A Global Benchmark for Excellence
To be named among the World's 50 Best is no small feat. The ranking, which launched its hotel edition in 2023, is one of the most anticipated announcements in the travel industry. It is compiled from the votes of more than 800 anonymous experts, including
seasoned hoteliers, travel journalists, and discerning global travellers. Unlike awards that rely on guest reviews alone, this list reflects the consensus of a well-travelled, professional academy. Earning a place, even on the 51-100 extended list, signifies that a hotel has delivered an experience so memorable it has captured the attention of the industry's most critical observers. For India to have two properties on this list is a moment of immense pride, showcasing the country's unique and world-class approach to hospitality.
The Grandeur of a Modern Palace: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Ranking at number 98, The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur is the embodiment of palatial luxury. While the headline rightly places it on the serene banks of Lake Pichola, its story is one of meticulous creation. Built on the 200-year-old hunting grounds of the Maharana of Mewar, the hotel was designed to evoke the romance and grandeur of a traditional Mewari palace. Spread across 30 acres, it features a breathtaking layout of interlocking domes, sun-drenched courtyards, cascading fountains, and shimmering reflection pools. Though it opened in 2002, local craftsmen ensured its architecture felt centuries old, creating an idealized fantasy of royal living. The experience is just as regal. Guests arrive to unparalleled service that continues throughout their stay. The property's 87 rooms and suites are adorned with hand-carved furniture and fine textiles, with some offering private terraces that lead directly into a semi-private moated pool. With views of the City Palace and Jagmandir, and a tranquil wildlife sanctuary within its grounds, Udaivilas offers an escape that is both opulent and deeply serene. Its inclusion on the list confirms its long-standing reputation as one of the world's most enchanting destinations.
The Intimate Jewel of Jaipur: The Johri
Securing the 94th spot is The Johri in Jaipur, a hotel that offers a completely different, yet equally compelling, vision of Indian luxury. Housed within Lal Haveli, a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion in the city's historic Johri Bazaar, this property is the definition of a boutique hotel. With just five exclusive suites, it provides an intimate and highly personalized experience. What makes The Johri truly special is its unique design concept. Each of its five suites is named after a precious gemstone—ruby, sapphire, emerald, pearl, and diamond—and is decorated in a corresponding jewel-toned palette. This thoughtful detailing creates a series of distinct, beautiful spaces that feel both historic and contemporary. The hotel is described as a blissful retreat, featuring a cinematic inner courtyard and a celebrated restaurant that focuses on exceptional Indian vegetarian cuisine. Its presence on the list highlights a growing appreciation for smaller, character-driven properties that offer deep cultural immersion and exquisite design, proving that world-class luxury isn't always about scale.
