Best Luxury 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.

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.

The height of this skyscraper ensures its roof terrace — home to the funky Hype Bar with live DJs — boasts panoramic views. The Far Eastern connections of this chain are evident in touches such as staff uniform design and spa treatments. Dine with all the family any time of the day, in the Asian and continental B Café with its show kitchens and enormous breakfast buffets. Then there’s Caprese for Mediterranean food, Yataii for some of the best sushi and kaiseki dinners for miles, Ssaffron for local flavours and the Shang Palace signature Chinese restaurant.

A luxurious hideaway from the bustling streets of Delhi, The Oberoi, New Delhi has established itself as a destination for the world’s most discerning guests from presidents to global CEOs and celebrities over the past fifty years. The Oberoi, New Delhi features 220 rooms, including 34 suites which are spacious and luxurious with an abundance of natural light. The hotel’s enviable location in the heart of New Delhi, offers striking views of the 16th century Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the 18-hole Delhi Golf Course, India’s oldest golf course’s vast greenways. Oberoi’s signature design aesthetic of height, light, water, and space can be seen throughout the hotel. Diners can sample Michelin-star cuisine at two of the hotel’s restaurants in partnership with acclaimed Chef Andrew Wong of the famed “A. Wong” Chinese two Michelin-star restaurant and Michelin-star chef, Chef Vineet Bhatia MBE, the first Indian chef to be honoured with a Michelin star. Dhilli by Chef Vineet Bhatia opened its doors earlier this year as the city’s newest culinary hotspot. Diners can explore an exquisite mix of Chef Vineet’s signature recipes and legacy cooking traditions passed on through generations. From the rich culinary heritage of Old Delhi’s pulsating lanes to Rajouri Gardens and everything in between. The rooftop bar, Cirrus9, offers specially curated beverages and panoramic views overlooking the Golf Course, perfect for sundowners in the evening and to enjoy the warm evenings. The Oberoi Pâtisserie & Delicatessen is India’s first exclusive gourmet store which offers a wide range of desserts and cakes, high-quality delicatessen items, freshly baked bread, homemade single-origin chocolates, cheeses, and condiments to eat-in or takeaway.

Located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Ballygunge, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata marks the brand’s dynamic debut in the City of Joy. With 93 contemporary rooms and suites, the hotel is designed as a stylish home base for modern travellers eager to immerse themselves in Kolkata’s rich artistic, culinary, and cultural scene. Guests enjoy smart in-room technology, contactless check-in, and design that blends playful textures with locally inspired touches.

Culinary highlights include Cal-On, a rooftop craft brewery with a terrace garden and mixology-led cocktails; YAYAvar, serving regional Indian dishes inspired by the country’s highways; and TESS, a Euro-Asian bistro with Thai specialities and European comfort food. For events, the hotel offers over 3,000 sq ft of flexible spaces, from the Gallery ballroom to collaborative studios and lounges. Leisure amenities include a rooftop pool, rejuvenating spa, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Ideally located near landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial, New Market and Eden Gardens, this hotel is a vibrant launchpad for discovering Kolkata.

The Oberoi Mumbai is more than just a luxury hotel, it’s an experience in itself. From its unparalleled location along Marine Drive to its impeccable service and world-class amenities, it effortlessly sets the benchmark for hospitality in the city. Whether you’re indulging in the panoramic sea views from your suite, savouring Michelin-starred cuisine at Ziya, or unwinding with a signature Indian spa treatment, every moment feels curated to perfection. The attention to detail, warmth of service, and sheer elegance make The Oberoi Mumbai a standout choice for guests.

Standing tall in all its glory at the southern tip of the city, The Oberoi Mumbai enjoys a prime seafront location with sweeping views of the Arabian Sea. Perched along the iconic Marine Drive (also known as the Queen’s Necklace) it sits at the heart of Nariman Point, the city’s bustling business district. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the National Centre for the Performing Arts and the historic Gateway of India, making it an ideal base for both business and leisure travellers. Beyond its convenience, the hotel offers a rare luxury in Mumbai; waking up to the soothing rhythm of waves against the shore.

Found in the Alipore district, this landmark building was designed by lauded architect Bob Fox. Rooms here are grand yet understated, created to be peaceful cocoons, with soundproofing, classic wood furnishings and the highest-quality cream and gold fabrics. There are eight venues in which to eat and drink, serving Chinese, Lebanese, Middle-Eastern, European and Italian food, as well as patisserie and grilled seafood. Recline beside the pool to the sounds of live music, peruse the priceless artworks on show, marvel at the five-storey stone and marble atrium, shop Indian handicrafts and unwind in the spa – all within the Taj Bengal.

Dating back to the late 19th century, this hotel is found in the bustling shopping district, yet has an oasis-like ambience. A blissful pool area sits at its centre, flanked by palm trees and comfy loungers. Threesixtythree° is the hotel’s signature restaurant, fusing cooking influences from across Asia and Europe and baking pizzas in a wood-fired oven. Decorated in a midcentury style, its menus include a wellness selection with uber-healthy dishes and a lavish brunch. Guests can also eat at the fine dining Baan Thai restaurant, or order lighter meals in the fashionable bar. Personalised treatments are available at the Oberoi Spa.

With a timeless feel and distinctive architecture (think pillars, colonnades and arches), the ITC celebrates Bengali rich culture alongside the latest technology. It houses 456 bedrooms and suites, each with iPads to control in-room features and the ‘infotainment’ and some come with butler service. Those staying for an extended period can opt for a self-catering residence, with sitting and dining areas. Kaya Kalp is the ITC’s well-being centre, specialising in Ayurvedic therapies. And there are five sumptuous places to eat; a vegetarian restaurant, an Italian kitchen, an international buffet, The Brass Room tapas bar and the Darjeeling tea lounge.

Experience South Indian hospitality, indigenous culture and understated luxury with a stay at this five-star residence (sister property of the Taj Club House) in the heart of the city. Check in here and you can swim in the lagoon-style 25-metre pool, relax in a curved lounger, book a treatment at the Jiva Grande Spa and take yoga classes from esteemed local teachers. Meals can be taken in the majestic Southern Spice or the healthy buffet restaurant, Anise; order dim sum at the Chinese-themed Golden Dragon and Italian food at Prego; with flamboyant cocktails mixed at the Chipstead bar.

Found in a salubrious residential neighbourhood, historically popular with illustrious Brits, the Taj Club House is instantly recognisable by its 45000 sq.ft neon blue glass façade. This, and 220 rooms (some with butler service), were designed by Thom Catallo, creating an on-trend retreat for business, as well as leisure travellers. The Taj’s polished signature restaurant, The Club House, is complemented by its Brew cafe and the Blend cocktail bar with a pulsating vibe. Jiva Spa has a menu of rituals and treatments, inspired by local culture and you can unwind on a plush lounger beside the rooftop pool.