30 Best Heritage Hotels in India

Each of these meticulously selected heritage hotels in India has a secret to share, a story to tell – and so will you.

A stately hill fort redolent with tales of honor & sacrifice, a charming mansion on the spur of a hill. A Fort Resort at the rim of a desert, or an exquisite haveli in the lap of a green valley.

A Jungle Lodge in a wildlife forest reserve, or a Palace or Haveli, resonant with the past. A picture-postcard cottage snuggled in mystic mountains or a splendid mansion or tent in the wilderness.

A colonial hill residence with tea gardens for a view, a mist-wrapped palace in fragrant plantations.

What set these heritage hotels in India apart is that instead of the usual standardized run of the mill experiences at some of the finest luxury hotels in the world, these heritage hotels in India offer a boutique experience, a personal flavor that comes from heart, art and history.

Heritage blends seamlessly with the modern amenities albeit with a local flavor in the craft, cuisine and the cultural vignettes.

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Named as the reflection of the sky (Falaknuma means the same in Urdu), The Taj Palace hotel is the erstwhile palace of the Nizam of Hyderabad. One of the most luxurious heritage hotels in India, Falaknuma Palace is famously known for its opulence and luxury including some of the biggest chandeliers, exquisite and rare furniture, attractive paintings and murals, splendid statues, marble staircases and many other gardens in Mughal, Rajasthani and Japanese style. Falaknuma Palace incorporates a total of 60 rooms and suites that have been given final forms in a characteristic manner of Nizam royalty. Rest assured, the visitors can expect some of best service with all state of art amenities coupled with delicious world -renowned Hyderabadi cuisines and food. A truly cherishing experience awaits a visitor at Taj Falaknuma.Read more

Address: Engine Bowli, Falaknuma, Hyderabad, Telangana 500053

[ Also read about top attractions in Hyderabad. ]

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Enchanting as some castle from a fairytale, Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is like a canvas painted beautifully by some artist. Rising right in the middle of the lake, the place takes you on a picturesque joyride with its mesmerizing interiors, intricate decors, exotic artifacts, exquisite furniture, kaleidoscopic frescoes and silk fabrics. Outside the palace is as appealing as interiors with the scenic view of Aravalli and assembly of city palaces as backdrop. A perfect combination of modern amenities and remarkable services envelopes the guests in a sweep of comfort, luxury and royalty. Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is one of the favorite destinations of tourists flocking to Rajasthan to take away cherished moments spent in the lap of remarkable delicacy and sophistication of a unique culture. It is also one of the top hotels for destination wedding in India.

Address: Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan, 313001

[ Plan your Rajasthan tour with heritage hotels stay. ]

The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata

Situated right in the center of a bustling Kolkata business and cultural locales, The Oberoi Grand is hospitality par excellence and is frequented by tourists and guests who want to soak in the amazing warmth and comfort of its service and ambience. Also known as the Grand Dame of Kolkata, this luxury hotel is a beautiful building of colonial era and boasts of all the modern amenities and state of art infrastructure like the palatial rooms, spa, delectable cuisines, events and parties of all sorts. The Oberoi Grand furnishes truly a memorable experience for all their esteemed guests.

Address: 15, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700013

[Plan your stay in Kolkata at Oberoi Grand.]

The Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar

Nestled amidst the majestic view of the enveloping Srinagar hills and overlooking the vast and picturesque Dal Lake, The Lalit Grand is an experience paradisiacal. Once being the residential palace of the erstwhile ruling family of Kashmir, this property has had the reputation of being host to key historical figures like Lord Mountbatten, Mahatma Gandhi, and Maharaja Hari Singh etc. Located just few minutes away from the international airport and within a comfortable distance from important attractions, The Lalit features modern facilities like pool, spa, wifi and bar. Constituting of 113 rooms spread over expansive two floors, the iconic site is ideal place to stay for business and leisure tourists alike.

Address: Gupkar Rd, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001

[Experience a lavish stay at The Lalit Grand Palace in Srinagar.]

Raj Palace, Jaipur

Offering the original flavor of the splendid Rajput royalty along with some of the best world class services with a value, The Raj Palace, situated in the heart of Jaipur, is like a manifestation of a dream for any guest. Equipped with all the modernized facilities and comfort, The Raj Palace was selected as the “World’s Leading heritage hotel” for consecutively four years from 2007 to 2013 by World Traveler Awards. The hotel strives to provide the best hospitality for its invaluable guests which include a number of luxuries like the spa, Kerala Massage, Ayurvedic Massage, Beauty and Herbal Treatments for a comprehensive mind and body rejuvenation. The services also include elephant and camel safaris and trips to some of the best historical and cultural icons of the city of Jaipur for an adventurous and cherishing vacation. It is also one of the most preferred hotels for destination wedding in India.

