Discover Heritage Luxury: Unforgettable Stays Across India!
1. Khem Vilas Ranthambore
Overview:
Khem Villas, nestled within the verdant expanses of Ranthambore National Park in Eastern Rajasthan, offers an ecological sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This former royal hunting ground is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the majestic Bengal tiger, leopards, marsh crocodiles, and a vibrant array of bird species. The park also boasts historical landmarks like the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, the Ganesh Mandir, and the scenic Padam Talao Lake, adorned with water lilies. Khem Villas, spread over 25 tranquil acres, provides a perfect base to explore these natural and historical treasures, offering award-winning service and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Experience:
Accommodation:
Luxurious villas, cottages, and tents designed for privacy and comfort, with eco-friendly amenities and stylish interiors featuring teak furniture and soft lighting.Facilities:
The main building includes a library and bar, with a garden forming the central public area. Outdoor baths and private sit-outs are available in some accommodations.Activities:
Early morning and afternoon jeep drives through the park, visits to Ranthambore Fort, river safaris on the Chambal, and excursions to the black buck sanctuary.Engagement:
Opportunities to participate in local social projects and community programs.Spa and Wellness:
The Age Veda Spa, spanning thirty acres, offers yoga, sunbathing, meditation, massages, herbal baths, and nature trails.Dining and Socializing:
Evening drinks around a campfire, star-gazing with a naturalist, and lessons in organic farming, local dairy visits, bird and butterfly walks, art classes, and camel rides.
Perfect For
Khem Villas is ideal for anyone seeking a serene escape into nature. It caters to bird watchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and star-gazers, providing privacy and comfort for individuals, couples, families, and small groups. Its proximity to Jaipur makes it a convenient addition to a golden triangle tour, especially for first-time visitors to this part of India. Whether you seek adventure or tranquillity, Khem Villas promises an unforgettable experience amid the beauty of Ranthambore.
2. Neeleshwar hermitage
Overview:
Northern Kerala, traditionally known as Malabar, is a hidden gem characterized by pristine beaches, coconut plantations, serene inland waterways, lush spice gardens, and a tranquil lifestyle framed by the Arabian Sea. Neeleshwar Hermitage, nestled in a secluded coconut grove on the untouched Malabar coastline, offers a unique retreat that redefines the concept of a holiday. This serene haven combines traditional Kerala architecture with contemporary design, providing a stylish yet tranquil escape.
Highlights
Accommodation:
18 private cottages inspired by traditional fisherman’s huts, offering sea view, garden view, and private pool options. Rooms feature teak floors, high ceilings, and locally crafted furniture, with luxurious indoor-outdoor bathrooms.Dining:
Two dining venues—Annapurna, a vegetarian restaurant focusing on Ayurvedic principles, and Meenakshi, a beachfront restaurant offering authentic Malabari dishes and seafood delicacies. Additionally, there are two bars: Annapurna Bar and Varuna Bar overlooking the pool.Activities:
Enjoy the infinity pool, afternoon cocktails, spa treatments, visits to Bekal Fort, trips to neighbouring villages, cycling around paddy fields and temples, and exploring the backwaters on the luxurious Lotus houseboat.Sustainability:
Commitment to environmental and community-friendly practices including single-use plastic reduction, safe garbage disposal, water conservation, energy efficiency, biodiversity conservation, local community engagement, light footprint tourism, and heritage preservation.
Perfect For
Neeleshwar Hermitage is ideal for those seeking a traditional Malabari experience, providing a perfect setting to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate. Families, groups, and solo travellers will find the garden-facing rooms particularly suitable. Open year-round, this retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Malabar, offering an unforgettable blend of luxury, nature, and cultural heritage.
