Six Sense Fort Barwara, Rajasthan
A beautiful 14th-century fort was sensitively converted into a Six Senses sanctuary of well-being. Originally owned by a Rajasthani royal family, it faces the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir temple. Conservation efforts such as rewilding the forest to the east with native species and reviving the Barwara lake have transformed this fort into a beacon of luxury, with 48 suites. Two heritage temples have been retained within the fort's walls, which are now replete with sustainable measures such as water conservation through an internal bottling plant, using locally grown organic produce and showcasing local handicrafts by employing artisans that stay in the vicinity.
Tamara Coorg, Karnataka
Lush greenery, plantations of the most aromatic coffee, cardamom and pepper, beautiful streams, and gushing waterfalls come together at Tamara Coorg, spanning 180 acres and located over 3,500 feet above sea level. At Tamara, you will experience nature and luxury at its best as you wake up to breathtaking views, disturbed only by the chirping birds and the rustle of leaves. Indulge in many uniquely curated experiences and nature-based activities such as Forest Therapy, Trekking, The Plantation Tour, Yoga and Meditation and Blossom to brew - Brew your coffee blend and carry it home as a gift, or choose to savour your cup right there. As the calm wind blows through the lush environs, make sure to sip a cool drink by the pool after an invigorating evening at the fitness centre or a relaxing afternoon at the Elevation spa.
Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Parwanoo and surrounded by Shivalik ranges in Himachal Pradesh, Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort offers a one-of-its-kind wellness experience. Located at 5000 ft. above sea level, surrounded by Shivalik ranges, this luxury wellness resort is replete with state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to enriching physical and spiritual health, beauty and well-being. The beautifully laid-out resort features a 70,000 square feet spa that offers a mix of Indian and western therapies and many outdoor activities like mountain bicycling, zipline, archery, and Burma Bridge, among others.
Kaner Retreat, Rajasthan
While Sam sand dunes have been the go-to destinations for most, the Thar desert has much more in store on its undulating territory. Two hours drive from Jodhpur takes you to Kaner Retreat, touted to be India&rsquos first botanical retreat, where the desert is the inspiration for everything - from the food to the exquisite architecture. The villas are made of locally sourced stone from the mines in the region, and the meals are made with locally-sourced produce. The villas also feature commissioned botanical art that aims to document rare desert plants. Situated next to an &ldquooran,&rdquo a sacred grove which supports the local pastoral life and offers a chance to go on a foraging/botanical walk on a winter morning, learning more about desert microhabitats.
Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel, Goa
Once an armed fortress that belonged to the Portuguese, travellers to Fort Tiracol can now spend their leisure days enjoying the kaleidoscopic view of the Arabian Sea from atop a cliff. At the same time, the property nestles close to the estuary of the Tiracol River. The heritage property offers a mix of history and luxury to discerning travellers. The seven newly renovated rooms and suites, tastefully designed with unique Portuguese and contemporary interiors, are named after the seven days of the week Enjoy splendid Portuguese modern architecture and a 17th-century church in the middle of a beautiful courtyard.
Mary Budden Estate, Uttarakhand
Nestled in breathtaking untouched surroundings, Mary Budden Estate is one of the last virgin expanses of wilderness in the Himalayas. A 19th-century property originally owned by Ms Mary Budden herself, it was first converted into a school for local orphans and now is a retreat that offers luxury amidst a rustic setting. From logwood fireplaces, stone patios, and hand-picked antique furniture to vast mountain views, private dining and drawing rooms, every experience at Mary Budden takes you deep into Kumaoni culture.
Chunnambar Boathouse, Tamil Nadu
While the beaches of Puducherry are the cynosure of the territory, staying at the Chunnambar Boathouse allows you to swap the city life experiences for a journey to the backwaters. Book a treehouse at the coast and take a ferry down to Paradise beach, where you can spend hours perfecting a sand castle or just strolling down the coast. Adrenaline-pumping water sports, beach activities, and rental accommodations add to the Chunnambar boathouse's beauty. The houseboat cruise at Chunnambar takes you past stunning paddy fields and villages while offering a chance to witness playful dolphins in their natural environment.
