Snapshots
From luxurious rooms to gastronomic adventures and relaxing treatments, luxury resorts in India are redefining elevated hospitality. Personalised services, stunning landscapes, and exquisite amenities elevate the experience, making it perfect for a romantic getaway, family retreat, or solo relaxation. Discover the ultimate elegance and tranquillity at the finest luxury resorts nominated for the upcoming Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2025.
Raffles, Udaipur
Relaxation is the game's name at the first Raffles outpost in India, which is located on a 21-acre island in Udai Sagar Lake and encircled by the majestic Aravalli Range. Imagine sprawling spa massages, long breakfasts with several cups of French press coffee, and bespoke cocktails at the Long Bar. On top of that, it offers hospitality that makes you want to come back.
Each of the 101 rooms and suites has either a garden or a pool right outside your door. While the pools may be lacking, the views of the lake, its birds, and the distant hills more than make up for it. The hotel is a popular site for Indian weddings, so you won't have to worry about being overwhelmed by the noise.
Why you’ll love this: Spa treatments centred on aromatherapy and Ayurveda using products from the Australian brand Subtle Energies are available in the nearly 12,000-square-foot facility. Kashmiri lavender, crushed pearls, 24-karat gold, neem, and wild turmeric are some of the ingredients used in the cruelty-free, all-natural products.
Niraamaya Retreats, Kovalam
With its charming Keralite heritage cottages, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra is a seaside resort and a Relais & Châteaux property. Located eight kilometres south of Kovalam in the village of Pulinkudi, this breathtaking 32-acre retreat sits atop a cliff. Guests of the luxurious property can enjoy breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
Why you’ll love this: Traditional Ayurvedic treatments, as well as yoga, meditation, and pranayama classes, are available at this retreat. The hotel's Essence, a vibrant Southeast Asian and seafood restaurant, and the all-day multi-cuisine Caf Samsara are both highly recommended.
Kumaon, Almora
Perched on a hilltop beneath the holy Nanda Devi Range, The Kumaon provides an intimate mountain hideaway in the middle of the Himalayas. Ten plush suites, arranged in pairs across five buildings, each with its own private overlapping terrace and views of the Great Himalayan range, make up this property, which is characterised by undulating hills and an air of understated elegance.
A cantilevered dining area overlooks the valley below, while the main building houses a library, spa, and lounge. As it winds its way down a hillside, the Kumaon features ten suites, arranged in pairs. Views of the valleys below and the mountains ahead can be seen from the suites' floor-to-ceiling windows. The lower units have adjacent outdoor sitting areas surrounded by fruit trees, while the upper units have bay windows that extend out to large terraces.
Why you’ll love this: They provide a variety of ways to explore the area's rich cultural and natural history, including strolls through rural communities engaged in traditional agriculture, hikes to ancient shrines nestled in oak, cedar, and rhododendron forests, sunbathing on riverbank rocks, and birdwatching in meadows. Their customisable itineraries can range from full-day excursions to local explorations, so we can meet the needs of every traveller.
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg
Taj Madikeri is situated at the intersection of Coorg's wildlife sanctuaries in the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the early 20th century, the Taj Hotels group—recognised for opening India's first five-star hotel—took over this hill town property. In its creation, not a single tree was chopped down.
More were added when dozens of trees from outside the property were brought in instead of being cut down. There are 63 individual cottages and villas spread out over the hilly terrain, with more on the way. All of them have lush landscaping and breathtaking views, which is why this is the best place to stay in the Scotland of India!
Why you’ll love this: From the 101-candle-lit amphitheatre encircled by a huge lotus pond to the forested Buddha Garden, the hotel's four restaurants and quaint bar can arrange for open-air dining experiences across the property. Coorg is often referred to as the Scotland of India due to its picturesque lakes, highlands, and waterfalls.
Elements by Rosetta, Goa
Every room exudes an air of effortless luxury, thanks to its large and minimalist design. Upgrade your stay with them and discover the pinnacle of modern living. Serving exquisite cuisine that transports you on a gastronomic adventure—from the Goan specialities to platters from around the world—with Rosetta's trademark meticulousness is our mission.
Why you’ll love this: You can expect to be swept away in opulence at Elements by Rosetta. Take a soothing spa treatment while listening to the ocean waves lull you into a state of deep relaxation, or spend a sunny afternoon working out or lounging by the pool.