HERITAGE

MAKING RETREAT

Plot your escape with our quick overview of 18 unique properties across the country in stunning locales spanning hills, jungles, seaside, lakes and more...

Alila Fort Bishangarh

This 18th-century fort-turned-hotel has a lot going for it, and its location is top notch. Towering high above the town of Bishangarh, the hotel overlooks a wide expanse of fields, with spectacular sunset views. Nestled in the Aravallis just an hour away from Jaipur, this hotel offers an immersive experience of rural Rajasthan even as it indulges you with fancy infinity pools and general decadence. Feast on Rajput hunter cuisine under the stars at Nazaara, the open-air diner, and stretch those achy muscles at the dreamy Alila Spa. The hotel dishes out an array of tailor-made experiences, including Rajasthani Rasoda Masterclasses and a peek into local culture through a curated tour. www.alilahotels.com

The Tamara Kodai

Up in the misty mountains in Tamil Nadu, this luxury heritage resort dates back to the 1840s. It was originally called Baynes Bungalow after its owner, a British High Court judge, and was later used as a rest house for the priests of Nagapattinam. The regal suites open out to surreal views of lush valleys, and the restaurants (La Providence and Bistro 1845) whip up delicious food and drinks from around the world. And if you’re looking for an action-packed vacay, the hotel has you sorted with trekking, forest road cycling, archery and spooky cemetery walks. www.thetamara.com

Deogarh Mahal

A few hours from Udaipur, this little-known town is a former Mewar feudal estate and its crowning glory is this 17th-century family residence of Rawat Dwarka Das, its erstwhile ruler. Converted into a quaint heritage hotel, a part of which is still occupied by the family, this property takes you back in time with its lavish courtyards and miniature paintings. You can choose from 50 elegant rooms spanning royal suites, deluxe suites, studio suites and deluxe rooms, and a range of activities such as birdwatching, village walks and picnics in the countryside. www.deogarhmahal.com