Indian Wildlife and Palaces

Marine Drive is a sweeping crescent in the south of Mumbai that follows the curve of the bay. It is also known as the Queen’s Necklace thanks to the string of golden lights that twinkle like gems in the evening. The Oberoi Mumbai is a jewel of a hotel located on the Drive with spectacular views across the water. The hotel is centred around the lobby, a bright and airy space tiled in white marble and featuring a black granite water feature. A huge skylight and floor-to-ceiling windows flood this space with natural light and at its centre is a stylish red piano. Rooms come with large windows, through which guests can gaze out across the water and Marine Drive. Beautifully furnished with silk armchairs, mother of pearl dressing tables and walls adorned with antique lithographs, rooms and suites have plenty of style and all the special touches you’d expect from a luxury hotel. When it comes to dining, you’re spoilt for choice. Opt for contemporary Indian in the golden-hued Ziya restaurant, or opt for Italian, Japanese or pan-Asian cuisine. If you’re simply after an expertly mixed cocktail or a fine single malt, then the Eau Bar is your port of call. It even features a 500 glass tube installation to ensure the perfect acoustics. When you want to relax, take a dip in the refreshing waters of the outdoor pool or indulge in a spa treatment that blends ancient knowledge and modern science.

Since its opening in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace has been one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks. An architectural gem, the hotel blends plenty of old-world charm with all the comforts of a modern luxury hotel. Its location is hard to beat, perched on the water and overlooking the majestic Gateway of India monument, built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. The hotel’s 560 rooms are spread across the Palace and the Tower wing and come with spectacular views of the city, the Arabian Sea or the Gateway itself. Italian marble bathrooms add another element of luxury. The hotel itself has plenty of character with vaulted ceilings, hand-woven silk carpets, crystal chandeliers and an impressive art collection. There are four restaurants specialising in Japanese, Chinese, contemporary Indian and eastern Mediterranean cuisine. There is also a patisserie that serves a selection of mouthwatering cakes. The Sea Lounge is full of colonial charm and is famous for its afternoon tea which can be enjoyed while enjoying live piano music. There is also the Harbour Bar with a fantastic selection of cocktails and light tapas, and a poolside restaurant set under a lush green canopy. The hotel is a real oasis of calm in the heart of bustling Mumbai, and for the ultimate in relaxation be sure to make use of the large outdoor pool, the fitness centre and the spa with its range of soothing treatments based on ancient Indian healing methods. One experience not to be missed while staying here is the Heritage Walk, where you’ll get an insight into the hotel’s 113-year history and be regaled with many entertaining tales from yesteryear’s guests.

Sat upon Chittar Hill, the highest point in Jodhpur, the Umaid Bhawan Palace is a grand piece of Rajasthan’s heritage, built between 1928 and 1943 as one of the world’s largest private residences and India’s last truly great palace. Still home to the former Jodhpur royal family, part of the monumental structure has been transformed into a luxurious hotel where butlers await to treat you like a personal guest of the Maharaja. An immense domed lobby, a space which uses the same fine marble you’ll find at the Taj Mahal, leads to 22 rooms and 42 suites, each a celebration of the palace’s unique art deco style. Dining at the Umaid Bhawan Palace is similarly resplendent, especially so at Risala with Rajasthani thali offerings that were once reserved for the most prosperous of royalty. Open-air Pillars is a little more leisurely with spectacular views of the city and Mehrangarh Fort. The royal champagne breakfast here is a particularly indulgent way to start the day. The Trophy Bar is a warm setting for cocktails, cigars and light bites while private dining in a range of fairy-tale settings throughout the acres of grounds can be arranged. After a day exploring the Blue City, return to the palace to unwind in the Jiva Spa, cool off in the sparkling indoor pool, learn more about the building’s heritage on guided walks or perhaps work up a sweat on the tennis and squash courts.

