Heritage Hotels in India: Experience the Grandeur of Erstwhile India

India has a glorious history wherein the mention of rajas-maharajas hold an important place. Even though many years have passed away, the charm of the erstwhile royals of India still fascinates tourists through the heritage hotels in India. A typical heritage hotel in India abounds with grand courtyards, intricate architectural designs, miniature paintings and antique furnishings.

If statistics are anything to go by, some of the best  heritage hotels in India are situated in the states of Rajasthan, Kerala, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Among the heritage hotels in Rajasthan, Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur holds a special place. Udaipur is a popular from the perspective of honeymoon destinations in India and Taj Lake Palace is one of the major reasons behind it. Adjudged as the best romantic hotel in India, the 17^th century Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) has been taken over by the Taj Hotels, Palaces and  Resorts. The hotel has a total of 83 guest rooms and suites, each of which is tastefully designed with silk rugs, ornately carved furniture and colorful frescoes.

The God’s Own Country ‘Kerala’ too has its own share of heritage hotels, most of which are located either on the beaches or in the backwater region. Built around 70 years ago, Keraleeyam Heritage  Home, located along the backwater frontage of Alleppey, bear a resemblance to a traditional Kerala home. Each room is decorated with handmade cots, chairs and tables. In terms of cuisines, Puttu is the specialty of this place. It is a steamed rice cake garnished with coconut gratings cooked in bamboo crust.

The city of Gwalior, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, has a long history dating back to the 8^th century, when it was ruled by Tomaras. Later, it came under the control of Mughal emperors and subsequently to the Scindia clan of Marathas. When it comes to Heritage hotels in Madhya Pradesh, the Usha Kiran Palace is around 120 years old and has played host to the King of England. It is set amidst 9 acres of beautifully landscaped lawns and is fitted with intricate stone carvings and subtle filigree work.

Most of the hotels in Gujarat, at some point of time in the history, were the private mansions and palaces of the former rulers of Gujarat. The Garden Palace hotel is a popular heritage hotel, built by Nawab Saheb Manover Khanji Babi in 1883 AD. This beautiful mansion is set in well manicured gardens, agricultural fields and orchards. If the royalty and panache of the erstwhile India enchant you in any manner, plan your stay at any of the above mentioned heritage hotels in India.