A country known for its opulence, elegance and impeccable service, when you travel to India you’ll be transported back to a bygone era. Hand in hand with this go its incredible hotels. From private beaches to architectural marvels, take a look at five luxury retreats in India that will make you never want to leave.

For travel inspiration: India destination guide

InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort

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On the serene shores of the Bay of Bengal, the InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort just oozes luxury and tranquility. In this exquisite coastal retreat, every element has been meticulously crafted to create an extraordinary escape.

The resort’s location is nothing short of enchanting, embraced by the picturesque beauty of Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. Panoramic views of the Coromandel Coast, landscaped gardens and a private beach provide an idyllic sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

As you sip an evening cocktail with the central courtyard lotus pond all lit up with lamps, you’ll never want to go anywhere else.

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The Leela Palace hotel, New Delhi

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From the moment you enter the lobby of the Leela Palace, adorned with intricate Rajasthani artwork and sparkling crystal chandeliers, you’re enveloped in a world of regal charm. Located in the heart of India’s bustling capital city, Delhi, every inch of the Leela Palace hotel is a masterpiece.

As a symbol of its commitment to celebrate India’s finest artists, the hotel even has an exclusive ‘art walk’ that allows you to discover its rare and diverse collection of contemporary Indian art.

Thekri, a Mewari art form that uses intricately chiselled mirrors on plaster, is the main theme of the palace interiors. Contemporary décor blends seamlessly with traditional architecture. Outside, you’re treated to lush gardens, and panoramic lake and mountain views. The hotel, one of the finest luxury retreats in India, also overlooks the iconic Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India.

For the ultimate taste of India, the hotel’s Jamavar signature fine dining restaurant offers a spectacular menu. Specialty Indian cuisine delivers ‘royal dishes’ including Dhaniya Murgh, boneless drums of chicken cooked with pounded coriander, and Gosht ki Nihari, an Awadhi lamb delicacy lightly flavored with saffron.

Stay here on: Essence of India

Read more: Looking to rekindle the romance? This luxurious Udaipur hotel ticks all the boxes

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

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Imagine resting you head in a majestic palace in the middle of a lake. With breathtaking views of the surrounding hillsides and palaces, you’ll feel like royalty at the famous Taj Lake Palace hotel. This 18^th century white marble marvel situated in the enchanting city of Udaipur, is undeniably one of the best luxury retreats in India.

Originally built as a summer retreat for the royal dynasty of Mewar, the Taj Lake Palace is a testament to the grandeur of Rajput architecture. Intricate marble carvings, ornate balconies and majestic domes are reminiscent of a bygone era, transporting you to a time of royal splendor.

Enjoy a candlelit dinner on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the shimmering lake, or indulge in a traditional Rajasthani thali in the elegant dining room. The fine dining restaurants at the Taj Lake Palace are exclusive to guests, adding to the allure of this spectacular hotel. From the grand welcome with a rose petal shower to the city tour in a vintage car, they have everything in place for an ethereal experience.

You might be interested to read: Walking with the king of the big cats in India’s royal hunting grounds

Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar

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Jaipur’s flamboyance is celebrated in full at the architectural marvel that is the Hyatt Regency Jaipur Mansarovar. Located near to city center and historic sites, the hotel represents a breathtaking marriage of classic architecture and contemporary décor.

Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by a grand lobby with soaring ceilings and chandeliers, intricate marble flooring and opulent finishes. The exterior is also a visual feast, its sleek façade exuding a sense of elegance, while subtle nods to local architecture, such as intricate jali work and ornate balconies, pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of Jaipur.

Each guest room and suite seamlessly blends contemporary design with Rajasthani motifs, featuring vibrant colors, locally sourced artwork and rich fabrics.

Situated in the heart of the Mansarovar neighborhood, the hotel enjoys a prime location offering both convenience and tranquility. One of the finest luxury hotels in India, it is the perfect base from which to visit the Amer Fort, the bustling Jaipur markets and to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Pink City.

Despite being a city center hotel close to all the sights, the open courtyards and landscaped gardens serve as tranquil retreats. The interplay of water features, lush greenery and sculptural elements creates a serene ambiance for guests to unwind and connect with nature.

Stay here on: Imperial Rajasthan

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Andana in the Himalayas

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As you approach The Andana, a sense of awe washes over you, and time seems to slow down. One of the most famous luxury retreats in India, the elegant, traditional Himalayan design blends harmoniously with the breathtaking landscape, creating an enchanting ambiance. With only a handful of exquisitely appointed villas, privacy reigns supreme, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility and seclusion of this idyllic haven.

Set amidst the majestic Himalayan foothills of North India in the former palace estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, Ananda is one of the best luxury wellness retreats in India and is world renowned. Sprawling 100-acre grounds, gardens and surrounding forests, and boasting world-class wellness facilities, it is the ultimate chance to return to the peaceful solitude of nature.

This spiritual location, is the birthplace of Ayurveda, yoga and meditation, the perfect reason to engage in yoga sessions, and rejuvenate mind, body, and soul amidst awe-inspiring surroundings. Or simply surrender to the healing touch of the spa, where ancient wellness traditions are seamlessly blended with modern techniques.

To experience some of the best luxury retreats in India for yourself take a look at our limited-edition luxury small group journeys and make memories for a lifetime.

