The 25 most luxurious resorts in India.
India has one of the most fabulous hotels and leisure resorts in the world with one of its kind beauty and luxury.The combination of luxurious Indian hospitality, warm ambiance, royal treatments and contemporary designs ensures that nothing is compromised when it comes to luxury.
Over the past decade India has witnessed a huge growth in various hospitality brands. As a result there are many luxury hotels and resorts operated by one of the most renowned brands of the world.
Here is a list of some of the best and most luxurious resorts in India
1. Amanbagh, Alwar, Rajasthan
Part of the ultra luxurious resort chain Aman resorts which known across the world for its high end properties with uncompromising luxury.With a name which means peaceful garden, Amanbagh is a whispering and quite retreat in Rajasthan. With rose tinted walls, domed cupolas and shaded courtyards of the mughal era combined with the design of the modern day ensures a royal felling for its guests.
One of the most amazing features of all the Aman resorts is that none of them have a reception or a bell boy service. It is designed in such a way to make its guests feel as if they are staying in their private villa. There is a staff of four per villa which will provide you with all the information you want.
Accommodation is in luxury suites and pool pavilions which ensures maximum privacy and luxury. The rooms have marble flooring, carved wood panels, silver lanterns. All rooms have king sized beds, private terraces. One of the best is the pool pavilion with its lush gardens, river views and private marble pool.
An effortlessly designed restaurant in the main building in front of the pool with Indian and western dishes. There is also a bar with mesmerizing Rajasthani music.
Visit www.aman.com for more information
2. Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore, Rajasthan
Another luxury property from Aman resorts is the Aman i khas in Ranthambore. It is located on the edge of the tiger spotting sanctuary of the Rantambore national park in Rajasthan. This resort takes the lavish history of maharajs hunting to new heights with 10 luxurious tents and private butler services.
At the resort there is a personal butler, spa tent offering messages and a lot more, well stocked tents, outdoor fire place and also in room wifi. All the tents have king sized beds with rain shower and soaking tub.
Restaurants lit by flickering candles in a dining tent has one large communal table. Tradational Rajasthani food is served made in the royal kitchens. Continental dishes are also available.
Enjoy the open top jeep safaris and you can see tigers and leopards at the Ranthambore national park.
Visit www.aman.com for more information.
3. Hilton Shillim Estate retreat and Spa, Maharastra.
This 320 acre retreat is located in the unspoiled private estate of Shillim. It is a short drive from Mumbai as well as Pune or a 30 min seaplane flight from Mumbai's Juhu airport to pawna dam.
This is an all villa resort offering a choice of luxurious villas ranging between one and three bedrooms. Some of the villas also come with a private pool to spoil yourself in luxury. All villas come with incredible views with wifi and LCD tvs.
There are seven amazing restaurants in the resort utilizing only organic and locally grown ingredients. Guests can also enjoy fine dining experience with a tailor made 'Dining by Design', which allows you to chose your personal unique meals.
Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat and spa has been rated the Best Luxury Spa Resort in India in the business destination travel awards 2013
Visit http://www3.hilton.com for more information.
4. Devi Garh by Lebua, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
This resort is situated in a 18th century palace in the village of Delwara near Udaipur. It used to be the royal residence of the rulers of Delwara peincipality. Nestled in the Aravali hills, 28 Kms from Udaipur. This resort is a perfect combination of modern luxury with local heritage. Lebua is a Thailand based hotels and resorts company having properties in Thailand, India and New Zeland.
This is an all suite resort with 39 rooms beautifully designed according to the local culture and heritage and giving special attention to the detailing. Local marbles and semi-precious stones were also used to design the luxury suites. The contemporary design combined with this phenomenal heritage resort will give you a complete intimate experience.
There are a range of multi cuisine restaurants here with an option of both local Indian as well as international delicacies. Guests can also chose to dine in the privacy of their suites. There is also an option for exclusive dining venues selected by the guests. Live Jal Tarang and flute recital in the background will surely make your vacation unforgettable.
For those who want to pamper themselves, there is a spa operated by the world renowned brand L'Occitane. This new luxurious la Terre Spa by L'Occitane is surely going to pamper you and your fantasies.
