Summer Escapes: 5 Luxurious Getaways in India for the Perfect Holiday
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From the beachside luxury of Goa to the royal history of Udaipur, and the peace of the Ladakh mountains, India presents an ideal summer luxury escape
India is home to the most luxurious sights with stunning scenery, top-rated hotels, and memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat, a royal palace stay, or a scenic mountain escape, these destinations promise a lavish holiday filled with comfort, adventure, and exclusivity.
People tend to think of Goa as a winter holiday, yet it has its appeal in the summer if you know where to go. Starlit sky private beach dinners, yacht parties, all done in the style–and luxury gaming for which they are famous. The summer season is tranquil, so you have the opportunity to enjoy some of Goa's best offerings between guests, without any hustle and bustle. With poolside brunches, private sunset yacht cruises, and wellness retreats at some of the most glamorous hotels, Goa is the ideal destination for a decadent summer holiday.
Where to Stay:
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• Deltin Suites – A luxury offering, combining modern sophistication with the comforts of home. Guests can also visit Deltin Royale, a floating luxury entertainment destination, to enjoy live performances, fine dining, and premium gaming facilities.
• The Leela Goa – A grand beachfront resort with a sense of privacy and villa living, personal butler service, and an ambiance of serenity and grandeur.
• ITC Grand Goa – A grand, Indo-Portuguese style, hotel with views of lagoons and a five-star spa.
Best Time to Visit: March to September when beaches are less busy, and luxury properties provide special rates for the summer.
Shillong – A Refreshing Green Escape
Shillong is a serene city, green city in the Northeast. You can visit waterfalls, take a boat on Umiam Lake, or go shopping at local markets. It is often cool and comfortable weather so it's a good change from living in a big city. Those who appreciate music can go for the cafes that feature live performances and those who value the tranquillity of nature can go for a drive up to Cherrapunji or Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village.
Where to Stay:
• Ri Kynjai Resort – A lakeside resort with a peaceful environment.
• Vivanta Meghalaya, Shillong – A business hotel with good service.
• Polo Orchid Resort – A scenic stay near waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: May to September, when the hills are at their greenest, and the weather is refreshing.
Ladakh – Mountains and Peaceful Getaways
Ladakh is an excellent place to visit if you are a nature and mountain person. You can visit Pangong Lake, go to monasteries, or take a bike ride in the valleys. Due to the weather and high-altitude scenery, it is a unique experience. A ride through the Nubra Valley or a trip to Magnetic Hill is an added experience. There are a great number of excellent hotels and camps as well, with the comfort in this hilly area.
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Where to Stay:
• The Grand Dragon Ladakh – A cozy hotel with all modern amenities.
• Chamba Camp, Thiksey – One of the most luxurious camping options ever with stunning views.
• Ladakh Sarai Resort – A serene location to stay with cozy cottages.
Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the roads are open, the weather is clear, and adventure sports are at their best.
Udaipur – A Royal Summer Retreat
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is a scenic summer adventure that you can experience by taking the right kind of activity. Imagine spending a vacation in a heritage palace, a boat ride at golden hour, and having a private candlelight dinner under the stars at Lake Pichola. With its royal charm, Udaipur offers a luxury experience like no other.
Where to Stay:
• The Oberoi Udaivilas – A palace-inspired hotel with a lake-side resort.
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• Taj Lake Palace A hotel built in the middle of the lake.
• RAAS Devigarh – A heritage fort-turned-hotel with good hospitality.
Best Time to Visit: July to October, when the lake breeze is a summer enchantment.
Darjeeling – A Cozy Summer Retreat in the Hills
Darjeeling is an ideal spot for a peaceful holiday in the hills. You can take a ride on the Toy Train, go to tea gardens, or see the sunrise from Tiger Hill. The town has a combination of British houses, postcard views and good food. Enjoy a hot cup of locally grown Darjeeling tea at one of the tea gardens or go to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about mountaineering heroes.
Where to Stay:
• Glenburn Tea Estate – A tea plantation stays with a homey setting.
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• Mayfair Darjeeling – A good hotel with mountain views.
• The Elgin, Darjeeling- A heritage hotel in classic old-world style.
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Best Time to Visit: March to May, when the weather is clear, and you get the best views of the Kanchenjunga peaks.
All these places represent a combination of nature, history, and excellent hospitality. From the beachside luxury of Goa to the royal history of Udaipur, and the peace of the Ladakh mountains, India presents an ideal summer luxury escape. There's no better time than now, to organize your trip, enjoy luxury, and this year will be a memory maker!
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New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
May 05, 2025, 18:09 IST
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