An Insider’s Guide to Oberoi Hotels in India

June 2, 2017   

Oberoi hotels are among the very finest in India, and indeed the world. So much so, readers of Travel+Leisure magazine in the US voted the Oberoi hotels as their ‘Best in the World’ last year. It’s easy to see why: these beautiful properties exude elegance and sophistication while remaining true to their surroundings with authentic Indian charm.

 

As specialists in luxury India tours, here we share our insider’s guide to Oberoi hotels in India; from soaking up a view of the Taj Mahal from your private terrace at The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra to living the romance and feudal splendour of Rajasthan at The Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur.

 

 

Contents of Oberoi Hotels:

 

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra (Uttar Pradesh, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: every room affords a view of the Taj Mahal
  • Recommended stay: 1 or 2 nights

 

 

The Oberoi Amarvilas is the most luxurious hotel in Agra, and indeed it’s most unforgettable. Nestled a mere 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas offers uninterrupted views of the world’s favourite monument to love from every room. This opulent hotel oozes sophistication and charm while remaining at home in its surroundings; the design was primarily inspired by traditional Mughal architecture, apparent in the stunning display of fountains, reflection pools and perfectly symmetrical lawns. Rooms and suites are divided into the Premier Room, Premier Room with Balcony, Deluxe Suite, Deluxe Suite with Balcony, Luxury Suite, and Kohinoor Suite. Our favourite is the Premier Room with Balcony: admiring the beautiful Taj Mahal with a glass of wine from your private terrace is unforgettable. Without the restriction of visiting hours, you can take in the monument a pearly pink at sunrise, a warm amber at sunset, and glittering sparkly white under the moonlight. For the ultimate experience or to celebrate a special occasion, we recommend a private dinner on your balcony (the balcony dinner is one of our favourite luxury experiences in Rajasthan – see them all, click here).

 

The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore (Rajasthan, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: the peaceful forest surroundings are a refreshing change of pace from the bustle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

Quite possibly our favourite of all the Oberoi hotels in India, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is a stunning luxury camp located on the edge of Ranthambhore National Park – one of the best places in the world to spot wild Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. Sprawling across twenty acres of lush green gardens, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is also home to a colourful array of indigenous birdlife and plants. In the mornings, peacocks strut across the lawns in a bright display; in the evenings, frogs chirp harmoniously in the lily ponds. The Oberoi Vanyavilas is intimate, offering just twenty-five luxury tents (all are the same category). Each Luxury Tent is draped in rich, billowing canopies decorated in local block-printed patterns. The free-standing claw-foot bathtub adds a touch of glamour. The Oberoi Vanyavilas is a haven to return to after an exhilarating Jeep safari in the tiger reserve, and the perfect contrast to the ruggedness of the forest. Even if you’re not lucky enough to spot the elusive big cat, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is sure to be a highlight of your luxury India tour. We recently stayed at The Oberoi Vanyavilas – you can read about our experiences there by clicking here.

 

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur (Rajasthan, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: built in the style of a traditional Rajasthani fortress, The Oberoi Rajvilas evokes all the rich, feudal romance of India
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

The Oberoi Rajvilas was the first of the Oberoi ‘Vilas’ hotels in India. Resting on the outskirts of the Pink City and sprawled across thirty-two acres of manicured lawns, The Oberoi Rajvilas is an oasis of peace and tranquillity. A highlight of the property is a traditional haveli (mansion) dating back to the 18th century, which now serves as the Oberoi spa. Nestled nearby is a 200-year-old Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where guests can experience prayer and meditation with a Hindu priest, as well as complimentary yoga sessions. Rooms are categorised into the Premier Room, Luxury Tent, Royal Tent, Luxury Villa with Private Pool, and Kohinoor Villa with Private Pool. We love the Premier Room. Tastefully adorned in natural hues and fabrics, the Premier Room is a fresh and calming space. The four-poster bed exudes a royal flavour, while the sunken Italian marble bathtub offers views of your private garden. If you’re staying at The Oberoi Rajvilas in addition to The Oberoi Vanyavilas (in Ranthambhore), we recommend the Premier Room or one of the villas, not the Luxury Tent, as the tents are similar in design to the ones found in Ranthambhore. For an unforgettable experience at The Oberoi Rajvilas, we recommend the Chaarbagh dinner: with a private table tucked away atop of stone steps, bathed in moonlight, dine under the stars and enjoy refined local dishes. The Poolside dinner, lit by torches and offering views of the ancient haveli, is a delightful experience too.

