India was once mostly a backpacker destination associated with poverty and strife, but these days it is becoming known for the superb luxury experiences it has to offer. There are several excellent hotels that have been constructed in India, offering palatial surroundings, high end amenities and international standards of service and luxury.
Many of the best luxury resorts in India feature stunning surroundings, luxurious ambiance, exotic locations, ancient spa therapies and much more. They are designed to provide their guests with the most invigorating and relaxing experience.
So what are some of the best luxury experiences in India?
Rejuvenate at Ananda in the Himalayas
The Himalayas are known for their spiritual presence and are charged with the energy of the goddess Parvati. Rediscover yourself at this wonderful spa and learn all about the ancient discipline of Yoga. It was named “World’s Best Spa” by Conde Nast Traveller and here the therapists recreate synergy between their intellect, body and mind through Vedenta, Yoga and Ayurveda.
Ananda in the Himalayas has been visited by many famous guests including Oprah Winfrey. The luxury Palace View Room has an enormous bathroom and a private balcony. You will have your own personal yoga and meditation programme designed for you so that you can balance your health and well-being. When you leave you will feel energised, recharged and on top of the world.
REJUVENATE AT ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS >>
Private Lunch at Taj Nadesar Palace
The glamorous and elegant Taj Nadesar Palace in Varanasi has been host to celebrities and royals since the 19th century and visiting it is one of the best luxury experiences in India. This ornate palace is decorated with priceless works of art from the Maharaja’s collection and pieces of original furniture. It is located on the banks of the river Ganges and it is surrounded by gorgeous gardens, mango orchards and jasmine fields. A haven of tranquillity and peace, dining on the sun-soaked veranda of the Palace is a truly unforgettable experience.
Revel in the opulence of the palace by attending a private lunch there, with the best of Indian cuisine. At this event you can enjoy conversation with scholars from the Jnana Pravaha, a local centre for cultural studies. This centre is dedicated to research and questions pertaining to Indian art and culture, so it is sure to be a fascinating discussion.
SEE THE BEST DINING EXPERIENCES IN LONDON >>
Shikara Boat on Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan
The gorgeous resort at Oberoi Udavilas was ranked the ‘Best Resort in the World’ in 2012, offering some of the most incredible accommodations in the world. Each of the rooms have their own private courtyard bathed in sunlight and beautiful gold furnishings within the suite.
These accommodations are located on the banks of Lake Pichola on the 200 year old hunting grounds of the Maharana of Mewar. These wild fifty acres of land are home to wild boar and deer and offer stunning views over the lake.
During your stay here you can take a peaceful boat journey on the waters of Lake Pichola in a traditional Shikara boat while watching the glowing Rajasthani sunset. Your guide will tell you a bit about the history of the royal city at Udaipur and explain the significance of the many historic sites.
Private Game Drive in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
The moment when you see the huge and powerful tiger slinking smoothly through the jungle is one of those travel moments when you stop breathing for a moment in awe of what you are witnessing. Have the unforgettable experience of seeing wild Bengal tigers in their natural habitat in Ranthambhore National Park. You can go on an exclusive private game drive with an expert naturalist who will help you get a better chance of spotting these striped beasts.
Russel Brand and Katy Perry did this on their wedding day and they stayed at the truly stunning Aman-I-Khas tented resort. At this Mughal-style tented camp you will have a chance to spot sambar deer, jackals, leopards, crocodiles and tigers as well as 300 species of birds. There are also many other wildlife adventures throughout the park including camel safaris on the outskirts of the reserve and bird watching treks in the lush Banas riverbed.
18th Century Palace Fort at Davi Garh
This gorgeous building was once home to the rulers of Delwara, a monumental palace turned hotel that has been decorated by contemporary décor accented with silver and Indian fabrics. It is located on a hilltop and has been turned into a sophisticated, elegant, luxurious and romantic retreat.
There is a lovely balance between past and future in the décor here and this luxury suite is comprised of 39 suites that blend historic and contemporary elements – creating a new image for India in the 21st century. This beautiful resort has won several travel awards, including the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellent in 2014, the Seven Star Global Luxury Award in 2014 and the Lonely Planet Travel Award in 2013 for the Best Heritage Hotel.
One of the most impressive features of Devi Garh is the raw materials that are used, including white marble all throughout the palace. There are two 12 foot high blocks of uncut white marble at the entrance that reflect the beauty of the stone in its purest form.
Take a dip in the gorgeous black marble swimming pool, relax on the private sun deck or admire the view from the balconies. Every moment in this gorgeous lodge in India will be absolutely unforgettable.
These are just a few of the best luxury experiences in India, which give you the opportunity to travel this gorgeous country in style. To make your travels in India even more special, check out the many other luxurious experiences that we have to offer.
Tom’s travel writings are a testament to his insatiable curiosity and love for the road less traveled. Eschewing the typical tourist spots, Tom has built a reputation for uncovering hidden gems known only to locals.
From secluded mountain villages in the Himalayas to untouched beaches in the South Pacific, his adventures have taken him to the world’s most undiscovered corners.