3. Chanoud Garh
Overview:
Tucked away in the heart of Rajasthan, Chanoud Garh is a 300-year-old palace that beautifully merges Mewar, Marwar, and British architectural styles. Spanning over 200,000 square feet, this heritage homestay offers an immersive experience into the rich history and culture of the legendary Mertia Rajputs. Ideally situated between Jodhpur and Udaipur, Chanoud Garh is a family-run establishment that provides ten meticulously curated suites, each designed with unique aesthetics and comfort in mind. This hidden gem offers a highly personalized stay, with interactions led by the resident family, making it a distinctive and intimate retreat.
Highlights
Accommodation:
Ten large, air-conditioned suites, each uniquely designed and decorated with local artifacts. Some suites include private balconies and all feature spacious ensuite bathrooms. The Bhurj suite, fashioned from a turret, offers a special experience for couples and families.Dining:
A variety of dining options, including Moti Mahal for lunch and Jenana Chowk or the old terrace for dinner. Meals are supervised by the family matriarch, featuring traditional Rajasthani cuisine with unique family recipes. Cooking sessions are available for guests to learn signature dishes.Activities:
Village walks, visits to local industries and schools, jeep safaris to the salt pans at sunset, and festival participation. Personal attention from family members ensures a customized experience.Cultural Immersion:
Interact with the host family and learn about the history and traditions of the Mertia Rajputs. The family's dedication to preserving their heritage is evident in every aspect of the stay.
Perfect For
Chanoud Garh is perfect for travellers seeking a serene retreat in rural Rajasthan, history enthusiasts, and lovers of Indian cuisine. It’s an ideal destination for those who appreciate architectural beauty and cultural immersion. Families, couples, and small groups will find the experience enriching, while young children can enjoy birding expeditions and village school visits. Note that the fort’s multi-level layout and absence of a lift may pose challenges for those with limited mobility. Closed during May and June, Chanoud Garh remains an exclusive destination offering a glimpse into the regal past of Rajasthan.
Raas Chhatra Sagar
Overview:
Welcome to RAAS Chhatrasagar, a pioneering glamping experience in Rajasthan that marries luxury with nature. Nestled by a serene reservoir, this unique retreat offers beautifully handcrafted tents with breathtaking views, starlit skies, and ensuite bathrooms. Embrace the pastoral charm of rural communities, indulge in home-cooked and international cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, and unwind with a tranquil sunset under the inky winter skies. RAAS Chhatra Sagar is designed to provide a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal sanctuary for weary travellers seeking peace and rejuvenation.
Highlights
Accommodation:
16 luxury tents, including 4 family tents and 2 twin tents, all air-conditioned and thoughtfully furnished. Each tent features private sit-outs with stunning views of the lake and surroundings.Dining:
An all-day dining restaurant with a bar, offering local, Indian, and international cuisine made from homegrown organic produce. Private dining experiences can be arranged upon request.Wellness:
A wellness spa and yoga facilities, along with a heated swimming pool. Rejuvenating treatments and private yoga sessions are available.Activities:
Wildlife safaris, birdwatching, bush lunches, boat birding, sundowners by the lake, village visits, and cooking lessons. Engage in curated excursions that offer an authentic taste of rural Rajasthan.Sustainability:
RAAS Chhatra Sagar adheres to eco-friendly practices, including eliminating single-use plastics, conserving water, using solar power, and promoting local biodiversity.
Perfect For
RAAS Chhatra Sagar is perfect for travellers looking to unplug from city life and immerse themselves in nature without compromising on comfort. Ideal for birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a genuine rural Rajasthan experience. The luxurious tents, wellness amenities, and variety of activities make it suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers alike
5. Chapslee, Shimla
Overview:
Shimla, a splendid relic of the British Raj, continues to enchant with its historic charm and heritage architecture. Despite the pressures of modern development, Shimla retains the allure that earned it the title "Queen of the Hills" and the honor of being the British summer capital. Among its many treasures is Chapslee, a heritage hotel that stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. Built in 1828 and transformed into a hotel in 1973, Chapslee offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of the past. Its meticulously preserved architecture, vintage furnishings, and timeless traditions provide an intimate glimpse into the bygone era.