Located in the shadow of the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, RAAS Jodhpur is a beautiful boutique hotel that flawlessly blends traditional Rajisthani architecture with contemporary design. The hotel comprises four buildings, the oldest of which was built in the late 18th century and would have served as the Maharaja’s family residence. Three contemporary buildings surround the original haveli, constructed from the local rose-red sandstone so as to maintain a harmony between old and new. With just 39 rooms, RAAS has a real boutique feel to it. Decor is sleek and understated so as not to detract from the beautiful views of the fort which can be enjoyed from almost every room in the hotel. Some of the suites feature exposed sandstone walls and elegant arches while every room leads out onto a balcony from which to soak up the surroundings. Walking between the buildings you’ll wind your way through tranquil gardens to a soundtrack of lemongrass swaying gently in the breeze and the occasional splash as a frog leaps into the cool waters of the pond. An outdoor pool is surrounded by cabanas under which you can escape the sun and there is a spa offering a range of holistic treatments. With seasonal vegetables and herbs grown in their own organic garden and spices hand selected from a 200-year-old spice shop, the cuisine here is something really special. Choose to enjoy your meals in the dining room or head out onto the terrace for a romantic meal overlooking the illuminated fort. Jodhpur is a fascinating place and you’re ideally situated to explore the Blue City being just a short walk from the Clock Tower and the bustling markets.

In the middle of wide open wilderness between the cities of Jodhpur and Udaipur, JAWAI is an intimate safari camp surrounded by arid scrubland and towering granite kopjes that numerous leopards and nomadic Rabari herdsmen call home. There are just nine luxurious canvas tents, including a family suite, each airy and spacious with en suite bathrooms and a private veranda. A writing desk and seating area looks onto unobstructed views of the wilds around. Explore this remote corner of Rajasthan on a variety of beguiling activities, from game drives out to spot leopards and other wildlife, to birdwatching walks (there are 170 species of birds here including flamingos), strolls with the local shepherds or more challenging treks. You can also visit nearby temples and forts, take mountain bikes out to discover the landscape or relax with yoga sessions in wonderfully secluded locations. End your day with sundowners before congregating in the dining tent or around the fire to see meals cooked right in front of you in the live kitchen. Dinner in a more private setting can also be arranged. Part of a commitment to the conservation of local cultures and wildlife, meals are created using home-grown produce from the kitchen garden or fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers.

The Leela Palace Udaipur is a spectacular modern incarnation of a Mewari palace, reached by an ever-so-romantic boat cruise. But, as grand as the building is, it is the views over the waters of Lake Pichola to the City Palace and the Aravalli mountains beyond that steal the show. All 72 rooms and 8 suites make the most of the lakeward vista. Each are embellished with traditional elements of Rajasthan design and a roster of contemporary luxuries. Around the grounds you’ll find a huge lakeside swimming pool, ornate courtyards and a fabulous spa. Dining in the city has been taken up a notch by the fine Indian fare on offer at Sheesh Mahal and intricate international cuisine at The Dining Room. There’s also a well-stocked wine cellar and bar. Activities on offer from The Leela Palace include heritage walks of nearby architectural gems, lake cruises, horse and camel rides, tours to rural villages outside Udaipur, antique shopping and more.

On the banks of Lake Pichola across the waters from Udaipur, The Oberoi Udaivilas stands surrounded by lush gardens and the forests of what were once royal hunting grounds. The hotel itself is a sprawling palace of ornate domes, breezy courtyards and sunlit corridors – an architectural reflection of Udaipur’s lakes and canals – with glimpses out to Pichola and verdant grounds. There are 86 rooms and suites, many of which open out onto azure private and semi-private swimming pools with views across the lake to Udaipur’s City Palace, while others look into the estate’s gardens and wildlife sanctuary – home to deer and wild boar. The style is a blend of ornate Mewar with subtle modern amenities. In addition to private pools, the suites feature their own outdoor dining pavilions. During your time here, explore Udaipur and beyond on private boat and walking tours, venture out into the Aravalli Hills to visit remote tribes and hidden temples, or relax with indulgent spa therapies and yoga sessions. Suryamahal and Chandni are all-day indoor and outdoor dining venues for multicultural cuisine, with Udaimahal the place for fine Indian dining. Unique dining experiences, such as learning to cook with the chef, lunching while cruising on the lake and intimate private dinners can also be arranged. And naturally the bar is an elegant venue for classic cocktails.

