India is a land of rich cultural heritage and ancient architecture. This is evident in the many centuries-old hotels in India that still exist today. These luxury hotels are not just a place to stay, but they are a living testimony to the rich history and culture of India. From majestic palaces to elegant havelis, these hotels are adorned with exquisite royal furnishings, beautiful textiles, and intricate carvings that transport guests back in time.
Centuries-old hotels in India that showcase a rich past
1. The Belgadia Palace, Odisha
The Belgadia Palace is a magnificent example of Odisha's rich cultural heritage. Built in the early 20th century, the palace has been converted into a hotel that offers a unique blend of colonial elegance and traditional Indian hospitality. The palace features spacious rooms, each with its distinct character, decorated with antique furnishings and textiles. One of the most spiritually visited old hotels in India, it also has a library, a dining room, and a well-manicured garden that offers guests a glimpse into India's rich history.
2. Naini Retreat, Nainital
The Naini Retreat, located in the hill station of Nainital, is a stunning property that dates back to the late 19th century. This age-old luxury hotel was once a hunting lodge of the British Raj and has since been converted into a hotel that offers guests a taste of colonial India. The hotel features spacious rooms with antique furnishings and an on-site restaurant that serves traditional Indian cuisine.
3. Haveli Hari Ganga, Haridwar
The Haveli Hari Ganga is a beautiful haveli located in the holy city of Haridwar. The haveli was built in the early 19th century, and has been carefully restored to retain its traditional charm. The hotel features spacious rooms decorated with traditional Indian textiles and furnishings, and an on-site restaurant that serves authentic Indian cuisine. The Haveli is located near the banks of the River Ganges, making it a popular destination for pilgrims.
4. Stok Palace, Ladakh
The Stok Palace is a stunning example of Ladakhi architecture and is located in the stunning region of Ladakh. The palace was built in the late 19th century and has been converted into a hotel that offers guests a glimpse into Ladakh's rich cultural heritage. The palace features spacious rooms with antique furnishings and textiles and an on-site restaurant that serves traditional Ladakhi cuisine.
5. Gratitude Heritage, Puducherry
The Gratitude Heritage is one of the treasured vintage hotels in India, in a stunning property located in the charming town of Puducherry. The hotel was built in the late 19th century, and has been carefully restored to retain its colonial charm. The hotel features spacious rooms with antique furnishings and an on-site restaurant that serves authentic South Indian cuisine. The hotel is located near the beach, making it a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway.
6. Brijrama Palace, Uttar Pradesh
The Brijrama Palace is a magnificent property located in the historic city of Varanasi. The palace was built in the late 19th century and has been carefully restored to retain its traditional charm. The hotel features spacious rooms with antique furnishings and textiles and an on-site restaurant that serves authentic North Indian cuisine. This top palace hotel is located near the River Ganges, making it a popular destination for pilgrims.
7. Lalit Great Eastern Hotel, Kolkata
This hotel, located in the heart of Kolkata, is a restored colonial hotel that dates back to the 19th century. The hotel is surrounded by lush green gardens and has a picturesque view of the Hoogly river. The interiors of the hotel are adorned with antique furniture, elegant chandeliers, and elegant textiles, making it a true epitome of culture, tradition and Indian heritage.
8. Tijara Fort Palace, Alwar
This old luxury hotel is a restored fort palace that dates back to the 17th century, and is located in the charming town of Alwar. The fort palace has been beautifully restored and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The interiors of the hotel are adorned with intricate carvings, antique furniture, and hand-woven textiles, making it a true representation of India's rich cultural heritage making it one of the best palace hotels in Rajasthan.
9. Neemrana Fort-Palace, Delhi-Jaipur Highway
This luxury heritage hotel is a restored fort palace that dates back to the 15th century and is located on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway. The fort palace has been beautifully restored and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The interiors of this old luxury hotel are adorned with intricate carvings, antique furniture, and hand-woven textiles, making it a true representation of India's rich cultural heritage.
10. Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai
This hotel, located in the heart of Mumbai, is a restored colonial hotel that dates back to the early 20th century. The luxury hotel is located on the Mumbai harbour, and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The interiors of the hotel are adorned with antique furniture, elegant chandeliers, and elegant textiles, making it a true epitome of India's colonial past.
These magnificent and centuries-old hotels in India are truly a feast for the eyes and a treat for the senses. Each of these old luxury hotels has its own unique story and history, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves the beauty and grandeur of India's historic beauty.