Enjoy Perfect Mix Of Luxuries & Comforts At Heritage Hotels In Udaipur

Udaipur, land of erstwhile Rajputana Rulers, showcases massive forts, beautiful mansions and lovely palaces. All these collectively remind the royalty that prevailed in the country. The charm of Udaipur has attracted tourists from other parts of India and abroad to visit and spend a memorable vacation. Further, to add the element of comfort and luxuries, there are heritage hotels in Udaipur, providing accommodation facilities to the guests. These hotels are praised for excellent interiors and exteriors. The rooms are also well-appointed and equipped with facilities and services that help in making stay comfortable for the guests. Some of the modern recreational services are also provided to ensure a wholesome experience for the guests. Here is the list of top 5 heritage hotels known for providing excellent accommodation while being on a visit to Udaipur.

Jagat Niwas Palace Udaipur

In the list of heritage hotels in Rajasthan, Jagat Niwas Palace acquired a prominent position. Constructed according to a typical Mewar style of architecture, the hotel is praised for its beguiled charm. The excellent hospitality and proper accommodation facility have ascertained high level of satisfaction for the guests.
• Address: Behind Jagdish Temple, Udaipur - 313001, Rajasthan, India.
• Distance: Airport - 25 km; Railway Station - 3 km.
• Number of Rooms: 29
• Dining: Lake Side Restaurant (Indian, Continental and Chinese Cuisines).

Fateh Prakash Palace Udaipur

For the guests wanting to experience the unique Mewar hospitality, Fateh Prakash Palace is the heritage hotel to stay in. The rooms of this heritage property are well-furnished and thus ensure high-level comfort to the guests. In addition to this, the hotel also features majestic domes, distinctive turrets, exquisite chandeliers, unique crystal, priceless paintings, and crockery collections. Every element of the hotel reflects royalty.

• Address: The City Palace Complex, Udaipur - 313001, Rajasthan, India.
• Distance: Airport - 24 km; Railway Station - 3 km.
• Number of Rooms: 21
• Dining: The Gallery Restaurant (Continental Cuisine); The Sunset View Terrace (Light Refreshments & Buffet Dining).

Shikarbadi Hotel Udaipur

Guests prefer Shikarbadi Hotel for a comfortable stay due to its ideal location, being close to the airport and railway station. Along with this, the hotel is also praised for its location at the foothills of the Aravalli Mountains. At the backdrop of the hotel, the guests are amazed with the picturesque vistas. The hotel is also praised for providing recreational facilities that make the accommodation comfortable for the guests.

• Address: Lake Pichola, Udaipur - 313002, Rajasthan, India.
• Distance: Airport - 28 km; Railway Station - 4 km.
• Number of Rooms: 25
• Dining: The Risala (An Open Air Restaurant); Baithak Restaurant (Chinese & Continental Cuisines and Fast Food); Cheetal Restaurant (Indian & Mewari Cuisines); The Wilderness Bar (Indian & Foreign Liquor).

Hotel Rang Niwas Palace Udaipur

The hotel Rang Niwas Palace is one of the finest heritage properties in Rajasthan. The hotel beholds the charm of a bygone era. The rooms are furnished with elements that reflect royalty of the erstwhile rajas of India. The modern facilities and exceptional services are also provided to make the guests enjoy luxuries just like erstwhile Maharajas.

• Address: Lake Palace Road, Udaipur - 313001, Rajasthan, India.
• Distance: Airport - 20 km; Railway Station - 2 km.
• Number of Rooms: 20
• Dining: In-House Multi-Cuisine Restaurant (Rajasthani, Indian & International Cuisines).

Devigarh Udaipur

The Devigarh is another heritage property, which is counted amidst the popular heritage hotels in India. The hotel is beautifully renovated and the elements of luxury are aesthetically available. The rooms are praised for being beautifully decorated and being equipped with modern facilities and services. Various recreational facilities are also provided to make the stay of the guests highly memorable.

• Address: Delwara, NH-8, Tehsil Nathdwara, District Rajsamand, Udaipur - 313202, Rajasthan, India
• Distance: Airport - 27 km; Railway Station - 110 km
• Number of Rooms: 23
• Dining: In-House Multi-Cuisine Restaurant (Continental to Local Cuisine & Spa Menu)’ bar (liquor & cocktails).


