Famous Must Visit Colonial Hotels in India

There are a number of places in India that will remind you of the bygone era. Most of these places have been turned into cosy and luxury hotels where you can bask in the glory of the Raj-era. The rich Colonial flavour of these places will evoke the nostalgic memories of the Raj. For centuries, these places have carefully and meticulously preserved their Colonial charm and rich history. These places have hosted a long list of dignitaries for over hundreds of years. If you too want to experience the opulence and Colonial heritage of the country, here is a list of a few celebrated Colonial hotels in India:

1. The Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Snuggled on (!!)  Observatory Hill, The Windamere Hotel is the only authentic British Colonial Hotel in Darjeeling. The Victorian flavour, rich architecture and decor of this place are reminiscent of the typical Raj-era. Previously known as ‘Ada Villa,’ this place was once used by the British planters as a Boarding House. All the suites, rooms and cottages at The Windamere Hotel, carefully preserve the typical Raj-era charm and will take you straight back to the old Colonial days. All the suites, rooms and cottages have been restored to preserve their old world charm and are named after famous persons who stayed at the Windamere.

2. Divan’s Bungalow, Ahmedabad

Soaked in the rich colonial history of India, Divan’s Bungalow is an architectural delight. Located near Ahmedabad airport, this place is about 150 years old and has been revamped to preserve its colonial beauty and grandeur. The architecture of this place will remind you of the typical colonial architectural style and is named after the Divan of Radhanpur. Once served as a residence of the Kadri family, this colonial style bungalow is a must-stay place if you want to taste a slice of the colonial history of the country.

3. The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi

Being the first among the celebrated “Four Maidens of the East”, The Imperial Hotel is among the finest buildings that constituted the grand architectural plans of Edward Lutyen. This building is a unique blend of Art Deco, Victorian, and classic Colonial style of architecture. The furnishing of this hotel was planned none other than Lady Willington, the wife of the then Viceroy.

4. Hotel de L’Orient, Pondicherry

Dating back to 1760s, Hotel de L’Orient was built when Pondicherry was under French occupation. However, the town changed hands between the Dutch and the British but strong French influences are still visible in the architecture of the hotel. Restoration of this place began in 1999 and within a few years, it opened its doors to the guests. The quintessential colonial charm of this place has been carefully preserved and has been bolstered with all modern amenities and facilities.

5. Taj Connemara, Chennai

This place will transport you straight back to the days of the Raj. Built in 1854, this place was re-established in 1890 and was named after Robert Bourke, the Baron of Connemara, who served as a Governor of Madras from 1886 to 1890.