India is home to some of the most stunning and opulent heritage hotels in the world. The reason can be attributed to the golden era of Maharajas, Princes and Queens who ruled various parts of the country during the pre-colonial and colonial era. Most of these majestic palaces have now been renovated with modern amenities while retaining the rustic charm and opulence. There are several heritage hotels across the world, the Ritz in London being a noteworthy example, but the heritage hotels in India hold a unique charm that is unmatched by its peers in other parts of the world. Here are the top heritage hotels in India where you can get a experience unhinged luxury and royalty.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur: Widely hailed as the best heritage hotel in India, the Taj Palace is housed on Jag Niwas Island amidst the beautiful Pichola Lake. The stunningly beautiful hotel is crafted from white marble and features an elegant architecture reminiscent of royal palaces of a by gone era. The circular top most suite in the hotel features intricate inlay of coloured stones and marble to create a vibe similar to being inside the Taj Mahal.
Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur: Few hotels in India can match the charm and elegance of this stunning property located amidst picturesque gardens. This India hotel offers a museum, billiards and squash courts, a vintage car ride, royal butler, full fledged spa and a romantic dinner under the starry skies. Highlights of this hotel in India include a massive collection of shikhar trophies, a beautiful musical fountain crafted from Baccarat crystal and a sprawling museum.
Taj Rambagh Hotel, Jaipur: The Taj Rambagh has made it to the list of top heritage hotels in India several times in a row. Famed for its royal ambiance and stunning architecture, the hotel attracts corporate and leisure travellers from around the globe. Most visitors to this hotel prefer to book a India Hotels Package as it is priced lesser compared to an exclusive hotel stay. To its credit, Conde Nast Traveller Magazine ranked it The Best Hotel in The World in 2009. And why not? The stunning Peacock Suite and the sprawling Royal Garden along renders it worthy of the tag.
The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai: Over the years, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel has garnered a legendary status as a defining piece of architecture of Mumbai, after the Gateway of India. Featuring stunning décor replete with alabaster ceilings, onyx columns, elegant archways and sparkling chandeliers, this luxury hotel in India is more of a landmark than a hotel. The hotel is designed with a seamless blend of Moorish and Oriental architectural style and gives its guest a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.
The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata: Designed in a classy variation of the neo-classical style, this luxury hotel in Kolkata is referred to as the “Grand Dame of Chowringhee”. The grand pillared entrance leads into a luxuriously decorated lobby which sets the tone for a royal stay. Once the residence of Colonel Grand, this renovated heritage hotel features high vaulted ceilings and one of the most elegant ball rooms in the country.
