9 colonial hotels to visit in this lifetime

India is home to a myriad of luxury hotels that are reminiscent of its rich glory and colonial past. Majority of these hotels were once palaces, dating back to the British Raj. The walls and labyrinths of these hotels silently talk of the chivalrous history of the Rajas. Their stunning architecture and grandeur still exude an old world charm. These are not mere hotels but, a living history . Here is a list of a few exquisite hotels where you can truly experience a slice of Colonial India:

1. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Image courtesy: en.wikipedia.org

It was built in the 19th century to celebrate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. For decades, this place has welcomed many dignitaries from across the globe. It has 560 rooms including 44 luxury suites.

2.The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata

      

                              Image courtesy: www.indiahotelplus.com

This vintage building, built in the 19th century is fondly known as “Grande Dame of Chowringhee.” The architecture, a combination of neo-classical style and elegant Victorian design of the hotel, will remind you of its Colonial history. During the World War II, the British soldiers stayed here.

3.Jehan Numa Palace, Bhopal

This British style palace was built in the 19th century, by General Obaidullah Khan. Every corner of this palace exudes an old world charm. Explore the rich heritage of the Begums of Bhopal with your stay in this palace.

4.Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

This was the residence of the Nizams during the 19th century. The classical flamboyance of its architecture is refreshingly beautiful and has an old world charm. Take a walk around the palace while listening to the stories of the Nizam’s and experience the history come to life!

5. Samode Palace, Rajasthan

This hotel is a perfect blend of Rajput, Mughal, and British architecture. Nestled in the Aravalli Range, Samode Palace has 43 rooms including 20 deluxe rooms, 19 deluxe suites and 4 Royal suites.

6. Fortune The Savoy, Mussoorie

This gothic style hotel in India was built in 1902 by an Irish Barrister. Each room of this hotel is adorned with tasteful British-style antiques and take you on a walk down the memory lane.

7.Wildflower Hall, Shimla

Built in the Colonial Era, this grand hotel was once the residence of Lord Kitchener. Wildflower Hall has 85 rooms including a Cavalry bar with an exclusive collection of rare spirits.

8. Brunton Boatyard Hotel, Kochi

This place is swirled in faint glimmers of the Colonial era. The design, inspired by Portuguese, English and Dutch architecture will remind you of the bygone era and offer you a historical sojourn.

9.Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

If you want to take a step back and experience the Victorian era, Windamere Hotel is the place to be. Ada Villa (later renamed to Windamere Hotel) was once a boarding house for the British tea planters. Now this colonial hotel stands poised while embracing its old world elegance.