Contributed By:- Neelam Talreja

Planning a Visit to Pondicherry? Make Sure You Stay At Heritage Villa Helena

Pondicherry - southern union territory of India is one of the sought-after tourist destinations for the tourists visiting India from all round the globe. The pleasant climatic conditions make this place a must visiting throughout the year. The beaches of Pondicherry are worth visiting due to the tranquility and amazing natural setting. The place also provides the glimpses of French influence. The warm and hospitable locals also win the heart of the guests. Among Continental, South Indian, Chinese, Indian and Thai cuisines, it is advisable to taste delectable seafood. Further to make your experience a fun-filled and memorable, it is suggested to make advance booking in the Hotel Heritage Villa Helena to experience the best of a heritage tour in Pondicherry.

Heritage Villa Helena:

Showcasing the exemplary colonial charm, Heritage Villa Helena has attracted tourists visiting Pondicherry from far flung regions. The present-day facilities and exceptional services have also made this heritage hotel highly praiseworthy and perfect accommodation option for the guests looking for a comfortable and lavish stay.

• Address: 14, Suffren Street, Pondicherry - 605001, India
• Distance: Airport-15km; Railway Station-2km

History

Located in the heart of the Pondicherry’s old colonial part, Heritage Villa Helena is about 100 years old. The edifice has been renovated wonderfully and thus, is counted amidst the top heritage hotels in India.

Accommodation

The exclusive accommodation at the hotel has ascertained the utmost satisfaction level of the guests. The rooms are well-furnished and equipped with modern facilities and services that help in assuring a comfortable stay. The décor of the rooms reflect the old-world colonial charm. Further to make it more convenient for the guests, the rooms are also equipped with facilities that help in making the stay memorable and pleasant. These are the types of accommodations available in the heritage hotel:

• Large
• Big Single
• Standard
• Medium
• Single

Dining

The hotel has its own multi-cuisine restaurant. Along with this, the guests also have the option of dining out at various restaurants are available in proximity to the hotel. Guests could choose from a huge array of delicacies that include French, Indian, Italian, Continental, and many more.

• Aristo - Serves Continental and Asian cuisines; an open-air roof garden restaurant.

Facilities

The modern-day facilities and exceptional services have helped in offering excellent accommodation facility to the guests visiting Pondicherry from far flung regions. Along with this, the management of the hotel also upgrades the array of facilities and services to ascertain the utmost satisfaction level of the guests. Here are some of the facilities and services rendered with excellent hospitality:

• Facilities & Services: Room Service, Laundry, H/C Water, Television, Doctor On Call, Morning Newspaper, Purified Drinking Water, Telephone, Credit Cards Accepted, Attached Bath, Travel Assistance, etc.

Contributed by: Neelam Talreja

Top 3 Spectacular Heritage Hotels in Kerala

Kerala - “God’s Own Country” is the perfect destination to enjoy a perfect vacation with your family or loved one. There are numerous attractions worth visiting and beautiful natural setting of the place also makes it a wonderful destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. Further, to make the vacation more comfortable and lavish, there are heritage hotels, which offer accommodation facility. Thus, here are the top 3 Heritage Hotels in Kerala that are most preferred by the guests.

Punnamada Backwater Resort





















The ideal location of the Punnamada Back Water Resort makes it a perfect accommodation site for the guests looking for a tranquil location. The rooms are well-furnished and equipped with modern facilities and services to make the stay comfortable and lavish.

Highlights of Punnamada Back Water Resort:

• Number of Rooms: 25
• Accommodation: Lake View Villas, Duplex Villas, Standard Villas.
• Address: Punnamada, Alappuzha - 688006, Kerala, India.
• Distance: Airport - 80 km; Railway Station - 8 km.
• Dining: Choola (Multi-Cuisine Restaurant).
• Facilities: Telephone, Laundry Service, 24 Hours Room Service, Safe Deposit Locker, Television With Cable Connection, Travel Counter, Currency Exchange, Doctor On Call, Mini Bar, Shopping Mall, Internet Access, Fishing Cruises, Beauty Salon, Jacuzzi, Water Sports, Hair Dryer, Swimming Pool, Library.

