Best hotels in India

Set just an hour outside Agra, Chambal Safari Lodge is a peaceful woodland getaway, built and managed by passionate conservationist and naturalist, Ram Pratap Singh. A descendent of the Singh family, who own much of the surrounding farmland, Singh restored the neglected house in 1999 allowing visitors to explore his ancestral home, and it's a paradise for wildlife and bird lovers. There are 35 acres of land to explore and the guides are knowledgeable and incredibly warm and generous. A lovely change from the hotels in Agra, it's also close enough to combine a visit to Taj Mahal too.

With its towering palms and quintessential pink-faced buildings, Royal Heritage Haveli certainly puts a Rajasthani spin on the word, 'resort'. What was the former hunting lodge of His Highness, Madho Singh Ji, has been carefully restored into a family-run boutique hotel. Harking back to bygone royal get-togethers, the owners hope to capture this feeling as you enjoy the property's many features. Not to mention, day trips out to the vibrant streets of Jaipur discovering its diverse history. Dining is a tasty affair with traditional dishes and creative inventions, all made from local or home-grown ingredients. Dog lovers will also be happy to meet the family's joyful basset hounds who have become a mainstay!

In the bustling and skyscraper-filled hub of Gurgaon, The Oberoi is like its own mini city. Walls of glass and chrome reflect nine acres of manicured lawns, shimmering pools and its own maze garden - plus, an on-site Gucci store! Enjoy a stay at The Oberoi in some of the largest rooms in the city and all under the care of your personal butler. In case the hotel didn't feel elegant enough, the piano bar (set in the famous silver and glass box!) seals the deal. Outside its borders, enjoy an Old Delhi rickshaw tour past traditional markets and ancient forts, and visit the Culture Gully for a taste of the food scene.

Keeping a regal eye on the city from its perch on Chittar Hill, the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace is grand in every sense of the word. Preening peacocks add a splash of signature Jodhpur blue to the scene. It's set in 26 acres of manicured lawns complete with classic cars from the Maharaja's collection. You wouldn't expect anything less from the home of the former Jodhpur royal family. Part palace, part museum and part hotel, the Umaid Bhawan has a lot to offer before you jaunt down the hill to experience Jodhpur for yourself. P.S. At dusk, the yellow sandstone palace looks even more stunning by the glow of a hundred lights.

If your Indian adventures are inspired by the Jungle Book, Samode Safari Lodge certainly won't disappoint. Set in the gloriously-wild Bandhavgarh National Park, it's a great jumping off point for spotting all manner of wild and wonderful creatures, including that famous striped beast, the Bengal tiger. Back at the lodge, you'll find plenty to help you unwind in serious safari style after a long day in the jungle, including a cool-as-a-cucumer spa, outdoor pool and 12 light, bright and breezy villas.

The Oberoi's aptly named, 'home in the forest' is set in 20 acres of lush gardens and forest. 25 luxury tents are dotted across the sprawling property and proud peacocks call amongst the rolling sounds of the jungle. Nature is mirrored in the lodge's colourful murals of florals and wildlife, and the grounds make for a lovely prelude to your adventure into the jungle. Ranthambore is home to the Royal Bengal tiger alongside a menagerie of other wildlife - from the lolloping sloth bear to the 270-strong species of birds. Inspired by the royal caravans of old Rajasthan, The Oberoi Vanyavilas offers historic finery.

Down a tree-lined street, the lemon-yellow walls of Forte Kochi definitely draw the eye. Once a grand Jewish home, the hotel is a blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British styles. Bright hallways dotted with flower arrangements lead to 27 spacious rooms decked out in antique furnishings. Thanks to its location, Forte Kochi is close to just about everything. Stroll down the Beach Walkway or soak up the city's art scene before returning for a dip in the pool and a bite of seafood to the strum of local music.