Serenely sat in the middle of Lake Pichola, the gorgeous Taj Lake Palace is among the most iconic and romantic hotels in India. Built as a pleasure palace by a young prince in 1746, it has since been tactfully restored to its former glory, its fine white marble walls glowing orange at sunrise and purple at dusk 66 rooms and 17 suites are designed to capture a different mood and period from the palace’s long history, each with stunning views across the lake to the surrounding hills and Udaipur or into the lush courtyard gardens. This spectacular setting is best enjoyed in its panoramic glory from the rooftop Bhairo restaurant. Neel Kamal is the place for authentic Indian specialities, or Jarokha if you’re after a more informal spot to eat throughout the day. Unforgettable private dining experiences – such as out on the lake aboard a 150-year-old boat – can also be arranged. During the day, find secluded spots around the palace to relax, bathe in the swimming pool, treat yourself on the Jiva Spa Boat or spend some time at handsome Amrit Sagar bar. Across the lake’s waters, explore Udaipur on city tours, heritage walks and even hire a vintage car for the day.

Situated in the heart of the countryside, a little way north of Udaipur, RAAS Devigarh is a romantic hill-top palace that has been sensitively transformed into a luxurious boutique retreat. The dramatic rural setting and ornate 250-year-old architecture have been allowed to take centre stage as interiors were renovated in a minimalist style, a unique blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and subtle modern touches. There are 39 suites, all large and light with mother-of-pearl headboards and marble-based beds. Some have balconies and window seats – perfect nooks to spend a little time with a book from the library – and others with particularly impressive bathrooms and private sun decks. Start your days here with a rooftop yoga session as the sun rises over the Aravalli Hills before a day out exploring the surrounding countryside by horse, mountain bike or on foot. There are also excursions to nearby villages and ancient Jain temples as well as into Udaipur itself. Return to the pampering spa, then enjoy a sunset from the bar, ending the day with wonderfully fresh Indian and international cuisine at the restaurant.

Located well away from bustling Jaipur, The Oberoi Rajvilas is a sprawling fort-like retreat with some 32 acres of incredible gardens full of verdant trees, fragrant flowers and strutting peacocks. Revived local techniques were used to recreate vernacular pink lime walls, grand Mughal arches, gold leaf frescoes, high domed ceilings and magnificent crystal chandeliers, giving the whole place an unmistakably palatial feel. There are 71 rooms, luxury tents and private villas spread around the resort, many laid out in small clusters ideal for families or small groups wishing to stay near one another. A serene 18th-century Shiva temple hosts Hindu blessings, meditation and morning yoga classes and a mansion of similar vintage is now the indulgent Oberoi Spa. The resort also boasts a fully-equipped fitness suite, putting green, two floodlit tennis courts, a croquet lawn and an outdoor pool. Both restaurants have indoor and outdoor dining areas. The Surya Mahal is open throughout the year and has an extensive menu of world cuisine. Raj Mahal is open during the cooler months of October to April and serves rarely found Indian delicacies. Private dining can also be arranged.

