Witness breathtaking Himalayan views from scenic passes like Dochula and trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
 
                         
                        Luxury hotels in India are among among the most romantic and atmospheric buildings in the world. Many are former (or still-functioning) palaces, which have been transformed into fabulous places to stay.
There’s nothing as exciting during your luxury Indian holiday as pretending you’re a Maharaja (or a Marahani), if only for a day or two!
These hotels are undeniably lavish, with top-tier service and a rarefied air.
 
							
					 
						
					 
			
		This kind of opulence is undoubtedly a signature Indian experience.
It’s worth noting that some might find spending their entire trip in this level of grandeur a bit much. But these palace and fort hotels give a great glimpse into the splendour of India’s regal past.
Talk to us for expert advice on which hotel suits you best and where exactly it’s worth splashing out.
 
							
					 
						
					 
			
		Explore ETG's Favourite Luxury Hotels & Palaces in India
    
    
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                Maheshwar, India
Ahilya Fort
Perched high above the ghats of the River Narmada, Ahilya Fort is a rare gem in rural Madhya Pradesh. Once the palace of the legendary Ahilya Bai Holkar, it’s now a boutique retreat rich in history and charm. With panoramic river views, peaceful courtyards, and warm village integration, the fort offers a timeless escape.
Highlights
Highlights
Magical setting,
Maheshwar Ghats right below
Best for
Couples
Solo
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                Rajasthan, India
Alila Fort Bishangarh
An 18th-century warrior fort. Now a luxury Rajasthani resort. Steeped in history, with sweeping countryside views.
Highlights
Highlights
Luxurious fort,
Epic views
Best for
Couples
Families
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                Rajasthan, India
Amanbagh
Enclosed within high stone walls and surrounded by the rugged Aravalli hills, Amanbagh feels like a hidden garden in the desert. Located in Rajasthan’s Alwar region, just two hours from Jaipur, this serene retreat offers a refined pause between India’s busier cities.
Highlights
Highlights
Desert serenity,
Private courtyards
Best for
Couples
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                India
Aman-i-Khas
Safari camp at its absolute finest: Sumptuous, spacious tents and wonderful wildlife spotting near Ranthambore.
Highlights
Highlights
Luxurious tents,
Spellbinding setting,
Safaris
Best for
Couples
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                Uttarakhand, India
Ananda In The Himalayas
Set within 100 acres of forested hills near Rishikesh, Ananda in the Himalayas is India’s premier wellness retreat. Overlooking the sacred Ganges valley, this award-winning resort offers a serene setting for total rejuvenation.
Highlights
Highlights
Himalayan views, Award-winning spa
Best for
Solos,
Couples
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                Gujarat, India
Aramness Safari Lodge
Set on the edge of Gir National Park, Aramness Safari Lodge is a world-class wildlife retreat offering luxury in the heart of Gujarat’s teak forests. Surrounded by lions, leopards, and over 300 species of birds, the lodge provides an extraordinary window into one of India’s richest ecosystems
Highlights
Highlights
Teak forest setting,
Private plunge pools
Best for
Families,
Couples,
Gallery
 
                             
                             
                            
    
    
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                Karnataka, India
Evolve Back, Hampi
Evolve Back, Hampi is a grand and luxurious retreat just minutes from the awe-inspiring ruins of Hampi. Inspired by the opulence of the Vijayanagar Empire, the property offers palatial architecture, tiered rooftops and regal courtyards set within a boulder-strewn landscape. A true haven after a day exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights
Highlights
Luxury stay near Hampi,
Vijayanagara-inspired architecture
Best for
Couples,
Culture Seekers,
History Enthusiasts
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                Kolkata, India
Glenburn Penthouse
Perched above the bustle of central Kolkata, Glenburn Penthouse is a refined, colonial-style hideaway with sweeping views over the city, including the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan. Designed as an urban retreat by the owners of the Glenburn Tea Estate, this elegant property offers a blend of old-world charm, impeccable service and modern comfort.
Highlights
Highlights
City views,
Rooftop pool
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Heritage Enthusiasts
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                Gujarat, India
Jambughoda Palace Hotel
Surrounded by forest and farmland, Jambughoda Palace is a peaceful heritage retreat in rural Gujarat. Set in a 200-year-old palace still owned by the original family, the hotel offers a charming window into India’s regal history, with access to nearby historical sites and protected nature reserves.
Highlights
Highlights
Heritage family home,
Rural setting,
Near Champaner ruins
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Heritage Enthusiasts
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                Rajasthan, India
Mihir Garh
Mihir Garh rises out of the Thar Desert like a dream: a sandcastle of a fort blending seamlessly into its surroundings. Just 45 minutes from Jodhpur, it offers a captivating base from which to experience the rural beauty of Rajasthan. Built in the style of a traditional desert fortress, it combines heritage charm with understated luxury, making it one of the region’s most distinctive properties.
Highlights
Highlights
Desert fort design,
Private pools
Best for
Families,
Couples
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                Kolkata, India
The Oberoi Grand
A Colonial-era landmark in the heart of Kolkata, The Oberoi Grand combines stately charm with comfort, providing a welcome sanctuary from the city’s chaos. Set on Chowringhee Road, the hotel offers elegant interiors, excellent service, and a central location perfect for exploring Kolkata’s cultural highlights.
Highlights
Highlights
Peaceful courtyard,
Heritage charm,
Iconic bar with live jazz
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Culture seekers
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Udaipur, India
Oberoi Udaivilas - Temp
A shimmering example of Mewari-style grandeur, The Oberoi Udaivilas sits on the tranquil banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and mirror-still waters, this opulent hotel offers one of the most luxurious stays in Rajasthan, with service and design that’s nothing short of exceptional.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
    
