Most Expensive Luxury Hotels In India

India is home to some of the finest luxury hotels that would give any top rated hotel in the world a run for it’s money and then some! Some of these hotels are centuries old palaces & castles turned hotels and are rated as the best in their respective niches by travel magazines, publications and rating agencies.

Here Is A List Of The 15 Best Luxury Hotels In India

 1. Taj Rambagh Palace (Jaipur)

 

The Rambagh Palace dethroned the Maldives’ Ozen Reserve Bolifushi and Brazil’s Hotel Colline De France to become the BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN THE WORLD in a vote of high-end globetrotting travellers conducted by TripAdvisor.

That is no mean feat! It has had the distinction of serving British royalty, the Indian Viceroys and global leaders.

This erstwhile residence of the ruler of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and his Queen Gayatri Devi, Rambagh was originally built in 1835 as the residence of the Queen’s favorite handmaidens and later also served as a royal guesthouse and a hunting lodge.

The Rambagh Palace sprawls over 47 acres with 78 opulent royal suites, manicured gardens, multiple restaurants and café, a bar, and a J Wellness Circle.

Amenities: Horse carriage rides (that were historically used by Maharajas), vintage car rides, Exclusive royal butlers, spa, concierge services, polo bar, fine-dining restaurants, J Wellness Circle.

Cost: Suites and room start at $770 per night per unit.

 

2. Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur)

 

Located on Chittar Hill, the highest point in the regal city of Jodhpur, the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace was commissioned by the Maharaja of Jodhpur Umaid Singh in 1928 AD and was completed in 1943. Historians describe it as one of the last great palaces of Royal India.

What sets the Umaid Bhawan apart from the other Heritage Palace hotels of the region is that not only is a splendid exhibition of the Indo-Saracenic (fusion of Mughal architecture with Rajasthani architecture), but it borrows heavily from the Gothic and Luton influence of the British Raj. The result is one grand spectacle of grandeur and regality.

Stretching over 26 acres of royal gardens, the Umaid Bhawan Palace features 70 deluxe Art-Deco themed rooms and suites, magnificent Rajasthani fountains, a Zodiac swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Amenities: Yoga pavilion, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, billiards and pool tables, squash courts, and golf,  J Wellness Circle Spa, , a 24-hour business center, a yoga facility.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $850 per night.

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3. Taj Lake Palace (Udaipur)

 

The Taj Lake Palace is like a white jewel that sparkles smack in the middle of the picturesque Lake Pichola (the biggest lake in the “City of Lakes” Udaipur). Reason? Because it was built using the same shimmering white marble of Makarana that was used to construct none other than the Wonder of the World, the Taj Mahal.

Commissioned in the 1740s by the Maharana of Udaipur as a summer resort, it was originally known as Jag Niwas Palace. Built in the tradition of Mughal and local Mewari style of architecture, it was converted into a heritage hotel in 1963.

In the 1980s, this hotel became a cult favorite and garnered a loyal clientele after it was featured as the secret lair of the glamorous Bond Girl in the super hit James Bond movie Octopussy (1983). It offers 65 royal rooms and suites, a magnificent spa, multiple dining options, bars and cafes, and numerous other world-class amenities.

Amenities: Swimming pool, spa, gym, romantic private boat rides in Lake Pichola, multiple specialty restaurants.

Cost: Suites and rooms start at $700 per night per unit.

4. The Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur)

 

Another jewel snuggled on the banks of Lake Pichola, the Oberoi Udaivilas is regarded as one of the best hotels in the region, and indeed in India. The Udaivilas stands out due to its spectacular Rajasthani-styled reflecting pools and interconnected domes. The layout of these domes and pools is modelled after the seven lakes that make up the City of Lakes.

This hotel offers a wide range of state-of-the-art luxuries comparable to the best luxury hotels in the world. These include deluxe rooms and suits, several specialty restaurants, a fine gym, a yoga and wellness center, an Olympic-sized pool and a signature spa.

The Oberoi Udaivilas is one of the finest accommodations in Udaipur.

Amenities: Yoga center, wellness Oberoi Spa, multiple dining options, gym, swimming pool.
Cost: Rooms and suites start at $600 per night per unit.

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5. The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra)

 

The Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most beloved and most coveted sights. Isn’t that awesome? But that status comes with a price. The Taj is always flocked by tens of thousands of tourists, star-struck lovers, creators, poets, and lovers of art. And, that means having the Taj Mahal all to yourself is next to impossible.

But not if you check in at the Oberoi Amarvilas. Located a mere few hundred feet from the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas gives you exclusive unhindered untainted views of the greatest homage to undying love. Imagine sharing a drink or candlelight dinner with your Mumtaz with the Taj Mahal sparkling in moonshine! It is a memory unlike any other.

Amenities:  Multiple restaurants, swimming pool, spa, gym.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $700 per night per unit.

