India has since long captivated the heart of travelers from all across the world. The diverse cultures, cuisines, heritage and warm hospitality never fails to win hearts of travelers. The country also offers some of the most varied accommodation options, right from pocket friendly stays to ultra luxurious hotels. The grandeur of the luxury hotels of India is such that it competes and is at par with some of the best hotels in the world. We believe that the accommodation we choose while travelling is an important part of our travel experience, and these luxury hotels make it memorable.
In this blog we have listed some of the best luxurious hotels in India. In case if you are travelling to one of the cities where they are located we recommend that you try them out. In case if you want to experience some of the best hospitality in India, just drop by in one of them.
1 – Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
We all know that Udaipur is the city of Lakes, but if we told you that you can stay in one of the hotels situated and floating in middle of a lake. Well that is Taj Lake Palace of Udaipur for you. Historically known as Jag Niwas, it was constructed by Maharaja Jagat Singh II, between 1743-1746. It was in 1963 that it was converted into a heritage hotel. It is built of white marble, sourced locally, and has influences of the Mughal architecture blended with Mewari construction techniques.
The heritage hotel has 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites. The hotel has also been a site of filming of James Bond film ‘Octopussy’. The hotel offers some of the best views of City Palace, Aravalli Hills, and the Jag Temple. The hotel has two in house restaurants, Neel Kamal which is known for serving some of the finest Rajasthani and Indian Cuisines, and open air restaurant Bhairo for European Cuisines.
The hotel is also home to a bar named Amrit Sagar that serves some of the best cocktails from around the world and finest international spirits. It also has a wellness centre, and the guests can choose to take a tour of the city in one of the vintage cars owned by the hotel.
2 – Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Rambagh Palace was originally built in the year of 1835, and since then has transitioned to a Royal Guest House, Hunting Lodge, and residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Maharani Gayatri Devi. In present times the Hotel offers its visitors to stay in one of its 78 luxury rooms and suites which were once the chambers of the Maharaja. The interiors of the palace are adorned with marble latticework, cupolas and cenotaphs. To top them all, it has lush green Mughal Gardens.
The hotel is also home to one of the best fine dining restaurants, which include, Suvarna Mahal that was a former French style ballroom adorned with magnificent chandeliers, Rajput Room which is a all day dining restaurant, and the Verandah Café. The hotel is also home to bars named Steam that serves finest Mediterranean spirits and the Polo Bar which is themed after the Jaipur Polo Team.
The hotel also has a J Wellness Centre that specializes in Ancient Indian Healing techniques, Yoga and Meditation. The hotel also had the privilege of hosting guests like Lord Louis Mountbatten, Jacqueline Kennedy and Prince Charles.
3 – The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
Taj Mahal Palace of Mumbai is regarded as the first luxurious hotel of India. It was opened to the public in the year of 1903. The hotel overlooks another magnificent landmark of Mumbai which is Gateway of India. The hotel has hosted some of the most eminent personalities of the world including royal families, politicians, and entertainment celebrities. The hotel has a total of 285 rooms and suites. It is located in close proximity to Colaba Causeway known for touristy shops, museums and galleries.
The hotel is home to 9 fine restaurants which include, Masala Kraft known for its Indian Cuisines, Wasabi known for its Japanese delicacies, Souk for its Mediterranean food, Aquarius which a pool side restaurant, La Patisserie for desserts and Golden Dragon for Chinese preparations. For refreshments and drinks, there is Harbour Bar, and Sea Lounge.
The hotel also has a wellness centre and Ayurveda sanctuary known for its wellness and healing facilities. The hotel can also arrange a Yatch party for you and private dinners that are once in a lifetime experiences. A stay here is a must for some fine hospitality in mid of Bustling Mumbai.
4 – Aman i Khas, Ranthambore National Park
If you are seeking some secluded, personalized, and magnificent hospitality experience then look no further than Aman I Khas. We must give you a heads up that Aman I Khas is also one of the most expensive hotels in India. Aman I Khas comprises of 10 luxurious tents at the site that can be chosen by the guests. For dining there are separate tents that offer organic food. The site also comprises of a spa tent, along with an in house pool.
