Travel

Top 15 Iconic/Legendary Hotels In India.

India has a vast choice of luxurious hotels, including palace hotels, tented camps, and boat hotels, all with exquisite architecture, royal ambiance, grand living style, and world-class chefs preparing international cuisine. Local and foreign travellers alike are looking for a royal experience to share with their loved ones. We’ve compiled a list of the top 15 iconic hotels in India that you should visit.

Top 15 Iconic/Legendary Hotels In India.

These are some of the legendary hotels in India.

1)The Leela Palace

The Leela Palace has been ranked one of the world’s best hotels in Udaipur. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, Leela Palace has 80 luxury rooms and offers panoramic views of the mountains and beautiful lakes. The Music theatre, folk performance, and beautiful décor in the hotel reflect the cultural history of Rajasthan.

Price: Rs 26,550 per night. Location: Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan

2) Umaid Bhawan Palace

Umaid Bhawan Palace was built by H.H.Maharaja Umaid Singh Ji from 1928 to 1943 in the desert capital of Jodhpur. Umaid Bhawan invites visitors to witness the beauty and antique collections of the golden era. The palace has 347 rooms and the hotel wing of the palace is managed by the Taj group of hotels, and is also called Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur.

Price: Rs 33,866 per night. Location: Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

3) JW Marriott Jaipur Resort and Spa

JW Marriott Jaipur Resort and Spa is one of India’s most iconic hotels and a great escape from the city’s bustle. The resort has impeccable services like luxury rooms, suites, and exquisite villas. Tourists will be spellbound by the traditional architecture. The charming hotel is known for its peace and serenity.

Price: Rs 21,240 per night. Location: Jaipur-Delhi National Highway, Kukas, Rajasthan.

4) Taj Mahal Palace

The legendary Taj Mahal Palace located in Mumbai is one of the best luxurious hotels in India. The architectural wonder offers a spectacular view of the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea. The rooms have artistic interiors with wonderful facilities. Nine iconic dining restaurants offer an exceptional dining experience, with varieties like Indian, European, and Oriental Cuisine. The Taj Mahal Palace offers some great services like Jiva Spa and Taj Salon for the guests.

Price: Rs 27,730 per night. Location: Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

5) Aman-I-Khas

Aman-I-Khas offers a different experience for the guests. It is the ideal location for people looking to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The Hotel is located amidst the serene landscape and has 10 luxurious tents that are crafted wonderfully. The culinary masterpieces offer fresh, organic, garden ingredients which are served in tents. The resort’s feature is a spa tent with an intimate pool that will help you relax.

Price: Rs 99,531/- Location: Sherpur Khiljipur, near Ranthambore National park, Rajasthan.

6) The Imperial

The Imperial is an award-winning iconic star hotel with 9 categories of luxury rooms and suites which offer stunning looks of lush green gardens. This place is a paradise for art lovers because there are a variety of artworks that can be spotted throughout the hotel and the art galleries are spread across 3 floors which showcase priceless works of great artists. If you want to witness the heritage and legacy of the country, the Imperial is a must-visit hotel for you.

Price: Rs 18,585/- Location: Connaught Place, New Delhi.

7) Evolve Back

Evolve Back is a luxurious iconic hotel, just a few kilometers from the historical heritage sites of Hampi. This place is rich in history, with wonderfully built chambers and stone-paved pathways. The designer suite comes with a private jacuzzi and provides excellent comfort to visitors. From here, scheduled tours to Hampi can be taken to learn more about Karnataka’s golden era.

Price: Rs 28,000/- Location: Kamalapura, Hosapete, Karnataka.

8) Taj Falaknuma Palace

Taj Falaknuma Palace is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in India. It is the gem of the Hyderabad city representing the royalty and luxury of the golden era of Nizam. The magnificent palace of the richest Nizam has 60 luxurious rooms that are architectural marvels and offer breathtaking views of the city. The guests are greeted royally when they arrive in a horse-drawn carriage, complete with a flower petal shower.

Price: Rs 41,300/- Location: Falaknuma, Hyderabad, Telangana.

9) The Tamara

The picture-perfect Tamara is located in the mountains of Coorg. It provides world-class facilities and unparalleled hospitality making it the perfect choice for tourists. The hotel has 30 luxurious rooms which are designed with modern amenities. You can also get easy access from the hotel to visit the tourist attractions of the city.

Price: Rs 19,859/- Location: Kabbikanakad Estate, Coorg, Karnataka.

