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We pride ourselves on knowing everything there is to know about hotels in India — we can spot a perfect room from two states away — which is why we only list the most amazing boutique properties in the whole subcontinent.
Our work links us up with plenty of brilliant bloggers and we got chatting to Yasmin over at Bangles and Bungalows. She wanted our tips on the top 10 boutique hotels in India, so we sent her five of the best and she picked the other five. The resulting blog post is the definitive list of ten stunning Indian boutique hotels that will have you packing your bags before you’ve shut down your computer.
So, without further a do, here are 10 hotels chosen by ourselves and Yasmin with endless character, charm and hospitality to pamper the discerning traveler.
If you’re visiting Rajasthan, your trip isn’t complete without seeing Jaisalmer, known for its historic fort and austere beauty. Suryagarh is a modern take on the 12th century architecture of the area with its traditional sandstone exterior and luxurious, yet comfortable interior. You’ll feel like a guest of the Raj while mingling with the owner, enjoying service with incredible attention to detail and marveling at the dazzling antiques on display. Rooms start at $138 per night.
For a getaway within a getaway, experience Scarlette. Enjoy the French countryside and recuperate away from the hustle and bustle of New Delhi. The two-story hotel feels more like a home with its intimate spaces, home-style cooking and curious mix of French and Rajasthani décor. Enjoy one of the most welcoming places in the city starting at $114 per night.
Samode Palace (near Jaipur, Rajasthan)
Get the royal experience for less at Samode Palace. Overlooking the picturesque village of Samode is a beautiful palace with unique and alluring spaces to explore at your own leisure. A popular wedding destination, it also offers camel and horse rides in the desert, cooking classes, ballooning, massages and more to delight your inner adventurer. Experience the palace starting at $151 per night.
Butts Clermont Houseboats (Srinagar)
Ever dream of floating across Dal Lake in Kashmir, once touted as heaven on earth? Travel back in time to the splendour and history of Kashmir’s bygone era with your own houseboat. The Butt and Clermont families have been running the business of these luxurious houseboats since 1947 hosting distinguished guests such as Lord Mountbatten, George Harrison and many foreign correspondents. The houseboats are well known throughout the city with rates starting from $76.
Live like the colonials did in this tropical 350-year-old Portuguese style mansion. Formerly owned by the governor of Macau, this property was modeled on Portuguese homes. Despite the historic splendour, it still manages to feel like a home full of personality, warmth and laidback charm. Bonus points for the French desserts available from local patisserie Delicieux, run by the owner’s partner. Stay at this sweet and stunning abode starting at $80 per night.
India’s cities are dominated by 5-star hotel chains but Delhi is an exception. This luxurious, sophisticated property in New Delhi also hosts one of India’s best restaurants, Indian Accent, and wellness centre, Zehen. Rooms can be had for as little as $101 per night including breakfast and taxes.
Fateh Garh (Udaipur, Rajasthan)
The desert state of royal Rajasthan is the place to find that quintessential India we all admire. Udaipur, ‘the lake city’, is well worth a visit, but do yourself a favour and stay just 20 minutes outside town at this luxurious hilltop hotel. It’s impeccably run with smart, savvy staff, and rooms as low as $110 per night. Don’t forget to watch out for the wandering tortoise!
Seetalvan Orchard (Kotgarh-Thanedar, Himachal Pradesh)
The thing about India is the mind-boggling variety. Nowhere is this more evident than in Himachal Pradesh, where the India you think you know suddenly morphs into something more…alpine. Seetalvan’s mountain view can compete with the best Indian hotels and it’s right in apple-country. For that alone, rooms from $79 per night including breakfast and dinner are a snip!
The small state of Goa is one of India’s most famous destinations and has shrugged off the hippy/hedonistic image in recent times. Yab Yum is the coolest property on Ashwem Beach, a serene eco-friendly oasis accommodating families and low key professionals over from London or down from Mumbai. For a funky dome next to one of Goa’s best beaches, $63 per night including breakfast is a steal.
Marari Beach Resort (Alleppey, Kerala)
This large, sprawling property occupies what must be one of the best locations on the west coast of India, next to Marari Beach in gorgeous Kerala. Take a backwater cruise, enjoy the white sandy beaches, try a cooking class or get an ayurvedic massage. There’s so much to do here, not to mention awesome food, plenty of space and a high comfort factor. Rates start from $113 per night but it’s worth upgrading to a Garden Pool Villa from $189 per night including breakfast.