A sprawling metropolis, Mumbai is a city of extremes from the classic, colourful bazaars to its reputation as the 'film city of India' (which you can get to know on a Bollywood tour). The Leela fits right in with 309 well-appointed rooms and a collection of dining venues, all set in 11 acres of garden complete with a waterfall. As Mumbai's answer to a resort hotel, The Leela combines traditional elements with a polished exterior. It feels like an escape from the busyness of the city, with days spent sipping crafted cocktails by the pool amongst endless swaying palms, before exploring the city.

Six guest houses spread through remote, alpine villages around Leh, Shakti Ladakh is a stay like no other. Lovingly-renovated and built from sun-baked mud bricks in the traditional Ladakhi style, each house provides access to a variety of off-the-beaten track cultural sights and incredible walking, allowing guests to really get under the skin of local life in the region. Each house is exclusively yours so days can be spent doing exactly as you please, whether that be hiking to sacred monasteries, exploring vertiginous villages or simply taking in the jaw-dropping surroundings.

In the 'Venice of the East', The Leela Palace shines brightly from its home on the edge of Lake Pichola. After arriving at the hotel's private dock, you'll be greeted with melodic live music and a sprinkle of roses. With views of the majestic Aravalli mountain range and just a boat-ride away from the city, the grand Leela Palace adds a royal touch to your Udaipur stay. From the moment you awake to a gentle flute in the morning to watching the vibrant Kalbelia dancing by night - every detail is finely tuned.

The seat of power and the private residence for the much-celebrated female leader Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, who ruled from 1765-96, Ahilya Fort to this day remains in the hands of the Holkar dynasty. Run and owned by her direct descendent Prince Richard Holkar, the ancient property has been converted to an all-singing, all-dancing boutique retreat, giving all visitors a taste of the royal life (for a while at least, anyway). Set amid three acres of sprawling gardens and perched atop a hill with views over the Narmada River, you'll feel whisked away to another world...

After a journey through the stillness of the Thar Desert, The Serai emerges like an oasis amongst the scrub. Set in 100 acres of private estate, the tented lodge makes for a dreamy time. From evenings spent under the stars serenaded by age-old melodies to the luxury tents inspired by the bygone royal caravans of Rajasthan, The Serai captures the spirit of Jaisalmer with the utmost style. Gorgeous crafts and textiles are woven into the property with a splash of colour, making for a lovely contrast with the soft hues of the desert. With all the amenities of a well-oiled lodge plus unique desert activities, every minute spent at The Serai is a well-crafted experience. So grab a sundowner and make a toast from the dunes - toes in the sand and all.

As you approach, Lakshman Sagar has the look of two cream-coloured tetris pieces in Rajasthan's Badlands. Its whimsical nature is firmly cemented in the jewel bright decor, far-reaching views and furnishings inspired by local communities - including laundry baskets in the form of tiny hammocks. Set in 32 acres of wilderness on the edge of the Todgarh-Raoli Sanctuary, you can enjoy a breakfast of local delicacies in the fields, kayak across the lake and spend an evening stargazing. Lakshman is forged by a love for nature, where peacocks add a splash of blue to the scrub and you may even spot a curious antelope outside your cottage.

Settled in the heart of Karaikudi, The Bangala is part homestay, part hotel and full-time family home. Every inch of the house, from family heirlooms at the front desk to recipes handed down from one generation to the next, is touched by the property's 100-year history. Pavilion lounges and wide verandas are a welcome spot to relax and the food is known for its signature flavour - the Chettiars certainly know how to feast. Part of staying at the Bangala is getting to experience Chettinad's culture and history, with guided tours taking you to its very heart.

Found in the spot where the Kannan Devan Hills meet Bison Valley, Spice Tree is a polished and well-equipped mountain resort. Looking out over ancient forests hiding fields of cardamom, days at Spice Tree are spent exploring the neighbouring hillsides then returning for a soak in your private pool or jacuzzi. Despite being larger than many Munnar hotels, Spice Tree doesn't lose the personal touch. Your waiters know what you get up to each day and they ask all about your excursions at dinner! The resort has 14 suites and two villas including the Sugati Garden Villa, which is 7km from the main hotel and comes with 8 rooms, a pool and spa room.

