Nothing spells luxury like holidaying in a Palace. We’re talking about the real deal here, an actual Royal abode of a King. India is one of the few places in the world where you can get a taste of royal life during your holiday and here are our top choices.

Whichever one you choose, we promise you one thing – after being spoilt with elaborate meals, personal butlers, feather soft beds, and exquisite views – you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

The royal family of Jodhpur currently lives in this palace with 347 rooms, making it one of the largest private residences in the world. And now, a handful of these rooms serve as a luxury hotel, one of the grandest in the whole country. Sure, this hotel has won a bunch of awards worldwide. And of course, your stay will give you a deep insight on Indian traditions and history. But for us, nothing beats the fact that your housemates will be actual royalty!

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Falaknuma Palace

Arrive in a horse-drawn carriage and spend your days with a city-view that few can beat. This 19th century palace has been restored into a gorgeous hotel that treats every guest like royalty. Take a morning stroll through the royal gardens and end your days with a lit-up view of the city. All this, with a private butler by your side, of course. Remember to team up your stay with Hyderabad’s most famous food, the delicious biryani. Warning – you might be spoilt for life.

Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Lake Palace

This island palace was built by an Indian prince so that he could romance on the lake. The 18th century spectacle is surrounded by water on all sides; so all rooms come with a great view. But you might be conflicted between admiring the view or the palatial interiors. For the rest of the time, you will be torn between long spa treatments, royal dinners, and tours of the historic city of Udaipur. Since this palace was built for romance, there are no arguments that it is the most romantic hotel in the world.

Lake Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Lake Palace – Pool View, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Lake Palace – Private dinner, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Rambagh Palace

The rooms at the Rambagh Palace Hotel are so opulent that it’s easy to forget you live in the 21st century and don’t own an army of elephants. The city of Jaipur is full of history and brilliant architecture. What makes it better is ending a day of exploration in a suite fit for a King. If you really want to turn back time, book a room at the Rambagh Palace, put on those robes and indulge in some lavish menus, historical rooms, and impeccable service. This might just be our personal favorite.

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

Nadesar Palace

A trip to Varanasi, the city of life and death, can be life changing. Couple that with royal treatment only afforded by Kings and Queens and you have a winner. Over the last century, this palace has hosted royalty from around the world and now that it is a hotel – it’s your turn! After a day filled with the beautiful chaos of Varanasi and existential questions you will ask yourself by the Ganges River, you deserve to relax in a freshly prepared rose water bath and sleep like a King in your four-poster bed.

Nadesar Palace, Varanasi

Nadesar Palace, Varanasi