Visit These Famous Colonial Hotels in India

Are you seeking places to explore the Raj-era? If yes, then there are a number of British Colonial Hotels in India which can take you for a walk down the memory land. Take a look at our list of a few must-visit colonial hotels in India:

1. Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

The Windamere Hotel is the only authentic British colonial hotel located in the beautiful Observatory hill in Darjeeling.  Previously known as “Ada Villa”, this hotel was once an English boarding house. It was built for the British planters and was aimed to give them a feeling of a cosy home away from home. It still has the colonial charm and retains the “Planter Suites” (now renamed as the Royal Suites). If you want to experience Colonial India, a stay at The Windamere hotel is a must.

2. Holm Farm Heritage, Ranikhet

This hotel was constructed by a British Army Officer back in 1869. He used it as his residence for a long time. Later, it was converted into a cosy luxury hotel. Holm Farm Heritage still retains its old world charm and is a perfect blend of British elegance and modern amenities. Overlooking the ethereal Himalayas, this beautiful and elegant Raj-era structure is a perfect place for those who are looking for a quiet retreat on the lap of nature. It has total 6 suites and each suite will give you a rich colonial feel once you step into it.

3. Ayisha Manzil, Kerala

Located in the beautiful coastal town of Thalassery in Kerala, Ayisha Manzil is a beautiful colonial retreat. Previously known as the Judges Bungalow, Ayisha Manzil was built in 1862 by Murdoch Brown. He served the British East India Company. The architecture of this hotel resembles the traditional Victorian architecture and will give you a rich colonial flavour.

4. The Taj Nadesar Palace Hotel, Varanasi

Built in 1835 this palace was used by the Maharaja of Varanasi. The rich architectural style and décor of this place will remind you of the Raj-era. In the past, it has hosted many famous guests such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Lord Mountbatten and his wife Edwina Mountbatten.

Christmas Week : 7 Interesting Things to Know

Do you know who introduced the custom of singing carols during Christmas week? Or do you have any idea from where did the custom of hanging stockings come from? If no, then take a look at these Christmas facts from around the world:

1. Do you know that in A.D 350, the Bishop of Rome Pope Julius I announced December 25th as the official celebration date for the birth of Christ?

2. Green, Red, and gold are the traditional colours of Christmas in India and across the world. Green symbolises life and rebirth while red is for the blood of Christ and Gold represents wealth and light.

3. Christmas carols were first sung in Churches during the 13th century. During that time, St. Francis of Assisi introduced the custom of singing carols.

4. The custom of hanging stockings during Christmas week came from the Dutch custom of leaving shoes and stockings loaded with food for the donkeys of St. Nicholas. In return for the favour, he would leave the people a small token of love.

5. During Christmas Eve, people in Bolivia celebrate Misa del Gallo or Mass of the Rooster. During the midnight mass, people would bring roosters as they believe that it was the first animal who announced the birth of baby Jesus.

6. In India, Christmas week is celebrated with much zeal. The Windamere hotel, the only truly authentic colonial hotel in The Himalayas, celebrates Christmas week between December 20th and December 31st. During this time, famous entertainers from the West End Theatre District in London come here and enthral the audience with their performance. Christmas week has been celebrated in the same way since 1939 and still retains the charm and warmth from the Colonial era.

7. Ancient people belonging to the Druid community considered Mistletoe as sacred as it’s the only plant that remains green and bears fruit during the harsh winters. They would cut the plants using golden sickle and never keep it on the ground.

Source: http://www.factretriever.com/christmas-facts
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/christmas-facts-50-things-yule-653613

5 Awesome Colonial Hotels in India

Image source: Tripadvisor

If you want to experience the Raj-era and want to lose your soul in the colonial essence, then take a look at this list of famous British colonial hotels in India:

1. Hotel Jhalamand Garh, Jodhpur

Far away from the bustling city life, tucked in the quiet outskirts of Jodhpur, Hotel Jhalamand Garh was built in the late 18th century. The Royal family of Jhalamand used this palace as their residence. It still maintains its traditional flavour and the essence of Marwar.

2. The  Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

This is the only authentic British colonial hotel in Darjeeling. It was used as a boarding house for the British planters in the late 1800s and was mainly constructed to give them a feeling of home-away-from-home. Formerly known as Ada Villa, the Windamere hotel has retained its colonial essence and is known for their hospitality. If you want to book a hotel in Darjeeling, consider The Windamere Hotel for a unique experience.

