TAJ HOTELS LAUNCHES PREMIUM BUSINESS HOTEL IN SOUTH INDIA

Taj Residency Trivandrum opens in Thiruvananthapuram, Capital of Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, September 23, 2008 - Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces debuts Taj Residency Trivandrum, a new premium business hotel in Kerala's capital city just 6 miles from the airport. With contemporary facilities and services, the hotel addresses the changing needs and lifestyles of business travelers and embodies the essence of Indian hospitality.

"Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is part of our aggressive domestic expansion. With key government establishments, corporate offices and proximity to high-end residential areas, the city presents an excellent opportunity for a new age business hotel such as ours," said General Manager Manoj Mathew.

Designed by IMA Interiors Pte Ltd. in Singapore, Taj Residency Trivandrum features modern European and Indian designs throughout the hotel. The dramatic lobby is decorated with local touches and modern Indian art. European furniture and architectural finishes of curved glass panels and embossed leather columns add a sophisticated ambiance. The 137 well-appointed rooms and suites feature high-end electronics for high-speed internet access, 36" LCD televisions, distinctive custom lighting and spacious storage facilities.

Outstanding facilities ideal for business travelers include:

• Executive board room with video conferencing abilities and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment
• A 4,500-square foot banquet hall
• Poolside lawns ideal for events and social gatherings
• Business center with internet, library, and meeting room for eight
• Jiva Spa offers signature treatments, Indian therapies, scrubs and wraps

Dining options include:

• Twist: a hip, modern bar serving exotic cocktails, wines, spirits and snacks
• The Fifth Element: an all-day dining restaurant in a chic setting with buffet and a la carte options of international classics and ethnic cuisines
• The Deli: a delicatessen offering salads, sandwiches, cold meats, selection of breads and pastries, chocolate specialty items and cold stone gelato

India Hotels Company Limited, owners of Taj Hotels, entered into a management contract with Dodla International Limited, owners of the property, to operate Taj Residency Trivandrum for an initial period of 10 years.

About Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces (www.tajhotels.com)
Established in 1903, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest and finest group of hotels, comprising 61 hotels in 42 locations across India with an additional 16 international hotels in the Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the Middle East. From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Rajput palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivalled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, has recently completed the centenary of its landmark hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai. Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is part of the Tata Group, India's premier business house.

# # #