Imagine staying one night in a hotel that housed royalty in the past. India has a rich history marked by several civilizations and eras. Each phase saw new influences and culture which were also reflected in the architecture of that period.
Today, many iconic buildings and palaces have been converted into luxury hotels with modern amenities while retaining an old world charm. So, if you want to be transported in time and indulge in true bliss, here is a list of the top heritage hotels in India that will make you feel like royalty or relive history.
1 – Imperial Hotel, Delhi
Built in 1936, That Imperial Hotel New Delhi located in the prime area of Janpath, central Delhi still carries the legacy of its colonial past. As Delhi’s first luxury hotel, it has hosted royal families from around the world, Hollywood Celebrities and top politicians. The hotel design, which is a blend of Victorian and colonial architecture, was created by British architects. An interesting trivia about the place is that prominent members of the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League met at The Imperial to discuss the division of India, a historic event that changed the future course of the neighboring countries.
This historic building is now standing tall after restoration efforts in the late 90’s and early 2000’s. As well as offering guests a luxurious stay, the hotel also houses the largest collection of colonial artefacts and a museum that has intrigued history lovers from all over the world.
2 – Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Winner of the coveted Travellers’ Choice Award as one of the best hotels in the world, Umaid Bhawan Palace was home to the previous royal family of Jodhpur. This imposing structure constructed of marble and sandstone is estimated to have cost 11 million rupees at its time. This hotel has around 347 rooms and has elements of Indian architecture and Western influences.
Surrounded by 15 hectares of landscape, the hotel’s exterior is as luxurious as its interior. To provide guests with a luxurious stay, the hotel features a banquet hall, private dining room, ballroom, library and an impressive museum exhibiting items belonging to the royal family. To get a glance Indian nobility in the lap of luxury and comfort, Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur is the place to go.
3 – Falaknauma Palace, Hyderabad
Managed by the Taj Hotel Group, the Falaknauma Palace hotel opened to the public only in 2010 after a decade of restoration efforts. This palace is truly magnificent and reflects the luxury of the Nizam family in Hyderabad. The palace has some Turkish influence, which it exercises under supervision by Her Royal Highness Princess Esra, Turkish wife of Nizam. With a total of 60 rooms, the hotel gives its guests a taste of true royalty with a welcome ride aboard the horse-drawn carriage. Another highlight of this hotel is the Dubar Hall which has a dining table with 101 seats.
Overlooking the historic city of Hyderabad, Falakauma Place is the newest and most talked about hotel in recent times. The name of the hotel was all over the news a few years ago, when Bollywood box office’s Raja Salam Khan hosted his younger sister’s wedding at this iconic hotel.
4 – Neemrana Fort Palace, Rajasthan
Situated at a convenient distance from Delhi to Jaipur, Neemrana Fort Palace is a very luxurious hotel. This hotel served as a great weekend getaway objective for people who want to seep into the past, but in the form of pure fun. Notable architectural highlights of the building are the hanging gardens, swimming pools and facilities such as the Ayurvedic Spa and allow guests to relax.