Visit http://www.lebua.com for more information
5. Vivanta by Taj, Bekal, Kerala.
Vivanta, a luxury brand owned by India's Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces.
At Vivanta by Taj, Bekal you are surely going to experience some of the most amazing pleasures life has to offer. Located in what is called the Gods own country, Kerala. You will surely be taken aback by the beauty of this place. The glittering and scenic Kappil river flows just next to the property which is very close to the Kappil beach.
There are 71 villas and rooms which are inspired by the design of Kettuvallam house boats with Chitra Pothi art on the walls inside. The villas come with a private garden, a private plunge pool and a Jiva Spa area.
There is a wide range of multi cuisine restaurants along with special tailor made private dining.
Guests can also pamper themselves a the renowned Jiva Spa which is a brand by Taj Hotels itself.
Visit www.tajhotels.com/www.vivantabytaj.com for more information.
6. Vivanta by Taj Green Cove, Kovalam, Kerala
Kovalam is a beach lovers delight and the Vivanta by Taj resort is going to ensure you that you have a vacation of your lifetime spent in Kerala. Spread across 10 acres of land near the sea and 12 kms drive from the Thiruvananthapuram airport and a 14 kms drive from the central railway station.
Stay in one of the 59 hillside cottages with elephant grass thatched rooftops giving you a view of the backwaters or the sea. The rooms are designed keeping the Kerala culture in mind along with Balinese influences.
There is a wide range of innovative local and multi cuisine delicacies available here to pamper yourself.
Visit www.tajhotels.com/ www.vivantabytaj.com for more information.
7. I.T.C. Grand Bharat, a Luxury Collection Retreat,Gurgaon, Haryana
The first resort by India's ITC hotels and also a part of Starwood's Luxury Collection Brand, you are surely going to be in for a grand surprise from the moment you spot this property.
This all suite, one of a kind destination is meant for fine living. It symbolizes the concept of Bharatvarsh. With amazing Indian architecture and great ambiance.
It is set on a land of 1.2 square kilometers, thus it is sure to deliver the finest luxury experience. There are 100 deluxe suites and 4 presidential villas along with a 27 hole Jack Nicklaus signature golf course.
There is a huge range of multi cuisine fine dining restaurants, signature spa known as the Kaya Kalp-The Royal Spa and many more recreational activities including horse riding, golf etc.
You are surely going to have a one of a kind experience at this grand resort.
Visit www.itchotels.in/ www.starwoodhotels.com for more information
8. Vivanta by Taj Dal View, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.
Set in the Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir, giving you the finest panaromic views of the Dal lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir which is also known as the Switzerland of the east. This is a paradise in a stylish new avatar. A modern resort with a contemporary design and giving an essence of the Kashmir valley is a spectacular feeling in its own way.
It is just 20 km drive from the Srinagar airport. There are 82 spacious rooms and suites. All laid out with style and tradition of the Kashmiri culture. All rooms decorated in beautiful Jamwar artwork. This is a defiantly recommended place while in Kashmir.
Indulge yourself in the Jiva spa or relax in one of the rare heated pools here at the Vivanta by Taj Dal view, Srinagar.
Visit www.tajhotels.com/ www.vivantabytaj.com for more information.
9. The Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.
Surrounded by the Himalayas overlooking the Dal lake. The Lalit grand palace Srinagar is the former residence of the maharajahs which has been carefully restored. It was designed by Maharaja Pratap Singh in 1910. Previous guests include Lord Mountbatten.
It houses 113 luxurious rooms and suites and also has 10 luxurious cottages, 4 restaurants and bar, a shopping arcade and Rejuve-The Spa with a salon and a gym. Also a heated swimming pool.
You are surely going to feel like a king here in the place which is nicknamed to be the Switzerland of the east.
Visit http://www.thelalit.com for more information.
10. The Leela, Goa
A combination of opulence and luxury gives you The Leela Goa. With its natural beauty and Portuguese style heritage in South Goa, this property assures you get an ultimate beach holiday you were looking for. The resort is set on 75 acres of land with a beautiful beach and a 12 hole golf course to give you a experience which is a world apart.