10) Taj Rambagh Palace

Taj Rambagh Palace is one of the highly recommended hotels in India. The hotel is an architectural masterpiece comprised of two meeting rooms and five halls for business meetings. There are 79 rooms and suites which offer a wide range of facilities to its visitors to experience royal living. The hotel has some wonderful facilities like Spa, Mini golf course, swimming pool, and fitness center.

Price: Rs 33,276/- Location: Rambagh, Jaipur, Rajasthan

11) Trident

Spread across 7 acres of beautiful walkways, Trident is located on the outskirts of the Gurgaon. Trident rooms include natural tones and wooden floors, as well as a view of the pool from the window. Each room has various amenities and the visitors here can indulge in various facilities like Ayurvedic Spa, beauty treatments, and Yoga.

Price: Rs 11,210/- Location: Gurugram, Haryana

12)Sujan Sher Bagh

Sujan Sher Begh is a beautiful hotel that will take you a step closer to nature and wildlife. Located amid Ranthambore National Park where you can spot tigers in India. It has luxurious tents, and two suites with extraordinary experiences like Jungle cooking classes, special spa treatments and a breathtaking view of the wild nature. The tents are hand-stitched and adorned with luxurious furniture.

Price: Rs 61,360/- Location: Khiljipur, Rajasthan

13) Leela palace

Leela Palace is the perfect hotel with a wonderful ambiance and interiors. Leela Palace is the only sea-facing palace hotel with state-of-the-art amenities. The palace is inspired by the royal Chettinad palaces and it has been designed with amazing architecture. The guests can choose a room with a city view or sea view.

Price: Rs 10,532/- Location: Leela palace Road, Raja Annamalai Puram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

14) Vivanta by Taj Mahal

Vivanta by Taj Mahal is one of the finest hotels in India where you will have an unforgettable experience. You can choose from various rooms like deluxe rooms, luxury villas, and superior rooms, premier indulgence rooms. You can also dig into a variety of culinary items and visit the main attractions of Karnataka which are very close to the hotel.

Price: Rs 33,512/- Location: Madikeri, Karnataka.

15) The Lalit Resort and Spa

The Lalit Resort and Spa is one of the most popular hotels in Kerala. The hotel attracts tourists from across the globe with restaurants, health Spa, meetings rooms, and luxury rooms. During your stay at the hotel, you will be treated to the state’s grandeur, warmth, and art amenities.

Price: Rs 16,421/- Location: Udma, Kerala.

Conclusion

These are some of the iconic hotels in India providing a mix of adventure, culture, and elegance. We hope you have enjoyed our hotel selection; now it’s up to you to pick the best hotel for your budget and spend quality time with your family and friends.

May 13, 2022

The Evolution of Bus Travel in India

Bus travel in India has transformed dramatically over the years. What once served primarily as a feeder mode of transport or even a basic long-distance travel option has evolved into a sophisticated industry. The rise of powerful luxury buses, coupled with the rapid development of highways, has fueled this remarkable growth. In Part 1 of this series, I explored the early changes in bus designs and operations. The last two decades, in particular, have been a thrilling period for bus travel in India. Memories of Long-Distance Buses Before 2000 Before diving into recent changes, let me take you back to the late 1990s. During 1999-2000, my daily observations included long-distance buses running between Mumbai and Mangalore operators like CPC and Ballal. These buses took about 24 hours to cover the route, often carrying bulky cargo on their roofs. At that time, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway was not yet operational, so these buses took routes passing through the outskirts of Mumbai, where I lived. These were all seater buses, and I often wondered how passengers could endure such long journeys sitting upright. The First Sleeper Bus Encounter – Early 2000s In the early 2000s, during a school outing to Mumbai’s Fort area, I spotted a unique bus operated by Paulo Holiday Makers from Goa. This bus had its entrance in the middle and featured a hybrid seating arrangement: one half with seats and the other half with sleeping berths aligned along the direction of travel, similar to Indian Railways’ side berths. Though I couldn’t enter the bus, it left a strong impression as the first sleeper bus I had ever seen. The body was built by a Goan manufacturer called Damodar. The Rise of Sleeper Buses (Mid-2000s to 2010) Fast forward a few years to around 2005, sleeper buses became more common,

