(Image source : Tree of Life website)

IHCL Signs First Tree of Life Resort at Chilika Lake, Odisha

25 Jun 2026, 06:49 by Vinay Kakkad · KalingaTV

IHCL announced it’s signing a new Tree of Life resort right on the banks of Chilika Lake in Odisha—a first for the company in the state. It’s a greenfield project, and they’re teaming up with Sanjay Gadodia, director of Scania Steels and Powers Ltd., to make it happen.

The resort’s got 30 rooms, all designed so guests get uninterrupted views of the huge lagoon. It’s meant to feel peaceful and totally immersive. There’ll be a restaurant, bar, a spacious meeting room, a pool, and a spa—everything you need for a relaxing stay.

Suma Venkatesh, IHCL’s Executive Vice President of Real Estate & Development, says travelers are shifting toward experiential, nature-connected stays, making Chilika Lake a perfect alignment for the Tree of Life brand strategy. Sanjay Gadodia agrees, adding that this new project is all about shining a light on the region’s natural beauty and rich culture.

The location’s special—Chilika Lake is Asia’s biggest brackish water lagoon and the second largest coastal lagoon in the world. It’s up for UNESCO World Heritage site status, because of its incredible biodiversity with over 160 bird species, tons of marine creatures, and the super rare Irrawaddy dolphin, all call it home.