Holiday planning is generally divided into 3 parts, deciding the destination, booking the tickets and lastly booking the accommodation. With the growing number of Destination Hotels or simply put, hotels which are destinations in themselves, it is time we look at our travel planning differently. We look at 5 boutique hotels which have changed the game and our pick for 2016.
1. Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling
The guests get to stay in one of two beautiful estate manager bungalows surrounded by tea gardens and mountains. Set in a tea estate, it offers its guests a unique perspective to the life on a tea estate, however it does not limit itself to only that. With plenty of green cover and access to rivers on its property, forest trails, camping at a beautiful lodge beside the river as well and village walks are just some of the things you can experience. Delicious food all around, wonderful hosts and the idea of communal dinners makes sure that you come as guests and leave as part of the Glenburn family. An all-in-one destination hotel indeed.
You can read a more detailed review here
Vaamika Island Resort | Photo Source: Mary Lou Design
2. Vaamika Island Resort, Cochin
This 7 acre private island retreat in the backwaters of Kerala is a perfect setting for a wildly romantic honeymoon away from the crowds. The resort offers villas with spectacular views, your own butler, an option to dine anywhere on the island, opportunity to learn to cook a local dish of your choice as well as an experience like none other. No checklists to tick, no shutterbugs to disturb your afternoon island walk and absolutely no waiting time at dinner. Own your island if only for the few days you spend there and return a billionaire in memories.
Pro Tip: It is easy to score some great deals in monsoons for Kerala Tour Packages.
Vythiri Resort, Waynad | Photo Source: Vythiri
3. Vythiri Resort, Waynad
How would you like to wake up in the morning to cries of mating birds amidst a tropical rainforest and acres of coffee and cardamom plantations? A look down reminds you of the tree house you’re in and of the unnantural comforts and luxury the place provides you. A haven for someone with not only an adventurous streak in them but also a love for some good old pampering. A true retreat in every sense.
Ananda in the Himalayas | Photo Source: abercrombiekent4. Ananda in the Himalayas, Rishikesh
One of the best Spa resorts in the country it aims to provide holistic wellness through food, ambiance and personalized programs. Built on a Maharaja’s palace estate, the daily routine consists of delectable cuisine made from locally grown organic food to go with the activities on the property as well as the wonderful spa boutique. Chances are you’ll never want to leave.
Mihir Garh | Photo Source: Relais & Chateux
5. Mihir Garh, Rohet
This “fortress of the sun” is a majestic palace themed hotel overlooking the Thar desert. Built as an oasis of sort every part it embodies the culture of Rajasthan right from the architecture, to the food to the equestrian activities to the surrounding landscape. Though located in the middle of a desert you will not find yourself lacking any luxury amenity you can think of. Talk about living like a Maharaja.
You can read our review of Mihir Garh before deciding to stay here.
The choice can be made given where in India you will be visiting next but its safe to say you can’t go wrong with any of them.