Thiruvananthapuram: State government-owned Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has plans to launch a budget hotel brand.

The company''s budget brand, Tamarind Easy Hotels, aim to provide guests with modern facilities at affordable rates, according to company officials. The creation of a distinct budget hotel brand is part of the company''s efforts to improve its offering.

The chain will initially comprise eight budget properties operated by KTDC under the ''Yatri Nivas'' name, which will be upgraded and brought under the umbrella of the new brand. These include properties at Kannur, Thrissur, Mannarkad, Guruvayur, Alappuzha, Changanacherry and Kollam.

Additionally, the company is looking at setting up seven new properties under the budget hotel brand in other locations across Kerala.