Colonial Hotels that Take you Back to the Raj Era

The era of British rule in India has now become history, but the vestige of the old colonial years still remains. Colonial hotels (built by the British) are the most conspicuous reminiscent of the bygone British raj – one of the most important aspects of Indian history.

Here we unravel some of the colonial hotels that take you back to the British raj.

1) Windamere Hotel – Darjeeling

Darjeeling was the favourite summer retreat for the British officers and therefore many boarding houses (“homes away from homes”) were built in the town. One such was ‘Ada Villa’ –a boarding house which eventually was restored and named ‘Windamere Hotel’. We say “restored” and not “renovated”, as this would have changed the very intrinsic nature of the old British Raj establishment. Ada Villa has been transformed into a fine Colonial hotel for bestowing on visitors an opportunity to experience the vintage English mores. The Windamere Hotel is the only Colonial hotel in Darjeeling (and in India) which has a rare unspoiled Colonial authenticity.

Book hotel in Darjeeling

So, the next time you visit Darjeeling, make sure that you book your stay at the Windamere Hotel to experience the true British Colonial charm while enjoying the beauty of the Darjeeling hills.

2) Rambagh Palace – Jaipur

Rambagh Palace (not to be confused with Ram Bagh Palace Hotel) is the former residence of the Maharajah of Jaipur and now a hotel.

Initially, the building was started as a garden house in 1835. After being converted into a royal hunting lodge, the establishment was expanded and designed under the authority of Sir Samuel Swindon Jacob during the early 20th century.

It was in 1931, when a number of royal suites were added as Maharajah Sawai Man Singh II made Rambagh, his main residence. Now, Rambagh, as a hotel, retains its elaborate splendour with pristine architecture and royal hospitality.

3) Clarkes Hotel – Shimla

Clarkes was built in 1898 and is recognised as a grand heritage/Colonial hotel. It is also one of the oldest hotels in Shimla and is located on Mall Road.

Clarkes Hotel embodies the charm of the Colonial yesteryears with the pristine architectural beauty and world class service. The hotel is also situated very near to popular attractions in Shimla including Rothney Castle, Gorton Castle, Gaiety Theatre, and several other Colonial era buildings.

The rooms and suites of the hotel have a unique British Colonial ambience. And they have been enhanced with modern facilities such as satellite TV and Wireless internet access. Accommodation options include Premier Rooms, Suites, Superior Rooms, and Deluxe Rooms.

4) The Imperial Hotel –New Delhi

The Imperial Hotel is a fine confluence of the old world Indian and English appeal. It was conceptualised by Blomfield, built by Sardar Bahadur Ranjit Singh, and inaugurated by Lord Willington in 1936.

The Imperial Hotel hashtag an unparalleled aura of the 19th century English Manor with Italian marble floors, tableware from London, silver tea service, and undulating green lawns.