India, a land of majestic palaces, royal heritage, and rich cultural experiences, is also home to some of the most opulent and serene luxury resorts in the world. Whether you’re dreaming of a regal retreat in Rajasthan, a peaceful escape in the Himalayas, or a coastal indulgence in Kerala, luxury resorts in India offer the perfect blend of traditional hospitality and modern comforts.
In 2025, with the travel trend leaning more towards exclusive and experience-driven holidays, staycations at luxury resorts are gaining immense popularity among Indian travelers. If you’re planning your next relaxing getaway, this curated list of the top 10 luxury resorts in India promises unforgettable experiences with a royal touch.
1. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur – A Floating Palace of Dreams
Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Best For: Romantic getaways, royal experience
Located in the middle of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace is one of the most iconic luxury resorts in India. Built in 1746, this white marble palace appears to float on water and offers unmatched views of the Aravalli Hills. The lavish interiors, fine dining, and heritage tours make it perfect for a regal staycation.
Highlights:
- Royal butler service
- Jiva Spa with ancient Indian wellness treatments
- Private boat rides on Lake Pichola
Personal Tip: My stay here felt like stepping into a fairy tale. Don’t miss the candlelight dinner by the lake!
2. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur – Where Royalty Meets Tranquility
Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Best For: Honeymoons, photography, wellness
Spread over 50 acres, including a 20-acre wildlife sanctuary, The Oberoi Udaivilas is often listed among the world’s best hotels. The resort combines Mughal architecture, domes, and fountains with luxurious modern amenities.
Highlights:
- Private pool suites
- Traditional Rajasthani dance evenings
- Heritage walk and boat tours
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3. Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerala – Tranquility by the Backwaters
Location: Kumarakom, Kerala
Best For: Nature lovers, Ayurveda, wellness retreats
Set on the picturesque Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Lake Resort combines Kerala’s traditional architecture with luxurious amenities. It is a favorite among international celebrities and wellness seekers alike.
Highlights:
- Traditional villas with private pools
- Authentic Ayurvedic treatments
- Houseboat stay experience
Personal Tip: I highly recommend the sunset cruise with live flute music – it’s magical.
4. Amanbagh, Alwar – A Secluded Palace Experience
Location: Alwar, Rajasthan
Best For: History lovers, offbeat luxury
Amanbagh, part of the global Aman Resorts chain, is a hidden gem nestled in the Aravalli Hills. Built in pink sandstone and marble, it was once the hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Alwar.
Highlights:
- Personalized wellness and yoga programs
- Rural excursions and temple visits
- Peaceful, uncrowded surroundings
Explore more such hidden retreats at Condé Nast Traveller India.
5. Evolve Back, Coorg – Luxury in the Lap of Nature
Location: Coorg, Karnataka
Best For: Coffee lovers, forest retreats
Formerly known as Orange County, Evolve Back in Coorg offers plantation-style luxury with eco-conscious practices. Surrounded by lush coffee estates, it’s ideal for a quiet and immersive nature retreat.
Highlights:
- Private pool villas
- Guided plantation walks
- Infinity pools with forest views
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6. Suryagarh, Jaisalmer – The Desert’s Royal Jewel
Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Best For: Desert adventures, royal dining
Designed like a fort, Suryagarh is not just a stay but an experience. From folk music performances to camel rides and dune dinners, this resort celebrates the spirit of the Thar desert with unmatched grandeur.
Highlights:
- Cultural performances under the stars
- Signature Thar desert experiences
- Opulent rooms inspired by Rajput traditions
Personal Tip: The early morning camel ride across the dunes was a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
7. The Leela Palace, New Delhi – Luxury Amidst Heritage
Location: New Delhi
Best For: City luxury, business travelers, spa experiences
Set in the heart of the capital, The Leela Palace is a blend of Lutyens architecture and Indian regal elegance. It’s perfect for those who want a luxurious escape within the city.
Highlights:
- Rooftop temperature-controlled pool
- Award-winning spa and wellness center
- Proximity to iconic sites like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan
8. Wildflower Hall, Shimla – A Himalayan Retreat by Oberoi
Location: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Best For: Mountain lovers, honeymooners
Located at 8,250 feet, Wildflower Hall offers breathtaking views of cedar forests and snow-capped mountains. It is one of the most luxurious Himalayan retreats in India.
Highlights:
- Outdoor jacuzzi with mountain views
- Guided nature walks and picnics
- Personalized spa therapies
Internal Link Tip: Don’t forget to read our travel protection guide before heading to the mountains – Best Travel Insurance Plans for Indians in 2025.
9. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad – Nizam’s Legacy Reimagined
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Best For: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts
Once home to the Nizam of Hyderabad, the Taj Falaknuma Palace is perched 2,000 feet above the city. Guests are welcomed in a horse-drawn carriage, and every corner of this palace echoes grandeur.
Highlights:
- Champagne palace walks
- Dining in the world’s largest dining hall
- Venetian chandeliers and rare artworks
10. Ananda in the Himalayas – Rejuvenate Your Soul
Location: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Best For: Wellness, yoga, detox
One of the world’s leading wellness resorts, Ananda offers personalized Ayurvedic programs, yoga, and meditation with views of the Ganges Valley and surrounding forests.
Highlights:
- Holistic health packages
- Meditation with Himalayan monks
- Luxurious spa suites
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Final Thoughts: Experience Royalty in India’s Finest Resorts
These luxury resorts in India are more than just a place to stay — they are gateways to heritage, culture, and comfort. Whether you want a quiet backwater villa or a majestic palace stay, India has it all. Each resort listed here has been carefully chosen based on its service, uniqueness, and ability to make guests feel like royalty.
Personal Note: Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of staying at many of these resorts, and each visit added a new chapter of peace and luxury to my travel diary. If you’re seeking a meaningful break from routine life, choose any of these and let India’s royal charm rejuvenate you.
Plan Your Staycation Now
Don’t forget to protect your travels with the best plans — read Best Travel Insurance Plans for Indians in 2025
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