Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of distinctive hotel brands, has officially debuted in India with the opening of Noormahal, Delhi NCR Karnal, Autograph Collection. Located along the historic Grand Trunk Road in Karnal, Haryana, the brand’s design-led philosophy to the country, marking Marriott Bonvoy’s 19th brand presence in India.
Positioned as a “collectors’ palace,” Noormahal combines scale, heritage, and immersive experiences, with more than 300,000 square feet of event space that places it among the region’s most expansive hospitality destinations. The opening reflects Autograph Collection’s core identity of curating hotels that are “Exactly Like Nothing Else,” with each property shaped by a distinct vision and narrative.
Cristiano Rinaldi, Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer, Asia Pacific (excluding China), Marriott International, described the launch as a natural fit for the brand’s entry into India. He noted that Autograph Collection properties are defined by strong individuality and a deep sense of place, adding that Noormahal brings together India’s regal heritage and contemporary artistry to create immersive experiences tailored to modern, design-conscious travelers.
Set along one of India’s most historically significant trade routes, Noormahal draws from centuries of cultural exchange where Mughal, Rajput, Punjabi, and Persian influences intersected. Its architecture reflects this lineage through sweeping domes, intricate jali work, and ornamental arches, while the interiors balance traditional craftsmanship with modern spatial design. The hotel also houses one of the region’s most extensive collections of art and artifacts, positioning it as a living museum that enhances the guest experience through layered storytelling and visual richness.
A defining feature of the guest experience is the brand’s signature “Autograph Moment,” reimagined at Noormahal as a portrait session inspired by royal courts. Styled with understated regal drapery and captured in a vintage aesthetic, the experience offers guests a personalized keepsake that echoes the elegance of classic aristocratic portraiture.
Strategically located on NH44 between Delhi and Kurukshetra, the hotel is easily accessible from key North Indian cities including Delhi, Chandigarh, Ambala, and Ludhiana. Both Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi and Chandigarh International Airport are approximately a two-hour drive away, while Karnal Railway Station is just 15 minutes from the property. Its location also positions it as a convenient gateway for travelers heading to destinations such as Amritsar, Patiala, Shimla, Manali, Dehradun, and Mussoorie.
The property features 176 guestrooms and suites, each designed as a private retreat that blends classical Indian aesthetics with contemporary comfort. Rich textiles, bespoke furnishings, and thoughtfully planned layouts define the accommodation experience. Among the standout offerings are the Raja Niwas and Khwabgah penthouses, which feature expansive living areas, private terraces, dedicated butler service, and curated interiors that reinterpret royal living for the modern guest.
Culinary offerings at Noormahal span four distinct venues, each reflecting a different perspective on regional and global cuisine. The Frontier Mail draws on the culinary traditions of the North-Western frontier, presenting bold flavors and slow-cooked dishes inspired by historic trade routes and royal kitchens. Colonel Saab offers all-day dining with a mix of Indian classics, regional specialties, and international favorites, while the Polo Bar delivers a refined yet relaxed setting inspired by the elegance of polo culture, serving both classic and contemporary cocktails. The Cake Factory completes the experience with a selection of handcrafted desserts and baked creations.
Beyond its architectural presence, the hotel places a strong emphasis on wellness and recreation, offering a spa with curated therapies including its signature Aroma Bliss experience, alongside a gymnasium, outdoor pool, and dedicated relaxation spaces. Recreational facilities extend to a Kids Play Zone and a range of outdoor activities such as tennis, pickleball, ziplining, and rock climbing, catering to guests across age groups.
With its extensive indoor and outdoor venues, Noormahal is also positioned as a major destination for weddings and large-scale events in North India. Its landscaped lawns, including Rani ka Bagh and Raja ka Bagh, are complemented by intricately designed indoor spaces such as Sheesh Mahal and Darbar Hall, offering flexible settings for both grand celebrations and more intimate gatherings.
Mahesh Singh Jasrotia, General Manager of Noormahal, Delhi NCR Karnal, Autograph Collection, said the vision for the property is to remain closely connected to North India’s cultural landscape while delivering refined hospitality and bespoke service. He emphasized that every aspect of the hotel, from its event spaces to its culinary offerings, has been designed to create memorable guest experiences.
Noormahal was envisioned by Colonel Manbeer Singh Choudhary and Mrs. Binny Choudhary, descendants of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, whose legacy informs the property’s architectural and cultural narrative. The result is a hotel that blends India’s royal heritage with modern elegance, capturing the essence of regal history through immersive design, curated experiences, and a strong sense of place.