Enjoy the Era of Raj: Stay in These 4 Colonial Hotels

There are a number of colonial structures through which the Raj-era finds a resonance in the modern India. These buildings, mostly turned into hotels, take you back to the sepia-tinged reminiscence of the time when British ruled Cthis country. These structures still boast an historic connection with India and if you want to take a walk down Memory Lane, then stay in these colonial-era hotels:

1. The Claridges Nabha Residence, Mussoorie

Surrounded by the magnificent hills, this heritage hotel is located in the midst of a sprawling 13 acres silver oak and cedar forest. This was used as the summer residence of the Maharaja of Nabha. It was frequented by many British officials of the East India Company, Nawabs, and Maharajas. The rooms are aesthetically decorated to preserve the colonial feeling. It has 22 luxury rooms and is equipped with lavish comforts.

2. Vivenda dos Palhaços, Goa

The architecture of this place resembles traditional Portuguese-style Goan villa. Located in the Goan village of Majorca, the hotel is run by a British-family who preferred to stay back in India even after the Raj-era ended. The master bedroom is named “Konnagar” after the Calcutta-suburb (the then capital of the Raj) where the early generations of the family stayed when they first arrived in India. The rooms are decorated with exhibits that date back to the Raj-era and will add to your colonial recreation.

3. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Located on Observatory hill, Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel is among the authentic colonial hotels in India. Built in the mid-1800s, this hotel was known as Ada Villa and was used as a residence by the British planters. The hotel carefully preserves its old-world charm and has restored, some years ago. If you want to experience the grandeur of the Colonial era, a staying at Windamere hotel is a must.

4. The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata

This is one of the oldest colonial hotels in India. The tranquillity of this colonial mansion is in stark contrast to the bustling city life. Dating back to the 1880s, the hotel features colonial-style decor that resonates the Raj-era. The hotel was once the residence of Colonel Grand which was later redeveloped into a hotel in 1911. During the World War II, this hotel was used by the British troops.

4 British Colonial Hotels in India that you Must Visit

India has transformed a lot since its independence. However, there are still a few places left where you can slip into the colonial past of the country and enjoy the grandeur and affable life enjoyed by the British during their hay days. If you want to take a detour in the past, then these British colonial hotels are a must visit for you:

1. Le Colonial, Fort Cochin

This British colonial hotel is considered the oldest hotel in Asia. Constructed in the year 1506, this was used by the Portuguese governor as his private residence.  Later, the Dutch governor, who conquered Fort Cochin, sold this place to the British in 1795. In 1947, the then British governor Lord Mountbatten and his wife Edwina Mountbatten visited this colonial structure. This colonial hotel boasts 7 rooms and suites that will take you back to the colonial era.

2. Windaremere Hotel, Darjeeling

Located in the picturesque setting of Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel is amongst the authentic British colonial hotels in India. Formerly known as “Ada Villa”, this hotel served as an English boarding house during the late 1880s. It was used by the British planters. Later, it was turned into a hotel. It still has the “Planter Suites” which are now known as the Royal Suites. If you want to get the real taste of Colonial India, a stay at Windamere hotel is a must.

3. West View, Ranikhet

Witness the opulence and elegance of the colonial India with a stay at the West View hotel. Set amidst a picturesque landscape surrounded by fir and pine forest, this heritage structure dates back to 1918 and was turned into a hotel in 1957. This hotel has 7 suites and 11 double rooms, all designed to give you a rich feel of the colonial charm.

4. Holm Farm Heritage, Ranikhet

This luxurious hotel is a perfect amalgamation of old British era charm and modern comforts. This structure was constructed by a British Army officer in 1869. The officer used this place as his residence for long. Today, Holm Farm Heritage carefully preserves its old-world charm. The structure is mostly restored to preserve its original design and feel. Facing the enchanting Himalayas, this quaint colonial structure is a perfect hideout in the lap of nature. This place has 6 suites which preserve their colonial decor and helps the visitors slip back into colonial times.

