Hotels in India | Timbuktu Travel

Khem Villas

Ranthambore National Park

Popular |

From $290 per person/night

An eco-chic, family-owned retreat in a wildlife utopia on the edge of Ranthambore.

There’s a few properties around that claim a foundation on sustainable, ethical tourism and Khem Villas is one of those that just gets it right. From the 20-acre grounds, an ecological oasis that was mostly hand-planted and teems with wildlife and birds, to the all-local staff and the entirely vegetarian, home-grown food - it’s an eco-chic paradise. Accommodation is in a selection of pretty cottages, tents and rooms, all surrounded by that glorious vegetation, making you feel like a true explorer – and a stylish one at that. Located on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, and just far enough away from the main cluster of camps, it’s one of our favourite choices for a tiger spotting safari, hands down.

Brunton Boatyard

Cochin

26 Rooms

From $330 per person/night

Like a scene from a painting, soak up lake views where sea-faring ships were once built.

From the water of Vembanad Lake, Brunton Boatyard looks every inch the heritage hotel. It may not have been built a hundred years ago, but it was constructed in the image of 19th-century Malabar with lime-plastered walls and shining terracotta floors. Stood grandly at the harbour front (complete with swaying palms), watch bobbing boats and the occasional dolphin as you enjoy a private meal on the jetty. Set in Cochin, the blend of culture and cuisines makes for a fascinating place to explore. Meander past the aged buildings of Jew Town and colourful markets of Mattancherry, before returning for a G&T as the sun sets over the lake.

The Taj Mahal Palace

Mumbai

560 Rooms

From $230 per person/night

Refined, old-world hospitality and unrivalled luxury in the city’s most iconic hotel.

Mumbai’s most stunning landmark with a devoted legion of followers, the Taj Mahal Palace isn’t just a place to stay - it’s a fabulous, iconic, all-singing, all-dancing and utterly splendid palace. Built by Jamsetji Tata in 1903, the exquisite red domes and stained-glass windows have become synonymous with unadulterated luxury and the restaurants, courtyards and bars attract well-heeled locals, exotic travellers and even a fair share of royalty. Today, she towers over the Arabian Sea in south Mumbai’s Colaba district and is on the doorstep of many of the city’s trendiest restaurants and hippest boutiques. But in order to visit them you’ll have to drag yourself away from the sumptuous interiors – and the gin cart that makes the rounds at the swimming pool.

Nimmu House

Ladakh

Popular |

11 Rooms

From $90 per person/night

A charming eco-lodge found 3,000 metres above sea level!

Built in the early 20th Century, Nimmu House is a testament to the Northern Indian and Ladakhi architecture of days gone by. Once left to fall into a state of disrepair, the boutique property was lovingly refurbished by a team of designers, historians and architects, all tasked with bringing it back to its former glory. And boy did they achieve their aim. Today, there are five charming rooms within the main building and seven cosy tents scattered through the fragrant orchards, adorned in local artworks and Kasmiri latticed wood, and a lesson in chic, subtle elegance.

Kumarakom Lake Resort

Kerala backwaters

59 Rooms

From $170 per person/night

A lovely oasis of private pools, tranquil canals and days spent on the lake.

Set amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and winding canals, Kumararkom is a polished resort with all the bells and whistles. Its collection of rooms, villas and suites is scattered across the lawns, each a careful reconstruction of traditional 16th-century homesteads. You could also enjoy a stay at the houseboat on the lake with a private dining area and elegant design. The lake beckons with water sports and boat rides, plus the constant flutter of birdlife. At sunset, toast the day with a drink at the jetty!

Taj Lake Palace

Udaipur

83 Rooms

From $850 per person/night

Like a white lily atop Lake Pichola, plush rooms and fairytale views await at the Taj.

The city's tapestry of placid lakes and romantic architecture meet in style at the Taj Lake Palace - a vision in marble. The hotel was built as an island in the middle of Lake Pichola and has become a well-loved part of the landscape. As well as panoramic views of its watery garden, gaze out at the lofty Aravali hills and the famous City Palace - a view enjoyed from almost every room. Gliding across the lake towards the palace is a dreamy sight after a day of soaking the senses, perfectly topped off with a welcome of cascading rose petals.

Windermere Estate

Munnar

18 Rooms

From $130 per person/night

In utter privacy, the wilds of the Western Ghats and leafy tea fields are your backyard.