Highlights:
Accommodation:
Five spacious suites, each uniquely designed and adorned with priceless artifacts, tapestries, and vintage furnishings.Dining:
A gourmet experience featuring recipes from North Indian Royal Houses, Indian, Anglo-Indian, and Continental cuisine. Notable for its inclusion in Chef Anthony Bourdain’s "Parts Unknown."Ambience:
A living museum with wallpaper, crystal, and chandeliers from the Raj era. Evening candlelight and mood lighting enhance the historical charm.Activities:
Themed walks around Shimla, guided tours of historical trails, leisurely multi-course lunches, and formal dinners. Guests are encouraged to dress for dinner and enjoy the traditional liveried tea service.Heritage Preservation:
Committed to maintaining its architectural and cultural heritage, Chapslee offers an authentic historical experience.
Perfect For
Chapslee is ideal for history enthusiasts and lovers of vintage charm. With just five rooms, it provides an exclusive and intimate setting for family gatherings and special celebrations. The hotel is perfect for those who appreciate heritage and wish to immerse themselves in a bygone era, enjoying slow cuisine, high tea, and timeless traditions.
6. Bari Kothi, Azim Ganj
Overview:
Nestled along the eastern bank of the Ganges, Murshidabad is a historical gem located about six hours from Kolkata. As you arrive, it feels like stepping into a bygone era, where grand buildings whisper tales of a prosperous past. In the 18th century, Murshidabad was a wealthy cosmopolitan hub, home to affluent banking and merchant families, including the Armenians, and was a center for European business, notably the British East India Company. Bari Kothi, a heritage mansion built in the late 1700s by the Dudhoria family, epitomizes this rich history. Restored and reopened in 2018 as a heritage hotel, Bari Kothi offers a luxurious escape into the opulence of the past, blending Greek, Roman, and French architectural influences.
Highlights:
Accommodation:
15 rooms across three categories—Heritage Suites, Royal Heritage Suites, and Maharaja Heritage Suites—each adorned with antique furniture and rich fabrics.Dining:
Exquisite vegetarian cuisine blending Rajasthani and Bengali flavors, featuring local ingredients and unique dishes like mango-based desserts and chutneys. Three dining areas: Naubat Khana, Zareen Mahal, and Durbar Hall.Ambience:
A living museum with vibrant colors, ornate furniture, and courtyards showcasing the wealth and opulence of the past.Leisure:
Library, music room, open courtyards, and a riverside café. Curated experiences include heritage walks, boat cruises, and visits to historical sites like Hazarduari Palace.Cultural Activities:
Evening folk dance and music performances, storytelling, and bird watching on the riverbanks.
Perfect For
Bari Kothi is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and those seeking a cultural retreat. It’s perfect for families, including children, as well as individuals with accessibility needs, with one ground floor room designed for the differently-abled. The intimate setting is perfect for small gatherings and special celebrations, offering a unique opportunity to immerse in the rich heritage of Murshidabad.
7. Raj Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Overview:
Jaipur, known as the 'Pink City of India' and a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates tourists worldwide. Situated in the heart of Rajasthan, Jaipur is easily accessible by road, air, and rail. This vibrant city offers a wealth of attractions, from heritage sites like Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace to the bustling Johri Bazaar and its culinary delights, including daal baati churma, ker sangri, ghevar, and gatte ki sabji. In this historic setting stands the Rajmahal Palace, built in 1729 and once home to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Maharani Gayatri Devi. This heritage palace, now a luxurious hotel, has hosted some of the world's most prominent dignitaries and continues to offer unparalleled hospitality.
Highlights:
Accommodation:
13 rooms and suites, including two Royal Apartments, blending classic and contemporary styles with vibrant colors and traditional frescos.Dining:
Three distinct venues—The Bar, Polo, and 51 Shades of Pink—offering a delightful range of Indian and international cuisines, wines, and beverages.Amenities:
Serene gardens, a stunning Art Deco-style swimming pool, and luxurious leisure spaces filled with royal family photos, polo trophies, and heirlooms.Experiences:
Curated visits to Jaipur's iconic sites, including Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, Jai Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace, with exclusive tours of the royal family's private quarters.Activities:
Picnics, bike rides, 4WD drives, pool and spa relaxation, and visits to local temples and the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation.