Address: The Raj Palace, Jorawar Singh Gate, Amer Rd, Chokdi Gangapol, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002

Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai

A landmark which is as much emblematic as it is historical, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower is one of the most known and recognizable hotels in the world. An epitome of the finest luxury and grandeur of diversified proportions, The Taj stands as an icon of Mumbai and India’s image in the world. With 560 rooms and 44 suites, The Taj fuses the subtle elements of the timeless Indian culture along with all the latest and modern facilities and services. Whatever be the purpose of stay, the warm and affable staff of the Taj makes it sure that the guests have best of experiences. Since its inception in 1903, The Taj has been hosts to some of the most eminent, high-profile personalities of the world including George Bernard Shaw, Sir Richard Attenborough, Margaret Thatcher, Prince Charles, Barack Obama etc.

Address: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

The Imperial, New Delhi

A rich and affluent concourse of classical Indian heritage with a welcoming and amiable service spirit, The Imperial is one of the most distinguished landmark hotels in the heart of India’s national capital. Designed in the colonial style, the hotel has clean, shining marble floors with high ceilings and elegant Burmese teak furniture along with dignified paintings and other works of art. The restaurants have a spectrum of award-winning culinary and dishes that offers from appetizing Pan Indian to Italian food. The accommodation has in total 235 rooms and 43 suits that is proper for different class of tourists from business to travel guests. Read More

Address: Janpath Ln, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

Maison Perumal, Pondicherry

Furnishing a spicy flavor of classic Tamil culture, Maison Perumal in Pondicherry is simple yet exclusive accommodation with a cool and calming ambience. Flaunting bright colors of a rich heritage, the place delights its guests with appetizing foods which also includes the delectable Pondicherry seafood. The interiors are plain though presence of stained glass offsets and white plaster adds to the difference. Tourists can come and enjoy soothing atmosphere within the premises or take a rickshaw ride that takes them through the lanes and streets of old Pondicherry. Another attraction which the visitors can enjoy is the Ocean nearby with its cool breeze and blue color. Read More

Address: 44, 58, Perumal Koil St, Heritage Town, Puducherry, 605001

Nahargarh, Ranthambhore

A location away from the usual chaos and noise of the urbanity, Nahargarh fort-hotel extends comfort and extravagance for their guests in a quiet, cool and serene environment. Beautifully adorned with some of the most  luxurious and elegant architecture in about 68 rooms and suites that are equipped with latest gadgets and modern infrastructure along with a variety of lip-smacking delectable cuisines, Nahargarh has been high on the lists of tourists and guests who have always  reminisced a memorable experience when they have returned to Ranthambore!  Read more

Address: Ranthambhore Rd, Khilchipur, Rajasthan 322001

Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur

Presenting some of the stunning views of the lakeside and endowed with some of the best confluence of the strains of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the Jai Mahal or the Water Palace in Jaipur is a cherished destination for guests arriving in Rajasthan to get a piece of the endearing and colorful Indian culture. There are light colored stone walls that rises starkly in contrast from the lighter colored water of the lake showcases the rich Rajasthani designs and construction.

Address: Address: Jacob Rd, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006

Neemrana Fort Palace, Rajasthan

Located on the picturesque Delhi-Jaipur highway and the winner of the “Certificate of Excellence” award in 2013, the Neemrana Fort Palace-hotel is one of the most popular weekend getaways for Delhiites and international tourists who land in Delhi alike. This heritage hotel near Delhi offers excellent facilities like the spa, various body treatments and exceptional cuisines and dishes. The Palace-hotels is an ideal location for business conferences and meetings, ceremonies and weddings for an indelible memory. There are also different categories of rooms according to the preferences of the guests that furnish a number of facilities like the television, refrigerator, a writing desk etc. There is also an option of going for a vintage car ride or chill around in the hotel only with some of the savory dishes.