Within a world of ancient trees and emerald-green fields of tea, Windermere is a polished yet traditional hilltop estate. Tucked away in the Western Ghats, time moves at a different pace, leaving days wide open for curling up in a hammock with a book or trekking through the never-ending plantations. Built into the natural contours of the mountains, the chalet-style rooms are unfussy yet comfortable, each named after the crops growing nearby. Wake up to the whistle of birdlife in the guava and peach trees, enjoy a cup of chai overlooking the valley and soak up the nature that surrounds you.

The Leela Goa

Goa

206 Rooms

From $390 per person/night

A luxury waterside resort in tropical, sun-kissed Goa

Cross a fabulous resort with all the trappings and a hint of Goan remoteness and you have The Leela. The luxury resort is set on 75 acres of juicy nature and surrounded by swaying palms, flower filled lagoons, and plenty of creamy beaches. As soon as you arrive and find a garland of flowers set around your neck and a cooling coconut drink pressed into your hand, you'll feel like you've landed in a tropical paradise. In fact, it's so delightful, you might not want to leave at all.

Taj Nadesar Palace

Varanasi

10 Rooms

From $290 per person/night

Renowned Taj hospitality in this opulently-restored palace, fit for kings and queens.

This palace of old, close to the River Ganges and set amongst fragrant fields of jasmine, marigolds and mango trees, is a testament to Indian hospitality and luxury. The heavenly idyll is Taj Nadesar Palace, once home to the Maharajah of Varanasi and host to glamorous guests including Queen Elizabeth II, the King of Persia and the Queen of Bhutan. Picture four poster beds draped in the finest silks, tranquil gardens to wander in, regal spa treatments to send you to heaven, and dishes brimming with delectable ingredients. And that's just the beginning...

The Kumaon

Kumaon

From $220 per person/night

Minimalist mountain perfection in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The land The Kumaon sits on was originally set aside for a private home - and boy are we pleased that the plans fell through and it's now a hotel that we can visit ourselves! The property itself is exquisitely designed (by disciples of the iconic Geoffrey Bawa nonetheless) using natural materials from the local environment, and perfectly complements the surroundings with its neutral textiles and palette. There are only 10 suites and the place has a knack of making you feel as though it's just you and those eye-watering views... All in all, a devastatingly-stylish mountain bolthole, that has simplistic luxury down to a tee.

Trident Chennai Hotel

Chennai

167 Rooms

From $90 per person/night

In Tamil Nadu's capital city, The Trident is a well-tuned hotel with plenty to do.

In the middle hustling and bustling Chennai, The Trident is a modern hotel catering for everything you could possibly need. 167 comfortable rooms and suites make for a welcome return after a day of exploring, with plenty of dining spots to tuck into some local cuisine. With the city centre just next door, The Trident is close to Chennai's many temples and museums making it a perfect spot for exploring. Thanks to its five acres of lush gardens, it's like an oasis amongst the city streets where walking trails round the property and sunny afternoons by the pool are given.

Taj Exotica Resort

Andaman Islands

54 Rooms

From $280 per person/night

Escape everyday life and lose yourself in sprawling beachside luxury.

A tropical addition to the renowned Taj family, the Exotica Resort is 46 acres of unencumbered luxury on Havelock Island. Not only does the resort sit upon the famously beautiful Radhangar Beach, it’s also surrounded by coconut trees, mangrove forests and orchards bursting with mangoes, mud apples and mulberries - heaven! You’ll find everything you need for a blissful beach getaway, with 54 ritzy villas to choose from, three delicious restaurants and an Olympic-size infinity pool. And whilst the resort might be big, its footprint is small: not one tree was cut down during construction, it’s partially solar powered, there’s an onsite bottling plant, and a reservoir to collect rainwater too.

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Agra

102 Rooms

From $280 per person/night

One of India's finest hotels with unbeatable views of the iconic Taj Mahal.

It goes without saying that The Oberoi Amarvilas is the last word in sumptuous luxury, but if we had to use one word (or three) to sum it up, it would have to be location, location, location. The hotel has unparalleled views of the Taj Mahal from just about every balcony and sun-shaded terrace, and guests can watch in awe as the world's most famous monument changes colour with the sun rise and set, turning from sparkling white, to pink, then orange. The views aren't the only draw, however, and the interiors will take your breath away every time you return; think beautiful, handcrafted details, rich textiles and intricate marblework. Celebrities and royalty alike have stopped at this fabulous spot and it truly is the place to stay if you're doing Agra in style.

Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur

Jaipur

13 Rooms

From $590 per person/night

Strike a luxurious note at this 21st-century palace, hidden in Jaipur's vibrant lanes

If you thought you could never feel at home in a palace, think again! The SUJÁN Rajmahal Palace makes for a gorgeous spot to hang your hat after day spent exploring the treasures of Rajasthan's Pink City. With just 13 (supremely luxurious) rooms, Rajmahal Palace has the feel of a boutique hotel. Its remarkable history as a royal residence and current home of the Maharaja of Jaipur gives a new meaning to 'sensational'. With a design by Adil Ahmed, Rajmahal Palace is somehow quirky and eclectic while achieving next-level luxury. Just ask some of its famous visitors!

The Leela Palace New Delhi

Delhi

254 Rooms

From $180 per person/night

Grand with a capital 'G' in a leafy oasis of bustling Delhi.

A modern-day Indian palace, The Leela in Delhi is a lesson in larger-than-life grandeur. From the gleaming marble domes to the soaring ceilings throughout, everything is enormous (in a good way) and absolutely no attention to detail has been spared. It is, in fact, the flagship hotel of the Leela group and in 2011, underwent a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, complete with chandeliers from Venice, statues from Oman, and the finest of Turkish carpets. Other delights include a smart set of restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, a spa sent from heaven (or ESPA in this case) and some of the largest bedrooms and suites around. It’s also tucked away in the city’s Diplomatic Enclave, so if you’re craving a slice of peace and quiet away from the Delhi buzz, you know what to do...

Andaz Delhi

Delhi

401 Rooms

From $80 per person/night

A luxurious and exceedingly well-positioned oasis, sheltered from the madness of Delhi.

Located in Aerocity, just two miles away from the airport, you would be forgiven for thinking the Andaz would be drab or office-like... but that couldn't be more untrue. As Hyatt's 'hip luxury' child, you'll be surrounded by glossy architecture, beautiful, art-filled interiors and all the high-end comforts you could want. What's more, every single room is spacious and bright with seriously impressive soundproofing – in many, you can watch the planes take off in quick succession. The hotel has many on-site exploits to enjoy, but it's also well-placed to take in the sights of Old and New Delhi.

Mihir Garh

Jodphur

9 Rooms

From $270 per person/night

In Jodhpur's desertscape, this dreamy 'Fort of the Sun' makes for unique memories.

Past the 'Blue City' of Jodhpur, Mihir Garh looks every bit the fortress, and you'd fully expect it to have risen from the sand. Near a sacred dune and the owner's much-loved sunset spot in the desert, the hotel was carefully crafted by over 100 artisans. The owner's wife designed every inch of its interiors, combining modern elegance, rich history and the beautiful environment. They certainly look after their surroundings with the use of natural materials, rain harvesting and solar heating. Just about in the middle of nowhere, this oasis is filled with one-of-a-kind activities - fancy a ride on one of the famous Marwari horses?

SUJÁN Sher Bagh

Ranthambore National Park

From $470 per person/night

A classically-beautiful jungle camp with magical service right on the edge of Ranthambore.

Located on the very edge of the glorious Ranthambore National Park, India’s prime real estate for spotting a flash of Royal Bengal, Sujan Sher Bagh is intimate, beautiful and genuinely couldn’t be any closer to the action. It’s so close, in fact, that one female tiger in particular has been known to wander the pathways! Run by Jaisal and Anjali Singh, the camp harks back to the days of the British Raj and bygone safaris, and there’s a certain old-world glamour to the 12 hand-stitched canvas tents; think smouldering paraffin lanterns, gleaming campaign furniture and plenty of elegant copper fittings. By day, head into the park for wildlife-filled game drives (with hopefully a tiger amongst the varied cast) and by night, enjoy aperitifs at dusk before dinner fit for a Maharajah…

Eighth Bastion

Cochin

From $170 per person/night

In quaint and historic Cochin, museum visits and beach walks are a tuk-tuk ride away.

