India, the land of Maharajas has captured royalty in the extravagance of top-notch luxury hotels. Their architecture, legend and unmatched hospitality have lured tourists from all over the world. Unique in every sense, the palaces, houseboats, hotels, bungalow or wildlife resorts in India depict the state’s culture and heritage. States like Delhi, Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala, Kashmir or North East; have combined their heritage with amenities that never fails to impress a guest. This is the reason; these hotels are not just a place to stay for an experience in itself. Let us pick some of the best hotels of India for your next vacation.
Every corner of Agra exudes a Mughal charm. Synonymous with Taj Mahal, Agra has attracted tourists from around the world for its palatial attractions. Keeping in sync with royal legacy of the city, The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra offers an unrivalled stay. The Luxurious Hotel was ranked the ‘Best Resort Hotel in India’ in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards, 2018.
Nestled in the edge of the largest national parks situated in Rajasthan, the 10-tent safari outpost is a group of 6 meter Mughal style canopies. Taking luxury camping to a new level, the camps are designed with captivating architectural patterns that belong to the Rajput and Mughal era.
Nestled on the banks of Banjaar River, the luxurious safari lodge overlooking the heart of Kanha National Park is the ultimate way to know the wild and the wilderness. Their luxurious tents are designed with pressed bamboo wall panels and bamboo flooring.
One of those luxury hotels, Burton Boatyard Hotel of Cochin transports you to the bygone era of royals. Located in Fort Kochi, the hotel is inspired from its colonial history. Brunton Boatyard beautifully reflects the historical period, which was known for its stately grandeur and good taste as expressed through its ambiance, amenities, service and food.
Originally built in the year 1835, Rambagh Palace gracefully defines royalty in every sense. A venture of Taj, the Rambagh Palace is a priceless jewel in the crown of Taj, offering 78 stunning restored grand luxury rooms and suites which were once the chambers of the former Maharaja.
Suryagarh Hotel of Jaisalmer is your gateway to the Thar Desert. Residing in the Golden City, this grand hotel is a way of life, carefully preserving the traditions of the past and framing them into modern idiom.
Explore a fascinating past along with a mesmerizing present at the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace. This is the last of the great palaces of India that will leave you spellbound with its mysterious charm.
Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam
Situated on a dramatic cliff-edge with secluded beaches around, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra is one of the most luxurious beach resorts. This Kovalam Resort is set amid natural surroundings that will chase away all your chaos, leaving you with a peaceful feel.
Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom
Kumarakom is an enchanting backwater destination of Kerala, and the Kumarakom Lake Resort is like nature’s poetry engulfed in beauty and nothing else. A stay at this exotic lake resort can be defined as a heavenly experience on the face of this Earth.
Overlooking the western group of temples in the LaLiT Temple View boasts of being one of the 10 best luxury hotels in India and also 29 best hotels of 29 states in India. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, it is just a few walks away from the World Heritage Site of Khajuraho.
A perfect blend of Lutyen's architecture and the royal Indian culture, Leela Palace has earned a reputation for creating magical stays and reflecting the essence of India. The hotel has elegantly decorated rooms and suites alongwith a spa by ESPA that offers a complete menu of Ayurvedic treatments.
Nestled in the rich buffer zone of Bandhavgarh National Park, Mahua Kothi presents 12 fascinating suites called ‘kutiyas’ which are gracious homestead ‘kothi’. Spread over an area of 40 acres woodlands, the lodge has a magnificent swimming pool, traditional garden, interactive kitchen and a Safari Shop. Smell the jungle breeze!
Endless golden sands crowned with coconut trees, Marari Beach in Kerala offers a soothing feel to the tired souls acting as an escape from the chaos of city life. Keeping the entire tranquil feel into perspective, the Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort offers an exquisite experience to the guests.
Opened in the year 1903, the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai was India’s first harbor landmark. This legendary luxury hotel has played host to kings, dignitaries and eminent personalities from across the globe, and is acknowledged as a world leader in hospitality.
ITC Grand Goa Resort and Spa (Park Hyatt Goa)
Nestled in serene south Goa, over a lush 45 acres of gardens and swaying coconut palms ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa, has all the ingredients for an invigorating or intimate relaxed getaway.
The Lake Palace of Periyar lets you be a part of the royal legacy. A former summer palace of the King of Travancore, the palace cum heritage lodge is situated on an island in the middle of the Periyar Lake.
Ananda Spa Resort in Rishikesh is an award winning luxury destination spa resort in India. The resort integrates traditional Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta with international wellness experiences, fitness and healthy organic cuisine to restore balance and harmonize energy.
The beauty of Shimla remains soaked in its intricate history. What once served as the summer capital of the British in India, Shimla has a dreamy feel to it. The Wildflower Hall Hotel of Shimla offers a refreshing interaction with nature.
Taj Lake Palace has to be the most romantic hotel in the world. Built in the year 1746, the Taj Lake Palace was formerly the pleasure palace of Maharana Jagat Singh II. This spectacular palace gained world recognition when James Bond film ‘Octopussy’ was filmed here.
Situated in this ancient city, close to the sacred waters of the river Ganges, Taj Nadesar Palace is a haven for those seeking both inner and outer peace. A stay at Taj Nadesar Palace is more of an experience which is hard to put in words. One can tee off at the mini golf course, take a guided tour of the history soaked palace, or relax at the Spa.