Address: 15th Century, Delhi-Jaipur Highway 122nd Milestone, Delhi – Jaipur Expy, Neemrana, Rajasthan 301705

[ Plan your weekend trip to Neemarana. ]

Welcomhotel The Savoy, Mussoorie

Sitting in cool and crisp air of Mussoorie, hotel Fortune the Savoy is the elegant and stylish icon built in the style of the English Gothic architecture which has a reputation of furnishing some of the best services to their esteemed guests. There are in total of 50 rooms in two floors overlooking the scenic Doon Valley that are supplied with modern amenities like the wifi, 24 hour room service, newspaper, ironing board, Local and international dialing facilities. The place is well-connected with road and rails with international airport lying in the vicinity of 30 km and Dehradun Railway station 32 km. An ideal location for a guest who want to enjoy the picturesque hill town along with the comfort and convenience par excellence. Read More…

Address: Library Bazar, Gandhi Chowk, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179

[ Plan your honeymoon in Mussoorie & stay at the Taj Savoy. ]

Nadesar Palace, Varanasi

Set amidst the flourishing Bronze Age culture of one of the oldest living cities in India, The Nadesar Palace in Varanasi is an exponent of luxury and has been hosting statesmen and celebrities since 1835. Along with beautifully furnished rooms, the color on the walls and decor of the palace is in the likeness of a number of flowers like marigolds, jasmines and lotuses that are used as offerings to the river Ganges. In a spiritually charged atmosphere of the holy site along with the accessibility to comfort and ease, the ambience is truly a refreshing and recharging experience for the tourists. Read more

Address: Nadesar Palace Grounds, Uttar Pradesh 221002

Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur

Built in a colonial setting with spacious and well-furnished rooms, Ratan Vilas Palace is redolent with pleasure and comfort for its guests. Elaborated with an outdoor pool and a children’s playground, the hotel furnishes a number of free services like wi-fi, private parking and free pickup from airport, bus or railway station. Other services including the ticketing service, desk and luggage storage and a 24 hour room service for private dining makes the stay convenient and enjoyable for the visitors. Guests can hop around the city for a cultural expedition like to the Mehrangarh fort and Jaswant Thada which lies within a reaching distance from the hotel.

Emerald Isle, The Heritage Villa

Pervaded with a resplendent beauty of natural flora and enveloped with a variety flowers all around with an ambience of backwaters, The Emerald Isle is a refreshing and rejuvenating delight for the visitors and guests. A relaxing environment makes way for a memorable experience. Guests can take a walk around the island or enjoy a swim, mix with the local people or watch the beauty of the sunset over the vast and picturesque paddy fields. An unforgettable getaway for the guests from the hustle and bustle and chaos of the city. Read more

Address: Address: Kanjooparambil-Manimalathara, Chathurthyakary Post, near Nedumudy, Alappuzha, Kerala 688502

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

With an imposing, colossal structure and set in the midst of a huge 26 acres of lush green gardens, high above the desert hill city, Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is a unique and luxuriant delight. One of the largest residential palaces in the world, the now converted part of the building has in total of 347 rooms with exotic mixture of western and eastern architecture making up of what could be one of the grandest luxury heritage hotels in India. The rich interiors combined with elegant furniture and exquisite murals offers a lavish experience. The guests can enjoy the city ride in a vintage car with their own butler or indulge in a delectable meal under a starry night. Overall, one of the best expeditions to this cultural site awaits the travelers.

Address: Circuit House Rd, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan- 342006

Rawla Narlai Luxury Heritage Hotel, Narlai

A picturesque location lying in the middle of Aravalli hills, Narlai is a small, sleepy hill fort-hotel is an ideal place to spend some time in the ease and charm of the tempting Rajasthani cusine and culture. The plush and extravagant settings gives an aristocratic feel, while the royal flavor of the place makes the stay truly amazing. However the most unforgettable experience is the famous “Stepwell Dinner”. Reveled under the starry night, accompanied by hundreds of lamps, the lip-smacking food is combined with singers singing local folk or devotional songs that creates a wonderful traditional atmosphere. Rawla, Narlai is a memory that remains etched at the back of your minds. If you have had enough of Rajasthan then this is your off the beaten path retreat to rediscover the romance of the land of Rajput warrior princes. Read more

Address: Near Desuri, Narlai, Rajasthan 306703

Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam

Overlooking the Kovalam Beach of the Arabian Sea, the Niraamaya Retreat is an excellent and impressive resort that has a wide scope for tourists to enjoy diverse cultural and historical draws. Packed with great services including spa, yoga, massage and various other treatments and added amenities like a swimming pool, open air bathrooms etc., visitors can draw many health benefits that will freshen and rejuvenate their minds and bodies. Pamper yourself in this scenic and relaxing environment by enjoying your stay at Niraamaya.