The best thing about this hotel is that you can enjoy fire pit patio, under the stars, while having a good time. You can also choose to opt for guided safaris, where you will be accompanied by a batman, a guide all through your excursion. For those who are looking for unique experiences, you can also indulge in the cooking classes in the dining tent to master a delicacy.
You have to keep in mind that the hotel only accepts booking in between October to May, so plan your travel accordingly. The site where this hotel is located also encloses a Guava Farm, where you can enjoy your breakfast. This hotel is a must visit for a luxurious and all inclusive holiday.
5 – Taj Faluknama Palace, Hyderabad
It was built in the 1894, and at that time served as the official residence of the Nizam who was then regarded as the world’s richest man. There horse carriages to drive you inside the hotel and right from entering this hotel you will be treated royally. The hotel site is spread across a whopping 32 acres, and every inch of it is grandeur and opulent. The hotel has 60 rooms and suites that are refurbished and restored to the former glory of the bygone days.
The hotel has some of the finest restaurants of the city of Hyderabad, which include Adaa that is an Indian fine dining restaurant, Celeste which is known for its multi cuisine menu, Gol Bungalow that is known for its unique dining experience. The Belgian chandeliers that are used in the hotel, assorted gardens, and heavily embellished interiors give Falaknuma Palace a unique appeal.
The hotel also has a wellness centre that uses Ayurveda for healing techniques. While staying here you will be accompanied with a concierge who will assist you in the guided tour of the city along with shopping trips. A visit here is must if you want to experience the best Hyderabadi hospitality.
6 – Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Umaid Bhawan Palace was built between 1928 and 1943. It is the residence of the erstwhile Jodhpur Royal family, where you can stay royally and alongside royal family members. Umaid Bhawan Palace is presently the 6th largest residential place in the world. It also has a similarity with the Taj Mahal that the palm court marble used in their construction is from the same origin. The hotel is built on the highest point of Jodhpur and offers some of the best views of the city.
In close proximity of the hotel you will find Balsamand and Kalyana lakes, along with major shopping avenues and touristy spots. One of the major attractions of the palace is the family museum. The suite of the hotel also includes vast lush green gardens spread across 26 acres. The hotel comprises of 70 art deco style rooms and suites.
The hotel has in house restaurants named, Risala that offers tantalizing Rajasthani and Indian food, Pillars that offers Mediterranean food, and Trophy Bar which is themed with hunting décor, and serves finest global spirits along with Cuban Cigars.
7 – Wildflower Hall, Shimla
Wildflower Hall was the former residence of Lord Kitchener who was the then commander in chief of the British Indian Army. The hotel has stately rooms, grand lounge, a separate billiards and snooker room, and a well stocked library. The location of the hotel which is surrounded by lush green forests make it a great spot for breath taking views. There are Al fresco dining areas, dedicated spa chambers for wellness, along with avenues for outdoor sports.
The hotel also boasts for its eco friendly practices as the entire electricity needs of the hotel are fueled by clean hydro electric power. Inside the restaurant of the hotel you will find forest fragrances, and in winters the bonfire keep the environment warm. The restaurant serves Indian, Asian and Continental food. The hotel also has in house bar named, Cavalry Bar with war memorabilia adorning the walls.
The Periwinkle at Wildflower Hall offers a unique dining experience with delicacies combined with private movie screening. You can also choose to dine a four course meal in the Lutyens which is a English styled living room that comes with a fireplace.
8 – Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand
The hotel is situated near the touristy site of the Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, amidst the backdrop of Sal forests. The hotel has earned its name for their hospitality, lavish interiors, and the location. Ananda in the Himalayas is known for its wellness programs. The site of the hotel is the former Palace Estate of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal. The site of the hotel is spread across a whopping area of 100 acres, that comprises of forest patches and well maintained gardens.
The spa section of the hotel boasts of more than 80 types of body and beauty treatments. The place has programs driven by Yoga, Meditation, and Ayurveda. The hotel is ideal if you are seeking some detox programs or want some weight management sessions. Along with wellness, you can also choose to go on trekking, golfing, rafting, and wildlife safaris during your stay here.
Ananda in the Himalayas also has close proximity to temples, and monasteries, which will compliment your wellness stay with spirituality. A stay to this hotel is must if you are seeking peace, and want some break from the monotony of your life.
A hotel is not just a place to sleep but a sanctuary to rejuvenate!
