Last of the Raj: Indian Hotels in Old Colonial Buildings

“All across India you’ll find many grand and impressive buildings that date back to the British Raj and the colonial era, many of which have been transformed into unique hotels. Here are five fascinating examples, each with a unique flavour of the past for you to experience during your travels throughout the mesmeric subcontinent.

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The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, Mumbai, India
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Next to the Gateway of India on Mumbai’s waterfront, the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai is a landmark in its own right. Built in 1903, it is one of the most famous buildings in the country, and today you’ll find a five-star luxury hotel worthy of this illustrious history. Go for a swim in the outdoor pool or detox in the steam room before grabbing dinner in one of the Taj Mahal’s 10 restaurants, such as the Masala Kraft and its menu of contemporary Indian specialties.

If you want to see more hotels in Mumbai, visit our Mumbai hotels page.

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Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel, Jodhpur, India
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One of the last of its kind to be built in India under British rule, and formed out of a wing of this grandiose royal palace, the Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel gives you the chance to experience one of the world’s largest private residences from the inside. As a guest of this five-star hotel, you can enjoy art deco rooms, an indoor pool, Rajasthani cuisine in the restaurant and incredible views across Jodhpur thanks to the hotel’s dramatic hilltop location.

If you want to see more hotels in Jodhpur, visit our Jodhpur hotels page.

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Narain Niwas Palace, Jaisalmer, India
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With its elegant columns, manicured gardens and orchards, and the overall feel of its distinctly Anglo-Indian architecture and design, the Narain Niwas Palace is certainly a product of the Victorian era in which the hotel was built. Take some time to explore the history on show throughout the building, before relaxing by the outdoor pool or with one of the spa treatments on offer. The menu in the hotel’s restaurant, as well as regular puppet and other folk music and dance performances, gives you a chance to experience local culture and traditions.

If you want to see more hotels in Jaisalmer, visit our Jaisalmer hotels page.

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Gajner Palace, Bikaner, India
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On the shore of Lake Gajner, close to the wildlife sanctuary and a short drive from Bikaner, the Gajner Palace was built out of red sandstone as a retreat for specially invited guests during the British Raj. You can choose from deluxe rooms or historic suites packed with antiques, and enjoy a wide range of activities from tennis and billiards to nature walks, horse riding and boating on Lake Gajner.

If you want to see more hotels in Bikaner, visit our Bikaner hotels page.

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WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace, Jodhpur, India
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A palace built for the Maharajas on the northern shore of Lake Balsamand, the WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace is now a five-star hotel with a distinctly regal flavour, from the horse-drawn Royal Buggy rides to the hotel’s croquet lawn and rose gardens. Chill out by the outdoor pool or take a stroll along the hotel’s nature trail, while the restaurant hosts regular themed dinners with fantastic views across the gardens and the lake.

If you want to see more hotels in Jodhpur, visit our Jodhpur hotels page.”