Best Independent Style Hotels in India

The epitome of luxury, the Leela Palace is a magnificent and enormous pink sandstone castle set within nine acres of continuously maintained gardens (you’ll spot a tribe of landscapers constantly at work among its coconut-producing palms). Everything here delivers on a grand scale; from the 50-foot pool to the cathedral-like candles and floral displays, extravagant lobster-abundant seafood nights and a club lounge with separate cigar, champagne and billiard rooms. Service is exemplary (among the best you’ll find anywhere). And there are four restaurants, a spa and a kids’ pool onsite.

This resort is found in the south of Goa (Raj Baga, Canacona, to be exact). Boasting its own casino, golf course, helipad and even a yacht, this is one of the largest hotels – certainly in terms of land – within Goa. It has 255 rooms, six dining venues, a kids’ corner, tennis courts, two pools, a holistic spa and a five-star rating. The two-storey LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort is less than two decades old but was remodelled in 2008.

Designed by internationally renowned Khun Lek Bunnag, this unusual building was inspired by the five elements of Hindu philosophy (air, water, fire, earth and sky). Full of high tech gadgetry, everything in the bedrooms – like lighting and curtains – is controlled from an iPad. It has the longest swimming pool in town (108 metres long) and is surrounded by gardens, creating a cocoon of serenity. These include an area for growing the produce that’s served in the restaurants – the hotel also has cows and a mini fruit orchard. Guests can dine on Chinese food at Chi Ni or international cuisine at Kiyan.

Stretching 10 acres along the Bay of Bengal, this palatial residence is a wonderful example of Rajasthani architecture. Kaldan Samudhra translates as “an immortal place in paradise” and was opened in 2021, after several years of work by the country’s top builders, sculptors and artisans. 106 bedrooms have a regal style, reflecting a traditional aesthetic and range from deluxe twins to three-bedded villas with private pools. The grounds incorporate a long pool meandering past the hotel buildings and a private beach where you can practice sunset, as well as soak up some rays.

Among the many 5 start hotels available in Mumbai, the LaLit might be one of the most reasonably priced and economically competitive. Boasting a unique offering of luxury apartments with full-featured hotel service, the LaLit is a great choice for families or anyone else who wants to stay in a place that feels just like home. The available residences are very tastefully decorated in a modern style, and the wonderful ambience and high standards of this place will impress even the most demanding visitors.

Offering some of the largest bedrooms in the city – 461 in total – this suits those staying for a longer period, families, or who enjoy a little more room. It also suits those who enjoy some late-night partying – LaLiT has its own club (with live DJs playing at the weekends) Kitty Su. There are also four excellent restaurants, a spa, an in-house art gallery and an outdoor pool, with luxe loungers. A stay here places guests in the heart of the busy city, as such, it was built upwards to fit, rather than spreading outwards – its height, therefore, affords plenty of excellent views.

If you prefer a more contemporary vibe, book one of 80 soundproofed rooms here. You’ll enjoy direct lake views with the Aravalli Mountains in the background. Dine on the terrace of the main restaurant, choosing from a menu of international cuisine, with a glass of something from its walk-in wine cellar; tuck into Indian food overlooking the lake; and cosy up beside the fire as you listen to live Rajasthani folk music in the bar. The Leela Palace’s other amenities include a spa, an outdoor pool and a gym. It first opened in April 2009, part of a small luxe chain of resorts and has become especially popular with business travellers.