Copy Link
Planning a summer vacation? Then, choosing a hotel with a pool is absolutely essential—extra points if it comes with a spectacular view! From temperature-controlled infinity pools to ones with Himalayan views, here’s our pick of some of the best hotel pools in India. Dive in.
1. Alila Diwa Goa
With high pitched roofs, wide verandahs, and red laterite stone decor, Alila Diwa Goa offers a contemporary twist on traditional local architecture. Splash in its infinity pool overlooking lush paddy fields, relax on one of the sunbeds dotting the deck, and later, grab a fusion cocktail at The Edge, the hotel’s stylish pool bar with indoor-outdoor seating and an extensive beverage menu.
Doubles from Rs. 21,500
2. Brij Lakshman Sagar, Rajasthan
A late 19th-century hunting lodge belonging to a noble family is now the luxury boutique hotel Brij Lakshman Sagar in Pali, Rajasthan. While its 12 independent cottages come with private pools, its centrepiece is the eye-catching hand-carved pool, cut into a rock plateau. It makes quite a picturesque setting amidst a stark desert landscape and the lodge’s zenana tower as a backdrop. Sun-bathe on a daybed, gorge on sumptuous bites from the poolside barbecue, and enjoy folk music performances in the evening.
Doubles from Rs. 19,500
3. Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Karnataka
Located on the outskirts of Nagarhole National Park, Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge in Kabini is the ideal spot for a summer safari holiday—you have higher chances of spotting tigers and other animals as they come out in search of water. After an exhilarating safari, return to the resort for a refreshing dip in the gorgeous adults-only infinity pool. Located at the edge of Kabini Reservoir, the pool seemingly blends into the lake, creating a picture-perfect setting particularly at sunset—it’s a great spot to enjoy a sundowner from the Pool Lounge
Doubles from Rs. 35,000
4. RAAS Jodhpur, Rajasthan
In the shadow of the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, RAAS Jodhpur is an 18th-century Marwari haveli-turned-boutique hotel, and the perfect place to stay if you want to experience the Blue City up close. The swimming pool set amidst the sprawling courtyard gives an uninterrupted look at the fort. It’s particularly gorgeous at night when the fort is lit up, and because the pool is heated, it makes for an enchanting dip even on a chilly winter evening
Doubles from Rs. 20,000
5. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Jammu & Kashmir
Imagine a heated swimming pool surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass beyond which you can see incredible panoramic views of the Affarwat peaks. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg makes this idyllic scene a reality. Whether you go for a skiing holiday in winter or a trekking vacay in summer, the pool offers the perfect place to recuperate and rejuvenate. The adjoining Khyber Spa by L’Occitane takes the pampering to another level with signature treatments from Provence fused with Himalayan water and seasonal flora.
Doubles from Rs. 27,000
6. The Leela Palace New Delhi
One of the capital’s best hotels, the Leela Palace New Delhi, is a magnificent modern palace located mere minutes from the airport and Lutyens’ Delhi—it’s no wonder that it is the hotel of choice for the luxury traveller. The hotel also has the city’s only rooftop temperature-controlled swimming pool. Surrounded by regal golden domes, the open-to-air infinity-edged pool has been designed to give you uninterrupted views of the lush Diplomatic Enclave
Doubles from Rs. 13,000
7. Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Kerala
Perched on the tip of Willingdon Island off Kochi and overlooking the harbour, Taj Malabar Resort & Spa offers a blend of old-world charm and top-class luxury. Its palm-fringed infinity pool seems to seamlessly blend into the Arabian Sea. Relax in one of the sun loungers with a book, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, and soak in the tranquillity of God’s Own Country.
Doubles from Rs. 11,000
8. The Roseate Ganges, Uttarakhand
One of the best luxury spa resorts in Rishikesh, The Roseate Ganges offers 17 well-appointed villas in the sylvan setting of the Garhwal Himalaya foothills. It also has an infinity pool that lives up to its impressive locale. The mirror-like temperature-controlled pool reflects the sky and overlooks the valley and the mountains in the distance, while the mighty Ganga roars below—it’s like swimming in the lap of nature.
Doubles from Rs. 28,000
9. The St. Regis Mumbai, Maharashtra
Where can you find the best view of Maximum City while lounging in a pool? The answer is at The St. Regis Mumbai, one of the best business hotels in the city, towering over the commercial and retail hub of Lower Parel. Located in the hotel’s wellness section spread over the 10th floor, this outdoor pool has a sunken lounge with a couple of daybeds in the water and private poolside cabanas. Order a cocktail and some tapas from the attached bar, watch the sunset, and leave the chaos of the city behind.
Doubles from Rs. 13,000
10. Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas — An Oberoi Resort
Nestled in a dense cedar forest, Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas is a colonial-style 85-key Oberoi resort. Its temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool, complete with overhead chandeliers, makes for a gorgeous setting. But what we really love is the outdoor deck with an al fresco infinity whirlpool that comes with a view of the verdant valley and the snow-capped Himalayas. On a clear day, you can see the fluffy white clouds mirrored on its azure waters—truly a sight to behold.
Doubles from Rs. 26,500
Photo: Brij Lakshman Sagar; respective hotels