Best Independent Style Hotels in Karnataka

At the centre of The Oberoi, is a raintree which has stood in place for over 12 decades. Indeed its horticulture has won awards, with balconies overflowing with blooms, lotus-covered ponds, manicured lawns and rainforest-like vegetation separated by aristocratic fountains — and its flowers go into the hotel’s exclusive tea blend. The spa here opens around the clock and the salon until late. Bedrooms have organic herbal bath products, espresso machines, blackout drapes, iPad controls and private outdoor spaces. Like the grounds, the four restaurants have received many accolades, each providing menus for kids.

With its open helipad, the ITC Gardenia allows you to arrive into the heart of the city, in movie-star style, greeted by a staff member in tails, presented a chilled glass of champagne. The building was created as a tribute to Bangalore, and pays homage to the region’s culture throughout. It was the first hotel in Asia to have a Platinum rating under LEED®, thanks to its eco-conscious approach; its vertical lawned wall proving a notable feature. Take a medicinal or spiritual journey at Kaya Kalp – The Spa. And feast on everything from kebabs to robatayaki and tapas, at the seven eateries, which include a semi-open-air, grass-roofed Lotus Pavilion.

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.