Coconut Lagoon Resort





















The natural ambiance makes the Coconut Lagoon Resort a perfect accommodation type for the guests visiting Kerala from far flung regions. The hotel is also praised for its well-appointed rooms, modern facilities and exceptional services.

Highlights of Coconut Lagoon Resort:

• Number of Rooms: 52
• Accommodation: Poolside Villas, Mansions, Bungalows.
• Address: District Kuttanad, Kerala, Kumarakom - 686563, Kerala, India.
• Distance: Airport - 86 km; Railway Station - 15 km.
• Dining: Aymanam (Restaurant - Kerala Cuisine, Seafood).
• Facilities: Travel Desk, Purified Drinking Water, Express Laundry, Conference Facilities, Currency Exchange, Lounge, Parking, Safe Deposit Box, Coffee Shop, Free Newspaper, Non Smoking, Shopping Arcade, Meeting Facilities, Beauty Salon, Car Rentals, Postal Services, Doctor On Call.

Lake Palace Resort





















The eye pleasing look and proximity to railway station and the airport has made Lake Palace Resort highly popular. Thus, the fully-furnished rooms, exceptional services and world-class facilities have made this be listed amidst the prominent heritage hotels in India.

Highlights of Lake Palace Resort:

• Number of Rooms: 17
• Accommodation: Merland Water Villas, Royale Cottages, Regent Lake View Cottages.
• Address: Thirumala Ward, Chungam, Alleppey - 688011, Kerala, India.
• Distance: Airport - 85 km; Railway Station - 2 km.
• Dining: Coffee Shop, Multi-Cuisine Restaurant, Seafood Restaurant.
• Facilities: Secretarial Service, Swimming Pool, Copying, Printing, Fitness Center, Left Luggage Room, Television With Cable Connection, Laundry Service, Doctor On Call, Gift Shop, 24 Hour Room Service, Telephone, Fax, Scanner, Handicap Accessible Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Computer Services, Internet Facilities, Children Highchairs, Travel Counter.

Contributed by: Neelam Talreja

A 101 Guide of Hotel De Lorient in Pondicherry

Overview

One of the well-known heritage hotels in Pondicherry, the Hotel De Lorient wonderfully exhibits the French aura and the rich heritage of this quaint little town. The mansion turned hotel was built in the 18^th century when most of the Pondicherry hotels began  to shape up. The hotel is currently run by the famous Neemrana Group of Hotels. 

Hotel De L'orient Pondicherry

Guest Rooms

10 in number, the tastefully refurbished rooms of this Pondicherry hotel exhibits a fascinating blend of hybrid colonial furniture and state of the art amenities. Each room in this hotel is named after an erstwhile  French colony in India- Balassore, Calicut, Chandernagore, Karikal and Surate. Take a look at the description of these hotel rooms.

Balassore - It is a spacious and well furnished room fitted with antique furnitures such as golden arch, 2 single beds, 1 planter’s chair and a large bathroom with tub.

Calicut- It is a nice and spacious room featuring 2 single beds and a large bathroom with tub. The décor of this room draws inspiration from three different religions- Hindu, Muslim and Christian.

Chandernagore- Named after an erstwhile French colony in Bengal, Chandernagore is a large and spacious suite featuring 2 queen size beds and a sitting area at the end of the upper level of the gallery  and artwork depicting French rule in Chandernagore.

Karikal-This room is named after a French colony in Tamil Nadu- Karikal. With its own terrace, this room enables guests with some private moments accompanied with fabulous views of the courtyard.   The room features a king size bed, a planter’s chair and a bathroom.

Surate- Located near the reception of the hotel, this room is best for those who don’t want to take a toll on their legs after a full day of sightseeing. It features a charming double 4 poster bed, furniture built in typical Kerala architecture and a spacious bathroom.

Dining

On the dining front, the hotel features an in-house restaurant ‘Creole’ where expert chefs prepare the tasteful Creole cuisine.

Conference Facilities

The Hotel De Lorient has a unique setting where guests can enjoy private intercommunication. With state of the art facilities such as LCD projector, OHP, laptop, music system, DVD player and Public Address System, the corporate endeavors of our executives are perfectly met.

