Udaipur, The City of Lakes, In India. (Credit: Unsplash+ in collaboration with Getty Images)
India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, has many luxurious and unique accommodations that cater to every traveler’s dream. From opulent palaces that transport you to a bygone era of royalty to serene beach resorts and chic urban escapes, the best hotels in India promise unparalleled hospitality and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, these top-tier hotels provide the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and local charm. In this article, we’ll explore some of the finest hotels across India, showcasing their standout features, amenities, and why they deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. We visited 12 expert guides to find the five consensus best Indian hotels, looking for the most frequently recommended sites across the reviews. If you have suggestions, please feel free to leave them in the comments below.
StudyFinds is a research-driven platform that analyzes and synthesizes expert recommendations from trusted sources. Rather than writing reviews ourselves, we meticulously compile consensus findings from leading industry experts and established publications to save consumers valuable research time. Each article represents hours of analysis across multiple authoritative sources to identify the most consistently recommended choices.
The List: Best Hotels In India, According To Experts
1. The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur
Out of the 12 sites we reviewed, Oberio Udaivilas ranks as number one across most of the sites. It’s no doubt that this hotel makes for an exceptional stay. Curly tales writes, “This luxurious Oberoi Udaivilas hotel is set on the banks of Lake Pichola and is spread over 30 acres. The hotel is a beautiful construction of domes which is a reflection of the royal city of Udaipur. The hotel has intricate designs, majestic rooms, fine dining experience in the outdoor of the hotel, huge swimming pools and cuisine from over the world. It is set between lush greenery and surrounded by mountains on all sides! The view from the balcony is serene and peaceful. It is the perfect place to spend a luxury weekend.”
You can tailor your stay to include all the amenities you dream of. “I recommend to opt for a suite with a private pool, or for a premier room with comes with direct access to a unique 240 ft (73 m) long semi-private pool and a bath tub with uninterrupted lake views,” adds The Luxury Travel Expert.
Travel And Leisure notes: “Many T+L readers remarked on the Oberoi Udaivilas’s otherworldly setting (as one noted, ‘the location is dreamy’). Another called the hotel ‘heaven on earth,’ praising ‘the architecture, the location, the service, the food, the rooms, the facilities.’ Standout experiences include curated dinners at the lakeside pavilion, cooking and painting classes, visits to thekri glass-inlay workshops, and private city tours. A third T+L reader simply called it a ‘must’ experience.”
“The Udaivilas offer such experiences that linger for a lifetime. The superior accommodations coupled with exotic dining and sincere hospitality invite guests and bring alive countless memories. Surya Mahal, the daytime dining space specializes in Indian as well as Western cuisine and offer mesmerizing views of the surrounding. Chandni, the open air dining area is known for its Indian traditional music and dance performances,” writes Travelogy India.
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur
“The astounding view of Mehrangarh fort and dunes from the hotel makes every bit of your stay worthwhile. The grand rooms and suites showcase incredible art deco architectural style. In the bar, wildlife trophies collected by the Kings are displayed in an impressive setup. In the list of best hotels in India, this palace deserves an indisputable spot,” writes The Asia Collective.
The Luxury Travel Expert says, “Guests can stroll the lush English gardens beautified by bougainvillea, play squash with the Royal Trainer, visit the on-site museum, sip fine brandy over a game of snooker, or experience India’s ancient healing wisdom at the Jiva Grande Spa, which offers holistic ayurvedic treatments and yoga classes.”
Out of all the reviews, Family Destinations Guide ranked Umaid Bhavan first. “Not the place to look when searching for nice affordable hotels in India, but is exactly where you should go for some spiffy amenities and elite service. Visitors of the grand resort rave about its magnificent architecture, lavish guestrooms, award-winning restaurants, and overall top-rated experience.”
“Besides this, visitors can relish Indian, Rajasthani and continental dishes at the restaurant. Indian and international drinks can also be relished at the Trophy Bar,” adds Tour my India.
According to Holiday Travel.co, ”Udaipur, in the heart of Rajasthan, is a city of majestic palaces and beautiful lakes. Here, adorning the banks of Lake Pichola and standing witness to the historic City Palace, The grand setting combined with palatial architecture and a beautiful spa offers an experience created exclusively for those who know there is nothing like too much luxury.”