 

The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur (Rajasthan, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: voted as the ‘Best Hotel in the World’ 2015 (by readers of Travel+Leisure magazine in the US), The Oberoi Udaivilas is the definition of luxury
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

Spread across fifty acres of old royal hunting grounds, boasting panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace, The Oberoi Udaivilas is an ideal base from which to soak up all the rich history, splendid architecture and shimmering lakes of the ‘Venice of the East’. All rooms and suites at The Oberoi Udaivilas are superbly comfortable, ranging from the Premier Room to the Premier Room with Pool View, Premier Room with Semi-private Pool, Luxury Suite with Private Pool, and Kohinoor Suite with Private Pool. Our favourite is the Premier Room with Semi-private Pool: this cluster of rooms enjoy direct access to a swimming pool that runs along the periphery of the hotel – perfect for dipping into after a day of sightseeing, as you enjoy a stunning view over Lake Pichola. The Oberoi Udaivilas boasts a fine dining restaurant, a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar, though for an exceptional experience we recommend a private dinner beside the lake. During a stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas, a private shikara (wooden boat) ride on the lake is a must: many of our guests find it a highlight of their luxury India tour.

 

The Oberoi, Gurgaon, New Delhi (Delhi, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: conveniently just fifteen minutes from the airport, The Oberoi, Gurgaon is ideal when flying in and out of the capital
  • Recommended stay: 1 or 2 nights

 

 

The Oberoi, Gurgaon is one of our favourite hotels in the capital. While it’s not the obvious choice in terms of location (it’s closer to the airport than the sights), it more than makes up for this with the best in service, décor and cuisine. The Oberoi, Gurgaon prides itself on ‘height, light and space’, and this mantra is apparent throughout the design of the property, with striking architectural features such as a vast blue reflection pool and acres of glass, mirrors and dramatic flower arrangements. The outdoor swimming pool is larger the Olympic sized. Rooms and suites are categorised into the Deluxe Room, Luxury Room, Premier Room, Deluxe Suite, Luxury Suite, Premier Suite, and Presidential Suite. For those staying at several Oberoi hotels during their luxury India tour, we recommend the Premier Room to ensure a consistent standard of comfort and space. The Deluxe Room is more economical if you’re spending just a few hours at the hotel before boarding a late-night flight. Whichever room you choose, do make sure you experience dinner at Amaranta, whose speciality is a modern take on traditional Indian seafood dishes. The menu represents nine coastal regions (from Gujarat to Maharashtra, Goa to Karnataka). As a Preferred Partner of the Oberoi hotels, we’re delighted to include a complimentary glass of champagne to enjoy with your meal.

 

The Oberoi, Mumbai (Maharashtra, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: stunning ocean views and signature Oberoi service  
  • Recommended stay: 1 or 2 nights

 

 

Located to one end of Mumbai’s famous Marine Drive, guests of The Oberoi, Mumbai are assured magnificent views of the city and the Arabian Sea. It’s considered one of the (if not the) best luxury hotels in Mumbai. Rooms and suites are superbly equipped and decidedly spacious for this busy metropolis, many offering excellent sea views. We recommend a dip in the rooftop swimming pool to cool off after a day of sightseeing, or a drink in the bar overlooking the bay in the evening; it’s a favourite with local jazz aficionados. Rooms and suites are categorised into the Deluxe Room, Luxury Room, Premier Ocean View Room, Executive Suite, Executive Ocean View Suite, Deluxe Suite, Premier Suite, and Presidential Suite. We recommend the Executive Ocean View Suite for the ultimate luxury experience in Mumbai: it boasts a king-sized master bedroom, separate living and dining area, and a spacious bathroom, spreading across 800 sq ft. in total. As you walk in, the splendid sea view will take your breath away.