Weddings 

The hotel De Lorient offers a perfect setting to tie knot in a romantic manner. The secluded setting of this French mansion, rose petals showered by the guests and fire sacrifice to take lifetime vows, isn’t that sounds interesting. The hotel can perfectly accommodate 40 people for a traditional wedding.

Hotel De L'orient

The Hotel De Lorient is a fine example of a rational, historical restoration which still exudes the French colonial charm. 

Indian Heritage Hotels: Properties of East, West and Central

The concept of India heritage hotels evolved after the independence of India in 1947. Several princely states of India entered into a treaty with the Government of India and their royal privileges were ceased. However, in order, to maintain their standard of living, many of them turned into hoteliers, businessman and  politicians. Many royal families converted their abodes  into the heritage hotels to provide the experience of royal living to the foreign tourists. Scroll down and read the brief description of four heritage hotels given below. Read on…

Sheesh Mahal, Madhya Pradesh

Sheesh Mahal, Madhya Pradesh

Refurbished and designed to meet the needs of travelers running on a shoestring budget, the hotel Sheesh Mahal is a popular address for enjoying traditional hospitality clubbed with modern amenities. The hotel is owned and managed by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism and Development Corporation (MPTDC). It was once the residence of Raja Udait Singh and has the touch of medieval Indian architecture. The hotel features a total of 8 guest rooms segregated into 4 categories- 3 Twin Rooms, 2 Double Rooms, 1 Single Room and 2 Suites. The common in-room amenities include air conditioning, tea & coffee maker and attached bathroom with running hot & cold water.

Wankaner Palace, Gujarat

Located around 53 kilometers away from Rajkot, Wankaner Palace, formerly known as Ranjit Vilas Palace, is one of the finest heritage hotels in Gujarat. It is perched atop  of the Gadhio Hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding environs. It was designed by Maharaja Raj Shri Amarsinghji, in the early 20^th century. 

Wankaner Palace, Gujarat

The palace extends up to 225 acres of landscaped greens. In proximity to the Wankaner Palace, Chandra Bhawan, the state guesthouse, is also located. The 12 well appointed guest rooms and  suites of this heritage hotel are tastefully furnished in period style and named after erstwhile dignitaries. Each room is spacious and come equipped with a range of modern amenities such as satellite television, direct dial telephone and attached bathroom with running hot & cold water facility. When at Wankaner Palace, don’t miss to appease your palate with  a variety of scrumptious Gujarati cuisines.

Nilambagh Palace, Bhavnagar

Nilambagh Palace, Bhavnagar

Originally built as a private residence of Sir Takhat Singh, Nilambagh Palace was designed by the German architect Mr. Simson in1859. The hotel offers an enchanting mix of royal charm and state of the art amenities. 28 in number, the guest rooms in this Gujarat heritage hotel are classified as 26 Double Bedrooms and 2 Executive Suites furnished with  period furniture and equipped with state of the art amenities such as cable television, channel music, direct dial telephone, tea & coffee maker and attached bathroom with running hot & cold water. There is a dining room in this palace hotel which serves a choicest range of Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisines. Besides, there is a Garden Restaurant which offers a perfect setting for romantic evenings.

Hotel Nor Khill, Sikkim

Hotel Nor Khill, Sikkim

One of the best heritage properties in Gangtok, the hotel Nor Khill was built by the King of Sikkim in 1932 and served as the royal guest house for state heads and dignitaries. It has been renamed as the luxury Elgin heritage hotel ans situated in the heart of Gangtok town. 25 in number, the Deluxe Rooms and Suites have played host to his holiness Dalai Lama and Hollywood celebrities such as Shirley McLean and Michael Douglas. The hotel offers a fine assortment of restaurants and dining rooms serving an array of cuisines to appease the guest’s palate. Besides, there is Elgin Spa which offers a range of therapeutic treatments and Ayurvedic massages to provide rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. 