Built in 1729 as a private rural retreat for the Maharaja of Jaipur’s wife, the RAAS Rajmahal Palace has remained an opulent oasis even as the city has grown around it. Still owned by the royal family of Jaipur, in the halcyon days of the British Raj it embodied the glamour of ‘Jaipur Life’. As the preferred private residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, the dashing polo player, the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, The Duke of Edinburgh, Jackie Kennedy and the Shah of Iran were entertained within its great walled gardens. Today, it has been meticulously and daringly restored by designer Adil Ahmad, with grand chandeliered rooms embellished with intricate thematic wallpapers and luxurious fabrics. With an initial 14 royal apartments, suites and palace rooms, ranging from palatial to genuinely royal – one room built specifically for Queen Elizabeth II’s state visit in 1961 – service is both personal and accomplished. Down the marble staircase, choose to lounge around the art deco pool or treat yourself at the spa. There are three dining options; the relaxed Colonnade, vibrant 51 Shades of Pink, and formal traditional dining at The Orient Occident. The Polo Bar celebrates the talents of Jaipur’s sporting tradition and afternoon tea on the lawn is a must. If you can bring yourself to venture outside the Rajmahal’s walls, you’ll find Jaipur’s famed forts, palaces and local markets just minutes away, and tailor made culinary, historical and photographic walking tours can be arranged.

A royal residence dating back to 1835, the splendid Rambagh Palace, within its 47 acres of grounds at the heart of the city, is one of Rajasthan’s finest heritage hotels. Grand and intricate examples of Jaipur’s craftsmanship abound with hand-carved stone and marble latticework, fine antiques and elaborate Mughal gardens, all adding up to a thoroughly regal feel. This carries on into the 45 spacious rooms, with their period décor and modern amenities, and is amplified by an order of magnitude in the 23 grand suites. Enjoy an aptly royal India feast in the French-style ballroom of Suvarna Mahal, or opt for something a little more informal at the Rajput Room or with tea on the lawn. Drink among hard-won trophies at the sophisticated Polo Bar, or beside a restored locomotive at Steam. After a day exploring Jaipur, head back to the Jiva Grande Spa for traditional and signature treatments, lounge by the pool, try your hand at croquet or perhaps learn about the Rambagh Palace’s own fascinating history with a guided tour of the grounds.

Once the city house for the rulers of Samode, one of Rajasthan’s wealthiest towns, Samode Haveli has been converted into a luxury hotel that still has all the lavish touches of a royal residence. Rooms and suites are scattered around a series of courtyards and gardens, each individually designed and reflecting the rich history and culture of the region. Tiled floors, antique furniture and furnishings upholstered in beautiful Indian fabric give them plenty of character. Some of the suites come with elegant arches, alcoves and pillars and the elaborate Sheesh Mahal suite is covered in floor-to-ceiling mosaics. The wonderfully elaborate dining room is covered in hand-painted murals and lit by huge crystal chandeliers. Guests can also indulge in a decadent afternoon tea in the verandah lounge or enjoy a cocktail under the shade of the poolside cabanas. Choose to relax in the Jacuzzi, steam room and spa or simply relax take a seat in the verdant gardens. You’re also ideally situated to explore the vibrant city of Jaipur with its myriad of architectural wonders and bustling markets.

In Ranthambore National Park’s buffer zone, surrounded by ruggedly beautiful landscapes, the Aman-i-Khas is the most opulent way to safari here. There are ten sumptuous tents spread out in the sun-dappled brushwood forest, each echoing Mughal pavilions with high canopied ceilings, huge beds and a sunken marble bathtub. White cotton curtains divide the sleeping, living and dressing areas with a sprawling daybed at the tent’s centre. An outdoor fireplace is the heart of the camp, where stories of the day’s game drives are shared over G&Ts each evening. Other communal areas include the cool swimming pool and dining tent with its daily changing menu of local Rajasthani specialities or culinary concepts from Kerala made with vegetables and herbs grown in the camp’s organic garden. Aside from twice daily game drives in search of Ranthambore’s abundant wildlife, explore nearby Khandar Fort or head out on birdwatching treks, all to be arranged with the round-the-clock help of your personal ‘batman’ butler.

