Disclaimer: Top 10 Lists are created keeping in mind only my opinion. Rest assured that IH Aviation and Travel is not biased whatsoever.
India, a country with diverse topography is one of the most popular destinations amongst foreign tourists. Stretching from the mighty peaks of the Himalayas in North India to the beautiful beaches and backwaters of South India, the nation has it all. It is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. As the country receives a major influx of tourists and businessmen alike, almost all major hotel chains present in the world have presence in India. Indian hospitality is famous all across the globe and the country has some of the world’s most beautiful hotels and resorts. Let’s take a look at the Top 10 5 star Hotels and Resorts in India in 2025.
10. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Gleaming in golden sandstone, the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur sits high above the Blue City, amid 26 acres of gardens. Even today, it remains an active royal residence with family members residing in their own wing. Each of the 70 rooms and suites at Umaid Bhawan Palace features modern comforts and luxurious furnishings for an unparalleled experience of authentic royalty. Risala serves Continental and Indian fusion cuisine, while Pillars serves Rajasthani meals. Drinks can be enjoyed at The Trophy Bar. The unique Champagne Museum Walk invites guests to admire the fine collection of Victorian and Edwardian antiques with a glass of champagne in hand. J Wellness Circle offers traditional Indian beauty therapies, as well as hot tubs and steam rooms. For the health conscious, a yoga studio, gym and tennis courts are provided. There are two swimming pools available, one of which is the Maharajah’s subterranean Zodiac Pool.
Website: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
9. The Leela Palace New Delhi
The Leela Palace New Delhi is located at the very heart of the capital’s prestigious Diplomatic Enclave and exemplifies the magnificent architecture, grace and elegance of Lutyens’ Delhi. The heritage of the city, along with modern design elements, is beautifully reflected in the design of this modern palace hotel in New Delhi. The hotel offers state-of-the-art amenities in a rich and royal setting, right in proximity to the New Delhi Airport. The 254 guestrooms, as inviting as they are opulent, offer top-end comfort, service and technology, and rank among the largest in the city. Dining options include The Qube (all day dining); Jamavar (signature Indian restaurant); Megu (Japanese restaurant); Le Cirque (fine-dining Franco Italian restaurant); The Library Bar and The Lobby Lounge. Facilities include Banquet Venues spread over 21000 square feet (1954 square metres), a rooftop infinity swimming pool, a Spa and a Salon.
Website: The Leela Palace New Delhi
8. The Leela Palace Udaipur
Located beside the tranquil Lake Pichola, The Leela Palace Udaipur is flanked by the rolling Aravalli mountain ranges. It is a modern palace hotel in Udaipur which evokes the grandeur and opulence of the Land of the Mewars. All of the 80 guest rooms and suites are stately lavishly appointed with exquisite embellishments and traditional artisan crafts inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Soft breezes and views of a starlit sky accompany fine Indian specialities at the Sheesh Mahal. For an international dining experience, guests can head to the Dining Room at The Leela Palace. The Library bar offers fine wines, single malts and time refined cognacs as well as an array of well-crafted cocktails and delicious starters. A exclusive spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, a tour desk, a business centre, event spaces and a fitness centre are some of the facilities present at the hotel.
Website: The Leela Palace Udaipur
7. Six Senses Fort Barwara
Originally owned by a Rajasthani Royal Family, Six Senses Fort Barwara incorporates two original palaces and two temples within the walled fort. The 5.5-acre site is surrounded by an imposing thick rock 6-metre high wall. The resort coOriginally owned by a Rajasthani Royal Family, Six Senses Fort Barwara incorporates two original palaces and two temples within the walled fort. The 5.5-acre site is surrounded by an imposing thick rock 6-metre high wall. The resort consists of 48 guest suites. Suites in the East Wing overlook the countryside and those in the West Wing offer views to Barwara village and beyond. The resort’s flagship dining destination, Roohani, showcases the power of local produce from the resort’s organic garden and farms in the nearby village in innovative ways. Guests can meet the sommelier in the Viewing Gallery or enjoy signature cocktails before dinner in the Rajawat Room. Six Senses Fort Barwara features two swimming pools, a Boutique With select designer casual clothing and swimwear, local artwork, accessories, home décor and light furniture, Earth Lab that showcases sustainability efforts to support communities and ecosystems while inviting guests to learn some positive life hacks, a Library with a selection of books and magazines and Indoor and outdoor fun activities for kids at Grow With Six Senses. The 30,000 square foot (2,800 square meter) Six Senses Spa and fitness center is located within the original women’s palace and both temples. It offers an extensive Ayurvedic “whole body” healing system, meditation and personalized wellness programs based on the preventative
principles of Eastern medicine and results-
oriented Western influences.
Website: Six Senses Fort Barwara
6. The St. Regis Goa Resort
Located at a 60 minutes’ drive from Goa International Airport, The St. Regis Goa Resort is nestled in 49 acres of lush greenery fringing the pristine Mobor Beach on the shores of the Arabian Sea. The resort features 206 guest rooms including 46 suites offering private terraces overlooking the tranquil lagoons or the golf course. The even more exclusive Manor houses 20 suites and villas with plunge pools, private access to the beach, and all-day indulgent dining. The Restaurant is an all-day dining venue that invites guests to discover the delights of local cuisine and international favorites. At the eastern end of the resort is Riverside, an Italian fine dining restaurant with exceptional views of the Sal River serving innovative cuisine inspired by the traditions of Italy. Susegado is a pan-Asian and seafood grill restaurant in a casual beach shack overlooking the ocean while The Drawing Room offers crafted afternoon tea and the resort’s delightful twist on the brand’s signature Bloody Mary cocktail, The Goan Mary. Pool Bar is the perfect venue for pre-dinner cocktails with its sunset views overlooking the pool. Aqua, is the ideal place to relax and experience the art of drinking, while engaging in fun indoor games and activities. Facilities at the hotel include a swimming pool surrounded by foliage, along with a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts. Younger guests will be able to enjoy the St. Regis Family Traditions programs and experiences, including a mobile library, as well as the fun and enriching activities of the Children’s Club with its kids-only pool, play park and gaming zone. The St. Regis Spa, with its eight private rooms for bespoke treatments, includes age-old Indian ayurvedic rituals and therapies derived from 5,000 years of tradition that nourish and enliven the mind, body and spirit. There’s also a scenic 12-hole executive Golf Course.
