A flurry of new openings this year has sealed India’s position at the cutting edge of the world’s hospitality industry. A unique combination of stunning heritage architecture, sublime cuisine, exacting service and spectacular landscapes makes it a very rewarding destination. Here’s our carefully curated round-up of India’s best hotels in 2019.
Deeppura Garh, Rajasthan
A regal fort that has witnessed two centuries of Rajasthani history unfurl around it, Deeppura Garh is a true labour of love. Its majestic battlements have been restored from ruins, establishing it firmly in its new incarnation as a stunning boutique hotel. Unwind with a quiet gin and tonic by the pool and admire the flower-spilled garden.
Raas Chhatrasagar, Rajasthan
Raas’ new luxury camp Chhatrasagar has mastered the art of serenity, easily winning it a place in our list of best hotels in 2019. Its chic canvas-roofed tents perch quietly upon the lip of a water reservoir, flanked by tranquil tended grounds and offering an ideal escape from the soaring Rajasthani heat. And that sparkling infinity pool begs a dip.
Taj Rishikesh
The streets and bridges of Rishikesh throng busily with pilgrims, sadhus and yoga enthusiasts. It’s comforting, then, to be able to step away from it all and roll out a mat somewhere infinitely more tranquil. The newly opened Taj Rishikesh offers one such escape. Perched demurely on the banks of the sacred Ganga, it’s the ideal spot for that early morning post-sun salutation dip.
The Rohet House, Jodhpur
In the leafy environs of Ratanada, The Rohet House is a pretty clutch of nine beautiful guest rooms clustered around a glassy swimming pool and perfumed by gardens peppered with frangipani. This latest from the prestigious House of Rohet is a paragon of style and taste, easily establishing itself as the jewel of the hotelier’s superlative collection.
Prakriti Shakti, Kerala
Set among the emerald hills of the Western Ghats, CGH Earth’s Prakriti Shakti is an ideal destination for a luxury wellness holiday. A retreat for those seeking a detoxifying escape as well as a reputable eco-clinic for more intensive Ayurvedic treatments, Prakriti Shakti is the wellness entry on our list of newly opened best hotels in 2019.
The Postcard Hotel, Goa, Sri Lanka & Bhutan
Overseen by the exacting eye of erstwhile Oberoi Group president, Kapil Chopra has launched a pristine portfolio of luxury hotels in India and beyond. Discover The Postcard Hotel’s superlative destinations in Goa, Sri Lanka and Bhutan.
Cabo Serai, Goa
The perfect retreat for a luxury beach holiday in India, Cabo Serai perches upon a dramatic cliff above the tranquil Cabo de Rama Beach in south Goa. Its tasteful stilted cottages and tents offer spectacular sea views, with yoga, meditation and Ayurvedic treatments lending Cabo Serai a wellness edge.
Kathiwada, Madhya Pradesh
Immaculately restored and gleaming white amidst Madhya Pradesh’s jungle wilds, Kathiwada has retained every inch of its royal pedigree as the maharaja’s hunting lodge. Getting back to nature is what this beautiful boutique hotel does best, with cultural activities such as block-printing and pottery providing added enrichment.
Adivaha, Dharamsala
With a limited choice of luxury accommodation around Dharamsala, Adivaha is a very welcome opening. The heritage resort was once the estate residence of the viceroy. The décor, service and cuisine are all spectacular, but the real crowd-pleaser is that stunning view.
Feature images © Deeppurah Garh; eROMAZe/iStock; Taj Hotels and Palaces; House of Rohet; CGH Earth; Andrew Peacock/iStock; Cabo Serai; Kathiwada Raaj Mahal; rchphoto/iStock
