With hundreds of boutique hotels in the country, finding the 13 best boutique hotels in India is a task. But what makes a boutique hotel different from any other hotel? Well, a boutique hotel usually has less than 25 rooms, a lot of character, and a personalized feel to it. This type of accommodation is an experience in itself. In this blog, we talk about the 13 best boutique hotels in India.
Luxury resorts and boutique hotels in India offer unique experiences like nowhere else. You will find many luxury resorts and boutique hotels in India. Whether you are in an old city or a metropolis like New Delhi or Mumbai, hotels in India will always be available to accommodate you. UNESCO World Heritage Sites that have been converted into hotels, boutique hotels with plunge pools or a rooftop pool, colonial villas, or newly constructed hotels – you will be spoilt for choice with boutique hotels in India.
Saj in the Forest, Madhya Pradesh
Nestled in the dense forest near Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, Saj in the Forest is a stunning boutique hotel for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, thanks to the abundant wildlife present in the forest. However, this nature retreat does not compromise on luxury. The resort has independent opulent rooms named after trees in the region like Palash, Mahua, and Sal.
The hotel is designed in a way that it blends with the natural elements with minimal damage to the environment. The plastic-free property has hand-painted murals, an organic garden, and sustainable practices.
Feast on some delectable local food amidst the jungle or by the pool. The boutique resort offers many experiences such as wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature treks, pottery lessons, photography, and stargazing.
Tariff: Starting from INR 40,000
Nearest airport: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (107 km)
Nearest railway station: Seoni (30 km)
Neeralaya, Himachal Pradesh
A hidden gem on the banks of River Beas, Neeralaya near Kullu-Manali in Himachal Pradesh is a place out of a fairytale. This cozy homestay is one of the best boutique hotels in India, nestled amidst fruit trees and serene views of the mountains and the river. If you have ever wanted to immerse yourself in nature, Neeralaya is one of the best hotels to be at.
The cottages and villas are made out of stone and timber. The meals are fresh and home-cooked, and the vibe is warm and friendly.
The outdoor activities this place offers are something you may have read only in a storybook – walk barefoot on the grass, take a picnic outside, nap under the trees, read a book in the garden, go fishing, or go for a trek – the possibilities are endless as you willingly experience a digital detox in this charming place.
Tariff: Starting from INR 13,000
Nearest airport: Kullu Manali Airport (23.2 km)
Nearest railway station: Chandigarh station (264 km)
Chavni, Maharashtra
If you are interested in history, Chavni in Pune in Maharashtra is a boutique resort you must experience. Located at the foothills of the centuries-old forts of Lohagad and Visapur, the resort highlights the architecture of the bygone era of the affluent Marathas and Peshwas. The design of Chavni is inspired from the 16th century transit camps, with luxurious tents and royal carts.
The property is located near the ancient Satvahana Caves and the medieval trade route, Dakshinpath. It also houses a museum featuring weapons, coins, and relics from Maharashtra’s history.
You can opt for guided heritage walks during your time here, or attend a light and sound performance. Take a dip in the swimming pool or jacuzzi, get adventurous and go on a horseback ride, or simply wander around the lush green property.
Tariff: Starting from INR 7,000
Nearest airport: Mumbai airport (105 km)
Nearest railway station: Pune station (65 km)
Ahilya Fort Hotel, Madhya Pradesh
Ahilya Fort is a boutique hotel located in Maheshwar on the banks of River Narmada, the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh. A part of Maheshwar village, the fort was built by Ahilyabai Holkar in the 1800s. In 2000, her descendant, Prince Richard Holkar, converted his home in Ahilya Wada into a hotel, known as the Ahilya Fort Hotel today.
The hotel has 19 unique rooms, suites, and tents spread across six ancient buildings equipped with modern amenities. You can enjoy delicious Indian and international cuisine prepared with vegetables fresh from the hotel’s organic garden.
Stroll along the banks of Narmada, take a boat ride, or simply enjoy a beautiful sunset over the river. Visit the riverside temple complex and explore the bustling markets in the village.
Tariff: Starting from INR 20,000
Nearest airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar airport (95 km)
Nearest railway station: Indore station (96 km)
Glenburn Tea Estate, West Bengal
Perched on the slope of a hill on the banks of River Rungeet in Darjeeling, Glenburn Tea Estate is a pretty boutique resort with mesmerizing views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The century-old colonial bungalow has eight rooms, exuding an old-world charm with free-standing bathtubs, cozy fireplaces, and traditional furnishings, along with modern amenities such as walk-in rain showers.
The shared meals include high-end cuisines, amazing drinks, and interesting conversations with other families. You can indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and biking. You can also stroll through the miles of tea plantations and taste different varieties of tea.
Tariff: Starting from INR 30,200
Nearest airport: Bagdogra airport (44 km)
Nearest railway station: New Jalpaiguri station (62 km)
Mihir Garh, Rajasthan
45 minutes away from Jodhpur, Mihir Garh is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in India. Situated in the Thar desert in Rajasthan, the hotel is designed to give a feel of the ancient heritage of rural Rajasthan. The mystical property offers unending views of the sand dunes.
The fort has nine luxurious suites with its sitting room, and a courtyard with a private pool or jacuzzi. There are three common courtyards with fountains, two lounge areas, and a beautiful public terrace with an infinity pool.
There are a lot of outdoor activities you can try, such as bird watching, horse riding, village jeep safaris, and Rajasthani culinary workshops.