Travel

From Rishikesh to Rameswaram: Spiritual Retreats for Gen Z

Many Gen Zs are turning inward in a world buzzing with digital noise, seeking solace and meaning beyond screens. India’s spiritual retreats offer a unique blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary practices, providing the perfect escape for young souls yearning for connection, mindfulness, and adventure. From the serene banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh to the sacred shores of Rameswaram, Dhanush Kumar embarks on a transformative journey that resonates with the modern seeker. 1. Rishikesh- Yoga Capital of the world Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh is renowned for its yoga and meditation centres. Ashrams like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda offer immersive programs that blend ancient practices with modern needs. These retreats provide Gen Zs with tools to manage stress, enhance mindfulness, and foster deeper connection with themselves. Don’t miss: 2. Dharmshala-Tibetan Spirituality Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and offers a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Indian spirituality. Retreats here focus on meditation, compassion, and mindfulness, providing young travellers with a serene environment to explore inner peace amidst the majestic Himalayas. Don’t miss: 3. Varanasi- The Spiritual Heartbeat of India As one of the oldest living cities, Varanasi offers a profound spiritual experience. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti, exploring ancient temples, and participating in meditation sessions along the Ghats allow Gen Z travellers to immersive themselves in India’s rich spiritual heritage. Don’t miss: 4. Rameswaram- Sacred Shores and Soulful Reflections Located at the southern tip of India, Rameswaram is a significant pilgrimage site. The town’s tranquil beaches and historic temples provide a peaceful setting for introspection and spiritual growth, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves. Don’t miss: 5. Kanha Shanti Vanam- Modern Spiritual Oasis Situated near Hyderabad, Kanha Shanti Vanam is the headquarters of the Heartfulness Institute. This retreat

Travel

UDAIPUR AND ALL THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT

India’s diverse landscape offers stunning destinations year-round, with Udaipur standing out as a winter gem. Known as the “City of Lakes,” it captivates visitors with its breath-taking lakes, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM on a journey through Udaipur’s must-visit spots, famous lakes, and top hotels to make the most of your trip. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur attracts travellers with its serene landscapes, royal architecture, and vibrant markets. Its temples, forts, and museums add to its historical charm, while stunning lakes like Pichola and Fateh Sagar enhance its beauty, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture. THINGS TO DO THINGS TO REMEMBER THINGS TO DO- It is a beautiful garden that is in the northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants. This garden was laid for a group of 48 maidens by Maharana Sangram Singh for royal ladies who accompanied the queen after marriage to Udaipur. THINGS TO DO- THINGS TO DO- Artificial freshwater lake located in Udaipur, which was created in the 14th century. It spans approximately 4 square kilometres and is surrounded by picturesque hills, temples, palaces, and Ghats. The lake is famous for its serene beauty and its reflection of the historic City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace, which appears to float on its waters. THINGS TO DO- This is one of the best hotels located on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 16th century, it was initially conceived as a retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh I. The palace features exquisite marble and sandstone architecture, with beautiful courtyards, gardens, and intricate carvings. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of royal grandeur. THINGS TO

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God’s Own Country Awaits: The Best Places to Visit in Kerala This Season

Edged by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, Kerala is rightly called God’s Own Country. January and February are the best months to visit, offering pleasant weather and an escape from the state’s extreme heat and monsoon rains. From serene backwaters to lush hills, Kerala is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM in discovering its breath taking landscapes, and you might just add Kerala to your travel bucket list. Kerala’s diverse attractions span from cultural landmarks to pristine natural beauty. This journey through the state begins in Ernakulam, centrally located, and extends south to Poovar Island, offering a seamless travel route. Each destination has been chosen for its accessibility, ensuring a convenient and enriching experience for every traveller. THINGS TO DO- (1-2 Days) 2) Alappuzha – The smallest district of Kerala, Alappuzha, known as “The Venice of the East,” is a perfect New Year getaway with its scenic network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. While there’s plenty to explore, creating a priority list will help you make the most of your experience. THINGS TO DO – (1 -2 days) Experience the splendid sight of the glowing sun passing through the calm waters of the Ashtamudi Lake which is the prominent attraction of the town. Asthamudi town signifies a total eight islands which jointly contribute to be a significant part of the wetland ecosystem in the area. The town is best for escaping the city rush during the vacations and experiencing the biodiversity featuring mangroves and avian species. THINGS TO DO – (1 DAY) Kovalam beach (95 kms from Ashtamudi towards south) If you love beaches and want to enjoy the sand and the sea, Varkala and Kovalam beaches are your spots! THINGS TO DO- (1 DAY) Located in Thiruvananthapuram