India’s hospitality scene just got more interesting. LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts, known for its luxury properties, is diving into the mid-market segment with 8fold—a fresh take on affordable yet thoughtful stays for today’s conscious traveler. With four properties already lined up in Shimla, Jibhi (Himachal Pradesh), Bhimtal (Uttarakhand), and soon Siolim (Goa), 8fold is targeting a growing crowd of upper-middle-class travelers who want comfort, sustainability, and unique experiences—without the luxury price tag.
The timing couldn’t be better. Post-pandemic travelers are more intentional—opting for stays that offer privacy, sustainability, and wellness over cookie-cutter hotels. Priya Thakur, Founder & CEO of LaRiSa, puts it simply: “8fold isn’t just another boutique stay. It’s about rethinking hospitality with mindfulness, integrity, and a guest-first approach.” The brand draws inspiration from Buddha’s Eightfold Path, weaving principles like sustainable growth, honest communication, and fair employment into its DNA.
Each property is designed to blend into its surroundings while offering modern comforts. Take 8fold Shimla, where 83 rooms boast floor-to-ceiling mountain views, or 8fold Jibhi, a nine-key retreat tucked into deodar forests with traditional Kathkuni architecture. In Bhimtal, Pinecrest by LaRiSa offers 20 cozy rooms framed by misty hills, while the upcoming 8fold Siolim in Goa will mix riverside serenity with easy access to beaches and markets.
LaRiSa isn’t stopping here. By 2025, they aim to expand to 50 hotels across India and beyond. Randhir Narayan, Director at LaRiSa, highlights their partnership model: “We handle everything—operations, marketing, tech—so owners can focus on delivering a standout experience under a trusted brand.”
For travelers, 8fold promises stays that feel personal and purposeful. For the industry, it’s proof that mid-market hospitality can be both profitable and principled. One thing’s clear: LaRiSa is betting big on the future of mindful travel.