Tariff: Starting from INR 33,000
Nearest airport: Jodhpur airport(64 km)
Nearest railway station: Jodhpur station(12 km)
Palais de Mahe – A CGH Earth Experience, Pondicherry
A traditional colonial mansion painted yellow and white, Palais de Mahe is a boutique hotel in the French quarter of Pondicherry. The design is inspired by French architecture, with high ceilings, arches, verandahs, and beautiful courtyards. It is located just a few minutes away from the seaside promenade overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
If you are hungry, you can go to the Earth Cafe, the Les Alizes’ restaurant, or get a drink at the cocktail bar. The seafood here is made from the fresh catch of the day.
The rooms face a large pool in the middle of the courtyard where you can relax or take a dip. You can also head up to the open terrace providing views of the small town. Outside the hotel, there are many churches, markets, and food joints to explore. If nothing, you can sit at the promenade looking at the sea for hours.
Tariff: Starting from INR 12,000
Nearest airport: Chennai international airport (150 km)
Nearest railway station: Chennai railway station(165 km)
Rajmahal Palace RAAS, Rajasthan
Rajmahal Palace RAAS is a 19th century heritage residence turned hotel in the Pink City of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Built in 1729, the property was once the home of Maharaja Sawai Man Jai Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi. The palace has hosted prominent dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II and the late Duke of Edinburgh. The estate is still the home of Rajmata Padmini Devi.
Rajmahal Palace offers 13 rooms and suites designed in a contemporary Indian Art Deco style, elegant gardens, and a beautiful swimming pool. There is also an opulent spa where you can de-stress. The palace has four dining options, including the Polo Bar and 51 Shades of Pink, offering delectable food.
Rajmahal also curates outdoor experiences for you, such as visiting the Amer Fort, City Palce, and the renowned Hawa Mahal. You can visit the Narain Niwas Palace, Hot Pink, and Johri Bazaar if you are in the mood for shopping.
Tariff: Starting from INR 30,000
Nearest airport: Jaipur (9 km)
Nearest railway station: Jaipur station (3.68 km)
Ginger House Museum Hotel, Kerala
The Ginger House Museum Hotel in Cochin in Kerala stays true to its name – the property is full of interesting antiques, and the most unique part about it is that everything you see is for sale! Located by the water’s edge, the boutique hotel looks out to Willingdon Island. There are nine eclectic rooms with traditional architecture and artefacts inspired by South India.
Walk around the verdant gardens, de-stress by the infinity pool facing the water, or gorge on some delicious food. A short ride away is Fort Cochin and the popular Chinese fishing nets.
Tariff: Starting from INR 12,555
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (26 km)
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam station (3.6 km)
Mary Budden Estate, Uttarakhand
Mary Budden Estate is nestled in one of the last virgin wilderness areas in the Himalayas, the forests of Binsar in Uttarakhand. Spread over 5 acres, the property is located almost 8000 feet above sea level and has one cottage and four lodges designed with natural elements like wood and stone.
The rooms are charming, with open sit-outs, traditional fireplaces, and stone patios. The property also has private drawing rooms and dining rooms adorned with hand-picked antiques. There are many outdoor activities you can experience near the estate. Have lunch in the forest or dine under the stars. Go on treks and hikes and take in the magnificent Himalayan mountain views. The estate can arrange curated walks and birding experiences for you. Visit the Shiva temples made entirely out of stone. You can explore the old markets of Almora selling local handicrafts.
Tariff: Starting from INR 34,000
Nearest airport: Pantnagar (119 km)
Nearest railway station: Kathgodam station (82 km)
Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerala
Known as one of the finest luxury hotels in India, Kumarakom Lake Resort in Kerala is a heritage hotel nestled on the banks of Lake Vembanad. Spread over 25 acres of lush landscape, this is one of the best boutique hotels in India which blends the traditional charm of Kerala with all the modern amenities. The luxury resort hosted Prince Charles for his 65th birthday celebrations in 2013, so you can be assured that it offers excellent service!
The private suites, villas, and rooms are spacious and exude luxury. Take an ayurvedic massage or ayurvedic treatments at the Ayurveda Spa, or go for a dip in the private pool. There are many water activities you can try, such as a cruise on the lake or a banana boat ride. There are two restaurants in the hotel, offering exceptional food. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a stone’s throw away, from where you can spot rare bird species.
Tariff: Starting from INR 21,000
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (72 km)
Nearest railway station: Kottayam railway station (16 km)
Malabar House, Kerala
One of the first boutique hotels in Kerala, Malabar House is a stunning heritage hotel in Fort Kochi in Kerala. Once a Dutch colonial residence of the 18th century, Malabar House fuses the old world charm with new age luxuries. The 17 bedrooms are furnished with antiques carefully picked by the owner.
Watch the famous Chinese fishing nets as the sun sets into the Arabian Sea in the background. Dine on Indian cuisine and international dishes at the hotel’s poolside restaurant, Malabar Junction. You can also unwind with a Kalari massage or chill at the beach or in the courtyard pool.
Tariff: Starting from INR 19,000
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (45 km)
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam railway station (14 km)
The Tamara Coorg, Karnataka
Perched 3500 feet above sea level across 180 acres, The Tamara Coorg in Karnataka is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in India. This nature retreat is surrounded by lush greenery, coffee plantations, and serene waterfalls.
You can take a coffee plantation tour or go on bird watching trails in the beautiful forests around the property. You will also find ancient temples, forts, monasteries, and wildlife sanctuaries in this beautiful state. For some unique experiences, you can try forest therapy, trekking, cooking class, or enjoy a picnic. The Falls is the main restaurant at this place.
However, keep in mind that children under 12 are not allowed at the property because of the hilly terrain and steep gradient.
Tariff: Starting from INR 19,000
Nearest airport: Kannur airport (106 km)
Nearest railway station: Mysore railway station (131 km)
So, which boutique hotel would you like to stay at during your next trip to India? Let us know! At India Someday, we curate trips to India based on your personalized needs and requirements. Contact us and we will help you plan the perfect trip to India!
