5 Best Hotels in India: Find out Why They are So Loved by International Travellers!

India has always been a traveller’s treasure trove, where one can explore varied geographies and understand diverse cultures. While years ago, India may even have been a relatively cheap travel destination, today, it stands out as one of the top names in global luxury. Travellers flock here not only to experience the warmth of its people, flavours of its food, and stories waiting to be told, but also the vibrancy in its grandeur.

Here’s a careful selection of the best Indian hotels that have surpassed International standards and have made a mark globally. Find out what makes them so special.

Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Located a mere 600 m from the iconic Taj Mahal, with every room in the hotel offering an expansive view of the beautiful monument, the Oberoi Amarvilas captures quite a heady spot among the world’s best hotels. The hotel’s sandstone-like façade with its sprawling driveway stands out among the tranquil greens, setting the tone for what’s in store. Further on, the Mughal-style quadrant—with cascading fountains and an arched passageway adorned with murals of gold foliage—leaves guests awe-struck.

But the best hotels are not merely about the location or even unparalleled settings of a romantic dinner against the silhouette of the Taj Mahal. They evolve from the finer details of hospitality, including curated experiences, customized packages, magical spa therapies, and international and local cuisines that entice your palate. Considered one among the top 16 hotels worldwide, the Oberoi Amarvilas seems to have undoubtedly perfected that art.

Location: Taj East Gate Road, Near Taj Mahal
Tariff: Starts at INR 41,000* per night

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Read more: Best Luxury Hotels in India for the Perfect Staycation

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur—5-Star Palace Hotel by Taj

Having played host to several global entities like Lord Mountbatten and Jacqueline Kennedy, this beautifully refurbished Taj property dates back to 1835, when it used to be the accommodation for the queen’s handmaiden. It later transformed into a guesthouse, hunting lodge, and more recently, the palace of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and his beautiful bride Maharani Gayatri Devi. Blessed with such resonant past and laden with potent stories, it is no wonder that the guest list at Rambagh Palace in Jaipur includes some of the most celebrated names from around the world.

Each of the 78 luxury rooms and suites in the hotel showcases a lifestyle of a bygone era. Take in the intricate lattice work on hand-carved marbles, the cenotaphs, and the sandstone banisters. Enjoy the symmetries of well-preserved Mughal gardens, and unwind in the signature Taj experiences enveloped in the warmth of Rajput hospitality.

Indulge in the spa treatments at the Jiva Grande Spa; walk into one of the restaurants in the hotel—Suvarna Mahal, Rajput Room or the Verandah Café—for a selection of the most flavoursome delicacies; or catch up with friends and loved ones at Steam, the lounge bar, or the Polo Bar. Rambagh Palace would remain one of the finest Indian hotels for a long time to come.

Location: Bhawani Singh Road
Tariff:  Starts at INR 33,500* per night

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The Leela Palace Udaipur

Yet another palace hotel featuring among the big league of finest hotels across the world is The Leela Palace Udaipur. Redefining Indian opulence in all its dramatic glory, The Leela Palace Udaipur leaves no stone unturned in ensuring that guests are treated like gods, quite in line with their dictum, “Athithi Devo Bhava”. No wonder then that the hotel tops the global charts frequently.

Considered the only modern palace hotel on Udaipur’s Pichola Lake, The Leela Palace Udaipur offers guests 72 heritage lake-view rooms and 8 suites. Experience memories of a lifetime with their “Culinary Sojourns” and “Leela Moments” at breakfast, lunch, and dinner; get a peek into “Sights and Culture” they take you on, or simply sit back and enjoy the “Romance at The Leela” with your partner. Watch the moon shine through the night, reflecting its silver on the placid waters of the Pichola Lake, and you’ll know you’re in the lap of heaven.

Location: Lake Pichola, P. O. Box No. 125 Udaipur
Tariff: Starts at INR 17,960* per night

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Read more: Best Boutique Hotels in Delhi for a Bespoke Experience

Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore

Sure, this is not a palace hotel, but you can bet your last rupee (or er…dollar) on the royal treatment you can expect while staying here. Located just a little under 10 minutes from the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, this is yet another Oberoi hotel that stands out as one of the best hotels, worldwide.

Whether it is the one-of-a-kind opportunity to see the royal Bengal tiger from up close in the wild, a chance to while away languid sunset moments staring into the forest as you savour your favourite wine, or the prospects of walking down the torch-lit pathways of the hotel while taking in the sights and sounds of nature, the memories you carry from the experiences offered here may be hard to replace.

Walk out refreshed after an Ayurveda-inspired or a signature Oberoi treatment at the haveli-styled spa. Or savour luxury dining at their restaurant, which serves a fresh menu of Rajasthani specialities, along with Indian and European dishes every day. For those seeking a peaceful time, take one of the hotel’s yoga sessions. Breathe in. There’s a gamut of experiences awaiting here.

Location: Ranthambhore Road
Tariff: Starts at INR 26,000* per night

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Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

It’s called an iconic hotel for a reason. The first harbour landmark of the city, the Taj Mahal Palace hotel is probably where the idea of luxury hotels in India was first sown.

Luxurious rooms that look out into the Arabian Sea through the Gateway of India, fine-dining options like Wasabi by Moritmoto, Golden Dragon, Souk, and Masala Craft, the 24-hour café Shamiana, the poolside restaurant Aquarius, and the 24-hour in-room dining are just some of the charms of the place. Give in to experiences the hotel sets out for you, including morning yoga by the azure pool, heritage walks and city tours, rejuvenating massages at Jiva Spa, and a 24-hour gym.

Incidentally, the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai is also one of the few hotels in the country that have facilities for the differently-abled. What’s more, if you are travelling with little kids, the Kids@Taj programme is your cue for the alone-time you seek. The fantastic babysitting services at the hotel will ensure that your kids are not only looked after, but also well-entertained. What’s not to be mesmerised here?

Location: Bhawani Singh Road
Tariff: Starts at INR 60,000* per night

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*Prices may vary