3. The Taj Palace in Mumbai
Prepare to be mesmerized with a stay at the Taj Mahal Palace. Curly Tales says, “Taj hotel is set in one of the prime locations of Mumbai. The grand architecture, the symmetry of this building always leaves me stunned. Taj Palace is set in the same area as Gateway Of India and is one of the tourist destinations in Mumbai. Can you imagine, Mumbaikar just come here to appreciate its architecture! It offers the best luxury and the view of the iconic is just the thing you need when you are on a vacation!”
The Luxury Travel Expert adds, “Wander the many corridors and galleys before settling in to your room to enjoy the tranquil views. No visit is complete without visiting the Jiva Spa, surrounded by a swimming pool and offering Indian rejuvenation therapies and holistic healing treatments.”
But wait, there’s more! “Although offering high hotel room prices, the Taj Mahal Palace offers guests 5-star treatment that will certainly be treasured and looked back on with delight. Guests love that the hotel offers almost too much, that you wouldn’t want to leave,” comments Family Destinations Guide.
“The meticulously planned luxurious rooms with lavish artistic interiors make it one of the best hotels in India,” writes The Asia Collective. “The palace is an ideal place to unwind and has proudly hosted numerous renowned personalities. Be amazed by the unmatched hospitality of the staff at the glorious Taj Mahal Palace”.
4. Leela Palace in Udaipur
The Leela’s flagship property in Udaipur, often referred to as the “City of Lakes,” is renowned for its majestic views of Lake Pichola and its regal, palace-like ambiance. “The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts have been on a continuous journey to delight guests by providing unparalleled luxury in captivating environs ensconced in the lap of nature and wrapped in the graciousness of Indian hospitality. There are 80 rooms that overlook the Lake Pichola or the city Palace. Adorned with fine Indian carpets, it offers perfect lodging experience with incredible opportunities for travelers. While staying at the Leela Palace, visitors can explore the must see attractions of the city and dig into famous Rajasthani cuisines,” writes Holiday Travel.co.
What can you expect? “All guestrooms at the hotel are lavishly appointed with exquisite embellishments and traditional artisan crafts inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The Leela Palace is prominently known for its fine dining, luxurious amenities, romantic boat rides, and cultural evenings in the stunning inner courtyard,” adds Holidify.
Family Destinations Guide recommends the Leela Place for milestone events. “Planning for special events such as weddings, bridal showers, and bachelor parties? The Leela Palace is a good choice, especially since it dazzles guests with beautiful views overlooking Lake Pichola.”
5. Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad
Perched 2,000 feet above the city of Hyderabad, the Taj Falaknuma Palace is a mesmerizing blend of royal opulence and historic charm. Once the residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad, this palace-turned-hotel offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past with its Venetian chandeliers, priceless artifacts, and intricate frescoes. Culture Trip notes, “One of the most luxurious places to stay in India, Taj Falaknuma Palace exemplifies 19th-century splendour. Dating back to 1894, it was formerly the residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad, who was the richest man in the world at the time. You will be ushered into the resort on a horse-drawn carriage, before strolling through the richly decorated interior. Book the Nizam suite with its private pool and exclusive access to the Jiva spa.”
Guests are treated to a royal experience from the moment they arrive, with horse-drawn carriage rides, personalized butler service, and exquisite culinary offerings that include royal Hyderabadi cuisine. “Whether for business or special occasions, Taj Falaknuma Palace has event spaces for various affairs. Choose from the 101 Dining Hall, main lawns, of the immaculate Rajasthani Gardens and experience magical and memorable moments in this wondrous place,” writes Family Destinations Guide.
The palace’s luxurious suites, verdant gardens, and panoramic views of Hyderabad create an atmosphere of timeless elegance, making the Taj Falaknuma Palace a destination in itself and a perfect retreat for those seeking an extraordinary stay. The Asia Collective adds, “The palace has a vast collection of rare books and photo albums in its library for a journey to the past. The unique dining experiences, spa treatments and the live Qawwali music every evening soothe the soul. Watch the history come alive with a heritage walk through the palace and take a priceless memory with you.”
Sources
- The Asia Collective
- The Luxury Travel Expert
- Family Destinations Guide
- Curly Tales
- Travel And Leisure
- Tour My India
- Holiday Travel.co
- Holidify
- Trip Advisor
- Culture Trip
- Travelogy India
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