 

Wildflower Hall, Shimla (Himachal Pradesh, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: breath-taking mountain views and colonial charm  
  • Recommended stay: 2, 3 or 4 nights

 

 

Situated 8,000 feet above sea level, Wildflower Hall is perched high in the cedar forests with a bird’s eye view of the beautiful surrounding valleys. It dates back to the days of the British Raj when it was the former abode of Lord Kitchener, and so exudes colonial glamour and charm. Wildflower Hall is the best luxury hotel in Shimla and is a beautiful retreat from the bustle of Delhi and Agra. It makes an ideal base from which to explore the sights (such as the Viceroy’s House or a ride on the much-loved Toy Train), but equally has lots to offer in and around the property; including mountain biking, nature walks or white-water rafting. Lounging by the pool with a good book is heavenly, and you’ll be exceptionally well looked after as staff bring you a tray of fruit, water and sun cream. Rooms and suites on offer include the Deluxe Garden View Room, Premier Valley View Room, Premier Mountain View Room, Deluxe Suite, and Lord Kitchener Suite. We love the Premier Mountain View Room for its stunning views of the Himalayas and the sacred Gangotri; the origin of the holy river Ganges. Inside the room is just as beautiful as its view, boasting Victorian-style décor with luxurious upholstery, king-sized two poster bed, colonial-style brass fittings and a Spanish-marble bathtub. We recommend rising early for ‘Breakfast on the Wild Strawberry Trail’ – an hour-long walk offering stunning views of the lush cedar forest, culminating with breakfast served at the Oberoi’s delightful picnic spot. Later in the day indulge in ‘Romance of Wildlflower Hall’; a rejuvenating couples massage using ancient Ayurvedic techniques to relieve tension and stimulate energy centres around the body.

 

The Oberoi Sukhvilas, Chandigarh (Punjab, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: relax and unwind at the Oberoi’s first dedicate spa resort  
  • Recommended stay: 1, 2 or 3 nights

 

 

The newest addition to the Oberoi group of hotels, The Oberoi Sukhvilas in Chandigarh is the Oberoi’s first dedicated spa resort. It’s 12,000 ft spa is dedicated to Ayurvedic, Eastern, Western and signature Oberoi massage therapies. There’s also hydrotherapy, steam and infrared sauna, a Turkish hammam scrub or a Roman tepidarium. Surrounded by 8,000 acres of lush, green forests at the foothills of the outer Himalayas, The Oberoi Sukhvilas in Chandigarh is an ideal launching point up to Shimla.  Accommodation ranges from the Premier Room to the Royal Tent, Royal Forest Tent with Private Pool, Luxury Villa, and Kohinoor Villa. All rooms, tents and suites are tastefully inspired by Rajput and Mughal architecture, and equipped with state of the art technology – including an iPad in the room from where you can control the lighting, check your bill or summon the butler! Our favourite room at The Oberoi Sukhvilas is the Premier Room. Decidedly spacious at 700 sq ft., each Premier Room is nestled around a central courtyard filled with a trickling fountain and mature trees. Inside boasts a king-sized bedroom, a walk-in closet, a vanity table, and a spacious marble bathroom with his-and-hers washbasins. The free-standing bathtub offers views of a small, private courtyard, as well as a wall-mounted television. Guests may be tempted to spend just one night as a stepping stone up to Shimla, but, if your schedule allows, we strongly suggest two; that’ll afford you time to take advantage of the superb spa facilities and to relax and unwind.

