Top 10 Hotels In India: India is a diverse country rich in culture and traditions. Each nook and corner of this large nation has a story to tell. The hospitality industry in India is renowned the world over, especially with the ideal of ‘athithi devo bhava’ – the guest is like god – at its heart. Here are the ten best luxury hotels in India where you’ll receive nothing but the best and take back a slice of India from your stay.
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The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Located less than a kilometre away from the epochal Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra enjoys the pride of being the most sought after luxury hotel in the region. The highlight of the hotel lies in the unbroken scene of the Taj Mahal that each of its rooms offers. The hotel provides golf cart trips to the historic monument during the day time, while guests can indulge in a romantic candle lit dinner by the soft glow of the Taj at night.
Rambagh Palace, Bhawani Singh Road
Once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, Rambagh Palace in Jaipur gives authentic royal experiences amid the beauty of a bygone era. Constructed in 1835, it has marbled corridors and impressive gardens. The building was named after Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II. The edifice served as the abode of Rajasthan’s royal family until 1957. The hotel’s hospitality is top notch, as it welcomes you with caparisoned camels, elephants, and horses, standing beside ladies dressed in traditional Rajasthani garments who perform the ‘aarti’ and ‘tikka’.
ITC Grand Goa Resort and Spa (Formerly Known as Park Hyatt Goa), Cansaulim
One of the best five star luxury beach resorts in Goa, Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa is set amidst manicured gardens, magnificent waterways, and stately lagoons. The hotel is characterised by its Indo-Portuguese style of architecture. It is known for its subtle luxury and affable courtesy. It has 250 stunning rooms, including 12 suites, each of which lends a spa inspired bathing experience and sublime views. It is also a popular venue for weddings.
The Tamara Coorg, Karnataka
Nestled in the vast depths of Coorg, The Tamara Coorg is the epitome of a quiet retreat in the lap of nature. With an ecologically sensitive outlook, the hotel aims at minimising its impact the environment. The property is surrounded by lush greenery; coffee, cardamom, and pepper plantations; superb streams, and cascading waterfalls. It is located at a height of 3,500 to 3,900 ft above sea level.
The Lodhi, New Delhi
One of the prominent five star luxury properties in Delhi, The Lodhi is intimately entwined with the Mughal history of the capital of India. It comes fully equipped with a spa and salon, a library, cigar lounge, and a boardroom. Aman Resorts has collaborated with The Lodhi to deliver a carefully curated six-night tour between Delhi and Rajasthan for a rich cultural experience, provided in the Aman India Journey.
Wildflower Hall, Shimla, Chharabra
Experience the heights of luxury, literally, at Wildflower Hall in Shimla, which is located at more than 8,000ft above sea level. With nothing less than the lofty Himalayas as a backdrop from this alluring abode, indulge in the lap of luxury while being amidst nature at its best. The hotel offers a variety of activities such as cycling, rafting, yoga, and nature walks. The dining space provides exquisite unbroken sights of the Himalayas from its glass conservatory.
Taj Falaknuma Palace, Falaknuma
A five star asset, Taj Falaknuma Palace exemplifies 19th century splendour. Dating back to 1894, the residence of the former Nizam of Hyderabad, who was the richest man in the world at the time, the castle has been converted by the Taj group into a glittering hotel experience, keeping its essence intact. The mansion gives undeterred views of the city. The peculiarity of the place is that guests are ushered in horse drawn carriages.
Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom
Choose Kumarakom Lake Resort in Kottayam to experience Kerala’s traditional architectural enchantment, combined with the comforts of modern day luxuries. Guests stay in 16th century manas – classical homes of Kerala, which have been transported from their original locations and rebuilt by hand to authentic form. The old world accommodations include open-roofed bathrooms in the original style as in days gone by. They also offer special houseboat stays.
Alila Diwa Goa, Pacheco Vaddo
A stay at Alila Diwa Goa in Goa is to experience the heart and soul of India’s smallest state – Goa. The highlight of the resort includes customised itineraries and experiences for their patrons, which give a glimpse of Goa at its natural best, contrary to the hippie and party culture that the state otherwise projects. They also provide various classes for visitors to try their hand at, and specialised activities for children.
The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
The legendary sea-facing jewel of Mumbai is the leading exponent of the Taj group of hotels in India. More than a century old, The Taj Mahal Palace is renowned for its grandeur and spectacular sights that it offers of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India monument before it. The hotel harbours the city’s first licenced bar. It is also famous for the customised activities for children.