India’s luxury hospitality scene is in a league of its own. From grand palaces that once housed royalty to modern sanctuaries offering discreet, tailored service, the country’s top hotels deliver a blend of history, culture, and indulgence that few destinations can match. For discerning travelers, the right hotel can elevate a trip from memorable to extraordinary — and in India, some properties have become destinations in their own right. Unsurprisingly, celebrities, royalty, and industry titans frequently seek out these iconic addresses when they visit. Here’s where the world’s elite choose to stay when they see India’s most iconic cities.
The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
Opened in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace is more than a hotel — it symbolizes Mumbai’s colonial and cosmopolitan heritage. Over the decades, it has hosted an enviable list of guests: The Beatles, Oprah Winfrey, and multiple heads of state have all walked its marble corridors. The Ravi Shankar Suite, where George Harrison learned to play the sitar from the maestro, remains a living piece of music history. The Sea Lounge, with its panoramic view of the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea, remains a favored spot for afternoon tea — a throwback to Mumbai’s colonial past with a distinctively modern polish.
The Imperial, New Delhi
Delhi’s luxury hotel scene is anchored by one legendary address. The Imperial, built in 1936, was a strategic meeting point for India’s freedom fighters — including Nehru, Gandhi, and Jinnah — and its art-lined hallways reflect this complex history. Jacqueline Kennedy was a guest here, and the hotel’s colonial-era architecture, complete with Italian marble floors and Burma teak furnishings, preserves its pre-Independence charm.
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Few hotels in the world can match the view from The Oberoi Amarvilas. Just 600 meters from the Taj Mahal, every room here faces the monument, offering a surreal experience of waking up to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks bathed in early morning light. The Kohinoor Suite takes it up a notch with a private terrace offering an unobstructed view — a privilege savored by Julia Roberts and Leonardo DiCaprio. The hotel’s architecture draws inspiration from Mughal design, with sandstone walkways, carved archways, and manicured gardens providing a regal atmosphere.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Udaipur’s palatial hotels redefine opulence. Across Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace — built in the 18th century as a summer retreat for the Mewar royal family — offers a more intimate connection to Udaipur’s history. Accessible only by boat, its white marble façade glows under moonlight, creating a dreamlike setting that has hosted Queen Elizabeth, the Shah of Iran, and Jacqueline Kennedy. Private butler service, candlelit boat rides, and floating yoga sessions add to the sense of exclusivity.
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Rambagh Palace, once the residence of Jaipur’s maharaja, is steeped in royal history. It has hosted Lord Mountbatten, Prince Charles, and Jacqueline Kennedy—a roll call of the global elite. The Polo Bar, decorated with vintage trophies and Rajput memorabilia, remains a favored spot for post-game drinks. The hotel offers private dining in the palace courtyard, curated shopping experiences with local artisans, and exclusive access to Jaipur’s royal heritage.
Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
Perched 2,000 feet above Hyderabad, Taj Falaknuma Palace was once the private home of the Nizam of Hyderabad, one of the wealthiest men in history. The palace’s Venetian chandeliers, hand-painted ceilings, and marble staircases evoke a time of extravagant wealth and refinement. The world’s longest dining table — seating 101 guests — has witnessed state banquets and gatherings of global significance. King Charles III (then Prince Charles) and former U.S. President Bill Clinton have stayed here, drawn by the palace’s historical importance and discreet luxury. A horse-drawn carriage ride through the palace grounds remains one of its most sought-after experiences.
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
A living testament to Jodhpur’s royal heritage, Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the world’s largest private residences, and a part of it operates as a Taj luxury hotel. This Art Deco masterpiece, still home to the Jodhpur royal family, offers guests a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Indian royalty. Celebrities like Sting and Liz Hurley have enjoyed the palace’s lavish suites, private museum, and lush gardens. The palace’s unique blend of history, grandeur, and personalized service makes it a destination, offering an unforgettable experience of regal India.