    
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                Madhya Pradesh, India
Kathiwada Raaj Mahal
Set within 120 acres of serene countryside, Kathiwada Raaj Mahal is a lovingly restored royal retreat that captures the charm of India’s regal past. With sweeping views, art deco interiors and a sense of history at every turn, this heritage property invites guests to slow down and soak it all in.
Highlights
Highlights
Heritage architecture,
Countryside setting
Best for
Couples,
Heritage Travellers,
Nature Lovers
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                Jodhpur, India
RAAS Jodhpur
Set at the base of the Mehrangarh Fort within Jodhpur’s old walled city, Raas is a masterful blend of 18th-century Rajput architecture and contemporary design. With views of the fort at every turn and sandstone buildings that glow pink at sunset, this heritage hotel offers a luxurious stay in the heart of the action.
Highlights
Highlights
Fabulous fort views,
Old city location
Best for
Couples,
Solos
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                Udaipur, India
RAAS DeviGarh
Raas DeviGarh is a striking hilltop fort palace just outside Udaipur, offering an extraordinary fusion of ancient architecture and modern design. This 18th-century stronghold has been transformed into a luxurious retreat with minimalist interiors, panoramic Aravali views and award-winning service. Romantic, restful and refreshingly different, it’s a unique place to unwind.
Highlights
Highlights
Hilltop palace views,
Minimalist heritage fusion,
Peaceful retreat feel
Best for
Couples,
Design Enthusiasts
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                Andhra Pradesh, India
Taj Falaknuma Palace
Towering above Hyderabad’s skyline, Taj Falaknuma Palace is a spectacular showcase of regal grandeur. Painstakingly restored to mirror the lifestyle of the Nizams, the palace is a treasure trove of European antiques, glittering chandeliers, and centuries-old artworks. From the moment you arrive, it promises an experience steeped in history and opulence.
Highlights
Highlights
Palace heritage,
Hilltop views,
Fine dining
Best for
Couples,
Culture Seekers,
Luxury Travellers
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                Mumbai, India
Taj Mahal Palace
Overlooking the Arabian Sea beside Mumbai’s Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is one of India’s most iconic heritage properties. Built in 1903, its ornate blend of Moorish, Florentine and Oriental architecture makes a dramatic impression both inside and out. The palace wing is a celebration of regal Indian design, from Belgian chandeliers to historic tribal artefacts, while the newer tower wing provides a more contemporary experience. Service is refined, the atmosphere quietly luxurious, and the harbourfront location hard to beat.
Highlights
Highlights
Waterfront location,
Historic architecture,
Grand luxury
Best for
Families,
Couples,
Culture Seekers,
Business Travellers
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                Rajasthan, India
Taj Lake Palace
Floating like a mirage in the centre of Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace is one of India’s most iconic hotels. Only accessible by boat, its gleaming white marble structure, serene setting, and ornate interiors create a truly exclusive experience. Every room boasts views of the lake or surrounding palaces, and the sense of romance here is unparalleled.
Highlights
Highlights
Exclusive island location,
Royal heritage,
Lake views
Best for
Couples,
Honeymooners,
Luxury Travellers
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                Rajasthan, India
Taj Rambagh Palace
Once the royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, the Taj Rambagh Palace exudes a sense of stately calm and enduring elegance. Set within 47 acres of manicured gardens, this heritage property blends Indo-Saracenic architecture with rich decorative styles to evoke a genuine sense of regal grandeur. A stay here means attentive service, ornate interiors, and the luxury of history at every turn.
Highlights
Highlights
Palace heritage,
Expansive gardens,
Fine dining
Best for
Couples,
Honeymooners,
Culture Seekers
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                Delhi, India
The Imperial New Delhi
Right in the heart of Connaught Place, The Imperial is one of Delhi’s most iconic hotels: a grand, colonial-era landmark full of stories. Its rich history, vibrant public spaces, and striking heritage architecture offer guests a classic yet energetic experience in India’s capital.
Highlights
Highlights
Colonial heritage,
Central Delhi location,
Fine dining
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Culture Seekers
Gallery
 
                             
                             
                            
    
    
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                Udaipur, India
The Leela Palace Udaipur
The Leela Palace Udaipur offers a striking blend of grandeur and comfort on the shores of Lake Pichola. With its unrivalled lake views, expansive design and high-end amenities, it’s one of the city’s most luxurious retreats.
Highlights
Highlights
Lakefront setting,
Panoramic views,
Modern luxury
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Honeymooners
Gallery
 
                             
                             
                            
    
    
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                Uttar Pradesh, India
The Oberoi Amarvilas
A stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas offers what few hotels in the world can: uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal from every room. Nestled just 600 metres from this world wonder, the hotel is a peaceful haven of Mughal-inspired luxury far removed from Agra’s busy streets.
Highlights
Highlights
Unrivalled Taj Mahal views,
Mughal-inspired elegance,
Tranquil gardens
Best for
Couples
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                Rajasthan, India
Udai Bilas Palace
Perched on the banks of Gaibsagar Lake, Udai Bilas Palace is a majestic blend of regal history, intricate architecture, and serene natural beauty. Once the private residence of Dungarpur’s royal family, it now welcomes travellers seeking an atmospheric and memorable stay.
Highlights
Highlights
Royal heritage,
Lakeside setting
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Culture Seekers
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                            Our Unique Holidays in India
Relaxing, immersive, life-affirming adventures that show you the best of the destination. Packed with experiences that connect you to the country and are kind to its people and environment. Your holiday can be as adventurous or as luxurious as you choose, as every trip will be turned into your own bespoke package.
Here are some ideas to spark your curiosity…
				Showing 4 Featured Itineraries
				
			
	
			
    
    
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                India
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
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                India
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
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                India
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
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                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
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