Witness breathtaking Himalayan views from scenic passes like Dochula and trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Amanbagh
Highlights
Desert serenity,
Private courtyards
Best for
Couples
This super-slick retreat feels like a verdant oasis in the sandy desert, just two hours away from Jaipur in India’s Alwar region.
Amanbagh is classy and luxurious, providing a lovely high-end place to relax for a few days in the Aravalli Hills between exploring Rajasthan’s busy cities.
Just look at those Mughal-inspired structures soaring from the greenery and the phenomenal pool…
Amanbagh is surrounded by arid countryside, dotted with architectural ruins, forts, temples, mosques, and villages.
Bhangarh, the mysterious uninhabited medieval city that was abandoned overnight, is just fifteen kilometres away. Sariska National Park is close by, where it’s possible to spot leopards, wild boar, antelope, macaque monkeys, and tigers.
A 40-minute hike from Amanbagh leads you through a valley to the wide and picturesque Somsagar Lake, a beautiful place to take breakfast or practice meditation and yoga.
Back at base, there’s a lovely spa, as well as top-notch service and cuisine, locally sourced, of course.
Amanbagh might have less historical character than other luxury hotels in the area, but it’s an impressive property and a lovely place to while away a few relaxing days. All in all, this is a deeply satisfying five-star experience in the Aravali foothills.
The Rooms
There are 15 palacial Pool Pavilions and 24 Haveli Suites.
Some of the spacious suites overlook the main pool and all have a private courtyard or balcony surrounded by fruit trees and flowering shrubs.
Inside, you’ll find a king-sized bed, generous living area and a bathroom filled with natural light, featuring a deep tub carved from Udaipur green marble.
Pool Pavilions work particuarly well for couples, small families or friends travelling together, with space for up to three adults or two adults and two small children.
What You’ll Find:
- Mughal-style domes, courtyards and arched pavilions set in lush gardens
- A vast pool framed by palms and sandstone
- Top-tier service that's always discreet and personalised
Why You'll Love It:
- Sink into a slower rhythm with a proper dose of luxury
- Cool off in the showstopper pool after exploring the surroundings
- Dine by candlelight in the effortlessly elegant restaurant or a chhatri
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in India
A few of our favourite routes, hand-picked by the team and ripe for tweaking.
Think of them as conversation starters. Curiosity sparkers. Not fixed plans, just ideas for what your holiday could look like, shaped by years of local know-how and the kind of immersive experiences that live long in the memory.
Explore Full Itinerary
Agra
Regal Residences of Rajasthan
This is a far cry from the tired old route that almost everyone takes through India’s Golden Triangle. We know that you’re not everyone. Veer off the tourist trail into the heartlands of Rajasthan to feel the true essence of timeless and, yes, incredible India.
You’ll still be able to experience the manic magic of Delhi, the warm pink hues of Japiur and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. But you’ll also experience so much more by staying in some of the country’s best heritage properties, brought to life by charismatic hosts. You’ll get the best of both worlds – and be amazed that the rest of the world doesn’t seem to be in on the secret. Shhh!
Highlights
Chambal River
Explore magnificent and lesser-visited sites on the banks of the Chambal River
Heritage properties
Experience a flavour of rural and royal Rajasthan in two contrasting rural palaces
Taj Mahal
Admire the marble magnificence of the Taj Mahal
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Agra
The Golden Triangle & The Himalayas
This is a proper adventure, taking in the riches of Rajasthan before venturing deep into the Himalayas to explore the off-the-beaten-track Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. After tiger-spotting in Corbett, escape to the unspoiled Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. Here, colonial-era hill stations and quiet Himalayan villages offer a slower pace and extraordinary views, far from the tourist trail.
Highlights
Iconic sights
Seeing the best of Rajasthan (think the Taj, tigers and terrific forts, palaces and handicrafts)
Unique accommodation
Staying in haveli hotels and warm and welcoming luxury homestays with fascinating histories
Himalayan views
Ending the holiday on a (literal) high in the Himalayas, venturing into the Kumaon region that most tourists miss
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Agra
Classic Rajasthan with the Taj Mahal
Our ‘Classic Rajasthan with the Taj’ itinerary idea takes in all the must-see sites of India’s Golden Triangle and beyond, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. You’ll also experience a change of pace and a glimpse at an older, more rural Rajasthan with its impossibly romantic desert forts, dramatic scenery and wildlife.
We’ve suggested mixing opulent city hotels, perfect for escaping the clamour outside, with peacefully charming but quirky heritage properties in converted Rajput residences, used for entertaining visitors from time immemorial.
Highlights
Iconic sights
Marvel at the timeless magnificence of the Taj Mahal, the disorderliness of Delhi and colourful Jaipur
Fort Barli
Escape the madness into the gorgeous surrounds of Fort Barli and the Rajasthani countryside
Lake Pichola
Stay on the banks of Lake Pichola in romantic and laid-back Udaipur
Gallery
Explore Full Itinerary
Bhutan
India's Golden Triangle & Bhutan’s Natural Beauty
Over two weeks, you will venture from the bustling, colourful cities and historical sights of India’s Rajasthan to the peaceful towns and scenic valleys of Bhutan. You’ll really get a feel for the contrasting cultures, pace of life and varied landscapes as your local guides take you off the beaten track and reveal the stories and secrets of each location to you.
In India’s Golden Triangle, you will enjoy the must-see highlights, both cultural and architectural, before flying to Bhutan to immerse yourself in the well-preserved culture and pristine natural beauty across the country. Along the way, we have suggested some charming and comfortable accommodation options in great locations and you’ll have time each day to relax at your hotel.
Highlights
Iconic India
Explore India’s Golden Triangle, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s palaces, and the vibrant streets of Delhi.
Magical Bhutan
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s serene landscapes, from Punakha’s dzongs to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Cracking views
Gallery
Amanbagh on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
Amazing adventure in India & The Maldives
A tour in India taking on Delhi Agra Ramathra and Jaipur. Lots of excursions included and excellent hotels. Then onto Maldives for 5 nights at a lovely resort with experiences included.
Immersive India
A relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to India's many different shades, customs, history, beliefs, cuisine and societal strata. Meeting people from all walks of life and trying different foods. A well-thought-out tour offering a range of environments all backed up by fabulous hotels and supportive team.
India, exceeded all expectations
A trip taking in the Golden Triangle... rest and relaxation at Ramathra Fort and a beach resort in Kerala. Great planning... everything went perfectly and we felt we experienced all aspects of India.
The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to India
Want to know more? With its vast size, rich diversity, and countless possibilities, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming – so we’ve created our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India to help make sense of it all.
It’s our experts’ pick of standout experiences and places to stay, with honest advice on the best regions and tips for both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
