New Secrets of Kashmir

Chonor House — Dharamshala

Located steps away from the Thekchen Chöling Temple (the private residence of the Dalai Lama), Chonor House is as convenient as it is evocative of its surroundings. Built and run by the Norbulingka Istitute, which is dedicated to preserving traditional Tibetan customs, this eleven-room boutique hotel is decorated with striking murals and locally crafted furniture and textiles. Each well-appointed room has its own unique Tibetan theme, ranging from historic regions to traditional tales to local flora and fauna. It’s almost like sleeping in a museum of Tibetan culture, but with excellent service. The hotel’s Hummingbird Restaurant offers fine international cuisine and magnificent views of the Himalayas.

Hotel Eagle's Nest — Dharamshala

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains and surrounded by forests of cedar and oak, Hotel Eagle’s Nest is a tranquil retreat where guests are treated like family. Each of the eight cozy rooms is individually decorated with antiques and artifacts in a regional motif. This secluded inn is reached via a 20-minute drive from Dharamsala, followed by a 15-minute hike through the forest (guides and porters provided). The landscape is rich in bird and animal life, and the hotel takes care to tread softly and use sustainable practices. Drinking water comes from a local spring, and water for bathing is heated by solar power.

Hyatt Amritsar — Amritsar

Just 10 minutes from the famed Golden Temple, the 5-star Hyatt Amritsar offers contemporary luxury in the heart of the city. The elegant guest rooms are well equipped with ergonomic beds, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Other hotel features include two in-house restaurants serving international cuisine, 24-hour concierge service, and a premium spa offering a range of traditional treatments.

JW Marriott — New Delhi

Located near the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the JW Marriot Hotel New Delhi Aerocity combines accessibility with luxury. Its spacious rooms are among the largest in the city and feature opulent details such as featherbeds and marble bathrooms. On-site amenities include a full-service spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and seven restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

Pahalgam Hotel — Pahalgam

Dating back to 1931, the historic Pahalgam Hotel is set on the banks of the ice-blue Lidder River and conveniently close to the main market. The 20 suites and 25 well-appointed double bedrooms are homey and comfortable, giving the hotel a reputation for rejuvenation. Guests enjoy warm, personalized service, complimentary high tea, and breathtaking views of the river and snow-capped mountains.

Serkong House — Dharamshala

Enjoy the warmth of Tibetan hospitality and get a true taste of Tibetan heritage at Serkong House. Centrally located behind the main square in McLeod Ganj, this friendly, well-maintained hotel is close to everything, yet still quiet and peaceful. More recently built and somewhat simpler in style than Chonor House, this hotel is also run by the Norbulingka Istitute and shares its commitment to traditional culture. The 15 rooms—many offering spectacular views of the Kangra valley—are bright, spacious, and beautifully accented with furnishings and textiles handmade by the Norbulingka craftsmen.

Taj Mahal Hotel — Delhi

At the heart of New Delhi, lies, arguably, the most distinguished address in India's capital. On Number One Mansingh Road stands a tribute to timeless hospitality and service, complementing the broad boulevards and leafy splendour of Delhi's chief architect, Edwin Lutyens. Its proximity to the seat of government, the city's diplomatic corps and business district has furthered The Taj Mahal Hotel's reputation as the epicenter of Delhi. Indeed, it is the one address, visiting dignitaries and heads of state prefer, given its stateliness and security, its original culinary innovations, and the air of quiet, restrained luxury that permeates every aspect of a visitor's stay. Central to The Taj Mahal Hotel's prominence is its old-world grace and charm, blended effortlessly with contemporary comforts and amenities. In its unique blend of warmth and welcome and assiduous attention to service, The Taj Mahal Hotel is a true ambassador of the Taj hospitality experience.

Vivanta by Taj — Srinagar

Vivanta by Taj Srinagar is a five-star luxury resort offering modern comfort with stylish touches of traditional Kashmiri design. Perched on a hillside overlooking jewel-like Dal Lake and cradled by the majestic Zabarwan Mountains, it’s the perfect base for exploring the delights of Srinagar. Bedrooms feature rain showers with separate bathtubs and private balconies with mountain or lake views. Two restaurants and a tea lounge serve up imaginative cuisine along with epic scenery. There’s also a fitness center and a gorgeous lake-view infinity pool.