Sink into the Tales of Luxury

The fabric of India is rich with history and heritage. And travellers are spoilt for choice with luxurious hotels with a beautiful story attached to it. Former victorious forts, hunting manors, cozy cottages and 130 year old mansions, there is so much to discover as you enjoy your home away from home. That said, here are five retreats where you can get lost in the tales of luxury.

1.   Ramathra Fort (Rajasthan)

It is a sprawling luxurious fort hotel situated deep inside the plains of Rajasthan. Constructed over 350 years ago, the historic fort got a new lease of life when Ravi Raj Pal, the nobleman’s 11th-generation descendant restored it with a keen eye to design and hospitality. With lavish accommodation, myriad activities and authentic organic cuisine, a stay here is nothing but a royal experience

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2.   The Lodge at Wah (Himachal Pradesh)

Originally owned by the Nawab of Wah in Pakistan, the tea estate was taken over by the Chaiwala (means tea planters) family in1953. Deepak Prakash, part of the third generation of the family, being a big fan of natural living was inspired by the slate and wooden homes of the local Gaddi tribe and decided to build an eco-friendly abode for his family and guests near the tea estate. In 2017, after five years of research and labour, Deepak’s vision came to life.

Away from the crowds, The Lodge at Wah is where the mind gets some quiet time to re-energise amidst the fresh mountain air.

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3.   Maison Perumal (Tamil Nadu)

Enter the world of the French colonial era. Maison Perumal is a 19th century old family mansion turned into a heritage hotel in the heart of the erstwhile Tamil quarter of Puducherry.

This carefully restored boutique hotel is wrapped with greenery, secret staircases and photographs of the founding family. With an amicable staff, delicious food and a laid back vibe this minimalist historic hotel celebrates heritage fused with a lot of love.

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4.   Rawla Narlai (Rajasthan)

Nestled inside the Aravalli hills, Rawla Narlai is a 17th-century royal hunting lodge turned into a tranquil boutique resort.

The vintage rooms showcase stunning frescos, archways and the modern wing is adorned with local designs and marble with the owners antique collection. Rawla Narlai evokes the nostalgia of the bygone era with all luxuries, rustic charm and oodles of character.

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5.   Chittoor Kottaram (Kerala)

Step inside a 300-year-old royal residence of the Rajah of Cochin - now elegantly restored into a splendid retreat. It was built by the Maharaja, as he wished to stay close to the temple he built for his family and this manor has witnessed over three centuries of history.

The magnificent mansion is a ‘single key hotel’ which means, there are no other guests but you. The warm and friendly staff is dedicated to give you an experience of bespoke luxury, exclusivity and tranquility as you breathe in the crisp air of the quaint backwaters of Kerala.

Get transported to a timeless royal era and sink into the divinity of nature at Chittoor Kottaram.