First-time investors turn to India's hospitality sector for diversified income and long-term growth

India is witnessing a rise in first-time hotel owners, with entrepreneurs, real estate developers, industrial families and landowners entering the hospitality sector. Nearly seven in 10 branded hotel keys signed this year are outside Tier 1 cities, according to Noesis Hotel Advisors. Industry executives say growing domestic travel, better connectivity and demand from leisure, business, weddings and pilgrimage are creating opportunities for new investors.