Stroll into a few of India’s oldest accommodations, and you aren’t simply checking right into a room — you’re moving into dwelling historical past. These aren’t dusty relics trapped up to now, however vibrant institutions which have hosted maharajas, poets, viceroys, freedom fighters, and celebrities.
Their corridors carry whispers of colonial dinners, independence-era conferences, and the grand events of India’s elite. But, they proceed to thrive, providing the consolation of contemporary hospitality whereas retaining the attraction of bygone days.
Listed below are 5 of the oldest accommodations in India which are nonetheless opening their doorways to company — every with a narrative value retelling.
1. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
Once they opened: 1903
What’s so particular about them: Constructed by Jamshedji Tata after he was denied entry right into a European-only resort, the Taj redefined luxurious for Indians. Its Indo-Saracenic structure and sea-facing views have made it an icon of Mumbai. It has hosted the likes of George Bernard Shaw, Mick Jagger, and Barack Obama.
Finest time to go to: November to February, when Mumbai’s humidity dips and the Arabian Sea breeze feels nice.
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Do you know? The Taj was the primary resort in India to have electrical energy, lifts, and American followers, and later grew to become a logo of resilience after the 26/11 assault.
2. The Imperial, New Delhi
Once they opened: 1936
What’s so particular about them: The Imperial is a time capsule of India’s colonial period, constructed by Blomfield, an affiliate of Edwin Lutyens. Its grand corridors are lined with one of many largest collections of colonial and post-colonial artwork in Asia. Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and Lord Mountbatten are believed to have met right here to debate the Partition of India.
Finest time to go to: October to March, when Delhi’s climate is nice and sightseeing across the metropolis will be loved comfortably.
Do you know? The Imperial was the primary luxurious resort in unbiased India to serve champagne, making it a favorite with diplomats and international dignitaries.
3. The Nice Jap Lodge, Kolkata
Once they opened: 1840, initially because the Auckland Lodge.
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What’s so particular about them: Typically known as “the Jewel of the East,” this was the primary luxurious resort in India. Its bakery was legendary, and the resort grew to become a must-stop for travellers on their option to the Far East. It nonetheless carries an aura of Victorian class.
Finest time to go to: November to February, when Kolkata’s festive season and gentle climate make it preferrred for exploring the town’s colonial historical past.
Do you know? The Nice Jap has hosted Mark Twain, Mahatma Gandhi, and even Queen Elizabeth II. It additionally as soon as generated its personal electrical energy provide earlier than the town had a grid.
4. Taj Connemara, Chennai
Once they opened: 1854
What’s so particular about them: The oldest resort in South India, Taj Connemara began because the Imperial Lodge and later took its current title. Its design is a mix of basic colonial structure and Artwork Deco influences.
Over time, it has welcomed British governors, royalty, and modern-day celebrities. Its lush gardens and heritage wings transport guests again to an period when Madras was the center of the Madras Presidency.
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Finest time to go to: December to February, when Chennai enjoys its coolest climate, and the town is buzzing with the well-known Margazhi music and dance season.
Do you know? The resort was as soon as dwelling to the Madras Membership, which admitted solely Europeans till 1960, making it an area layered with colonial historical past and social change.
5. The Darjeeling Circuit Home
Once they opened: Mid-Nineteenth century, initially constructed by the British to deal with high-ranking officers visiting the hill station.
What’s so particular about them: Identified for its picket structure and colonial-era design, the Circuit Home overlooks the rolling tea estates and snow peaks of Kanchenjunga. Although easy in comparison with palaces, it has the country attraction of a time when hill stations have been the crown jewels of the Raj.
Finest time to go to: March to Could and October to December, when the skies are clear and the mountain views are at their greatest.
Do you know? Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is claimed to have stayed right here throughout his visits to Darjeeling, including one other layer of historical past to its partitions.
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These accommodations are extra than simply locations to spend an evening. They’re milestones of India’s cultural and political evolution, bearing witness to revolutions, royal retreats, and timeless tales. A keep right here isn’t merely about luxurious; it’s about tracing historical past with each step down the hall.