India Heritage Hotels: Experience the legacy of Indian Maharajas and British Viceroys

Do you know which state houses princely and colonial heritage hotels in India in large numbers?  The medieval era of India witnessed the rule of several raja-maharajas who used to reside in massive palatial complex. Post independence in 1947, the Indian government banished the concept of princely states and the princely states also peacefully acceded to their call. As the matter of fact, it became difficult for the royal families to bear the high maintenance cost of their royal abodes. As a result, they entered into a treaty with corporate hotel chains which led to the conversion of their ancestral property into heritage hotels.

These palaces turned hotels feature world class facilities and offer royal services to its guests. Stay in a room fitted with antique furniture and modern fixtures, enjoying folk dance and music, dine in a magnificent hall and living king size life is what a heritage hotel offers.

A large chunk of Indian heritage hotels previously dwelled by maharajas and British viceroys are found in the Indian states of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. In this blog, I will give information about heritage hotels in three different Indian States- Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Here I will randomly pick three hotels and give out their details. Read on…

Gajner Palace, Bikaner

Gajner Palace, Bikaner

Built under the patronage of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner, on the rim of a lake, Gajner Palace is a palatial complex converted into a heritage hotel in 1976. Stretched over 6000 acres, the hotel was previously a hunting resort and has played host to several dignitaries such as Princes of Wales, British Viceroys such as Lord Mountbatten, Lord Erwin and Lord Elgin. It is divided into four different wings- Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas, Dungar Niwas and Champa Niwas. 45 in number, the guest rooms and suites in this hotel are classified into two categories- 32 Deluxe Suites and 13 Suites. In this hotel, you can savor a wide range of Indian and Continental along with the traditional Rajasthani fare. 

Vijay Vilas Palace, Bhavnagar

Vijay Vilas Palace, Bhavnagar

Built in 1929, under the aegis of Rao Vijayrajji, Vijay Vilas Palace was once the summer palace of Rajas of Kutch, on the beach front of Mandvi. Built entirely of red sandstone, it has imbibed all the elements of Rajput architecture and draws inspiration from the palaces of Orccha and Datia. Stretched over 6 acres of landscapes, the palace is home to 7 cottages and 12 rooms. Each room is equipped with attached bathroom with running hot & cold water facility.

Taj Mahal Hotel, Mumbai

Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Just a stone throw away from the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace & Resorts is a landmark hotel in Mumbai. 560 in number, the guest rooms in this hotel include 44 suites and has played host to dignitaries, and eminent personalities from all around the world. Along with its classic grandeur and elegance, the hotel offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India. The hotel reflects a seamless blend of Moorish, Florentine and Oriental style of architecture.

India Heritage Hotels - Photo Gallary

Staying in Heritage Hotels in India is a wonderful travel experience, high on royalty with the luxury hospitality that heritage properties in India afford. Heritage Properties in India belonged to erstwhile Indian Maharajas that have been converted into protected precincts maintained for promoting heritage tourism. Witness Incredible India in a new light altogether with fantastic Indian Heritage properties.

Neemrana Fort,  Rajasthan

The Pataudi Palace, Haryana

Narain Niwas Palace, Jaipur

Savoy Hotel, Pondicherry

Hotel Panjimm Inn, Panaji

The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai 

Samode Haveli, Jaipur

We will be further adding to the above list of Heritage properties in India. We, at Heritage Hotels of India, can arrange luxurious, yet reasonable stays in any of the above listed heritage properties. Remember, heritage holidays are an experience that you have to live and feel yourself.

Heritage Hotels in Maharashtra: Experience the Traditional Maratha Hospitality

The third largest state in India, Maharashtra is the meeting point of varying lifestyles, cultures, diverse topography and rich heritage. It is the state that witnessed the rise of powerful and valiant Maratha dynasty under the reign of Chattrapati Shivaji and various other rulers. Heritage hotels in Maharashtra offers comfortable accommodation options for the leisure and business travelers, coupled with traditional Maharashtrian hospitality.

Most of these hotels were the erstwhile summer palaces of Maharajas and abodes of British officers. However these royal titles were abolished by the Indian government after independence. Also, it was quite expensive to bear the maintenance cost of these palatial mansions which led to their conversion into luxury heritagehotels. These hotels are gracefully embellished with chandeliers, antiques, classic miniature paintings and exquisite period décor. In this blog, I will mention a few names of the heritage hotels in Maharashtra for your kind perusal.