With its naval themes and framed paintings of scenes at sea, the Eighth Bastion truly belongs in Cochin, a collection of tiny islands off the coast of Kerala. Named after the seven Portuguese bastions of Cochin, it took its place as the eighth on a historic plot of land. The hotel blends modern aesthetics with charming hospitality, beginning with a lime and ginger soda and cold towel on your arrival. Eighth Bastion is, of course, not far from the beach and the quaint city streets make for a diverting stroll, lined with antique shops.

The Oberoi Mumbai

Mumbai

287 Rooms

From $120 per person/night

One of the world's leading hotels, The Oberoi is modern, luxurious & perfectly minimalist.

When a hotel’s reputation precedes it (and contains such utterings as “best hotel in the world”), you know it’s going to be good – and year after year, The Oberoi Mumbai continues to live up to its name. Located on the southern tip of Mumbai, at the end of one of the city’s most exclusive streets, Marine Drive, the hotel is an Art Deco extravaganza from the outside, and a lesson in contemporary glamour on the inside. With a focus on light, height and space, every area, from the lobby to the outdoor pool terrace, is a calm, soothing respite from hot and heady Mumbai. Add a smattering of world-class restaurants, a deliciously-indulgent spa and some of the best views in the city, and you’ve got yourself an intoxicating retreat that's perfect for a city break.

Philipkutty’s Farm

Kerala backwaters

Popular |

From $340 per person/night

Tranquil lake views await at this private island, just the place for a little R&R.

Named after the man who raised Puthankayal island from the lake, Phillipkutty's Farm is an idyllic spot surrounded by lines of coconut, banana and cocoa trees. As you approach Phillipkutty's by a vallam (boat), the traditional, pointed villas peek out from behind the greenery. The homestay farm has a distinct personal touch and the family gladly shares their piece of paradise with you on a tour of the watery fields and local favourites. Explore this world of canals on boating trips where there are plenty of birds to see and village life plays out on their banks.

RAAS Devigarh

Udaipur

Popular |

39 Rooms

From $350 per person/night

Sweeping views and enchanting suites, all wrapped up in a historic palace.

Perched in its own private corner of the Aravalli hills, RAAS Devigarh looks every bit like a palace. With a history dating back to the 18th century, this countryside mogul is carved out of Rajasthan's signature marble and semi-precious stones add shine to its impressive facade. Across its myriad floors, you'll find plenty of places to relax and enjoy the tree-laden views, which extend over the charming village of Delwara. Atop a turret, you can enjoy a good soak in the steaming hot tub or venture out past the tranquil Jain temples. Every moment at Devigarh comes with a smile, but the service never overwhelms and the silence is golden.

Suryagarh Hotel

Jaisalmer

72 Rooms

Experience the Thar Desert's soul‑stirring tranquility and charm

Nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, Suryagarh offers an escape where time slows and the soul finds peace. Surrounded by vast, untouched landscapes, every moment here invites reflection, connection, and a sense of belonging. A sanctuary for discerning travellers, embracing Rajasthan's vibrant culture and the unexplored wonders of Jaisalmer.

Ramathra Fort

Rural Rajasthan

Popular |

From $270 per person/night

A shimmering lake and miles of forestland is your backyard at this historic fort.

Ramathra Fort looks rather mythical from its perch on the hillside. Surrounded by ancient stone walls complete with fairytale turrets, the 350-year old palace is a collection of leafy courtyards, tented lounges and beautiful painted ceilings. Despite its grand outer shell, the rooms aren't particularly ornate, but have an authentic, homely style. Overlooking Kalisil Lake, there's plenty of birdlife to spot and the small, quaint villages nearby complete the scene. Far away from the big cities of Rajasthan, the fort and its countryside views are the main attraction. After a day of exploring or enjoying a little R&R back at the fort, sunset from the ramparts is a fitting end.

Ahilya By the Sea

Goa

From $190 per person/night

A gorgeous restored-mansion-turned-hotel awash with artworks and sun-kissed gardens.

With a good dose of Goan authenticity, interiors (and exteriors) from the pages of a magazine, and a sprinkle of beach-side eccentricity, Ahilya by the Sea has to be one of our favourite picks in Goa. Spread across two orange-hued, Portuguese mansions at the southernmost edge of Coco Beach, it’s miles away from the glittering tourist trappings. Villas and bedrooms are adorned in carefully-curated pieces from the owner’s collection and the views of the fishermen casting their nets into the Arabian Sea are perfect. It’s serene, elegant and tranquil – and we’ve never stayed anywhere quite like it.