5 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in India

From singing Christmas carols to participating in Nativity plays, there are a number of ways to soak in the Yuletide spirit. Christmas comes with a feeling of happiness and cheer. And here are a few ways to enjoy and celebrate Christmas in India or in any other country:

Learn about Christmas traditions across the world

Each country has their unique way of celebrating Christmas. Learning about local customs and traditions related to Christmas can be a fun way to spend the Christmas week. Research about the Christmas customs and traditions from around the world. You can also do a country-specific search. Learn the Christmas cuisines and try them at home.

Decorate your Home

Decorate your home with Christmas figurines. Hang mistletoe at your entrance. If you don’t get original mistletoe, try the fake ones available in the market. Decorate the walls with lights and keep figurines of Santa and Rudolph on your table tops or shelves. You can even buy a Christmas tree and wrap it with colourful decoration.

Arrange  a Get-together

Christmas is a good time to enjoy with friends and family. Arrange a small gathering at your home and invite your friends and family members. Prepare hearty Christmas dinner and enjoy a meal together while sharing stories and planning your holidays.

Travel to Places

Christmas is incomplete without a trip to your favourite holiday destination. There are a lot of spectacular tourist destinations around the world but if you are in India, then do take a trip to Darjeeling and attend the Christmas week celebrations at The Windamere. This is one of the oldest and authentic Colonial hotels in India. They have been celebrating Christmas week since 1939 and invite famous entertainers from the famed West End Theatre District in London.  This year, they have invited renowned cabaret performer, writer, and actress Sarah –Louise Young to enthral the audience with her performance. Moreover, Christmas celebrations at The Windamere will remind you of “the good old house party” of days gone by. Christmas week will be celebrated from December 20th – 31st this year at The Windamere.

Watch Christmas Movies

Arrange a movie night at your house and enjoy Christmas movies such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Polar Express, and The Nightmare before Christmas or Miracle on the 34th Street.

4 Winter Destinations in India

Come winters and people find themselves packing their bags to set out to explore places. With a string of festivals lined up for the month of December, it’s the ideal month to plan a vacation to destinations unknown. If you too are looking forward to an extensive holiday in December, here is our list of top winter destinations in India:

1. Rajasthan

The land of the Rajas and Maharajas is among the most popular winter holiday destinations in India. Both foreign and Indian tourists visit this place during winters to experience its stunning beauty. Explore history in the awe-inspiring palaces and the splendid fortresses, witness the culture of Rajasthan, titillate your taste buds with the delectable Rajasthani cuisine and gaze at the sand dunes of the Thar desert- Rajasthan has everything that appeals to one’s senses.

2. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Winter vacations are incomplete without a trip to the gorgeous and misty Darjeeling.  During the Christmas week, every street of Darjeeling is flooded with the sweet aroma of cakes and cookies, fresh out of the oven. Tourists gather in large number to enjoy the distinct flavour of Christmas at Darjeeling. When in Darjeeling, don’t miss to attend the Christmas week celebrations at The Windamere, the most authentic colonial hotel in Darjeeling. Christmas week will be celebrated from December 20th – 31st this year. They invite famous entertainers from London’s famed West End Theatre District. This year, famous cabaret performer Sarah-Louise Young will spread magic and entertain the audience with her performance. If you are planning to book a hotel in Darjeeling, then The Windamere is the finest and the ultimate choice.

3. Wayanad, Kerala

What’s could be fascinating than enjoying winters at God’s own country? Winter holidays are the best time to dive into the mystic and serene beauty of Kerala. Wayanad is the best place to relax and enjoy a quiet time. You can enjoy wildlife spotting, trekking in Wayanad or simply relax on the backwaters while taking a ride on the houseboat.

4. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

A trip to Gujarat during winters is a lifetime opportunity for any traveller. Take a trip to the Rann of Kutch during winters, particularly during the night. The pristine white desert comes alive with lights and songs and other cultural programmes during the night. You can even see the migratory Flamingos that arrive at Gujarat during winters.