India: My Favourite Luxury Hotels & Lodges
- Feb 26
- 2 min read
No other country delivers the same scale of contrasts, from chaotic urban energy and extraordinary historical monuments to serene palaces, remote wilderness, and coastal retreats. A well-designed India itinerary is never about a single hotel or landmark, but the seamless flow between experiences, atmospheres, and landscapes.
These are the hotels and lodges I consistently recommend and genuinely rate.
Delhi
The Imperial New Delhi
The Imperial remains one of Delhi’s defining heritage hotels. Grand colonial architecture, museum-worthy interiors, and a calm, retreat-like atmosphere create a stay that feels worlds away from the city’s intensity. It works beautifully as
a soft landing or final night base.
Agra & The Taj Mahal
The Oberoi Amarvilas
The Oberoi Amarvilas delivers one of the most privileged vantage points of the Taj Mahal. Uninterrupted monument views, expansive gardens, and consistently refined service define the experience. It remains the most dependable luxury stay for a Taj-focused visit.
Rajasthan
Rambagh Palace
Rambagh Palace offers one of India’s most iconic palace stays. Formerly the residence of Jaipur’s Maharaja, the property blends extraordinary scale with richly detailed interiors and deeply attentive service. The experience feels unapologetically grand yet remarkably welcoming.
Taj Lake Palace
Few hotels in the world deliver the same cinematic arrival as Taj Lake Palace. Floating serenely on Lake Pichola, the setting alone shapes the entire stay. The atmosphere leans romantic, theatrical, and undeniably memorable.
Six Senses Fort Barwara
Six Senses Fort Barwara presents a beautifully restored fort reimagined through a contemporary luxury lens. Spacious
suites, strong wellness offerings, and a serene atmosphere define the experience. It works particularly well for travellers seeking heritage with a modern sensibility.
RAAS Jodhpur
RAAS Jodhpur offers one of Rajasthan’s most striking design-led stays. Contemporary architecture sits dramatically beneath Mehrangarh Fort, creating a visually compelling contrast. The property appeals strongly to travellers drawn to clean lines and modern aesthetics.
Wildlife & Safari Lodges
Aman-i-Khás
Aman-i-Khás delivers one of India’s most refined safari lodge experiences. Spacious tented suites, exceptional guiding, and Aman’s signature restraint create a stay defined by privacy and immersion. It remains one of the most elevated ways to experience Ranthambore.
SUJAN Sher Bagh
Sher Bagh captures the romance of a classic tented safari camp. The vintage styling, intimate scale, and deeply atmospheric setting create a stay rich in character. It works beautifully for travellers drawn to heritage and authenticity.
Goa
The St. Regis Goa Resort
The St. Regis Goa Resort offers a polished coastal contrast within a beautifully landscaped beachfront setting. Spacious suites, lagoon-style waterways, and resort-scale facilities shape the experience. It works particularly well as a restorative close to a culture-heavy itinerary.
India rewards travellers willing to embrace its contrasts, scale, and intensity. These are the properties that consistently stand out for atmosphere, setting, and overall quality of experience.
If you are considering India and would like guidance on shaping the right itinerary, feel free to get in touch.
