India is a vibrant country with a rich colonial past. There are a number of colonial palaces and monuments that carefully preserves the footprints from the past; each has a story waiting to be unravelled. If you want to taste a slice of colonial India, then you must stay in these hotels:
1. The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace, Udaipur
Situated in the lap of the Aravalli ranges, The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace offers you a captivating view of the Fateh Sagar lake. This place captures the vibrant essence of Rajasthan. Laxmi Vilas Palace was built by Maharaja Fateh Singh in 1911 and reflects the charm of the bygone era. It features 55 well-decorated rooms and suites and is one of the most popular luxury addresses in Udaipur.
2. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling
Set in the foothills of lesser Himalayas in Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel is a typical British-style colonial hotel in every aspect. Built in the mid-1800s, Windamere Hotel was formerly known as Ada Villa and served as a boarding house for the British. Step into the carefully restored suites of Windamere Hotel and immediately you will feel transported to the colonial era. Windamere has never been renovated – just restored.
1. The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace, Udaipur
Situated in the lap of the Aravalli ranges, The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace offers you a captivating view of the Fateh Sagar lake. This place captures the vibrant essence of Rajasthan. Laxmi Vilas Palace was built by Maharaja Fateh Singh in 1911 and reflects the charm of the bygone era. It features 55 well-decorated rooms and suites and is one of the most popular luxury addresses in Udaipur.
2. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling
Set in the foothills of lesser Himalayas in Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel is a typical British-style colonial hotel in every aspect. Built in the mid-1800s, Windamere Hotel was formerly known as Ada Villa and served as a boarding house for the British. Step into the carefully restored suites of Windamere Hotel and immediately you will feel transported to the colonial era. Windamere has never been renovated – just restored.
3. Hotel Le Dupleix, Pondicherry
This place served as a residence of the Mayor of Pondicherry during the colonial era. This majestic building was restored meticulously, following the 18th century architectural methods and style. The building reflects a typical French style architecture. The decor features colonial era paintings and artefacts that will immediately transport back in time.
4. Ferrnhills Royale Palace, Tamil Nadu
Built in 1844, the Maharaja of Mysore used this Palace as his summer residence. The architecture of this palace resembles a Chalet. During the mid-1860s, the palace was turned into a country club. The British used this palace to escape the Indian summer heat and take refuge in the refreshing weather of Ooty.
5. Gajner Palace, Bikaner, Rajasthan
Located at a distance of just 30 minutes from Bikaner, the Gajner Palace was once a premium site for the British to socialise with the Indian Royalty. This palace was primarily a hunting resort during the colonial era and attracted many dignitaries including Governor General Lord Elgin, Lord Mountbatten, the Prince of Wales in 1905. Built by Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh, this palatial space was converted into a hotel in 1976. The panoramic beauty and architectural grandeur will make you lose yourself in its majestic setting
6. Divan’s Bungalow, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
This 19th century haveli was built by a British architect and was the residence of the Divan of Radhanpur. The colonial building stands tall with its 150 years old charm and is now being converted into a hotel. The corners of the bungalow is revamped carefully while maintaining its old world essence and offers an unparalleled experience to the guests. The architecture reflects a perfect blend of Western and Eastern architectural style and is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in India.
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