A boutique safari lodge with a plethora of luxury touches, an emphasis on sustainable tourism, where activities include wildlife-watching, yoga and Ayurvedic treatments? It might sound too good to be true, but such a place really does exist. It's called the Flame of the Forest Safari Lodge, a small but perfectly formed property with just four luxury cottages, allowing for totally personalised service and freedom to do exactly what you want, when you want. And considering it's setting in the lovely Kanha National Park, that will undoubtedly include the chance to search for India's most famous cat - the tiger.

Sometimes, it feels as though Goa only has resorts of the larger size on offer - but that's where The Postcard Velha comes to the rescue. Set on an estate in Velha Goa (Old Goa in Portuguese) it's a modern, colonial-style property with just eight bedrooms. Surrounded by coconut plantations, a stay here is a calming balm from the hustle and bustle of the streets, and the perfect place to recharge after a day of exploring. You'll feel a world away from the nearby town, but still close enough to get anywhere you'd like to be...

After soaking up the sun along Marari Beach, track sandy footprints back to your private villa or fall easily into a hammock. Set in a tropical garden of coconut palms and fruit trees, Marari echoes the simple charm of the Malabar coast. Stroll across the fields of the organic farm or sit peacefully by one of the many lotus ponds with a steaming cuppa from the chai chetan - his milk pouring skills are legend. If you fancy upgrading your skills in the kitchen, Marari hosts a masterclass! Explore the gardens and pick fresh ingredients then whip up a traditional meal to enjoy with the chef.

"Going to Ananda is more like a pilgrimage than a visit" - Oprah Winfrey... With that kind of praise, do we even need to say any more?! We will, for it's not only Oprah that loves this high-end Himalayan retreat, but Condé Nast Traveller readers also voted it No. 1 Destination Spa in the world in 2019. It's fair to say then that anyone who books a stay here will not be disappointed. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, looking to escape from the world or just after a gorgeous luxury break, Ananda will definitely deliver - and then some.

The Taj Krishna is located near the Old City of Hyderabad, deep in the Banjara Hills on 13 acres of lush green grounds, with views of the heart-shaped Hussain Sagar lake. Such a placement makes it an ideal spot for history buffs looking to get under the skin of the Hyderabad of old, as well as travellers looking explore its modern twin, Secunderabad. A stalwart on the Hyderabad hotel scene, the Krishna is proudly traditional and prides itself on good, friendly service, always with a smile. Add in the lovely swimming pool and those beautiful grounds, and it's a great all-rounder.

Located in the Western Himalayan retreat of Shimla, Clarke's is a memory of times past. Originally owned by a British couple, the property was bought by Mr Mohan Singh Oberoi in 1934, who then went on to found one of India's largest hotel empires (recognise the name?). The characterful hotel retains many of its original features and a stay here will not only settle you in the heart of Shimla, but it will take you back to the days where it was a cool summer escape in the era of the British Raj.

This boutique property, originally built by the royal family of Nepal, occupies a special place on the banks of the Ganges. The city of Varanasi has 88 ghats, traditional stone steps that lead down to the holy River Ganges, and Suryauday Haveli is beautifully located on the Shivala Ghats, on the southern, quieter section of the water. Dating back to the early 20th century, the hotel gives a deep sense of the area's history, architecture and culture, with the aim of giving all guests a traditional ghat experience.

Shakti 360 Leti is truly an untouched paradise. Tucked away in the rarely-visited region of Kumaon, deep in the Himalayas, this unique bolthole offers a one-of-a-kind mountain experience. The property itself is crafted from stone, wood and glass to blend beautifully with its simple but breathtaking surroundings and the key is in the name - everywhere you look, there's an even better view of the snow-hatted Himalayas, usually reserved for the most hardened of hikers. Walking is the name of the game, but if you want to hunker down, breathe in the mountain air, and just relax, this is a pretty good place to do it...