Address: P.O, Pulinkudi Rd, Vizhinjam, Mullur, Kerala 695521

The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace, Udaipur

Exhibiting colorful and vibrant Rajasthani culture in all its splendor, The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace is a rendition of luxury and royalty in the rich Rajputana city of Udaipur. Located in front of the famous and panoramic Fateh Sagar Lake, this token of magnificence is adorned with 55 spacious and well furnished rooms equipped with all the state of art facilities that ensure rich and memorable experience for the guests. Enveloped in the embrace of Aravalli hills, the picture-perfect view from the terrace is worth cherishing in the heart. Read More…

Address: Fateh Sagar Rd, Near Zinc, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004

Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerala

The heritage property that calls itself to be the “perhaps the only paradise on earth”, The Kumarakom Lake Resort is one of the most popular heritage hotels in India. With stunning views that embellish its surroundings, this lake resort represents a true tradition of Kerala’s service and health treatments. Along with these, the resort offer modern luxuries like swimming pools, health club, multi cuisine restaurants, a traditional tea shop etc. A retreat for recharging the mental and physical batteries, Kumarakom lake resort is a tourist’s heaven. Read more

Address: North Post, Vayitharamattom, Kumarakom, Kerala 686563

RAAS Devigarh, Udaipur

Based in the historical 18th century Palace of Delwara, The Devigarh resort has always remained a front runner amongst the numerous heritage hotels in India. Lavishly luxurious with an undefined charm, the palace suites are carefully crafted from within with an artist’s love. The interior of all the suites are fixed with spotless white marble which is blended with semi-precious stones that breathes an aura of affluence and luxury. The suites have all the necessary facilities like the air-conditioner, heater, a mini bar, tea and coffee making machines, wireless internet etc. for a seamless vacation experience. The mesmerizing surroundings along with a royal impression will going to remain in the hearts of the visitors for long. Read more

Address: NH8, Near Eklingji Temple, Delwara, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313202

The Lalit Great Eastern, Kolkata

Holding a unique and proud distinction of being the continuously running hotel for 165 years, the erstwhile Auckland Hotel is a historic and heritage site for the City Of Joy – Kolkata. Constructed in the first half of the nineteenth century, the icon has been defined often to be “The Jewel of the East” and “Best Hotel to the East of Suez”. With an artistically developed assortment of 195 rooms, the hotel evolved fabulously with changing times, incorporating the range of modern amenities and necessities like pool, pub, gym, salon, spa, a bridal and conference room and banquet. The hotel caters well to the needs of the business and leisure tourists with its impeccable and world- class services.  Read more

Address: Dalhousie Square 1, 2,3, Old Court House St, Kolkata, West Bengal 700069

Samode Palace, Rajasthan

A grand display of cross interweaving of art and luxury, Samode is a tourist’s imagination of finesse and pleasure brought into real life. With delicately crafted walls, arches, gateways and composition, the royal ambience brings in the sense of opulence and combined with the excellent comforts and remarkable hospitality, becomes a fabled reception. Visitors can recharge themselves in a beautiful pool or relax to some of the best spa and massage services by world class professionals. Thereafter, they can treat themselves to some of the best cuisines and food from Asia with a lip-smacking flavor. Have an indulgence of a lifetime by paying a visit to Samode. Read more

Address: Tehsil, Village Samode, Chomu, Rajasthan 303806

Rohet Garh, Rajasthan

Subdued in the diffusive colors of Rajputana civilization, Rohetgarh is a haven of calmness and serenity coupled with ease and luxury. Neatly and artistically done interiors, 30 beautiful and comfortable rooms and availability of latest comforts, the visitors feel at home and are treated as such as personal guests of the royal family. The tourists can unwind themselves at the pool where musicians play traditional songs in the four pavilions. The highlight of the stay at Rohetgarh is the wildlife safari that takes you along the rural chunk of western Rajasthan and introduces the guests to the vibrant hues of the countryside.

