TOP 10 HOTELS IN INDIA

1) Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur: bohemian crystals, ornate glass work, green lotus leaves and cusped arches all over, romance is in the air at Taj Lake Palace. Floating atop Lake Pichola on its four-acre island pedestal, this luxury palace hotel is the epitome of style, comfort and luxury. Besides being the most romantic inn in India, it is also the most expensive – the most basic bedroom option would set up back by Rs. 36, 000 while the Grand Presidential Suite a whopping Rs. 6 lakh! Sure you’re treated like a King but get your own throne!

Best for: Honeymoons

2)    Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad: one of the finest palaces in Hyderabad, this hotel was formerly home to the Nizam of Hyderabad. In Urdu, Falak-numa literally means "Like the Sky" or "Mirror of the Sky". The Jade collection in the Palace is truly unique in the world and the Falaknuma is a rare blend of Italian and Tudor architecture. Rs. 5 lakh a night (another bomb of a price!) for the Grand Presidential Suite.

Best for: Architectural marvel & to get a glimpse of the nizams’ affluent lifestyles

3)    The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai: This elegant 5-star hotel is located right next to the Gateway of India and is a landmark for every tourist in the city. Considered the flagship property of the Taj Group, the hotel fuses Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles together. The Taj in Mumbai is best known to host guests like The Beatles, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Bill Clinton and more recently Michelle & Barack Obama. Fabulous dining options too.

Best for: Dining & Architecture

4)   The Leela Palace Kempinski, Udaipur: This lavish hotel offers breathtaking views of the Aravalli Mountains and opulence of an era gone by. Overlooking Lake Pichola, its luxurious ESPA tented spa is the perfect spot for some indulgence and relaxation. Expect only the finest service, facilities and accommodation options here.

Best for: Reckless Indulgence

5)    The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur: is ranked the thirteenth best hotel in the world. Set in 32 acres of grounds outside Jaipur, this palace hotel has an incredible range of 71 luxury rooms, tents and villas with Burmese-teak floor and four-poster beds. A lot of work has gone in creating the ambiance of an ancient Rajasthani fort balanced beautifully with contemporary Italian designs.

Best for: Experiencing the grandeur of India’s royal Rajput past

6)    The Leela Palace Kempinksi, New Delhi:is the newest addition to Leela Hotel Group’s marvelous collection. The lobby offers stunning views of rare Indian artworks & the most exquisite display of flowers in sparkling crystal vases. All 260 -bedrooms are plush and the Maharaja Suite is endowed with bullet-proof windows; inspired by Edwin Lutyens, New Delhi's architectural godfather. The menu’s unapologetically international and spa facilities, like the rest of the amenities, are top-notch!

Best for: Super-luxe fun in Delhi!

7)    Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra: Taking inspiration from Moorish and Mughal architectural styles, Oberoi Amarvilas offers a visual treat of terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions with rich interiors. And of course, unforgettable views of the Taj Mahal – right from your window!

Best for: The Splendid View of the Taj Mahal 

8)    The Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore: perfectly reflects the lushness of the Garden City. Gold leaf domes, ornate ceiling and grand arches of the hotel are all inspired by the royal heritage of the Vijaynagar Dynasty. Sprinkled well with business essentials as well as holiday comforts, the hotel promises an exceptional experience always. Be prepared to rub shoulders with CEO’s (especially Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, a regular patron) from across the world here.

Best for: Business Visits

9)    The Oberoi, Mumbai: Gazing the Queen’s necklace is yet another luxurious property from the Oberoi group. Service is flawless, the luxury understated and very business-traveler friendly. With 333 rooms and suites, the Oberoi in also one of the most expensive with Deluxe Rooms at Rs. 25, 000 and Presedential Suites at around Rs. 3 lakh! Former US President, Bill Clinton, stayed here on his visit to India.

Best for: Cool Sophistication

10)    Taj Lands End, Mumbai: Situated in Bandra, the queen of the suburbs, the Lands End overlooks the Arabian Sea. First-rate dining options, business amenities and accommodation are offered with the same old-world Taj hospitality. Gorgeous style and great comfort!