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.
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.