Shakti Kumaon Village Houses

Kumaon

Popular |

6 Rooms

From $680 per person/night

A thrilling trek through the Himalayan foothills and an insight into local life.

If you've always dreamt of exploring the Himalayas on foot but don't want to forgo the comfort of having a roof over your head, then read on... Shakti Kumaon Village Houses are centred around walking and you'll spend your days hiking along trekking paths, exploring local villages and visiting temples. At night, you'll bed down in village cottages, all perfectly cosy and with just as many mod cons as you'll need. Local guides will lead the way as you go, keeping you on track and making sure you don't miss any of the spectacular sights.

The Leela Palace Chennai

Chennai

Popular |

326 Rooms

From $110 per person/night

A regal hotel overlooking the Bay of Bengal complete with plush suites and a rooftop pool.

Looking very grand from its seaside perch, The Leela Palace has 11 storeys of luxury suites and every flavour of restaurant. With the green banks of Adyar Creek on one side and the lapping waves of the Bay of Bengal on the other, The Leela comes with numerous terraces looking out over the water. Feature walls with colourful peacock feathers and a large tree studded with lapis lazuli add an ornate touch to the hotel. The Leela also offers unique facilities like The Cake Shop with inventive bakes and hand-crafted chocolates. Enjoy guided tours where you can see the Chennai's many sides, from the historic to the artsy.

Pashan Garh, A Taj Safari

Panna National Park

12 Rooms

From $190 per person/night

Superlative views of the Vindhya Range welcome you to Pashan Garh, A Taj Safari. Tucked into a rocky outcrop and set amid 200 acres of private forest, the dramatic lines of our safari resort envelope you in luxury while reminding you of the untouched wilderness outside. Stone masonry exteriors give way to refined interiors in the guest area accompanied by a spacious courtyard.

Enter a world of adventure and enthralling experiences at Pashan Garh, A Taj Safari, close to Panna National Park. The intuitive service, plush accommodation, exciting safaris and delicious food ensure you make the most of your stay.

Samode Palace

Jaipur

43 Rooms

From $310 per person/night

Right at home in the 'Land of Kings', history and grandeur reigns at Samode Palace.

Tucked away in the Aravalli foothills, Samode Palace is regal in every way. With a rich history and guest list to match, Samode offers a touch of luxury surrounded by all the markings of a bygone era. Enveloped by greenery against a glimmering desert backdrop, Samode sits like a fortress on the hillside and looks the part too. With 475 years of history, every mosaic and room is something special - and you'll hear all about it on your palace tour. With the scenic town of Samode on your doorstep and the promise of attentive hospitality, you'll definitely want to spend more than one night at this grand hotel.

Imperial Hotel

Delhi

235 Rooms

From $170 per person/night

The grande dame of Delhi’s impressive, colonial-era hotels.

In a city of glamourous, glorious old-world hotels, The Imperial somehow manages to top them all. Built in the 1930s by an associate of Sir Edward Lutyens, the man responsible for much of Delhi’s colonial architecture, it’s wonderfully grand and incredibly luxurious, evident from the moment you’re chauffeured down the palm-lined driveway. Despite the central location (just down the road from Connaught Place and mere minutes from Old Delhi), it’s also a lovely reprieve from the hooting tuk-tuks thanks to seven-acres of beautiful gardens, a shady swimming pool and gorgeous spa. Add a marble-clad foyer and plenty of imperial furniture and it really does feel like you’ve entered a different era.

India

Best hotels in India

Khem Villas

Brunton Boatyard

The Taj Mahal Palace

Nimmu House

Kumarakom Lake Resort

Taj Lake Palace

Windermere Estate

The Leela Goa

Taj Nadesar Palace

The Kumaon

Trident Chennai Hotel

Taj Exotica Resort

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Rajmahal Palace RAAS Jaipur

The Leela Palace New Delhi

Andaz Delhi

Mihir Garh

SUJÁN Sher Bagh

Eighth Bastion

The Oberoi Mumbai

Philipkutty’s Farm

RAAS Devigarh

Suryagarh Hotel

Ramathra Fort

Ahilya By the Sea

Shakti Kumaon Village Houses

The Leela Palace Chennai

Pashan Garh, A Taj Safari

Samode Palace

Imperial Hotel

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