From the outside, India is a place of legend and myth, of marble palaces and desert forts, of sacred rivers and soaring peaks, of spice-scented bazaars and festivals awash in colour. But anyone who has visited knows that the country’s true allure lies deeper. This is a place where hospitality is almost holy, where greeting a guest is an art in itself, and where every journey is a celebration of the country’s singular history, artistry and natural splendour. To be welcomed in this spirit is to encounter India at its most authentic; and at The Leela, this timeless philosophy comes to life in some of the country’s most extraordinary destinations.

One might travel through time, for instance, and discover the majesty of India’s royal heritage at The Leela Palace properties in New Delhi, Jaipur and Udaipur. In the capital, the princely Leela Palace New Delhi rises in the heart of the Diplomatic Enclave, its façade drawing on the classic architecture of Lutyens’ Delhi and its interiors invoking centuries of Indian art and craftsmanship through more than 14,000 hand-selected pieces, such as Satish Gupta’s monumental Devi sculpture in the gardens. The guest rooms, too, feature fine furnishings, textiles and artwork, with a number of suites pairing private plunge pools and sweeping city panoramas to provide a decidedly royal experience. 

In Rajasthan, the unique artistry, traditions and regal spirit of the region speak through every detail at The Leela Palace Jaipur, from its marble corridors inlaid with parchin kari to its shimmering mirrorwork and elaborate frescoes that chronicle the glories of bygone eras. The convergence of Rajputana and Mughal influences is clear to see in the ornate pavilions and manicured courtyards that play host to folk performances and musical events, as well as in the lavishly appointed private villas with their secluded, leafy courtyards and terraces. 

At The Leela Palace Udaipur, by contrast, Rajasthan reaches its most romantic heights – beginning with the arrival by boat to this palatial resort, whose intricate chhatris and jharokhas are reflected in the still waters of Lake Pichola. The swoon-worthy lakeside setting holds sway over nearly every experience here, whether it’s a relaxing treatment beneath the canopy of a tent suite at The Spa, or a world-class dinner of fine Indian fare on the chequered terrace of Sheesh Mahal.

A different style of resplendence can be found at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, where striking Vijayanagara-inspired architecture meets the energy of a modern Indian city. Though it’s just minutes from the central business district, and offers a taste of cosmopolitan life in its sophisticated on-site dining and nightlife venues, the hotel is also ensconced in three hectares of luxuriant gardens, courtyards, pools and lagoons that set the scene for a true urban retreat.  

Finally, continuing further south to Tamil Nadu, The Leela Palace Chennai is a gateway to the cultural wealth and culinary traditions of the region, from its Chettinad-inspired architecture overlooking the Bay of Bengal to its signature local experiences – like excursions to the bustling markets of Mylapore, where fresh produce and local spices provide fragrant inspiration for a cooking masterclass with the hotel’s seasoned chefs.

Rooted in the timeless Indian philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava, each stay with The Leela Palace, Hotels and Resorts is shaped by a graciousness that anticipates rather than simply fulfils. From royal palaces to forest sanctuaries, discover an India rich in heritage, alive with possibility and deeply rewarding to experience.

The Leela Palace New Delhi, The Leela Palace Jaipur, The Leela Palace Udaipur, The Leela Palace  Bengaluru and The Leela Palace Chennai are part of Fine Hotels + Resorts. For more information or to make a booking, please contact your Centurion Travel Service.