Visiting India opens an exciting opportunity to experience different cultures, an intriguing style of architectural designs and a display of familiar yet distinctive adaptations to modern technology and lifestyles. However, every good trip involves some serious planning. If you need help with your hotel booking plans, this article is for you.
Here are some of India’s top luxury vacation hotels:
Amanresorts Amanbagh, Alwar
Listed as the number one chain in the 2009 Zagat Survey of World’s Top Hotels, Resorts and Spas, Amanresorts presents the Amanbagh as one of its premiere locations. This magnificent resort is an oasis of verdant greenery, surrounded by sandy plains, intermingled with craggy hills and the historical remains of grand architectural ruins. Travel time from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is approximately two hours. The Amanbagh offers an intimate and discreet experience in a natural location with outstanding facilities.
Amanresorts Amanbagh, Alwar
Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Rising in splendor above the historic City Palace in Udaipur, the heart of Rajasthan, the Oberoi Udaivilas adorns the banks of Lake Pichola. With rippling fountains, rambling courtyards and verdant gardens enclosing a selection of reflective pools, this grand resort displays the architecture of a traditional Indian palace. While staying here, be sure to visit the ancient Aravalli Mountains that surround the City of Dawn. Expect also to enjoy boat rides, rooms with terraces and a casual stroll along the narrow lanes that flank the city.
Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
In accordance with the vision of Jamsetji Tata, construction on The Taj Mahal Palace began in 1898. Located in Bangalore, this resort has been a popular playground for Princes, leaders of Pakistan, and the President of the Indian National Congress. Considered the flagship of the Taj Hotels, this 560-room gateway into Mumbai’s prime historical and commercial hub classifies among the leading resorts in the world.
Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur
Situated on 32 acres, The Oberoi Rajvilas stands with Jaipur as its backdrop. This resort establishes a fort setting to incorporate the beauty, elegance and luxury of tents, villas and private pools. Four-post beds, sunken marble baths and private courtyards provide a sense of peace, comfort and harmonious spaces. Local activities include an elephant safari into the ancient forts and monuments that make Jaipur a must experience.
Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Made popular by a setting that offers terrific views of the domed mausoleum of the Taj Mahal, the Amarvilas features Moorish and Moghul architecture, 103 rooms and terraced gardens. This is a place to experience the architectural majesty of the Mughal era. Find it on your map in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Constructed from white marble, the Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur rises above a four-acre island pedestal amid the waters of Lake Pichola. This resort is one of the 93 luxury spots owned and operated by Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. Construction dating back to 1746, the Taj Lake Palace is a place for moonlight picnics, romance and relaxation.
The Four Seasons, Mumbai
Set amidst the sleek downtown hospitality of the India city once known as Bombay, the Four Seasons offers central access to an area that thrives upon the Arabian Sea. Local attractions include:
- Mumbai’s famous Thieves’ Market, an antiques lover’s delight
- Elephanta Caves, accessible by boat and believed first excavated in the 8th century
- Dhobi Ghats, a traditional open-air laundry site unique to Mumbai
- Gateway of India, Kanheri Caves and much more.
The Imperial, New Delhi
Constructed in 1936, the Imperial, New Delhi showcases marble floors, high ceilings, and teak furnishings. In 1911, King Emperor George V declared New Delhi as the capital of India. Designed to reflect the Capital City’s original master plan, the Imperial incorporates a blend of Victorian, Old Colonial and Art Deco styles.
The Imperial, New Delhi
The Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore
Rated as one of the best business hotels in Bangalore, The Leela Palace Kempinski provides superior conference facilities and a chance to come face to face with Kiran Maxumdar-Shaw, India’s richest woman. While staying at The Leela, be sure to visit Vidhana Soudha, the pride of Bangalore that houses both the Legislative Chambers and the State Goverment.
The Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore
Devigarh, Delwara Near Udaipur
It may be a place for camel rides and spa treatments, but the Devigarh is nestled amid green fields and mountains on three sides. Designed in the 18th century, this quality resort assumes the external appearance of a Rajput palace fort. However, the inside reflects a totally reinvented décor. Complete with original carvings and gemstones, this 39-suite traveler’s paradise includes a lotus water maze made of marble.
These are not cheap hotels; they are luxury resorts for folks who like to travel in style. So get started and take care to book reservation online today and make your trip to India the best you’ll ever have.
This guest post article was written by freelance writer and traveler Erica Gustafson who also does consulting for Expedia.
More information on India will be added shortly on the new Rainbow Tourism India website.