An out of the ordinary level of style, luxury and personality flow in all the rooms making this into a wonderful beach paradise in Goa. All rooms overlook a man made lagoon and are inspired by Portuguese style architecture. Guests can also book rooms with a private butler facility and a private plunge pool.
With a promise to bring you one of the most fine and amazing dining experience in Goa, this resort is going to pamper not only your taste buds but also your eyes and nose. You can chose from authentic Goan, other Indian cuisines as well as Asian, Continental and other international delicacies. Guests can also go for the chefs recommendation as well as private and romantic dining.
The luxury spa at The Leela Goa is an emphasis of Ayurveda treatment with an in house Ayurvedic doctor. There is also a body spa and facial spa treatment as well as daily yoga with sauna and steam rooms. There is also a option of a luxury grooming option with the Warren Tricomi salon founded in New York by two artists.
Visit http://www.theleela.com for more information.
11. Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa
Located along the pristine Arossim beach and just 15 mins from the Dabolim international airport, this resort is set on 45 acres of land with mesmerizing gardens and glimmering waterways and lagoons. It combines elegant luxury with a touch of local culture and heritage. This resort is inspired like an Indo-Portuguese style village
With 250 pousada styled rooms and suites, each offering a spa inspired bathing experience. The most exciting part of the resort is its vast range of restaurants from Indian to all possible lip smacking international cuisines. Along with a poolside bar with a wide variety of drinks and cocktails. Not to forget a wine cellar and a cabana.
Guests can also take a tour of old Goa and explore the culture. There is also a vast pool, a tennis court and many more activities.
Visit www.hyatt.com/ www.park.hyatt.com for more information
12. Grand Hyatt Goa
Redefine the meaning of luxury with the Grand Hyatt Goa which overlooks the stunning waters of Bambolim bay. This resort is spread across 28 acres of land with colorful tropical gardens and huge lawns that extend to the edge of the water. The resort is situated in Bambolim which is 7 kms from Panjim and 25 kms from the Dabolim airport.
Relax in one of the most splendid rooms and suites inspired by the Indo Portuguese architecture. There is an amazing choice of fine dining restaurants mixed with the modern nightlife of Goa with fashionable lounges.
Pamper yourself at the Shamara spa near the glittering waterfront or burn some calories at the state of the art fitness center while your kids enjoy themselves at the Camp Hyatt looked after by the trained staff.
You can also unwind in a large outdoor swimming pool or a 25 meter indoor lap pool.
Visit www.hyatt.com/ www.grand.hyatt.com for more information.
13. JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort and Spa, Mussoorie
Begin a new journey with this latest addition of Marriott in India and the first resort under the JW Marriott brand here. Set in the valley in the Garhwal Himalayas which is 7 kms north of Mussoorie. It houses 115 room including 10 suites offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. In addition this resort is based on a huge 5 acre property.
Offering all day dining at various restaurants like the JW cafe for multi cuisine, Teppan serving Asian while Wisteria Deck which serves Italian. Trout house grill and bar serving grilled food and perched which is a tea lounge.
Despite Mussoorie's charms, you do not have a reason to step out of here. There is also a 10000 sq-ft entertainment area equiped with bowling alleys, pool tables and gaming consoles to keep your kids busy while adults can head to the luxurious spa by L'OCCITANE. The spa offers ayurvedic therapies and signature treatments like the desert sand scrub.
Visit www.marriott.com for more information.
14. Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand
Situated close to Rishikesh and Haridwar in the Himalayas of the nothern state of Uttarakhand, the Ananda in the Himalayas was rated as the best spa destination in the world in 2005 by the Conde Nast Traveller for the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2012. The 'New York Times' highly recommends visiting this place.
Set on a 100 acre Himalayan estate in the middle of the Sal forests giving a view of the river Ganga. It was established in the year 2000. The property includes the royal palace of Narendra Nagar and the restored Viceregal palace.
Famous guests include Bill Gates and Melinda Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Kate Winslet, Prince Charles of Wales, Nicole Kidman.