6. The Taj Mahal Palace (Mumbai)

 

The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai (India’s “Maximum City”) is more than just a palace. It is also one of the city’s greatest landmarks.

This great hotel overlooks the iconic Gateway of India and puts you in the middle of the action in the city with many of the city’s greatest attractions located within walking distance from its strategic location.

The Taj Mahal Palace was built in 1903 when the city was known as Bombay. It was, as the name suggests, inspired by the design and architecture of the Taj Mahal in Agra. And, it was meant to serve Viceroys, visiting royalty, Prime Ministers, Ministers and other VIPs. Over the decades it has had the distinction of serving kings, queens, celebrities, world leaders, movie stars and statesmen.

Comprising 285 units, the Taj Mahal Palace is the best place to stay in Mumbai, and checks out all the requirements and amenities of the modern luxury hotel.

Amenities:  J Wellness Spa, Swimming Pool, 24-hour room service, guided tours of the city.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $420 per night per unit.

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7. Aman-I-Khas, Ranthambore (Rajasthan)

 

A well-rounded tour of India has to feature an exotic wildlife safari experience, and there are very few better places to seek that experience than the Ranthambore National Park in the Sawai Madhopur District of Rajasthan. It is a very advisable idea to combine your cultural expedition in Rajasthan with a wildlife and nature escapade in the Ranthambore.

India has 106 National Parks. So why Ranthambore?

The reason is simple. It is the realm of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger and offers one of the best tiger-spotting experiences in the country.

Aman-i-Khas is situated on the fringes of the national park and is modelled after the royal hunting expeditions of the royalty of the Rajputana (Rajasthan) region. Fun fact: the Ranthambore National Park was the royal hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur.

This safari-oriented resort features swimming pools, spas, restaurants, and offers daily safaris with expert and experienced guides who know the park inside out and know where to find the tigers.

Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool in each of the two camps, multiple dining options, dip pools, guided safari tours,
Cost: Luxury tents start at $ 1600 per night per unit.

8. Taj Falaknuma Palace (Hyderabad)

 

The Taj Falaknuma Palace was built by the Nizam (ruler) of Hyderabad as a summer retreat during the last decade of the 20th century. Snuggled on top of a hill at a height of 2,000 feet above sea level, the Falaknuma gives you splendid views of the city of Hyderabad and its surrounding landscapes.

Once one of the richest men in the world, the era of Nizam was one of opulence, luxury and splendor. And, this palace is one of the last remaining remnants of a bygone era. The name Falaknuma in Urdu means, “like the sky.” The Taj Falaknuma is a literal palace in the heavens.

Comprising 60 royal suites, the Falaknuma sprawls over 32 acres of manicured lawns and gardens. It gives you an authentic glimpse of the Nizam’s way of life.

Amenities:  J Wellness Circle, Swimming pool, fitness center, spa, kids’ play area.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $780 per night per unit.

9. Ananda In The Himalayas (Rishikesh)

For A Destination Spa Experience

 

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the state of Uttarakhand is home to some of India’s finest hill stations like Mussoorie, Nainital, Ranikhet, Almora, Auli, Kausani and Bhimtal. These are flocked by tourists in the hot summer months.

But the small town of Rishikesh along the shores of the sacred Ganga River draws visitors from all over the world for another reason. Not only is it a great hill station famous for a relaxing holiday and white water sports adventures, but its also considered the YOGA CAPITAL OF THE WORLD.

A holy town in the Hindu faith, some of the most exalted and enlightened Rishis (spiritual gurus) of Yoga and meditation run their Ashrams (Holy communes) here. In town, you will find visiting mega stars, CEOs, tech entrepreneurs and globetrotting businessmen who drop anchor to find spiritual meaning in life and rejuvenate their souls.

Ananda Rishikesh is arguably India’s greatest destination spa hotel. This former palace of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal is housed in a private pine tree estate that sprawls over 100 acres with gardens, orchards and lawns.  Treat your mind, body and soul to a posh rejuvenating experience with a range of Indian-Ayurveda and Western massage therapies at the Ananda.

Amenities/Activities:  golf, meditation, rafting, swimming, squash, yoga, spa, trekking, Aqua Fitness, cooking classes, gym.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $980 per night per unit.

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10. Taj Nadesar (Varanasi)

 

Located on the banks of the sacred Ganga River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, and teeming with historic Ghat Embankments Varanasi is one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Varanasi is to India what Jerusalem is to the Middle East and the Vatican City is to Europe — its most sacred and holiest place.

No visit to India is complete without a soul-cleansing visit to Varanasi. We recommend a stay at the 5-star Taj Nadesar, a fine offering of the Taj hotels chain.

Snuggled in a mango orchard, the Taj Nadesar is housed in a heritage Palace of a Maharaja of the region, and still features furniture from his collection. A royal Hose Carriage still run by the same family that used to escort the Maharaj escorts you to the hotel and gives you a round of the city.

