Best Luxury Hotels in Karnataka

Travelling for work? This hotel in the central business district – with views of Cubbon Park – couldn’t be more convenient. Open every day from early to late, JW Kitchen serves a la carte food and fantastic Sunday brunches. Uno is the Marriott’s Japanese restaurant; Alba serves Mediterranean dishes; Spice Terrace has a menu of Indian cuisine; the Bengaluru Baking Company is the place for coffee and a cake, and there’s The Merak Brewhouse for a pint. Guests also have access to a fitness centre, an attractive outdoor pool area and a spa.

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.

Over 1000 artworks are found throughout this property, showcasing national and international artists, while the building’s exterior is punctuated by intricate latticework. 277 bedrooms come with 400-ply Frette linen, Asprey bath products, Krug coffee machines, retro Tivoli radios and a personalised welcome note from management. Indian food is served in Riwaz, with Chinese cuisine in the Lantern. The Market is an all-day dining outlet, the Lobby Lounge serves an indulgent afternoon tea and Bang is the rooftop bar. The spa is possibly the best in town and guests can enjoy a dip in the long, thin swimming pool.

Built in 1982 in a neoclassical style, this Marriott property accommodates 218 bedrooms over five floors, including suites with butler service. The decor harks back to another era, with canopied beds, chandeliers, gilt finishes, dark wood furniture and heavy drapes. The columned, white exterior overlooks a large pool area to the rear, with a fountain, day beds, palm trees and a dining terrace. Guests can also eat in Dakshin and Dum Pukht Jolly Nabobs Restaurant and the Raj Pavilion. There’s also a Fabelle chocolate boutique cafe, the Dublin Bar and The Royal Afghan.