Whether it is the renowned history and cultural heritage, iconic art, immersive traditions, awe-inspiring culinary celebrations, or grand festivals, the enduring allure of India is certain to mesmerize travellers from far and wide. Whether visiting India for the first time or continuing their rendezvous with this pulsating land of megadiversity, there are several magical destinations offered by Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts across the country for the experience of a lifetime. Below are six enthralling reasons why India should be the next travel destination for everyone:
- Thrilling Adventures: Guests staying at The Leela Palace Kovalam in Kerala can intersperse time spent by the Arabian Sea with some adrenaline-thumping adventure sports. From the enchanting trekking routes of Ponmudi that provide panoramic views of Nilgiri Tahrs, to rafting in the backwaters of Poovar, there is something for every adventure seeker. They can also explore the vibrant biodiversity beneath the waves with a round of snorkeling or scuba diving, or go parasailing to take in the breathtaking views.
- Immersive History: Guests checking in at The Leela Palace New Delhi can surround themselves with curated tours of famous monuments in the Indian capital with historian Sohail Hashmi. This includes guided tours of the Qutub Minar, as well as pit stops at some of old Delhi’s most iconic foodie destinations. Guests can also soak in the sights and sounds of the Red Fort – from the ramparts of which the country celebrates its Independence Day – and take a road trip to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal.
- Monsoon Festival: Guests at The Leela Palace Jaipur can indulge in a riot of colors with peacocks dancing in the background as the Pink City welcomes monsoon with the spectacular Teej festival every August. A captivating hot air balloon ride is also a must-do activity to marvel over the golden sands and historic Rajputana forts and relics, as is a day tour of the historic heart of Jaipur comprising gravity-defying architecture and exquisite palaces.
- City of Lakes: One of the world’s most beautiful cities dotted with serene lakes, Udaipur offers guests staying at its eponymous Leela Palace the opportunity to witness vibrant dances and incredible arts and crafts at the World Living Heritage Festival – celebrated annually at the 500-year-old City Palace. The Leela Palace Udaipur is by itself a work of impeccable royal grandeur – featuring vibrant puppet paintings and intricately chiseled mirrors on the walls.
- Art-deco Experience: The art-deco interiors of The Leela Palace Bengaluru draw inspiration from the grand architectural style of the Royal Palace of Mysuru (Mysore), with its copper domes and ornate ceilings evoking the South Indian temple architecture of the 16th century. Guests can soak in the
nostalgic impressions of a bygone era with an Art Walk at the Palace, admiring the traditional as well as contemporary elements in its architectural style.
- Southern Melodies: Chennai is at the forefront of showcasing centuries-old South Indian music and art traditions, and that’s why guests staying at The Leela Palace Chennai must visit the Kalakshetra Dance Academy to witness awe-inspiring dance forms that tell a story like no other. Founded in 1936, the Academy focuses on traditional dance forms and music styles of the region, including traditional instruments like cymbals, drums, and flutes.
With an exciting and eclectic array of experiences to choose from, every visit to India is therefore a feast for the senses that travellers can enjoy from the luxurious comfort of The Leela Palaces spread across the country.