Taj Nadesar is particularly renowned for its Indian Wellness Spa (Jiva Spa) which specializes in the “Abhisekha” treatment of the Ayurveda tradition.

Amenities: Swimming Pool,  J Wellness Circle, Royal Horse Carriage Rides, gym.

Cost: Rooms start at $765 per night per room.

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11. The Leela Palace (New Delhi)

 

Sir Edwin Lutyens was commissioned by the British Raj to create some of the most important buildings and landmarks after New Delhi was chosen as the new seat and capital of the British Indian Empire. His influence on the architecture and aesthetics of New Delhi is so immense that the city is often described as Lutyen’s Delhi.

The Leela Palace is one of the finest exhibitions of Lutyensque architecture and is hands down the best 5-star hotel in the capital. Located in the Diplomatic Enclave, not far from the airport, this hotel boasts a spa, 4 specialty restaurants, a fitness center, a temperature-controlled swimming pool and an internal décor influenced heavily by British Raj.

Amenities: Wellness Café, Sauna, Steam room,  Spa, Salon, Fitness Center.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $390 per night per unit.

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 12 . The Leela (Goa)

 

Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Leela is one of Goa’s oldest 5-star hotels and still its finest. Comprising 206 rooms, this fine establishment is snuggled in the middle of a massive 75-acre lush green space of manicured gardens, freshwater lagoons, coconut trees, and beautiful lawns.

Its design and architecture have been influenced by the medieval Portuguese aesthetic of Goa (Goa was a Portuguese trading colonial until the independence of India).

Very few other places in the “Beach Capital of India” Goa offer as many amenities as the Leela. These include a private beach, a massive golf course, an award-winning spa, several bars and lounges, two tennis courts, and two large outdoor swimming pools.

Other amenities include a fitness centre, multiple dining options, 24/7 room service and front desk, guided tours of Goa, and a special message and yoga center. With splendid colonial chandeliers and paintings and Portuguese-inspired interior décor, the Leela has an exotic aura to it.

Amenities: Huge Lagoon Pool, two tennis courts, par-3 golf course, fitness center, spa.

Cost: Rooms start at $350 per night per room.

13. Kumarakom Lake Resort (Kerala)

 

Lake Vembanad is one of the biggest lakes in India and is the heart of what is considered the Keralan backwaters. Picture a landscape of coconut trees, lush green foliage, a serene lake and utmost tranquility. This region is famous with international tourists visiting Kerala.

The Kumarakom Lake Resort is the best resort in the Vembanad region. Housed in a heritage building, it boasts luxury villas and rooms that are inspired from an eco-conscious local architectural tradition of the Kumarakom region. Other amenities include multiple specialty dining options, a couple of swimming pools, a health club, and of course, a world-class spa.

If you are looking to spend your honeymoon in Kerala, this Lake Resort is the place to be.

Amenities: Ayurmana Ayurveda Spa, Houseboat tours of the backwaters in a private boat, 200-year-old heritage property, Swimming pool, gym.
Cost: Rooms and suites start at $350 per night per room.

 

14. The Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge (Kabini, Karnataka)

 

If your tour to India is focused around the south of the country but you still want the ultimate safari experience, then look no further than Evolve Back in Kabini.

Located in the southern state of Karnataka at the junction of the Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks, the Evolve Back Kabini is one of the finest wildlife-safari luxury resorts in India.

Kabini is the land of the mythical black panther and many other exotic species. It is also the land of the indigenous Kuruba tribe that lives in these parks. The design of the Evolve Back —with its hut-styled rooms, pool huts and sustainable construction —is a homage to the traditional village of the Hadis Kuruba village nearby.

This resort features all the luxuries of a 5-star hotel like spacious huts-themed rooms, a spa, dip pools and a large swimming pool, multiple fine dining restaurants, 24/7 room service and an Ayurveda Massage Centre.

Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool (infinity pool), Ayurveda spa, private jeep safaris, Reading Lounge.
Cost: Rooms and suites start at $400 per night per room.

15. The Imperial, Delhi

 

There are two Delhis. The “New Delhi” built by the British Raj and the old Delhi “Purani Dilli” that has been around for hundreds of years.

Earlier, we featured Leela Palace in New Delhi, but (to get a glimpse of) some old-world Delhi charm and mystique, we also recommend a stay at the Imperial in Purani Delhi (Old Delhi).

The Imperial Hotel is located in the heart of the Old Delhi, in the neighborhood of Shahjahan Abad. It is housed in a 1931 colonial-era building that exudes historical elegance and charm with its vintage Rattan furniture, wheeling fans, traditional handwoven carpets and 20th-century classic Indian artwork.

Amenities: Spa, Swimming pool, fitness center, sauna.

Cost: Rooms and suites start at $350 per night per unit.

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