All the rooms are overlooking the valleys and the palace. The rooms also come with a spa facility and in room private dining. All the rooms are beautifully designed keeping the luxury and privacy in mind and also the essence of the local culture. The Viceregal comes with an additional rooftop Jacuzzi. There are options of villas as well which come in an option of 1 and 2 bedrooms, a butler and a private swimming pool.
Ananda's food concept is based on the principles of Ayurveda and thus they serve a variety of fruits, vegetables and healthy foods. All cuisine is based on natural food. The ambiance in the restaurant is a complete harmony of Yantric art. Meals from all around India, Western cuisines and Asian delicacies are also available.
The different packages include weight management, stress management, yoga tranquility, couples package, ayurvedic rejuvenation etc.
Visit www.anandaspa.com for more information.
15. Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir.
Perched high above the sea level between the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, this is Gulamarg's latest pride. This resort was recently awarded the Asia's Best Luxury Ski resort for 2014. Nestled in the midst of locally sourced pines and exteriors truly inspired by the heritage of Kashmir. The resorts outdoors are truly beautiful with luxurious indoors and a well equipped spa.
This 85 room resort with splendidly designed rooms inspired by the local culture combined with phenomenal modern luxury offering a breathtaking view of the snow caped mountains. The resort also has one of a king indoor heated pool which is very rare to be found in India.
Guests can enjoy dining at various local as well as multi cuisine restaurants and soak in the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
There is also a mini theater inside along with cigar lounge and a luxurious spa by the French brand L'OCCITANE providing a hosts of treatments.
Visit khyberhotels.com for more information.
16. The Oberoi Cecil, Shilma, Himachal Pradesh.
The Oberoi Cecil, originally known as The Cecil was built in 1884 by the British. It was later purchased by Mohan Singh Oberoi, the founder of Oberoi Hotels and Resorts. It is placed in the Chaura Maidan, Shimla, 7000 ft above the sea level. The Oberoi Cecil very well celebrates the elegance of the colonial era in Shimla.
The Oberoi Cecil is the perfect destination to enjoy the mountain views, cedar forests and the ancient monasteries at this world famous hill station.
The elegant interiors with paneling, pillars which recall the days of the British Raj. The Bathroom has a vanity counter and you will get a range of fabulous ayurvedic toiletries. It is centrally heated in winter and there is air condition for summer. It also includes the highest heated swimming pool in the world.
All rooms come with king beds and are elegantly designed and have private balconies in them.
The is an option for outdoor dining at The Cedar Garden which serves snacks and light meals for the Guests. There is also a Tea lounge along with a well stocked bar. The main restaurant is multi cuisine which serves Indian as well as a wide range of international cuisines.
The in house spa offers a wide range of treatments ranging from ayurvedic to Thai to Balinese and Hawaiian massages along with the Chakra head and shoulder message.
Visit http://www.oberoigroup.com/ for more information.
17. The Serai, Chickmagalur, Karnataka
The Serai, a part of the Indian coffee chain, Coffee Day which owns the Cafe Coffee Day brand of coffee shops.
The Serai resort at Chickmagalur is a perfect combination of the Turkish palace of the sultans and the Persian version of comfort. The Serai, Chickmagalur is a haven for rejuvenation. This is a perfect tranquil oasis in the coffee plantation of Chickmagalur. This surely is a one of a kind destination.
The contemporary architecture and interiors have been effortlessly designed in this coffee estate of southern India. The main building houses the reception, the restaurant and a bar and a spa. The pool over here has been wonderfully designed keeping the nature of the place in mind and made into a vanishing edge infinity pool.
The accommodation is in private villas which have been designed with utmost care keeping in mind that the guests get the best possible luxury. There is a open washroom and bathing area in each villa.
Accommodation is in the estate Jacuzzi villa with Jacuzzi, estate pool villas, estate terrace villas and the residence.
The spa is known as OMA spa which provides a unique blend on local as well as international treatments.
Dining at the Serai will surely give a new treat to your taste buds. At the main restaurant there is a beautiful ambiance and the menu reflecting the diversity of the food.
There is also another open air lounge with amazing collection of liquors, spirits and wines.
Visit http://www.theserai.in/ for more information.
