Top Resort Hotels in India: Udaipur’s Finest Destinations

India is an enormous nation, as anyone who has traveled there will attest. Home to everything from the palm-fringed tropical beaches and Portuguese-colonial churches of Goa to the snowcapped Himalayas and Tibetan Buddhist shrines of Ladakh, the country is rightfully celebrated for its cultural and topographic diversity.

However, when it comes to your favorite places to visit, specifically your favorite resort hotels, one part of India rises above the rest. Rajasthan—the north Indian state defined by its royal heritage, opulent palaces, and extraordinary artisanal traditions—is a destination you can’t get enough of, as evidenced by this year’s list of Top 5 India Resort Hotels.

A Survey of Travel Experiences

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe. They share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the best options available.

Udaipur’s Rich Heritage

For 2019, all of the top three India resort hotels were located in Udaipur: the uber-romantic City of Lakes in southern Rajasthan, which has been an essential detour from the classic Golden Triangle itinerary of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. This is largely due to its extraordinary collection of luxury hotels and resorts.

• Taj Lake Palace – The legendary property floating in the middle of Lake Pichola was featured in the famous James Bond movie, Octopussy.
• Oberoi Udaivilas – Set on 30 acres of lush lakeside gardens, this hotel was once the hunting grounds of the Maharana of Mewar.
• The Leela Palace Udaipur – The most recent addition to Udaipur’s luxury hotel offerings, bringing a contemporary sensibility to this ancient city.

5. The Oberoi Rajvilas, Rajasthan

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 95.71

More information: oberoihotels.com

4. The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.08

More information: oberoihotels.com

3. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Score: 96.20

More information: oberoihotels.com

2. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Score: 96.48

More information: tajhotels.com

1. The Leela Palace Udaipur

Score: 98.89

More information: theleela.com

Udaipur is known for its legendary hotels, thus, the achievement of The Leela Palace being voted the best India resort hotel is noteworthy. Since its launch 10 years ago, this contemporary property has garnered accolades for its extraordinary views of Lake Pichola, the City Palace, and the Aravalli Mountains. “One of the best hotels in India,” praised one respondent, highlighting the breathtaking view.

Moreover, comments about the “excellent service and customer-oriented attitude” further reflect the luxury experience offered. This glamorous and romantic venue is ideal for honeymooners or those celebrating special occasions. The Leela’s contemporary take on Rajasthani design was frequently noted as a distinct selling point. As one guest articulated, it is a place of “modernity and tradition and sharp taste.”