The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) – via its wholly owned subsidiary Samsara Properties – has acquired a 10 per cent share in Orient-Express Hotels for US$211m (£106m, 152m euro).

Krishna Kumar, vice chair of IHCL, said: “Over the past few years, we have pursued the objective of growing the Taj brand internationally. As part of this strategy, we have been pursuing alliances and relationships with leading hotel groups that have not yet set up a presence in India, but have secured leadership positions in various geographies.

“This move is in line with our plans and we look forward to pursuing a possible association between IHCL and the company that has earned a great reputation for its outstanding hotels, trains and cruises.”

Orient-Express Hotels owns or part owns and manages 35 hotels in 25 countries, as well as luxury trains and cruises.