Udaipur's Royal Retreat
Nestled on the fringes of Udaipur, this estate, once a royal hunting lodge, transports guests to a bygone era. Its architecture, inspired by Rajasthan's
rich design heritage, features 155 meticulously carved marble jharokhas, vibrant thikri work, and elegant chhatris. The property boasts a century-old stepwell, adding a historical anchor, while the surrounding Aravalli scrub forests offer glimpses of roaming leopards. Modern pavilions house 155 rooms, each with cozy window nooks perfect for enjoying mountain or courtyard vistas. Wellness is integrated into the stay with unique in-room beauty rituals featuring homemade ubtan. Culinary journeys range from traditional Mewari flavors at Machan to the eclectic Asian fare at Nonya, complemented by inventive cocktails. Cultural immersion is encouraged with on-site workshops led by local artisans, allowing guests to craft and take home a piece of Rajasthan's artistry.
Kumaon's Serene Sanctuary
Shakti Prana serves as a tranquil haven for adventurers exploring the Kumaon valley of Uttarakhand. This seven-suite lodge, a reincarnation of a former award-winning outpost, harmoniously blends modernist design with traditional building techniques. Constructed with local materials like hewn rock, slate, Himalayan cedar, and pine, its pavilions are designed to capture the shifting light of the Panchachuli peaks. Each guesthouse includes a private sitting room with a fireplace, offering a respite from the outside world. Dedicated spaces for yoga and a sauna with expansive valley views enhance the retreat's focus on well-being. Chef Yeshi, a former Tibetan monk, prepares comforting dishes such as momos and ravioli, alongside innovative breakfasts. The hospitality is professional yet warm, fostering a sense of both privacy and community at 6,300 feet, amidst wildlife and the spiritual ambiance of the route to Mt. Kailash.
Mumbai's Art Deco Glamour
Situated in Mumbai's western suburbs, near the international airport, this hotel emerges as a striking art deco masterpiece, reminiscent of 1920s opulence. While located in the airport zone, it offers convenient access to Juhu and Bandra. The property features 446 luxurious rooms and suites, adorned with monochrome interiors and art deco-inspired furnishings. Four distinct restaurants and a chic bar provide diverse dining and entertainment options. Beyond its exceptional culinary offerings, the hotel boasts a state-of-the-art gym and a spa with seven treatment rooms. It pioneers innovative wellness services in the city, including cryotherapy chambers, red light therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Uniquely, a 'Little Luxuries' menu caters to younger guests with specialized massages, ensuring a pampering experience for the entire family.
Jodhpur's Desert Oasis
Located 50 minutes from Jodhpur, amidst the Thar desert, Mharo Khet is a 40-acre sustainable farm and oasis thriving with 110 varieties of crops. Established during the pandemic, it began with local produce delivery and farm visits, evolving to offer a sophisticated plant-forward dining experience. The recently added accommodation comprises 10 cottages, named after Indian classical music ragas. Each expansive 2,000-square-foot unit includes a living area, bedroom, walk-in wardrobe, large bathroom, and a private courtyard for stargazing. Guests can partake in complimentary daily walks to understand the farm's chemical-free practices, learn about diverse plant species, and sample produce. The experience is enriched by classes in Rajasthani miniature painting and charpoy weaving, led by skilled local artisans.
Khajuraho's Heritage Fort
Emerging from the Maniyagarh Hills, this former 17th-century fort, once the seat of Chandela royalty, has been transformed into the first heritage property by The Oberoi. Spanning 76 acres, it offers 65 keys, including garden rooms set amidst sal and palash trees, ideal for families. The Palace wing houses 17 redesigned rooms and suites in the former rulers' chambers, offering breathtaking views. Dining at Maanya draws inspiration from India's royal kitchens, accompanied by traditional sitar music. The property's proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Khajuraho and the Panna Tiger Reserve makes it a prime location for cultural exploration and wildlife encounters. Guests can also enjoy leisure time by the private lake or indulge in spa treatments.
Tilari's Riverside Escape
Nestled on 10 acres of grassland between the Banjar River and Tilari village in Madhya Pradesh, near Kanha National Park, Outpost 12 offers a unique naturalistic retreat. The nine spacious cottages, constructed using granite from a nearby copper mine, are designed by an architect who embraces natural light. Two cottages overlook the river, while seven are set amidst lush greenery. Interiors feature high ceilings and Baiga-themed artwork, leading to wooden decks perfect for birdwatching. The central dining area is adjacent to an S-shaped pool with river views. Chef Yogank Pranav crafts innovative dishes using local ingredients, such as wild mushroom risotto and mahua cake, with dining options available on the patio, by the river, or on a stargazing deck. Safaris and guided walks provide insights into local wildlife and the Baiga tribe.
Pune's Vineyard Vistas
Set within a 66-acre winery near Baramati, this boutique hotel stands out with its prominent 35-meter viewing tower. Originally built as a country manor, it is now the inaugural property of the Irada hospitality brand, a member of Design Hotels. The hotel offers 32 rooms spread across two levels, featuring views of a plant-filled courtyard or the vineyards. Art is a significant element throughout the property. Recreational activities include pickleball and padel, alongside a stylish pool deck. Dining options include the indoor Italian restaurant Rosso, the all-day dining Irada Pool Club, and Subko for coffee. Wine is central to the experience, with a curated wine list featuring international and local Nashik vintages. Estate manager Craig Wedge leads wine tours, cellar visits, and tastings in the lavish barrel room.
Jaipur's Aristocratic Charm
Approached through a historic stone fortification, this property, originally the 150-year-old jagir headquarters of Thakur Zorawar Singh, offers an immersive Rajputana experience blended with modern hospitality. The sprawling hotel showcases open pavilions and frescoes in pastel greens and vibrant yellows. It comprises 52 rooms and suites across the heritage castle block, furnished with vintage decor, and the contemporary Zorawar Mahal. Saddle Bred, the equestrian-themed bar and restaurant, serves Rajasthani, Indian, and global cuisines. While Jaipur's attractions are nearby, activities on-site include horseback riding lessons, vintage jeep trails, spa treatments at K By Kaya Kalp Spa, and candlelit dinners. The General Amar Singh Kanota Library and Museum, housing personal memorabilia of a First World War veteran, is another key feature.
