Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh Opens Global Bidding for Iconic Wildflower Hall Lease, Luxury Hotel Giants Expected to Compete
More than a year after securing ownership rights over the iconic Wildflower Hall following a landmark Supreme Court verdict, the Himachal Pradesh government has officially launched the process to lease out the prestigious luxury heritage property through global competitive bidding.
More than a year after securing ownership rights over the iconic Wildflower Hall following a landmark Supreme Court verdict, the Himachal Pradesh government has officially launched the process to lease out the prestigious luxury heritage property through global competitive bidding.
The Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation has issued an international tender inviting leading hospitality operators to manage, operate, and maintain the historic property located in Chharabra, near Shimla. The lease will be offered under the Operation, Management and Maintenance (OMM) model for a period of 35 years, including an initial 30-year term and an optional extension of five years.
The move is being seen as a major step towards unlocking the commercial potential of one of India’s most renowned luxury mountain resorts while ensuring the preservation of its rich heritage and global reputation.
Global Hospitality Players Likely to Join Race
Industry experts believe the tender is likely to attract some of the world’s most prominent hotel chains due to Wildflower Hall’s unmatched location, luxury offerings, and strong international brand value.
According to the tender conditions, interested bidders must submit a bid security amount of ₹24 crore. The tender document has been priced at ₹5 lakh. The government has also allowed a one-month site inspection period starting June 24, enabling prospective bidders to assess the property’s infrastructure and operational potential.
A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for July 1, while technical bids will be opened on July 24. The preferred bidder is expected to be announced on August 22.
A Luxury Heritage Property in the Heart of the Himalayas
Nestled at an altitude of approximately 8,250 feet above sea level and surrounded by dense deodar forests, Wildflower Hall is regarded as one of India’s most luxurious hill resorts.
The 123-year-old heritage property features 85 premium rooms along with world-class amenities, including a luxury spa, swimming pool, fitness centre, banquet facilities, and expansive landscaped grounds.
Spread across nearly 77,500 square metres, the estate is home to more than 2,200 trees, the majority of which are mature deodars that add to the property’s scenic charm and ecological significance.
Supreme Court Verdict Cleared Ownership Dispute
The global tender comes after the conclusion of a long-running legal dispute between the Himachal Pradesh government and East India Hotels Limited (EIHL), the parent company of the Oberoi Group.
The dispute dates back to 1993 when the original Wildflower Hall, operated by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), was destroyed in a devastating fire. Following the incident, the state government partnered with EIHL to reconstruct and operate the luxury hotel.
However, the partnership agreement was terminated by the then BJP-led state government in March 2002 over alleged contractual violations, leading to an extended legal battle that moved through the Himachal Pradesh High Court and eventually reached the Supreme Court.
In February 2024, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the Himachal Pradesh government and directed that ownership and control of the property be returned to the state. The government officially regained full control of Wildflower Hall on March 31, 2025.
Until the new lease agreement is finalized, EIHL has been permitted to continue operating the property under a temporary arrangement, while the Director of Tourism serves as the Administrator.
A Landmark Hospitality Asset for Investors
Tourism officials believe Wildflower Hall’s combination of heritage value, premium location, luxury infrastructure, and global recognition makes it one of the most attractive hospitality assets currently available in India.
With international hotel brands expected to participate in the bidding process, the upcoming tender could mark a new chapter for the iconic property and strengthen Himachal Pradesh’s position as a leading luxury tourism destination in the country.