18. The Serai, Bandipur, Karnataka
This resort property from The Serai is situated very close to the Bandipur national park. Bandipur which is known for its teaming wildlife like elephants, Antelope, Leopards etc. This is the reason you will here the sounds of animals as they pass from near by which will give you an elegant experience of being in the wild along with pampering yourself with the best possible luxury. But not to worry, this property is well protected by electronically charged fences for the safety of the guests.
This resort is spread across 19 acres with scattered cottages and well covered with trees all along. There are a total of 24 units of accommodations, 18 courtyards, 4 cabins and 2 residencies.
All the rooms have been elegantly designed keeping in mind the essence of the local culture as well as not to harm the environment.
The main restaurant which is elevated above the ground where there is an option of indoor dining as well as dining on the outdoor deck. The menu here has incredible options from around the world as well as really lip smacking local delicacies. The chef who is highly experienced will make sure he does not leave any stone unturned. You can also sip a dink in the glass walled bar situated above the Pool.
Activities include jungle safaris where you will get to see the teaming wildlife of the Bandipur national park. Nature walks where you will walk though the jungle with experienced rangers, this is highly recommended for all the city dwellers who will find it extremely fascinating.
There are also a wide range of treatments to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul at the OMA spa.
Visit http://www.theserai.in/ for more information.
19. The Serai, Kabini, Kerala
As you drive through the silent village roads near Kabini which will lead you to The Serai Kabini on the banks of the Kabini river. The forest area which you have now entered is a protected area which is a part of the mesmerizing Nilgiri biosphere. The Serai Kabini is located close to the Nagarhole national park as well as the Bandipur national park.
The resort is built on a land of 10 acres. The property consists of 20 rooms, each giving a view of the river. Guests can spot the animals which come to drink water from the river. Guests have various options of accommodation such as the Waterfront Verandah cottage, the Waterfront Villa and the Residence which comes with a private Jacuzzi. Another part of this resort is that no rooms have a TV, which will make you feel close to nature. This is recommended for all those people who really want to have some peaceful and tranquil time by themselves.
Further more, the restaurant and bar is designed in such a way which will make you feel even more closer to nature, the feeling that you have always wanted. Sit in the restaurant and enjoy various soups, salads and other Indian as well international cuisines or opt for a romantic dining by the banks of the river with your special someone or relax in the open air bar and sip your cocktail.
There is a first come first serve wildlife safari service. This is the most recommended activity. You can spot, the Indian bison, spotted deer and even the royal Bengal tiger. Another recommended activity is to go kayaking in the Kabini river.
Visit http://www.theserai.in/ for more information.
20. Aalia resort, Haridwar, Uttarakhand
The Aalia resort is a unique concept of execution. It is the only luxury accommodation in Haridwar, right on the bank of the Ganges. It is a place which is surrounded with culture and spirituality in every aspect of the place. This is a remarkably designed resort which will make you feel serene and tranquil.
The elegance of Aalia's stunning exteriors continues into its rooms which are a perfect example of pure luxury. Serene, splendid, soothing colours, and harmoniously designed keeping the surrounding in mind. Aalia offers guests to chose from 12 villas. Chila suite, Garden suite and the river suite. The best and the highly recommended is the Aalia villa which comes with a kitchen, Jacuzzi and a private terrace.
At the Aalia resort, the chefs will make sure that they leave no stones unturned while serving you with the finest cuisine in the region.
To add to the luxury, there is a helipad inside the resort area for all those guests who want to arrive by air.
Visit http://www.aalia.net/ for more information.
21. MAYFAIR Spa Resort and Casino, Gangtok, Sikkim
Located among tropical greenery in the Himalayas of the North Eastern state of Sikkim. The resort boasts views of scenic mountains, an award winning spa and 6 dinning options. It also features spectacular architecture and luxurious rooms.
Accommodation in Rooms, Cottages, family rooms, suites and villas. The villa is highly recommended as they come with a private pool. All rooms have amazingly designed decor and bedding which are cozy and mix with the surroundings of the Himalayas.
