The best city hotels in India

India is a vast country with endless accommodation possibilities. While a lot of the 5 star hotels offer the standard luxury you would expect, there is a handful of them that offer much more, making sure every stay will be something special. Here are my top 5 city hotels in India which give you that little extra.

The Lodhi, New Delhi

Straight away starting off with one of the best. The hotel used to be part of the famous Aman group, which already gives you an indication of what to expect. Nothing is too much and service is key. But it doesn’t stop there as the rooms are massive and most of them have their own private pool. I mean, which city hotel can offer this? Specially in a metropolis which hasn’t always the space for such things. Of course there are many other reasons why this place is so unique and perfect when looking for accommodation in this city. I has its own bakery, one of the best spa’s in the country, and the best restaurant in India (Indian Accent) is also located on their grounds. It’s a given that all the food is exquisite, and combined with the impeccable service it is hard to find any flaws at The Lodhi.

St-Regis, Mumbai

Mumbai is a bustling city which never sleeps. Traffic can be a nightmare and the noise from the streets is constant. The St-Regis Mumbai though makes sure you escape all of this madness and serves as a true oasis. It is located in India’s tallest hotel tower, giving it plenty of space for their amazing rooms and suites. Of course all of them enjoy the amazing views which you can find all around. The hotel also has countless restaurants, all of them among the best you can find in Mumbai. Most of them can be found on the highest floors, giving you not only delicious food, but also the added bonus of the amazing views over the city. Rooftop bar, exclusive members only club, rooftop swimming pool, …you name it and they have it. Rather get your shopping fix sorted? Not a problem, as the hotel is adjacent to one of the biggest shopping malls in the city. What more do you need?

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

If there is one place travelers dream about when they go to India, it is visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra. And the Oberoi Amarvilas is the best place to stay when doing so. This oasis of luxury not only gives you all the amenities you look for when staying in an opulent place like this, it also gives you amazing views of the Taj Mahal from your room. No need to look for any other selling point, even though there are plenty. Every room has butler service and they are all a show piece of Indian craftsmanship. The beautiful pool is another perfect hideaway to take it all in or to cool off from the heat which you can often find in this part of India. Tip of the day: enjoy some amazing Indian tea at the lounge. The golden domed ceiling and once again the amazing views of the Taj Mahal will make you speechless.

The Leela Palace, Udaipur

Another property where the views and location alone would be more than sufficient to make this list, though lucky enough there is much more than that. All the rooms and suites at the Leela Palace offer its guests views over Lake Pichola, combined with all the modern amenities travelers are looking for these days. The decorations include artefacts and furnishings from the Rajasthan area, turning this hotel in a true palace. One of the highlights is dinner at the Sheesh Mahal restaurant, an alfresco fine-dining restaurant  which has the most amazing views over the lake while you enjoy unique traditional touches like pouches of spice to freshen the air, scented candles and flowers,… Makes sure to end your day at the Library bar. The intimate lounge boosts a style from a bygone era and has the finest selection of whiskies and liquors in the whole city. Enough reason to stay another night.

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Last but certainly not least is the Taj Falaknuma Palace which is a 32-acre hilltop estate overlooking Old Hyderabad. Forget your Uber or limo service, as cars are not permitted beyond the front gate. Instead you arrive at the reception in either a golf cart or a horse carriage. How about that for an entrance? Every guest will feel like royalty when staying over here. The beautiful rooms and suites are all offering modern luxuries while still remaining the flair and grandeur from the past century. Food is important and culinary delights from all over the world can be enjoyed in all the different restaurants. One of the fun facts is that the palace has the longest dining table in the world (108 feet long) so don’t be shy and invite a few friend of your as there is plenty of space at the table. Children are also welcome in this wonderful heaven of opulence and indulgence, and the countless activities organized for them will surely make them feel like royalty too.

By Kristof Eyckmans