Heed the call of the great outdoors and get back to nature at these luxurious retreats, immersed in the world’s most beautiful landscapes. From remote chalets in New Zealand’s Fiordland and lavish suites in Kruger National Park to a Nile River cruise and a garden oasis in Vietnam, these are some of the finest nature retreats you can experience with Luxury Gold. 

Milford Sound Lodge, Fiordland, New Zealand

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Take a journey to New Zealand’s extraordinary Fiordland National Park and discover the ultimate luxury nature retreat at Milford Sound Lodge. Set on the edge of the iconic Milford Sound and Milford Track, the lodge is surrounded by the rushing Cleddau River, ancient beech tree forest, waterfalls and towering mountains.

With few other buildings (or people) around, this is a rare opportunity to stay in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland. The beautiful, secluded chalets are right on the river and forest, with rushing waterfalls just steps away. With floor-to-ceiling windows and wide open decks to soak it all in, this nature retreat is an unparalleled experience.

Read more: The ultimate nature retreat: welcome to Milford Sound Lodge 

Experience it: The Long White Cloud

River Tosca, Nile River, Egypt

If you’re looking to reconnect with the great outdoors on the water, you’ll be drawn to Egypt’s Nile River. When you cruise the Nile with Luxury Gold, you’ll spend your nights onboard the deluxe River Tosca ship. This is where old-world elegance melds with modern luxuries, with stylish and spacious suites complemented by marble bathrooms. You’ll have a front-row seat to the Nile River as you relax on the sun deck in the pool or under shaded cabanas, watching the ever-changing scenery float by.

Experience it: Elegance of Egypt

The Fairmont Resorts, Banff National Park, Canada

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Two of the most coveted nature retreats in the world are the Fairmont Château Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs, both located in the UNESCO-listed Banff National Park. 

Fairmont Château Lake Louise is set on the shores of the dazzling Lake Louise. Enveloped by the most breathtaking scenery, you’ll feel completely immersed in the soaring mountains and glaciers at this historic hotel. This magnificent castle offers an exceptional experience, and you’ll have opportunities to spot local wildlife, enjoy a lakeside stroll with an award-winning naturalist, or ride a gondola above Lake Louise. 

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Less than an hour away, you’ll find the equally spectacular Fairmont Banff Springs. Known as Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies”, Fairmont Banff Springs sits at the base of Rundle Mountain. It’s ringed by lush forest and the turquoise Spray River. You’ll spend your days exploring the majesty of the Canadian Rockies, then enjoy an exquisite dinner of local specialities in the evening. 

Experience both resorts: Majesty of the Rockies

Lions Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa  

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There are few better places to reconnect with the great outdoors than at the luxurious Lions Sands Tinga Lodge. Set on the banks of the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, you can spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos and rhinos, all from your private deck and plunge pool in your grand suite. After spending your days on game drives, you can unwind in the afternoon at the lodge’s infinity pool, bar lounge, library or Africology Spa. As night falls, dine on South African cuisine by candlelight on the terrace, then drift off to the sounds of wild animals in the distance. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Pilgrimage Village, Hue, Vietnam

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Dreaming of escaping to the quiet countryside? Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa is your oasis in Hue. Surrounded by lush, peaceful gardens, Pilgrimage Village is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. Wander under leafy trees and cycle past emerald rice fields. Soak in the steam bath or take part in meditation, yoga and tai chi classes in the gardens.

You can also venture to the nearby traditional garden houses of Phu Mong village and be serenaded by local musicians at the Ben Xuan Garden House Theatre. With Luxury Gold, you’ll enjoy a VIP visit to the Imperial Citadel and the royal tomb of Minh Mang. You’ll also meet the headmaster of the Vietnamese Royal Martial Arts Academy or a collector in his private museum, so you can combine the best of culture in the great outdoors on your getaway.

Experience it: Inspiring Indochina

Sails in the Desert, Uluru, Australia

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Set in Australia’s Red Centre on Uluru doorstep, the five-star Sails in the Desert is an immersive nature retreat. While Uluru and the Kata Tjuṯa domes are the stars, this impressive resort amplifies the natural wonders. You’ll go on guided walks around Uluru and through whistling Walpa Gorge. Then enjoy sparkling wine and appetizers as you witness the enchanting sunset over Uluru. At sunrise, you’ll watch Bruce Munro’s Field of Light art installation of coloured glass spheres illuminate Uluru. From hearing the ancient stories of the Anangu people, the traditional guardians of the land, to experiencing the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner, this is a mesmerising retreat in the Australian Outback.

Experience it: Inspiring Australia

Nahargarh Ranthambhore, Ranthambore National Park, India

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Nestled in the foothills of Aravalli Range, right on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, this magnificent palace hotel offers a truly special experience in the great outdoors. Home to around 80 protected Bengal tigers, Ranthambore is one of the best places to see tigers in the wild.

You’ll explore the former royal hunting grounds of the Maharajahs of Jaipur with a Local Expert. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive tigers on game drives, and also watch out for other animals like leopards and sloth bears. You’ll also see the ancient royal ruins dotted around the park from traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions to a 1,000-year-old fort. In the evening, you’ll return to the elegant Nahargarh Ranthambhore to relax in the pool and superb restaurant. 

Experience it: Essence of India