MURIf you are an HR business partner assigned to organize a leadership team retreat, choosing a location is one of the most crucial aspects of the planning. Considering that top teams are likely to have a diverse cultural mix, preferences, and seniority, choosing a location that meets the expectations of all can be a tricky affair! Based on our experience of helping clients host many such leadership team off-sites, below are a list of 5 places that we love!
- Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Rated consistently amongst the best hotels in world by reputed travel rating organizations, the Oberoi Udaivilas is amongst our favorite venues across the entire country. You can visit the hotel website for checking out their banquet facilities.
Source: oberoihotels
One of our favorite leadership team building activities in Udaipur is the Grassroots Challenge – an where participants gain understanding of the traditional crafts that flourish in the city through an engaging team experience by capturing the lives of the craftsmen on celluloid. Experiences include blue pottery making to bamboo weaving to miniature painting, and more!
Source: - Oberoi Wildflower, Shimla
Located in the lovely hills of Shimla, the winding drive from the city center to the hotel gives you a sneak peek of the amazing experience awaiting you at the hotel. Set in the backdrop of the magnificent Himalayan ranges, world-class hospitality is a signature of the Oberoi Wildflower.Source: oberoihotels
The beautiful pine and cedar woods surrounding the property offer the opportunity for taking long walks and treks in the tranquil atmosphere. Conference facilities are small but excellent, making it an ideal get away for senior leadership teams. Adventure activities including white water rafting are available a short drive away from the property.
Source: - Ananda in the Himalayas, Rishikesh
Arguably one of the most beautiful resorts in India,Ananda in the Himalayas has been one venue that never disappoints.
Source: anandaspa
Known for its excellent spa treatments, the resort also offers lifestyle activities which offer a refreshing option for corporate groups seeking an escape from the corporate grind. The huge lawns provide ample opportunity for conducting exciting outdoor team building activities and the vast area of the resort (claimed to be more than 100 acres) makes it a favorite destination for us to set up a Geocaching Challenge. Conference facilities are excellent, making it an ideal venue for senior leadership off-sites.
Source: - Taj Exotica, Goa
Located on the quiet Benaulim beach, the Taj Exotica, Goa (the only one operated under the Exotica brand by Taj in India) is one of our personal favourites for conducting leadership team retreats and ranks near the very top of every list of luxury hotels in Goa.
Source: tajhotels
Banquet facilities are excellent and the service quality is legendary; one of our colleagues remembers instances from a family holiday – there were teddy bears and chocolates waiting for their two-year-old baby girl when they returned to the room every day! (The delight on her face alone has made this hotel one of their favourite holiday destinations in India!). Our Social Chef Challenge, an activity that combines cooking with CSR, is a popular option for leadership teams visiting the property.
Source: - Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerala
An ideal venue for groups up to 50 people, this is one of our favourites down South for conducting senior leadership workshops. It provides the complete backwaters experience and has been rated frequently amongst the top hotels in India by travellers.
Source: Flickr
Some of the recreational activities available at the resort include luxury houseboat ride, a heavenly spa experience, and an infinity pool on the edge of the lake! The sunset cruise is an amazing team experience where the entire team can get a chance to spend time together while watching the mesmerizing sunset on the backwaters. Water sports (speed boat rides and banana boat rides) are also gaining popularity in addition to the traditional cultural experiences that participants go in for. The Kalaripayattu (traditional Kerala martial art) performance or spending an evening watching the exponents of Kathakali (Kerala’s native classical dance form) is a must for any visitor.
Source: This is of course, not a comprehensive list. The number of luxury properties across India is growing exponentially. If you need any help in planning your next leadership team retreat, call us at +91 8882337788 and we would love to help out!
