A Global Stamp of Approval
The World's 50 Best Hotels list is one of the most anticipated announcements in the global travel industry. Voted on by a panel of over 800 anonymous experts, from seasoned travel journalists to luxury hoteliers, securing a spot on this list is a definitive
mark of excellence. While the coveted top 50 will be revealed later in September, the recently released 51-100 extended list for 2026 shines a spotlight on properties that are shaping the future of travel. This year, India has proudly secured two positions, both claimed by the royal state of Rajasthan. Making their mark are The Johri in Jaipur at number 94, and The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur, which made its debut on the list at number 98. The inclusion of these two hotels is not just a win for the properties themselves, but a testament to the diverse and world-class hospitality that India has to offer.
The Grand Dame: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Ranking at number 98, The Oberoi Udaivilas is the embodiment of palatial grandeur. Situated on the serene banks of Lake Pichola, this sprawling property is designed to resemble a traditional Mewari palace. Its magnificent architecture features a breathtaking succession of interconnected domes, sunlit courtyards, and corridors that whisper tales of royalty. Guests arrive to vistas of cascading fountains, reflection pools, and pristine white marble walkways. The experience is one of pure opulence and scale, offering dramatic views of Udaipur’s City Palace and Jagmandir. The hotel is known for its impeccable service and an atmosphere that transports you to a more gracious era. Its inclusion on the list as a new entry confirms its long-standing reputation as one of the country's most iconic and luxurious destinations, a grand dame of Indian hospitality that continues to set global standards.
The Jewel Box: The Johri, Jaipur
In stark contrast to Udaivilas's magnificent scale is The Johri in Jaipur, which secured the 94th spot. This property is an intimate, design-forward boutique hotel proving that magic can come in small packages. Housed within a restored 19th-century haveli, The Johri is a hidden sanctuary in the heart of the city's bustling Johri Bazaar, or jeweller's market. With only a handful of suites, each room is meticulously designed and named after a different gemstone, featuring a unique, jewel-toned colour palette. The hotel feels less like a commercial establishment and more like the private home of an incredibly stylish friend. It serves as a quiet, calming oasis filled with antique furniture, local textiles, and contemporary art, all overlooking a tranquil inner courtyard. Its celebrated restaurant focuses on seasonal, organic vegetarian cuisine, earning it a reputation as a culinary destination in its own right.
Two Faces of Indian Hospitality
The joint recognition for The Oberoi Udaivilas and The Johri tells a compelling story about the state of Indian luxury travel. It highlights that there is no single formula for excellence. On one hand, there is the unabashed grandeur of Udaivilas, a hotel that celebrates India's royal heritage with scale, splendor, and flawless service. It represents a dream of living like a monarch, an experience that has long drawn visitors from across the globe. On the other hand, The Johri represents a new wave of Indian hospitality: intimate, design-led, and deeply rooted in its local context. It offers a curated, personal experience that prioritizes artistry and atmosphere, turning a stay into a discovery. Together, they demonstrate the remarkable breadth of the nation's hospitality landscape, where both the grand palace and the hidden gem are recognized as being among the best in the world.