Perfect For
RAAS Rajmahal is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking to spend quality time together, and those celebrating special occasions. With its rich heritage, luxurious amenities, and curated experiences, it serves as the perfect base for exploring Jaipur and its surroundings.
8. Glenburn Penthouse, Kolkata
Overview:
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a city that blends charming chaos with rich history dating back to 1690 AD. Declared a Presidency city, it became the headquarters of the East India Company by 1773, resulting in a proliferation of colonial architecture. Today, Kolkata boasts the highest density of British architecture outside the United Kingdom, while its bustling streets, temples, and bazaars reflect a distinctly Indian and Bengali culture. Nestled in this historic city is Glenburn Penthouse, an exquisite retreat that offers a seamless blend of sophisticated elegance and timeless charm.
Highlights :
Accommodation:
Glenburn Penthouse offers nine spacious suites, including the Royal Bengal Suites and Calcutta Suites. Each suite features antique four-poster beds, elegant furnishings, and large marble bathrooms with bathtubs and walk-in showers.Dining:
Guests can enjoy a culinary journey featuring a blend of colonial, Bengali, Anglo-Indian, and Kolkata street-food inspired dishes. Fresh local ingredients are used, and breakfast and afternoon tea are included in the tariff.Amenities:
The penthouse includes an open-air lounge, an infinity pool, serene gardens, and private guest areas adorned with vintage fans, wicker furniture, and tropical plants.Experiences:
Expertly curated city tours by local intellectuals, including personalized walks with Nayana Gangooly, offering deep insights into Kolkata’s heritage, culture, and vibrant history.
Perfect For
Glenburn Penthouse is ideal for families, couples, and history enthusiasts seeking a luxurious retreat in the heart of Kolkata. It serves as a perfect base for exploring the city's rich cultural and colonial heritage, offering a serene escape from the bustling streets below. The penthouse is also perfect for those looking to celebrate special occasions or simply unwind in a chic and tranquil setting.
9. The Rohet House, Jodhpur
Overview:
Jodhpur, often referred to as "The Blue City" and "The Gateway to the Desert," is renowned for the stunning Mehrangarh Fort that majestically overlooks the old town. Set against the stark desert landscape, Jodhpur is a vibrant mix of historic mansions, palaces, temples, and bustling bazaars. Known for its rich culinary traditions and delightful street food, this city promises a sensory feast of experiences. Nestled in a serene residential area of Jodhpur is The Rohet House, a haven of elegance and style that offers immersive and curated experiences of the Blue City.
Highlights
Accommodation:
The Rohet House features six lavish suites, each uniquely styled with locally woven rugs, block-printed fabrics, and hand-painted frescoes. Additionally, there are two standard rooms that combine modern furnishings with traditional Rajasthani artwork. All rooms offer views of the pool or garden, free WiFi, tea and coffee facilities, air-conditioning, and televisions.Dining:
The onsite restaurant, set in the back garden, serves meals based on family recipes created by the late Thakurani Jayendra Kumari. Guests can enjoy a set menu that changes daily, featuring fresh local ingredients and herbs from the garden. The dining ambience is regal, with chandeliers, antique mirrors, and traditional pink Makrana stone decor.Experiences:
Exclusive excursions include curated shopping trips, street food trails, early morning market walks, and visits to temples. Guests can also book a day’s visit to Rohet Garh and participate in the signature Village Safari to experience rural Rajasthan. The Equestrian Program offers rides on Marwari horses, and culinary workshops allow guests to learn and taste traditional Rajasthani dishes.
