DARPAN TRAVEL

TOP LUXURY HOTELS ININDIA

By Mrinalini Sundar

WHICH ARE A MUST-VISIT

India is a country with rich culture and heritage. Exploring the different historical sites, jungles, magnificent landscapes, cities, food, and culture are on every avid traveler’s bucket list. When it comes to accommodation, India can cater to everyone who comes to this country with various budgets. Whether you are looking for Airbnbs, modest homestays, or palatial luxury stays, we have got you covered. In this story, we will look at some of the top luxury hotels that offer magical moments on special occasions. After all, you are visiting hotels in a country that takes athithi devo bhava very seriously.

The Leela Palace

Chennai

If you are looking to stay at a place that blends culture, heritage, and modern facilities, then your first choice should be the luxurious Leela Palace located in Chennai. This hotel is the only one in the city that is sea-facing with amazing state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel is inspired by the royal Chettinad palaces designed by world-famous architects.

One cannot get enough of the hotel’s lush rooms and decor. You can either choose to stay in one of their rooms with a sea view or the city view. As for food, enjoy a traditional South Indian meal or opt for any specific cuisine you might like.

Taj Lake Palace

Udaipur

This 18th-century historical palace is what dreams are made of! Located in the beautiful city of Udaipur, this hotel tops our list of best luxury hotels in India. You ask why? Well, imagine staying in a hotel that is surrounded by water, and for views, you get to see other palaces, hills, and just endless natural beauty around you. This white marble marvel is pure perfection and tells you what royal grandeur looks like with 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites. The exemplary glass work, jaw-dropping decor, and highly beautiful rooms will give you a glimpse of the royal life. Get treated like a royal at this hotel especially when you have a meal. The exclusive resident-only restaurants serve authentic Indian cuisines and signature international dishes that will pamper your tastebuds.

Wildflower Hall

Shimla

If you are ready to transport yourself to a magical mystical land, then this hotel needs to be on your bucket list. What is the specialty of this place? Well, this hotel brings together the Himalayas, jungles, and a lot of history. If coming face to face with the Himalayas is on your bucket list, then don’t miss this hotel. Perched 8,250 feet above sea level, the Wildflower Hall in Shimla will elevate your holiday experience with its splendor. The resort was the residence of the past commander-in-chief of the British Army. Open any door and invite yourself to a natural world surrounded by mountains and lush green views of Shimla valley which lets you immerse in the beauty of nature. You will fall in love with teak wood floors that add to its opulence. A place on Earth that magnificently brings together nature and architecture which makes your stay absolutely out of the world. Let the cool breeze from the Himalayas softly touch your face and let the warm hospitality fall in love with you.

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Hyderabad

Imagine staying in a hotel that was once the Nizam’s house, who was considered the richest man in the world. At this hotel, it is the experience that matters the most. What we mean is that right from the time you come to the hotel, you are treated like majesty. You enter the hotel on a horse-drawn carriage and are pampered with unmatched hospitality. As you enter the main door, you are greeted with a flower petal shower. There are 60 rooms in this hotel and each one is an architectural splendor with spectacular views of the city from each of them. If you are a bookworm, you will fall in love with the vast collection of rare books and photo albums in its library. The remarkable food, spa experience, and the live Qawwali music will all make you feel like you have been transported to another era. You also get to go on a heritage walk through the palace that will give you a lot of photography opportunities.

The Taj Mahal Palace

Mumbai

This list is incomplete without the mention of the iconic and legendary Taj Mahal Palace situated in Mumbai. In fact, this is acclaimed as India’s first luxurious hotel. Experience old-world charm along with fascinating sights of the Arabian sea. From the Taj group, this architectural wonder also gives you spectacular views of the Gateway of India. There is a reason this hotel is called one of the most lavish in India- thanks to the massive rooms, artistic interiors, and extraordinary food. There are nine fine-dining restaurants that offer everything from Indian, European, Middle-eastern, and Oriental cuisine. Some of the other must-visit hotels include The Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur), The Leela Palace (Udaipur), Taj Aravali Resort & Spa (Udaipur), St .Regis (Mumbai), Soho House (Mumbai), The Oberoi Amarvilas (Uttar Pradesh), The Imperial (New Delhi), and Evolve Back (Hampi).