances by Backcountry athletes and team members.

To help travelers prepare for their journeys, Backcountry's Gearhead experts will create destination-specific packing and gear guides tailored to EF Adventures itineraries. Participants will also receive access to exclusive promotions on recommended products.

Bhutan Hiking: The Trans Bhutan Trail
This 14-day trekking experience takes travelers through the scenic landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas along Bhutan's historic Trans Bhutan Trail. Highlights include visits to remote villages, ancient monasteries such as Tiger's Nest, and opportunities to engage with local communities while discovering Bhutan's culture and natural beauty.

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Italy Cycling: The Dolomites & Italian Alps
Cyclists spend eight days conquering some of Italy's most renowned mountain routes, including climbs featured in the Giro d'Italia. The itinerary covers iconic passes such as Sella Ronda, Stelvio, and Gavia while showcasing the culture and landscapes of the Dolomites and Italian Alps.

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New Zealand Multi-Adventure: North & South Islands
This 15-day journey combines activities such as hiking, kayaking, rafting, and e-biking across New Zealand's two main islands. Experiences include exploring Waitomo's glowworm caves, trekking through Tongariro National Park, kayaking in Milford Sound, and learning about Māori culture.

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Travelers participating in EF Adventures tours will also have opportunities to access Backcountry Summit Club Plus membership benefits, while Backcountry customers can take advantage of exclusive discounts on select EF Adventures departures.

EF Adventures currently offers more than 40 guided trips spanning 25 countries across five continents. Activities range from hiking and cycling to kayaking, yoga, and ziplining, all combined with cultural experiences and local interactions. Designed for travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond traditional tourist routes, the tours emphasize meaningful connections with destinations, communities, and landscapes. Reservations can be secured with a $150 deposit, and interest-free installment payment options are available through both EF Adventures and Backcountry.

Heidi Durflinger, CEO of EF World Journeys USA, said the partnership aligns with EF Adventures' mission of helping active travelers discover unique destinations while learning from expert local guides. She noted that access to Backcountry's gear expertise will make it easier for travelers to embark on their journeys feeling prepared and inspired.

Kevin Lenau, President of Backcountry, emphasized that the company's Gearhead specialists are dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts find the right equipment for their adventures. He added that the partnership supports Backcountry's vision for Summit Club Plus by expanding member access beyond gear and expertise to include exceptional travel experiences around the world.

Sweepstakes Celebrates Partnership Launch
To mark the launch of the collaboration, EF Adventures is offering a special sweepstakes. One grand prize winner will receive an EF Adventures trip for two valued at up to $20,000, a $2,000 Backcountry gift card, a Backcountry Summit Club Plus membership, and personalized support from a Gearhead expert to assist with trip preparation.

Entries can be submitted through efadventures.com between June 23 and June 30, 2026. Official rules and eligibility requirements apply.