 

MV Oberoi Vrinda, the Backwaters (Kerala, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: soak up the charm and tranquillity of Kerala’s backwaters while ensuring genuinely comfortable and luxurious amenities
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

Embark on a luxurious journey through the tropical backwaters of Kerala on the MV Oberoi Vrinda. This exclusive cruiser offers eight luxury cabins, each with an en-suite bathroom and window overlooking the lush waterways. Guests can expect picture-perfect views of rice boats, village life and verdant greenery. As MV Oberoi Vrinda cruises through a narrow network of canals and lakes, you’ll experience a way of life unique to this corner of the world. Seeing children travelling from school in a small canoe, local ladies washing pots at the side of the water, and fishers netting their daily meal in the shallows. Villages, temples and churches are built along the banks, and the area is a haven for wildlife. All this paired with exceptional Oberoi service makes this intimate cruise an unforgettable experience.

 

The Oberoi, New Delhi (Delhi, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: central location within easy access of the sights
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

The Oberoi, New Delhi is perfect for those who’re seeking excellent service with a range of facilities and is one of the capital’s best luxury hotels. Recently having re-opened after an extensive two-year renovation, the Oberoi boasts the most luxurious rooms in the capital and state-of-the-art clean air technology; including an iPad in the room from which you can control lighting, blinds and television, call the butler (available 24 hours a day), or order in-room dining. The newly refurbished hotel is divided into 220 generously-sized rooms and suites, all inspired in design by Sir Edwin Lutyens’ New Delhi architecture, adorned with teak-wood floors, walk-in closets and luxurious Italian marble bathrooms. The large windows provide lots of light and a fabulous view of the Delhi Golf Course or the historical Humayun’s Tomb. Several wining and dining outlets include the old favourite 360°, a multi-cuisine all-day dining venue; Omya, an Indian-speciality fine-dining restaurant; Baoshan, offering innovative Chinese; Cirrus9, the rooftop bar boasting sweeping views of the city; Enoteca, the temperature-controlled wine cellar with specially curated fine wines and champagnes; the new Cigar Lounge; and The Oberoi Patisserie & Delicatessen. Rooms begin with the entry-level Deluxe Room, followed by the Luxury Room, Premier Room, and Premier Plus Room. Suites continue with the Oberoi Suite, the Deluxe Suite, the Luxury Suite, and – lastly – the Kohinoor Suite. Our favourite is the Premier Plus Room, offering 550 sq ft. of space and 24-hour lounge access.

 

Maidens Hotel, New Delhi (Delhi, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: one of Delhi’s oldest hotels and few heritage hotels  
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

The charming Maidens hotel dates back to the early 1900s, making it one of Delhi’s oldest hotels. It’s retained much of its colonial charm and architecture and boasts an extensive collection of photographs from the Raj period. Maidens Hotel is one of Delhi’s oldest hotels, built in the early 1900s on the edge of the Old City. It exudes colonial charm and boasts an exciting collection of Raj-period photographs. Compared to most hotels in Delhi, the guest rooms are incredibly spacious, and the high ceilings are unique. Nestled amidst eight acres of manicured lawns, shaded by mature trees and a sparkling swimming pool, the Maidens is in a quieter area of Delhi but remains within easy access to its sights. The Maidens’ 55 rooms are divided into Heritage Rooms, Premier Rooms, Deluxe Suites, Luxury Suites, and the Lutyen’s Suite. We propose the Deluxe Suite. Boasting two bay windows, a spacious bedroom, drawing room, walk-in wardrobe and Italian-marble bathroom, all spread over 800 sq ft., the Deluxe Suite is an oasis of light and space to return to after a busy day of sightseeing in India’s capital city. We recommend ending the day with a drink in the Cavalry Bar, followed by an alfresco dinner at the Garden Terrace.