Perfect For
The Rohet House is perfect for anyone seeking a stylish retreat in the heart of Jodhpur. It caters to individuals, couples, friends, and families with children aged 14 and above. The property is ideal for those interested in Rajput history and culture, shopping, and street food. It's also suited for small social events and working away from home. The Rohet House's deep ties with the local community are evident in their support for local businesses, artisans, schools, and medical camps. Their pioneering Village Safari concept showcases how responsible tourism can create shared value, allowing guests to experience the rich heritage and culture of rural Rajasthan while contributing to community upliftment.
10. The Malabar House, Kochi
Highlights
Fort Kochi, a historic gem along the glistening estuary, has been a magnet for traders, explorers, and travellers for over six centuries. This enchanting town boasts iconic Chinese fishing nets, a 450-year-old synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese and Dutch-era houses, and remnants of the British Raj. The town’s rich blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British heritage, coupled with its tropical Keralan backdrop, offers a unique, leisurely experience. Artisanal cafes and some of India’s finest heritage hotels add to its charm, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in Keralan arts, Kathakali, and Kalarippayattu.
Experience:
Accommodation:
The Malabar House features exquisitely crafted rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a mix of antique and contemporary art. Rooms offer ensuite bathrooms, restful living spaces, verandahs, and terraces with beautiful garden or pool views. Signature elements include handpicked furnishings, local artwork, and modern amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, and televisions.Dining:
The hotel's dining experiences are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The in-house restaurant, Divine, serves an array of tapas, Indian, regional, and Continental cuisines. Malabar Junction, an al fresco dining area, is perfect for evening meals under the stars, accompanied by Carnatic music. The in-house bakery and wine lounge further enhance the culinary journey.Experiences:
Guests can indulge in a variety of curated activities, such as backwater village tours, market visits, and culinary classes. The spa offers unique treatments inspired by local Kalari art, ensuring a rejuvenating stay. Signature experiences also include daily yoga, traditional Sadhya feasts, and sunset canoe rides.
Perfect For
The Malabar House is ideal for families, groups, and solo travellers seeking an atmospheric setting with more than just functional amenities. This boutique heritage hotel offers a unique blend of history, art, and culture, making it a destination in itself. Guests can spend their days exploring the rich heritage of Fort Kochi or simply relaxing within the tranquil confines of the property. The hotel's commitment to sustainability and community support further enhances the guest experience, ensuring a stay that is both enriching and responsible. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a culinary enthusiast, The Malabar House provides a perfect base for an immersive holiday in Kerala.
Ging Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Overview
Darjeeling, famed for its tea and colonial heritage, offers a serene retreat amidst the mighty Himalayas. The Ging Tea House, nestled in the Lebong Valley, is a sanctuary of tranquillity and natural beauty. Set on a sprawling 960-acre tea estate, this colonial bungalow offers panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga, making it an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Highlights
Colonial Splendor:
Experience the charm of colonial life at the heritage 'Burra Bungalow' of Ging Tea House. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the estate while sipping on Darjeeling tea and enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas.Distinctive Suites:
Indulge in luxury and comfort in one of the six uniquely styled suites. From the spacious Spring Suite to the cozy Chevron Suite, each room is adorned with antique furniture, vibrant furnishings, and modern amenities, offering a perfect blend of elegance and warmth.Culinary Delights:
Delight your taste buds with multi-cuisine delights served in the spacious communal dining room. Enjoy fresh, seasonal produce sourced from the organic kitchen garden while soaking in the scenic beauty of the tea plantation.Tea Tour:
Embark on a fascinating journey through the tea gardens with a guided tea tour. Learn about the intricate process of tea production, from plucking to tasting, and indulge in a sensory tea tasting session that will awaken your senses.
Perfect For
Ging Tea House is an ideal destination for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat amidst nature's bounty. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a special celebration, this boutique heritage hotel promises an unforgettable experience. Children and young adults can partake in a range of activities, from planting seeds in the kitchen garden to momo making sessions, ensuring a memorable stay for all.