Sikkim being one of the three states of India where casinos are legal and this resort is the perfect place to enjoy some of it. Known as the Casino Mahajong, it is a one of its kind in India is a full fledged onshore live casino. It gives you the real spirit of a casino which is a different entertainment in its own world. Games include Blackjack, Roulette and Texas Hold'em Poker.
The Pevonia Spa promises a experience like no other. It has 12 spa rooms and offers an array of treatments. This resort was rated as the best Spa resort in India for the year 2010 and 2011.
Visit http://www.mayfairhotels.com/ for more information.
22. The Lalit Golf and Spa Resort, Goa
The Lalit Gold and Spa Resort, Goa is an exclusive all suite resort situated on a 85 acre land along the pristine beach of Goa and giving fantastic views of the Arabian sea and surrounded by the magnificent Sayadari ranges along the Talpone river. Designed like the Baroque-Portuguese architecture with harmonious green landscapes.
Upon arrival the resort greats you with a grand lobby with rustic chandliers and antique ceiling fans. The resort offers 255 suites including 10 luxurious villas. The villas come in an option of three and four bedroom, an en-suite Jacuzzi bathroom, a private plunge pool along with modular kitchen with private gardens.
Guests can also enjoy a game of golf at the Double T 9-hole golf course at the resort. Or else indulge at the Rejuve Spa at the resort which a perfect way to relax.
Celebrated as one of the best places to eat in Goa with award wining restaurants offering cuisines from all across the world. The resort has a sunken bar in the pool to enjoy some exotic drinks in the water.
Visit http://www.thelalit.com/ for more information
23. The Leela Kovalam, Kerala
The Leela resort sits on a cliff offering panoramic views of Kovalam and its pristine Arabian sea, it also boasts a private beach. It is located 14 kms away from the city of Tiruvananthapuram and is a 40 min drive from the airport.
The resort is known for its palatial accommodation with soothing decor, warm aesthetics and graceful elegance. It is designed in such a way that you will want to spoil yourself in the luxury of this place.
Each room provides view of the garden or the sea.
Dine in the signature cliff side restaurants with the local Kerelite delicacies of fishes coming directly from the sea or other Indian and international cuisines inspired by the chefs.
The resort has two outdoor pools out of which one is a cliff side infinity edge pool along with a Spa and a gym overlooking the sea. The resort also has a game room and a tennis court.
Visit http://www.theleela.com/ for more information.
24. Taj Exotica Goa
Located on the southwest coast of Goa overlooking the Arabian sea boasting a private beach, this Mediterranean styled 5 star resort is again an amazing choice of accommodation for your Goan vacation. This resort has the ability to slow down time and create a tranquil tempo. It is set on a land of 56 acres with lush gardens and tropical inspired touched landscapes.
With extremely sophisticated rooms, suites and villas designed keeping the Mediterranean architecture in mind. All the villas are available with a private plunge pool to sink yourself in this mesmerizing luxury of Goa.
From casual, all day eateries to formal fine dining, you can look forward and expect a wide range of dining experience here at the Taj. All around the world, the Taj hotels are known for its exquisite dining and jaw dropping delicacies served.
The Taj offers a luxury range of products which can be purchased inside the resort. From silver to bronze artifacts to a range of silk woven saris, the Taj Khazana offers a range of rare Indian ethnic collections.
Guests can also go and sink themselves at the luxurious Jiva Spa by Taj hotels. The spa offers the best Indian rejuvenation therapies.
Visit http://www.tajhotels.com/ for more information.
25. The Tree House Resort, Jaipur, Rajasthan
The Tree house resort nestles in a finely blended combination of luxury and nature. Perched atop the keekar trees providing absolutely luxurious tree houses which is surely going to awaken that innocent child inside of every adult.Each Tree House nest is named after a bird found in the region. It is a half an hour drive from Jaipur and a three hour drive from New Delhi.
Accommodation comes in an option of Deluxe nests, luxury nests and Presidential suits. The nests are equipped with AC, hot and cold shower, LCD tv, WiFi and a minibar.
The restaurant boasts a amalgamation of Indian as well as western cuisines produced locally. There is also a wonderfully stocked bar designed like a Mughal relic style.
Visit http://www.treehouseresort.in/ for more information.