Address: Village Post Rohet, Rohet Garh, Rajasthan 306421

Ananda in the Himalayas

Ideally placed in the lap of serene Himalayan foothills, Ananda is a spiritual retreat for an ultimate rejuvenating experience for the body, mind and soul. Being situated close to the holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh and overlooking the gush of the Ganges nearby, the pleasant atmosphere awakens your spirit to the ultimate harmony of body and mind. Spread in the expansive 24000 sq ft area, spa offers a host of treatments that include traditional Indian Ayurveda and Yoga with the modern Western spa approach. Living at Ananda Spa Resort becomes a cherishing memory with spacious rooms with all the modern amenities and a mix of elegance that leaves one relaxed and refreshed. Combined with this, the wellness retreat offers a rich dining experience suited and catered to one’s needs. Overall it becomes an unforgettable vacation for the visitors. Read more

Address: The Palace Estate, Narendra Nagar, Uttarakhand 249175

AyurVAID Kalmatia, Uttarakhand

A set of 10 cottages located in the midst of rustic nature and offering tranquility and privacy, Kalmatia Sangam Himalaya Resort is an ideal getaway from the chaos and clamor of urban life. Each cottage in the resort has a unique design of its own and is tastefully done with all the amenities for an exclusive experience for a discerning traveler. The range of facilities from service to cuisine and decor furnishes a calming effect. Sangam also offers other services which include village treks, picnics, a library besides an Ayurveda center and an Art gallery to keep the tourists entertained and engaged.

Address: Kalimat Estate, Kasar Devi Upper Binsar Road, Almora, Uttarakhand 263601

Kalari Kovilakom, Palakkad

Extending a singular experience of its own kind, the Kalari Kovilakom is an Ayurveda retreat with a vitality of a palace. With a comprehensive approach for your mind and body, place promises a lasting connection with the soul. The site caters to all the basic needs of a tourist but to keep the spirit and tradition of the place alive as well as helping the visitor to strike an internal accord, no television sets, alcohol and leather products are allowed. Each visitor is treated according to his or her personal needs along with the customized treatments and food served. The evenings are brought to life with spiritual chanting and hymns that brings one in harmony with one’s inner self. The result is an ethereal and divine experience for the tourist.

Address: Payyallur, Kollengode, Palakkad, Kerala 678506

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Exuding opulence with exotic furnishings and rich textures, the Rambagh Palace has been dubbed as the best heritage hotel in India for quite a few occasions. With a total of 79 exquisitely designed rooms along with a luxurious interior decor, silk curtains and hand-painted motifs, the palace is thoughtfully renovated and refurbished to offer an amazing blend of aristocracy and modern way of life. The rooms are fixed with all the state of art essentials like WiFi, dual phone lines, TV and DVD to make the stay as memorable as possible and to keep the visitor well-connected. Added to this is the lavishly appetizing cuisines from around the world with an unprecedented dining experience which remains etched at the back of the minds. With a luxurious spa to liven up your spirits and mind, Rambagh is a must visit for a discerning tourist. Read more

Address: Bhawani Singh Rd, Rambagh, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302005

Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur

With a stunning view of Lake Pichola by its side, rich interiors, delectable cuisines and impressive service at your hand, Fateh Prakash Palace is an one of the finest heritage hotels in Rajasthan. Guests are able to witness royalty first hand with antique furniture, miniature paintings and portraits along with the comfort and convenience of plush and luxurious suites with latest fittings. The Sunset Terrace, the restaurant at Fateh Prakash together with delivering mouth-watering cuisines, is located at a spectacular sight, offering view of the major landmarks of Udaipur along with the panoramic view of the Pichola Lake. The Palace is ideal for spending memorable evenings or romantic vacation in the enveloping enchantment of Rajasthani culture.

Address: Lake Pichola, The City Palace Complex, City Palace Rd, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

[Also check out the top 10 heritage hotels in Rajasthan]

Brunton Boatyard, Kochi

Constructed as an elegant style colonial building, the Brunton Boatyard is a visitor’s delight with its unique decor, an exciting outdoor swimming pool and yummy, lip-smacking cuisine. All the rooms in the yard are sea- facing with all the modern equipment like a TV, DVD (on request), minibar, air-conditioner and an assortment of Ayurveda products. Along with enjoying a comfortable stay, the tourist have an advantage of savoring a varieties of dishes including Arabic, Kosher, Portuguese, British Raj, Dutch and Keralite cuisine and various other snacks. The tourists will experience a wonderful stay relishing their vacation with a helpful, warm and friendly staff. Read more

Address: 1/498, Calvetty Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

[Explore more heritage hotels in India at Indianholiday.com]

Mayank Chawla

Born in New Delhi, India, Mayank grew up admiring, perceiving and then embracing the vastly complex, colorful and paradoxical nature of the Indian Society, which further led him to accommodate and appreciate the tremendous diversity of world. This admiration brought him to travel writing to share his thoughts and personal experiences with readers and travel enthusiasts at large to make them enjoy the wonderful beauty of the world as he sees it.