A formally feudalistic country, in almost every state you look you will find palaces ensconced by crumbling forts, opulent abodes owned by ruling Thakurs and art deco new builds home to modern maharajas. Today such dwellings can be more of a burden than a blessing and almost financially ruinous to maintain. Luckily for the rest of us, many a maharajah turned to hospitality and unbolted the gates to tourism. Some of the top palaces are now the the best palace hotels in India and providing mere mortals with a truly unique experience.

India's best Palace Hotels

For ultimate luxury

• Taj Palaces reign supreme in India and Falaknuma Palace, meaning ‘Mirror of the Sky’ is one of their finest offerings. Still owned by the royal family of Hyderabad it is awash with shimmering silks, astral chandeliers and enough marble to fill a quarry. Quite literally a shining example of a five star palace stay.
• Completed in 1943 and designed by British architect Henry Lancaster, Umaid Bhawan Palace is the ultimate in art deco opulence. Still the abode of the reigning Mahrajah of Jodhpur, Naomi Campbell famously took over the entire palace throwing a no expenses spared 50th birthday party. Unabashed five star luxury.
• For the best palace hotels in India offering sheer opulence look no further than The Oberoi Grand, whose alabaster façade overlooks Calcutta’s maidan. Built at the turn of the 19th century it maintains its gentleman’s club feel with plenty of polished wood and a two-hundred year old grand piano. The city’s most lavish hotel.
• Yet another luxurious Taj offering, the Rambagh Palace is a beacon in beautiful marble of a bygone era. The former residence of the Maharajah of Jaipur, it is a quintessential palace stay. Peacocks traverse lawns manicured to the millimetre, whilst guests can remain recumbent by the pool or the spa. Divine.

For romance

It doesn't get much more romantic than a stay in one of the best palace hotels in India. Here's our pick for an indulgent stay with your loved one:

• Often referred to as ‘The Venice of India’ a visit to Kashmir is a truly romantic stay. With views of the mirror-like the Dal Lake, The Lalit Grand Palace, former residence of the Kashmiri royal family, maintains its regal grandeur. Interiors appear to have stood still in time since its completion in 1910, save for a few mod cons, a spa and indoor pool.
• An hour’s drive from Jaipur, Samode Palace has remained in the family for generations. Boasting some of the finest frescoes and mirror-work in Rajasthan, it is a prime example of Mughal architecture. Sumptuous rooms and its secluded location, make it perfect for couples.
• Quite simply one of the world’s most romantic hotels, in one of India’s most romantic locations. Another five star offering, the Taj Lake Palace is testament to the hotel chain’s unbridled hospitality. Accessed by boat, lavish suites look out onto Lake Picola, as does the rooftop dining.
• With rooms located on top of the fort, overlooking the Narmada River, the 18th century Ahilya Fort enjoys a dramatic setting. The current owner has released several cookbooks, so the food is excellent. Enjoy candlelit dinners at surprise locations around the property or a boat ride for two on the river.

For a chic stay

"Chic" is not necessarily an adjective that springs to mind when imagining the best palace hotels in India. But they're not all period interiors........the design conscious amongst you need not be disappointed!

• A rose tinted palace in The Pink City, Sujan Rajmahal features stylish interiors courtesy of the acclaimed Adil Ahmed. Palettes of turquoises and pinks, blues with white are effortlessly photogenic. A design lover’s dream.

Great Value

• A rare opportunity for a palace stay at an extremely affordable price. Laxmi Vilas Palace boasts a cavernous dining hall and landscaped gardens. Located within easy reach of Agra it is a great option for visiting the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri.

Off the beaten track

• Located in a less touristy corner of less touristy Tamil Nadu, Rajakkad nestles in an unspoilt spot overlooking the verdant Western Ghats. Cool climates and even cooler rooms (despite no AC) make it both ideal for an eco friendly and a year round visit.
• Bhopal is not a tourist’s obvious choice but Jehan Numa Palace is the gateway to Satpura Tiger Reserve. Great for families and well priced, it showcases a contemporary approach to a palace stay.
• As the tarmac road subsides you know you are getting closer to Ramathra Fort. Rising up out of the desert this 17th century palace fort has been converted into a luxurious hilltop hideaway. Choose from palatial suites and romantic tented accommodation. Easily one of the best palace hotels in India for those who want to experience the country away from the crowds.

For a boutique stay

• Still home to the reigning king of Ladakh (in all but name alone) Stok Palace is an experiential stay. Whilst interiors might not be to everyone’s taste, they are authentically Ladakhi and include hand painted thangkas and ancient artefacts. Modern bathrooms are a welcomed addition and a private audience with the king completes the stay.
• Another of the Maharaja of Jodhpur’s top-drawer hospitality ventures, Ranvas is located within the 500-year-old fort walls. The fruits of a loving restoration this chic desert retreat is well worth the journey. Ideal for couples. Visit during February for the annual World Sufi Spirit Festival.
• Overlooking Lake Gaibsagar, Udai Bilas Palace is a one of a kind. Bucolic surrounds, a stunning pool and idiosyncratic interiors ranging from traditional Rajasthani to art deco make this a charmingly quirky property.

Nothng amongst our pick of the best palace hotels In India that fits the bill? Check out our recommendations for Rajasthan's best palace hotels, expand your search to include all our India collections, or contact a friendly guru for advice.

 

Written by Megan Lambert

posted Wednesday, 10th April 2024