India
India is a kaleidoscope of colours and contradictions. Channeling its raw, boundless energy is no small task, but the experts at Gray & Co know where to find the perfect luxury balance between drama and tranquility. From remote desert dunes to jungle reserves, centuries-old temples, and Raj-era palaces, India offers both peace and delight.
Northern Rajasthan’s exotic cities of Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur were once small, independent kingdoms, and remain filled with the grandeur of a bygone era. In blue-hued Jodhpur, the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a former royal residence set on 26 acres, impresses with its history and elegance.
Equally compelling is the ultra-contemporary RAAS Jodhpur, located in the heart of the Old Town. For a spin on two-wheels, head to the nearby RAAS Devigarh, a palace-turned-retreat nestled in the Aravalli Hills, India’s oldest mountain range. Cycle past pilgrims on their way to sacred rites before ending your day with an evening of yoga in the birthplace of the practice. In nearby Udaipur, kayak around the palace on Lake Pichola, made famous by Jame Bond’s “Octopussy” before finding sanctuary at Oberoi Udai Villas.
In Jaipur, the Mughal-inspired Amanbagh, a former royal tiger-hunting ground, serves as a base for exploring both the Amber Fort and the region’s ecologically rich hiking trails. The resort’s organic garden provides fresh ingredients for dishes that celebrate Northern India’s flavors.
For the safari inclined, head from Jaipur to the jungles of Ranthambore to track elusive tigers on foot. SUJÁN Sher Bagh transports you to the glamorous 1920s, evoking the romance of living under canvas whilst on safari in India’s most celebrated Tiger Reserve. Closer to Jodhpur, the leopards at SUJÁN Jawai private concession are the stars as they roam freely among the grasslands and winding sand riverbeds. Game drive in the morning and come afternoon walk among the region’s 300-plus temples.
Beyond Rajasthan, more of India’s iconic sights await. The medieval fortress city of Jaisalmar on the edge of the Rajasthan’s vast Thar Desert features camel rides to the oasis of SUJÁN The Serai. Stay at the the Oberoi Amarvilas for unmatched views of the Taj Mahal. In Varanasi, a river boat cruise on the Ganges pairs perfectly with a stay at the Taj Nadesar Palace. And for those seeking high alpine adventure, the Himalayas offer new retreats in Ladakh and neighboring Sikkim, unveiling a world of breathtaking trekking and natural beauty that’s perfectly reached via private jet.