Just ten minutes from the wilds of Ranthambore National Park, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is a sumptuous way to spend your time on safari. Spread around acres of verdant gardens, 25 expansive luxury tents evoke Raj-era royal caravans, with great awnings, four-poster beds and standalone baths, and luxurious modern features such as temperature control. Follow torch-lit pathways past the lily pond to the swimming pool, sumptuous Oberoi spa and restaurant, where dining is centred around a great fire in the winter months and enjoyed in the gardens during balmy summer evenings. For something really special, the observation tower at sunset makes for a wonderful private dining setting. Explore the famous Ranthambore National Park in search of tigers and other incredible wildlife, head out on walks with the resident naturalist, learn about the local heritage on cultural tours, take cooking classes and relax with yoga sessions. There are also a range of tailored children’s activities making The Oberoi Vanyavilas a great place for families.

Owned and run by a family who have played an active part in Ranthambore’s conservation efforts for over four decades, Sher Bagh is a luxurious camp that blends pioneering sustainability with an opulent style redolent of grand British Raj-era safaris. Authentic and intimate, there are just 12 hand–stitched canvas tents pitched under a canopy of indigenous trees, each furnished with teak campaign-style furniture with en–suite stone bathrooms and wonderfully comfortable beds. The exquisite Burra Sahib suite is set in a generous private space with its own swimming pool and unobstructed views of the reserve, while the Pukka Sahib suite has a walled garden surrounding a Jacuzzi and open-air shower. Both come with a private butler attending to your every need. Thoughtfully designed menus combine Anglo–Indian and European lunches, with traditional Indian dinners cooked in outdoor clay ovens, all made with home-grown ingredients, handpicked from the organic herb and vegetable garden and the Sher Bagh farm. The culinary arts are central to life at the camp and guests are invited to participate in and learn from live cooking demonstrations. Meals can also be served in more secluded areas of the camp for those looking to spend a private evening under the stars. Wildlife experiences here include expertly guided safaris inside the national park to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears and more. For those with specialist interests, birding walks are on offer as well as safaris accompanied by an expert photographer. There are also tours to Ranthambore Fort and visits to meet local craftswomen from Dastkar Ranthambhore, a non–profit organisation that produces a wide range of colourful handicrafts. And, of course, one can opt to indulge in a range of treatments and therapies at the Sher Bagh Jungle Spa.

Just 600m from the magnificent Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas allows guests to appreciate the beauty of this iconic monument at every moment. Enjoy watching the colours of the marble change throughout the day, from its rosy glow in the morning light to the golden tint as the sun begins to set. The hotel is approached via a driveway, lined with trees and lit with flaming torches at night. As you enter, step inside a Mughal-style quadrant with an arched passageway decorated with gold leaf frescoes, and cascading fountains. Hallways leading to the rooms and suites are lined with wooden blinds with hand-printed golf motifs, the walls adorned with Mughal coins and antique Indian fabrics. The rooms themselves are full of old-world charm with hand woven rugs and intricately decorated wooden furniture. Each one offers uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal with some of the suites featuring bathtubs that look out over the monument. The Esphahan restaurant specialises in Indian food with traditional curries and fluffy breads served on burnished metal plates. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee under the gold domed ceiling of the lounge or enjoy a drink and a game of backgammon in the bar. The spa is centred around a domed marble steam room and offers a range of treatments inspired by ancient Indian rituals. There is also a fully-equipped gym that looks out over the hotel’s pristine gardens and an outdoor pool, which is partly covered so you can take refuge in the shade.

Just 3km (1.9 miles) from the centre of Agra and closer still to the iconic Taj Mahal, the ITC Mughal is an award-winning modern take on Mughal architecture set across 35 acres of lush gardens. 233 modern rooms and expansive suites overlook the landscaped lawns and sparkling lake waters. Guests at the ITC Mughal are spoilt for choice when it comes to cuisine with fine dining at Taj Bano, authentic northwest Indian food at Peshawri and the more informal setting of the Mughal Pavilion. A real highlight of the ITC Mughal is its Kaya Kalp spa, a vast complex dedicated to revitalising the mind, body and soul with luxuriously appointed spa suites, royal baths and a Mughal hammam. As well as exploring the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and other remnants from the Mughal Empire, there’s plenty to keep guests busy at the hotel with tennis, badminton, a nature trail and recreational lounge.