 

The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata (West Bengal, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: its history, colonial character, and central location
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

Affectionally known as the ‘grand dame’ of Kolkata, The Oberoi Grand has an undeniable sense of location, nestled amongst the bustling markets and cultural landmarks of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta). Dating back to the late-19th century, The Oberoi Grand showcases a neo-classical façade, fishtailed palm trees and a grand pillared entrance. The central garden is a lovely spot to relax in the sun or cool off in the palm-fringed pool. Although now somewhat dated in style, all rooms and suites at The Oberoi Grand are elegant, gracious and ensure a supremely comfortable stay. Combined with the Oberoi’s signature attentive-yet-unobtrusive service, The Oberoi Grand remains our favourite luxury hotel in Kolkata. Rooms on offer include the Deluxe Room, the Luxury Room, Premier Room, Premier Room with Balcony, Executive Suite, Classic Suite, Deluxe Suite, Luxury Suite, and Presidential Suite. We recommend the Classic Suite, wherefrom the comfort of your armchair or balcony you can soak up a view of the gardens and enjoy the bird song. The Classic Suite is spread over 500 sq ft., boasting a separate living and dining area along with the king-sized bedroom and spacious bathroom. The décor is classic and colonial; perfect for Kolkata, the former capital of the British Raj in India.

 

The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla (Himachal Pradesh, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: colonial charm and fabulous views  
  • Recommended stay: 2 or 3 nights

 

 

Dating back to the late-19th century, The Oberoi Cecil was then the most exclusive hotel in Shimla, known for its fabulous ballroom dances and fashionable clientele. Over 130 years later, The Oberoi Cecil has been extensively renovated though remains true to its history and retains its colonial charm. Nestled at one end of the bustling Mall thoroughfare, The Oberoi Cecil is an ideal base from which to explore the sights of Shimla, including the Vice Regal Lodge. It also offers magnificent views across the valley, taking in mountains, forests and ancient monasteries. The indoor swimming pool is a highlight, as is the Oberoi spa offering a wide range of therapies and massages. Rooms begin with the Deluxe Room, followed by the Luxury Room, Premier Valley View Room, Deluxe Suite, and lastly the Luxury Suite. We recommend the Premier Valley View Room, from where you can enjoy an uninterrupted panorama of the spectacular Shimla valley, blanketed in cedar trees. Relax in your armchair, taking in dramatic sunrises, sunsets, and everything in between. We recommend the ‘Cocktails in Cedar’ experience to imagine you’ve stepped back in time to the days of the Raj, sipping cocktails and snacks under lofty Cedar branches while warming your toes beside a roaring fire.

 

The Oberoi, Bengaluru (Karnataka, India)

  • Why we ❤️ it: central location, with all rooms overlooking three acres of lush gardens 
  • Recommended stay: 1 or 2 nights

 

 

Nestled in the heart of the garden city of Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore), The Oberoi, Bengaluru is built around a 120-year-old rain tree that stands majestically at its centre; the focal point of the hotel’s vast award-winning gardens. The Oberoi is the only luxury hotel in Bengaluru to offer garden views from all 160 of its rooms, including the Deluxe Room, the Luxury Room, Premier Room, Deluxe Suite, Executive Suite, and the Presidential Suite. Despite being within convenient access of Bengaluru’s shopping districts (the city is a treasure trove of Indian crafts and textiles), The Oberoi is seemingly a million miles away, enjoying all the peace and tranquillity of a tropical setting. All rooms and suites at The Oberoi, Bengaluru boast a private balcony, exclusive Oberoi E’nhance technology (an iPad that allows you complete control over everything from in-room dining to entertainment) and high-speed WiFi. We recommend the Premier Room.