3. Taj Connemara Hotel, Chennai

Built in 1850, Taj Connemara Hotel boasts a rich Victorian architecture. This century old colossal building was formerly known as the Imperial Hotel. It was renamed after Baron of Connemara Robert Bourke who was the Governor of Madras (present day Chennai). This was done to respect his contribution to the development of the city.

4. Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai

This hotel is well known for its warm hospitality and has hosted many famous people from all over the world. It has 550 rooms that also include luxury suites.

5. The Claridges Nabha Residence, Mussoorie

This is a beautiful cottage-style luxury hotel located in the picture-perfect locales of Mussoorie. The hotel is nestled between beautiful cedar and oak forests and is a perfect place for those who want to escape the cacophony of the cities. This beautiful colonial retreat once served as the summer residence of the Maharaja of Nabha. The walls and décor of this place still retain its Victorian aura and oozes a colonial charm that can make anyone instantly fall in love with this place.

Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in India

Christmas is all about celebration, decoration, cakes and carols. And if you are looking for places in India where you can soak into the Christmas spirit, we have a few suggestions for you. Take a look at our list of best places to celebrate Christmas in India:

1. Darjeeling

Christmas in Darjeeling has a distinct flavour. During the Christmas week, the streets come alive with sparkling decorations. Sweet aroma rising from the delectable cakes in the bakeries fills the air as you are greeted by the faint sound of carols coming from the distant church. Apart from that, there are a number of events organised during Christmas Eve. The most famous of them all is Christmas week celebration at The Windamere hotel, the famous colonial hotel at Darjeeling. It’s is celebrated from December 20th to 31st and  famous entertainers from the West End Theatre district in London come to enchant the audience with their performance. This year, famous performer Sarah-Louise Young will enthral the audience with her performance. To experience the true colonial essence of Christmas celebrations in India, a visit to The Windamere hotel is a must.

2. Kolkata

Christmas celebrations in Kolkata have a certain degree of warmth that will touch your heart. Being the former capital of British India, Kolkata still maintains the age-old flavour of Christmas with a hint of modern values. Visit Park Street as it comes alive with bright décor, live band performance and wave of people enjoying Christmas. You can also visit the Anglo-Indian communities at Bow-Barracks and attend midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

3. Shimla

Being the former summer capital of the British India, the roads and alleys of Shimla still bear the reminiscence of the Raj-era. There are a number of old churches in Shimla where you can attend the midnight mass. The houses and roads are decorated with glittering lights. You can even enjoy the live performance by the local bands. With roads decorated with shimmering lights, housewarming parties, midnight masses, this quaint little place is at its glorious best during Christmas celebrations.

5 Best Luxury Hotels in India

Image Source - Booking.com

Want to experience an opulent lifestyle that makes you feel like royalty? If yes, then there are a number of luxury and heritage hotels in India that are synonymous with elegance and comfort. Take a look:

1. The Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

The Windamere Hotel, the only authentic colonial hotel in India is synonymous with luxury, comfort, and elegance. As you step inside the hotel, you will feel like stepping back into the Raj-era. With carefully restored rooms, The Windamere hotel was once used by the British planters. It still retains its rich colonial charm. If you want to experience the lifestyle of the colonial era, a stay at The Windamere hotel is a must.

2. The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata
   
This is yet another famous heritage hotel in India. The architecture of this hotel has a rich vintage feeling. Built in the 19th century, The Oberoi Grand was once famous as the “Grande Dame of Chowringhee.” The architecture of this place is a rich blend of neo-classical and Victorian style and stands tall as a reminiscent of the colonial history of the nation.

3. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

This place is famous for its matchless hospitality. It boasts total 60 rooms which are equipped with all modern amenities including satellite TV, intercom, tea/coffee maker. Moreover, the hotel also has health spa, library, and a swimming pool to make your stay a delightful experience.

4. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Built during 1928-1943, Umaid Bhawan Palace was used by Maharaja Umaid Singh Ji. The palace was later turned into a hotel but still displays a rich array of antique collections from the bygone era. Located just a mile away from the railway station, Umaid Bhawan Palace is synonymous with opulence. It pampers you with its warm hospitality, yoga centre, traditional spa, fitness club and so on.

5. The Paul, Bangalore

This is yet another famous luxury hotel in India. Located amidst a picturesque setting, The Paul boasts world class facilities that are going to make you gasp in awe. Moreover, it is also famous for serving delectable cuisines from around the world.