Website: The St. Regis Goa Resort
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5. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Built in 1835, Rambagh Palace is an icon of Jaipur. Adorned with hand-carved marble latticework, sandstone balustrades, and lush Mughal Gardens, it once served as a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge. From the Maharaja’s residence to an authentic palace, this palace hotel in Jaipur upholds its ceremonial grandeur for all guests. The 78 restored rooms and suites reflect Rambagh Palace’s illustrious past and are rooted in a gilded history. Among its many renowned restaurants is Suvarna Mahal, housed in the 18th-century-styled palace ballroom, offering Royal Indian delicacies. Additionally, guests can enjoy iconic experiences at the Polo Bar and Rajput Room offering multi-cuisine delicacies. Make the most of the day with an outdoor meal at Verandah and for an evening cocktail, head to Steam, the resort’s unique lounge bar aboard a lovingly restored train car replete with steam engine. Facilities include J Wellness Circle offering traditional Indian recipes, outdoor and indoor pools and a fitness centre. There are also vintage horse-drawn carriage rides every evening.
Website: Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
4. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
The Taj Mahal Palace opened in Mumbai, then Bombay, in 1903, giving birth to the country’s first harbour landmark. Strategically located in Mumbai’s prime historical and commercial hub, The Taj Mahal Palace is walking distance from Colaba Causeway, known for its touristy tiny roadside shops. Each of the 285 rooms & suites are a striking blend of nostalgic elegance, rich history and modern facilities. Guests can choose from 9 restaurants and bars, renowned for delectable cuisines from India, Europe, the Middle East and the Orient. Facilities include J Wellness Circle, an outdoor swimming pool, Taj Salon and a 24-hour fitness centre.
Website: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
3. The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, is located just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, the world’s most exquisite testimony to undying love. The hotel stands amidst nine acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, minarets, pavilions, fountains, reflection pools and terraced lawns inspired by traditional Mughal designs. The property consists of 102 exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, each with uninterrupted view of the Taj Mahal and complemented by Oberoi’s warm, personalized hospitality. Many rooms of this elegant five-story building have private terraces. Bellevue restaurant serves international dishes and local favourites, while Esphahan offers traditional Indian specialities. Overlooking the Taj Mahal, the bar offers fine wines and cigars. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, The Oberoi Spa and a fitness centre. The hotel also offers guided tours to the Taj Mahal.
Website: The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
2. Raffles Udaipur
Raffles Udaipur is reminiscent of a magnificent country estate, with beautifully manicured, ornamental gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding hills, serene lake and a 400-year-old temple. The resort stands on a 21-acre private island in the middle of the serene Udai Sagar lake. The resort’s design uses the island’s natural topography plus a storied moodboard of a love story between India and the West as his inspiration. The island is an illustrious blend of European and local architectural styles. Raffles Udaipur features 101 luxurious rooms and suites that are an ideal blend of modern and local elements & feature either garden or lake views. Some accommodations have a private garden, balcony or a plunge pool. The Sawai Kitchen is an Indian speciality restaurant serving the lost recipes from the erstwhile families belonging to the Rajputana kingdom. Raffles Patisserie is a chic styled bistro bustling with aromas. This is an ideal place to enjoy a cup of artisanal coffee with a slice of homemade cake. Unwind with bespoke artisanal and classic cocktails and a champagne and caviar menu at The Writers Bar or socialise at the iconic Long Bar, a hallmark of the Raffles brand. Harvest offers a unique farm-to-table experience and is an interactive dining experience while the Pool Bar serves beverages and light refreshments. The Raffles Spa is a space modelled after the royal zenanas with delicate pastels, mirrors, plenty of natural light and a detailed embroidered canopy. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, a hard floored badminton court and multiple jogging paths.
Website: Raffles Udaipur
1. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur is a premier 5 star hotel located on the banks of Lake Pichola and is spread across 30 acres of luxuriant gardens, with an intricate layout of interconnecting domes and corridors that reflect the layout of Udaipur itself. The property is built on 200-year old hunting grounds of the Maharana of Mewar. The 87 rooms and suites reflect a thoughtful harmony of Mewar inspired motifs, elegant furnishings and modern technologies and feature lake, pool or garden views. Udaimahal Restaurant specialises in traditional Indian food including Rajasthani and North Indian dishes. Order Western, Mediterranean and Thai food at Suryamahal or enjoy open-air dining with traditional music and dance evening performances at Chandni. Guests can enjoy a spa treatment at The Oberoi Spa, unwind by the two heated outdoor swimming pools, burn calories at the fitness centre, practice yoga, borrow movie and audio CDs, learn a Rajasthani Folk Dance, attend a cooking session with the in-house chef or relax in wooden boat ride with wine and canapé.
Website: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Featured image by Oberoi Hotels & Resorts
If you think that I have missed any of the hotels that you think should be included in this list, let me know in the comments section below.
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