With opulent staycations being quite ‘in’ these days, it’s only fair if you plan well in advance, book yourself a holiday and live a little. Steeped in history, old-world charm and regal grandeur, these stunning heritage properties across the country are worth the extravagance. Bookmark this page if you have an eye for the finer things in life.  

Kanak, Jaisalmer 

Address: Khasra no. 99, Salkha, Rajasthan
Call: 063677 62962

Inspired by travelling caravans of the bygone eras, Kanak Jaisalmer captures the tranquil allure of the desserts while offering a serene escape from the daily rut. The expansive tents (and Jaipur suites) are decked up with classic furnishings and amenities like private pools and exclusive porches, with the unmissable highlights being the desert and camel safaris, a tour of royal fineries and dinner on the dunes.  

Saj In The Forest, MP

Address:Avarghani, Kurai, Kohka, Madhya Pradesh 
Call: 096641 51190

Feel the forests are calling? You must go to the Saj. With Gond Art-adorned walls and visually appealing backgrounds that promote local photography, the décor of this sprawling boutique property exudes an indigenous vibe, backed by some breath-taking vistas of the lush forests. Packed with exciting outdoorsy experiences like the forest trails, jungle and backwater safaris and guided tours, the Saj in the Forest is every staycationer’s paradise with ample offerings to satiate the millennial Instagrammer’s wanderlust. 

Noormahal Palace Hotel, Karnal  

Address: Noormahal Crossing, National Highway 1, Sector 32, Karnal, Haryana
Call:  0184 713 3333

Replete with frescoes in gold, old portraits of royal scions, miniature art, and a rich sprinkling of chandeliers and shamadaans; Noormahal Palace totally fits the cookie-cutter definition of a modern-day palace hotel in India. Located at a drivable distance from New Delhi as well as the metro towns of Punjab and Haryana, the luxury getaway—a dream project founded by Col Manbeer Choudhary and Mrs. Choudhary—boasts of a living museum of rare antiques, 21 unique banquets, a well-curated culinary fable that offers a wide range of signature Parsi to Persian delicacies. 

Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Bhopal 

 

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Address: 157, Shyamla Hills Rd, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Call:  0755 266 1100

This 19th-century marvel situated atop the picturesque Shamla Hills in Bhopal goes a long way back in history, well-evidenced by the varied styles of architecture—Italian Renaissance, British Colonial and Classical Greek—in the property. With signature royal features like palatial rooms and culinary offers, it’s no wonder that Jehan Numa Palace continues to be a widely visited venue for weddings and leisurely stays in Bhopal. 

Image credits: Official Instagram handle of Jehan Numa Palace Hotel

Evolve Back Luxury Resorts, Kabini  

Address: Beerambally, Jakkalli (N. Begur), Karnataka
Call:  063669 20434

From eco-friendly pool huts, pool reserves and night trails to coracle rides and a quaint bird-watching spot—that can be accessed from your sunbed— Evolve Back is a luxurious haven for the new-age biophilic. Take the time out to witness the local flora and fauna in full glory by signing up for their uber-popular jeep or boat safari. Or better yet, get your folks and centre around a campfire to make memories while witnessing performances by tribal Kuruba dancers.  

Image credits: Official Instagram handle of Evolve Back Luxury Resorts

Stok Palace Heritage Hotel, Leh  

Address: No. 08, Post Box, Stok Palace, Stok.
Call: 096502 0746

This 200-year-old residence of the Namgyal dynasty continues to garner widespread intrigue, given its history. For the uninitiated, the Palace comes with an interesting story that converted itself into a heritage spot in 1980, only to find visitors by the hordes. From picturesque views to a royal family museum that houses century-old artefacts (including a headpiece that’s reportedly encrusted with uncut precious stones and gold nuggets), drop by if you fancy living at a heritage residence with storied pasts. There’s no Wi-Fi or intercoms, so you’ll have to be present and make the most of the moment.  

Image credits: Official Instagram handle of Stok Palace Heritage Hotel, Leh

Ayatana Ooty 

Address: Muttinad Village, Adigaratty Post, Adigaratty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu
Call: 099455 0200

Set against the idyllic views of the Nilgiris Hills, Ayatana Ooty is a sprawling property that offers the best of both worlds—modern luxury with a side of rustic countryside charm. Each cottage opens to scenic views of the tea gardens, with landmarks like the Kattery Water Fall and Dam, the Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake House, and Rose Garden in the vicinity. With Love Dale railway station barely a few kilometres away, it’s the perfect place to play out your childhood adventure fantasies by taking a toy train ride into the wild. 

Image credits: Official Instagram handle of Ayatana Ooty

The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla  

Address: Chaura Maidan Rd, Nabha, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Call: 0177 280 4848

Overlooking the pristine valleys and mountains of Shimla, the Oberoi Cecil transports you back to the Colonial Era, replete with an old-world stately charm and traditional hospitality. Their signature English high tea is another offering that promises to delight gourmands and wide-eyed travellers alike. Given how Shimla is post-card-worthy just as is, it’s okay to not have too much planned on your itinerary and bask in nature. Sign up for curated heritage walks (arranged by the property) and relish authentic Himachali cuisine by the fireplace. For, happiness is often found in savouring the little things.  

Image credits: Official Instagram handle of Oberoi Cecil, Shimla