The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower

Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Just a stone’s throw away from Mumbai’s landmark monument ‘ Gateway of India’, The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower is the flagship property of the Taj Hotels, Palaces and Resorts. Opened in 1903, this five star heritage hotel in Maharashtra has played host to dignitaries, celebrities and nobilities from all around the world. The hotel has 558 guest rooms including 44 suites that are divided into an elegant assortment of categories and overlook the Arabian Sea. It would not be an overstatement to call this hotel a fine repertoire of arts and crafts. The hotel features an exquisite collection of paintings and artifacts such as Belgian Chandeliers, Bastar tribal art and Goan Christian artifacts.

The Gordon House, Mumbai

Hotel Gordon House, Mumbai

Built as a tribute to Arthur Gordon, The Gordon House is a chic and classy five star boutique hotel located in Colaba, Mumbai. Gordon’s passion for art & architecture is well reflected in the interiors of The Gordon House hotel. The hotel boasts of 28 tastefully designed rooms that are classified as Mediterranean Rooms, Country Rooms and Scandinavian Rooms and come equipped with a range of modern amenities.

Fredrick Hotel, Mahabaleshwar

Fredrick Hotel, Mahabaleshwar

Established in 1924, Fredrick hotel is a lavish mansion that has been converted into a heritage hotel. It has been patronized by various high end clienteles which include industrialists, diplomats and film stars. The guest rooms in this heritage hotel are designed in the Victorian style and features state of the art amenities and a private verandah. There is a dining area where Indian, Chinese, Continental and Mughlai food is served.

The Verandah in the Forest Matheran

Verandah in the Forest Matheran

Owned and managed by the Neemrana Group of Hotels, The Verandah in the Forest Matheran is the most popular heritage hotel in Maharashtra. Built by Captain Brar in the 19^th century, on the isolated Western Ghats, it is a dream place to visit. The hotel has a total of 11 guest rooms segregated into 5 categories- Chenoy, Elphinstone, Kotwal, Petit and Sassoon.

After reading this blog, I can say that the above list of 4 hotels has options for tourists with all kinds of budgets. 

The USP of Heritage Hotels in India

The erstwhile maharajas of India would have never thought that their summer palaces and forts will be used for the accommodation purpose in the 21st century. But the corporate hotel chains such as Taj, Oberoi and Welcome Heritage have turned this dream into reality by acquiring these heritage properties. The concept of ‘Heritage Hotels in India' has been started after the independence of India. Post 15th August, 1947, various princely states entered into a treaty with the Indian government to become a part of the country and subsequently their homes were transformed into the heritage hotels. In this blog post, I will talk about the key points that need to be taken care of and challenges faced during their conversion of a heritage property in a lavish hotel.

1. The first and the foremost thing that one needs to ensure that the property must retain its old-world charm,    without compromising on the modern technology. A balance needs to be maintained between the old and new.
2. Heritage hotels in India are more tourism centric than a regular five star hotel but it entirely depends upon the attractions located in the vicinity of the hotel.
3. The key qualification of a heritage hotel in India is that the property must be built before 1947. Only then you will find the grandeur of history and architecture.
4. Try to include 80% locals in the hotel staff as people from cities especially metropolitan are reluctant to settle in the far-flung areas. Depending on their level of understanding things, the training process of such people is designed and is quite time consuming as compared to the HM graduates.
5. In order to sell as a heritage hotel, it is quite imperative to create attractive locations and travel packages so that tourists can enjoy sightseeing tours, in addition to the modern comforts.
6. The conversion of a heritage property is a tedious task. The task begins with ensuring that the property meets the terms and conditions of conversion in the first place. The next thing is the restoration of these properties, without destructing the heritage appeal. Since these properties were never planned to be converted into hotels, the problems which are generally being faced includes thick walls, poor plumbing system and common bathrooms
7. Budget hotels in heritage destinations are the major competitors of Indian heritage hotels as they offer a more luxurious ambience at a particular price.

The above mentioned points says a lot about the criterion on which a heritage hotels are selected, basic marketing policy, their staff and competition. If all these terms are met, a good heritage hotel can be created.

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.