 

Suggested India tours with Oberoi hotels

Pairing stays at the elegant Oberoi hotels with our experienced guides, dedicated drivers, and seamless service is an award-winning combination for the ultimate in luxury. As a preferred partner of the Oberoi group, we have years of experience and valued relationships. We know the ins and outs of the hotels as well as their destinations, and how best to piece them together into a fabulous itinerary. All our tours are tailor-made to our guest’s tastes and requirements, so every detail of your journey with us will be designed around you. To serve as inspiration, here as a few of our sample luxury India tours with Oberoi hotels. These have been carefully designed to reflect the routes, hotels and experiences that our guests and we have loved in the past and continue to love today. If you don’t quite find what you’re looking for here, do let us know – just because it’s not here doesn’t mean we can’t do it. As specialists in private guided tours of India, we’re an ideal match to bring your ideas to life.

 

 

Why choose Indian Excursions?

 

 

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indian excursions co private car and driver

Our Rajasthan tours come with an experienced private chauffeur at disposal throughout, to ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

 

Expert advice and experience: We’re experts in creating unique, tailor-made luxury tours of India. It’s what we do. It’s what we’re passionate about (that will become clear as soon as you get in touch with us!). In particular, we have a long and valued relationship with the Oberoi group. As such, we’re able to pass on significant savings to you and can use our contacts to ensure you have the best possible stay (that may translate into a room upgrade, a special cake on your birthday or anniversary, or being able to confirm a room when it is otherwise sold out).

 

The very best guides and drivers: When booking with Indian Excursions as compared to directly or elsewhere, you’re assured of a complete and hassle-free experience, from the planning stages and throughout. Aside from your fabulous Oberoi hotels, you’ll enjoy the company of our experienced private guides to introduce you to the sights of each city. Our courteous drivers to take you from A to B and at your disposal throughout (very handy if you’d like to head out for dinner in the evening), and your entrance tickets, so you’re not faffing around with small change (or getting ripped off) each day and can relax and enjoy the experience. Furthermore, and more importantly, when choosing Indian Excursions, you are gaining years of first-hand experience: we regularly test all the routes, hotels and excursions we recommend, to ensure every moment of our itineraries are as close to perfection as possible. We know which destinations can be connected to others and the best way of getting there, ensuring you make the most of your time. We’ve got our finger on the pulse.

 

Value for money and high-quality service: We have been told in the past by people that they can design the tour themselves for a lower cost. If you feel similar, please take into account the quality of our service. You may like to read a few reviews from our past guests here. If making the arrangements yourself, you’ll likely end up paying out unnecessary costs when you are here in India; in the end, it will cost much more than you initially thought. When travelling with Indian Excursions, all of your sightseeing and entrance monument tickets are included in advance, along with your expert sightseeing guides, accommodation, breakfasts, transport and more. When comparing tours with other agencies, please do try to compare like for like; their trips may be of lesser quality.

 

Personal approach and great attention to detail: Personal service is at the heart of what we do. When we say tailor-made, we mean it; there’s no limit on the amount of time we’ll spend refining your itinerary with you until you’re satisfied, and we welcome you to ask for any number of tweaks and adjustments. No request is too big or too small, and we strive to create a truly personalised experience. With almost a decade of experience and many more in the industry, we understand that each of our guests is unique, with their own tastes and interests – what works for one person isn’t always the best for another. We are passionate about getting to know each of our customers, to really gain an understanding of their likes and dislikes and so to match them with the perfect combination of experiences and hotels. Now that’s something you won’t get from TripAdvisor or booking.com! We’ll elevate a good trip into a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 

Click here to learn more about Indian Excursions Co.

 

Madeleine Maddie Hann Indian Excursions Co

Maddie with Ratna Malhotra – the General Manager of The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore

 

Shiv Gurjar at the Oberoi Amarvilas

Shiv enjoying a view of the Taj Mahal, from a Premier Room with Balcony at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

 

Shiv Gurjar Ranthambhore Indian Excursions

Shiv looking out at Ranthambhore National Park, from the Observatory at The Oberoi Vanyavilas

 

 

If you’re considering a luxury India tour with Oberoi hotels, do get in touch to share your ideas so far. We’d be delighted to welcome you to India and assist with your arrangements.

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