With the Bay of Bengal in its front yard, Fisherman's Cove is a sprawling resort in Tamil Nadu's capital city, Chennai. It looks every inch the beach resort with pockets of swaying palms and private villas where you can soak up the ocean views from your patio swing. Dine under thatched gazebos and enjoy cocktails in the sunken (and utterly cool) bar, before returning to one of their elegant rooms. Chennai's history makes the city a blend of Dutch influences and local flair, which you can get to know on a tour past its many temples and museums; or make a beeline for the beach and stroll to your heart's content.

With a vibe as unique as its name, Pondicherry, fondly known as 'Pondy', is a mix of grand mansions, sari shops and walks on the beach. Filled with heritage furnishings behind the walls of a restored French bungalow, the palais blends two worlds well. Beginning with a welcome of jasmine garlands and a warm face towel, a stay here feels intimate and well-tended. Sitting in the French Quarter, the mustard-coloured Palais de Mahe is a stone's throw from the promenade where you can walk beside the Bay of Bengal. Plus, the hotel provides a handy map, so let the self-guided tours commence.

Safari at its finest, Reni Pani combines incredible wildlife viewing with a good dollop of jungle luxury. Here, you'll have an opportunity to search for famed Bengal tigers on daily safari drives, before retiring back to the beautiful camp where you'll want for absolutely nothing. We're talking exquisitely designed tents and cottages, private butlers, a large pool to cool off in and delectable meals to devour. With just 12 cottages and four luxury tents, it's an intimate, characterful property and the owners are often to be found on site, making sure everything is just-so.

If Kovalam is South India's answer to a relaxed, seaside holiday, then The Raviz is its star player. Atop a cliff with a pretty epic view, the classy resort comes with luxury suites, sleek bars and 60 acres of greenery to enjoy. With the shimmering Arabian Sea laid out before it, The Raviz makes for a worthy spot to switch off from the bustle of India's big cities. And if you'd like to have a bit of activity, the resort has a laundry list of options from laid-back badminton to speed boating along the coast. Grab a specialty cocktail and watch the sunset from your private gazebo!

Up a tree-lined road, Heritage Madurai is a retreat amongst the greenery. Built from the origins of a clubhouse designed by renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, the hotel has quite the history. Set on sprawling grounds dotted with ancient lush trees, Madurai has 72 rooms and 34 villas with private plunge pools. The main pool is in a lovely tranquil spot and was inspired by the Thirumalai Temple. Soak up the picturesque surrounds with dinner under a 200-year-old Banyan tree. After enjoying the on-site amenities, a tour of the ancient and fascinating city of Madurai is definitely in order.

A boutique, nine-bedroom property, the Glenburn Penthouse sits in the heart of Kolkata, former capital of the empire. Amid a sea of large and sometimes impersonal hotels, it stands out for its personal experience and fabulous service. The interiors are tranquil and impeccable, with everything from handmade wallpaper to stylish tubs and a rooftop pool to enjoy. And with a name like that, you better believe there are some incredible views on offer, best admired from the picture-perfect rooftop.

Picture yourself on a quiet island, no-one around to disturb you, pristine beaches lapped by azure waters, and a thatched cottage to rest your head every night... Well, that's Barefoot at Havelock down to a tee! It might be a resort but put all thoughts of luxury hotels from your mind: this is for those looking for true island adventure. Much of the time, the island itself takes centre stage and guests are welcomed to appreciate its beauty whilst also protecting it from harm. Rainwater is harvested, everything is built from indigenous materials, and vegetables are grown organically on the surrounding land. The saying 'take only photos and leave only footprints', really does apply here.