10 Most Gorgeous Heritage Properties for Your Destination Wedding

Taj Faluknama Palace, Hyderabad

The 32-acre, hilltop estate that was the erstwhile home of the Nizam of Hyderabad is one of the most opulent properties in the country. The neo-Palladian palace is furnished in late-Victorian style, with much attention to detail—burnished wood and leather interiors, grandiose chandeliers and vintage furniture. The expansive gardens with trees and fountains offer beautiful views of old Hyderabad.

Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

The most luxurious address in the Pink City, the Rambagh Palace was built in 1835 and has served as a hunting lodge, a royal guest house and also as the residence of the queen’s favourite hand-maiden. Restored to its yesteryear glory and run by the Taj Group of Hotels, the property boasts of well-appointed rooms and suites. The intricately carved marble facade, the elaborately manicured gardens, the opulently furnished interiors make it an oasis of luxury in the midst of an urban city. 

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Part of the residence of the current Maharaja of Jodhpur, Gaj Singh, has been turned into a luxury hotel and is run by the Taj Group. It was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh, who got Edwardian architect Henry Lanchester to design it. After 13 years of extensive work the palace was unveiled in 1942 as the sixth largest private residence in the world. A 20-minutes drive from the old city of Jodhpur, the palace offers some fabulous views, the best of Rajasthani as well as world cuisines and excellent hospitality.

Gajner Palace Bikaner

The lakeside palace, located near a  forest, about 30 kms away from Bikaner was the hunting lodge of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner. It was converted into a heritage hotel in 1976. The property has hosted the likes of Prince of Wales and Lord Mountbatten, who’ve taken part in hunts here. The 13 suites in the palace replete with grand four poster beds, vintage wallpapers and antique art works, offer a slew of modern amenities to the guests.

The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Situated on the lake, the stunning property has been featured in many Bollywood movies and has played host to many A-list celebrity weddings. The opulent marble and sandstone structure is a testimony to the fine Rajasthani craftsmanship and Oberoi’s modern practicality--it offers the best of both the worlds.  

The Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar

Located near Dal Lake, the summer home of the erstwhile rulers of Jammu & Kashmir, the Lalit Grand Palace, gives you sweeping views of the breathtakingly beautiful mountains. This heritage property offers guests a chance to experience the royal Kahmiri culture. When here, take a walk down the vast gardens, go for a shikara ride to catch the sunset or just enjoy the sights of Dal Lake from your room while sipping your favourite wine.    

The Imperial Delhi

Built in 1931, The Imperial Delhi is a living legacy of the British rule. It’s magnificent structure, art-laden corridors and well-appointed rooms take you back in time to the halcyon days of Britishers in India while offering all modern amenities and comfort. Visit the hotel to take a look at the staggering collection of colonial and post-colonial objets d’art that it houses. 

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

This palatial hotel located in the heart of Chennai takes inspiration from the region’s longest-ruling dynasty, the Cholas. Its grand entrances, hand-carved pillars and columns and sweeping staircases bring back memories of the imposing South Indian palaces. Dubbed as the third largest hotel in the country, the property has 600 guest rooms, suites and serviced apartments, 10 restaurants and the Kaya Kalp spa.

Oberoi Cecil Shimla

The Oberoi Cecil looks like a place straight out of a fairytale. Located in the hill station of Shimla amidst a thick forest of pine woods, the place is soaked in colonial charm and gives you an opportunity to press the pause button in the midst of modern chaos. Built in the 1880s, the hotel has preserved its authentic British look and feel. The hotel houses a spa, restaurant, swimming pool, fitness centre, and other modern conveniences.

Ahilya Fort, Maheshwar

Ahilyabai Holkar, the legendary 18th-century Maratha queen’s former palace, the Ahilya Fort is now a chic 13-room Relais & Châteaux-affiliated hotel. Located on the banks of river Narmada, atop a hilltop, the fort-palace in Maheshwar still serves food cooked using the Holkar’s ancient family recipes. Away from the hustle bustle of city life, the property gives you a sneak peek into the royal life of the Maratha rulers of yore.