Introduction
When you think of luxury travel in India, a stay at a high-end hotel is often more than just a place to sleep, it’s an experience. From opulent palaces on lakes to modern skyscraper-top suites, India’s most expensive hotels represent the pinnacle of hospitality. In this blog, we systematically explore the top 10 most expensive hotels in India per night, what makes them so costly, and why they remain bucket-list stays for wealthy travellers and global jet-setters.
We will answer several key questions, like Which hotel is most costly in India? Which is the world’s No 1 hotel in India? Which was the 1st luxurious hotel in India? and Which hotel is most expensive in Mumbai? while also giving you a complete look at 10 standout properties. We’ll cover aspects such as location, amenities, nightly rates, unique features, and who these hotels are ideal for.
Whether you’re researching a dreamy honeymoon, a milestone celebration, or simply curious about India’s ultra-luxury hospitality, this in-depth guide has got you covered.
Also Read: Top 20 Most Expensive Hotels in the World (2025-26)
Methodology: How We Chose the Top 10
Before diving into the list, here’s how we identified these hotels:
- We looked at rack rates and published per-night prices (for standard or deluxe suites) in peak season.
- We considered overall luxury quotient — architecture, heritage value, service, amenities (spa, pool, private butler, fine dining, views).
- We prioritized national and international reputation, guest reviews, and historical significance.
- We included a mix of heritage palaces, modern urban hotels, and coastal/ lakeside retreats to show diversity.
Because hotel pricing fluctuates with seasons, occupancy, and exchange rates, the ranking is indicative rather than absolute. Nonetheless, these 10 consistently rank among the most expensive hotels in India.
Top 10 Most Expensive Hotels in India
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Sprawled across 50 hectares on the banks of Lake Pichola, The Oberoi Udaivilas evokes the grandeur of a Rajput palace. The property features expansive lakeside suites, private jetties, manicured gardens, and sprawling pools. Its opulence — from marble flooring to hand-crafted furniture — justifies its steep per-night rates.
Typical Nightly Rate
During peak season, a deluxe lake-view room or a premier suite can cost upwards of INR 60,000–90,000 (sometimes more), placing it firmly among the “most expensive hotel in India per night”.
What Sets It Apart
- Stunning panoramic views of the lake and sunset.
- Private boat rides, personalized butler service, and fine dining under jasmine-lit pavilions.
- An ambience that combines royalty, privacy, and serene Himalayan-adjacent climate (cooler nights even in summer).
A stay at Oberoi Udaivilas offers a combination of romantic charm, regal grandeur, and world-class service that few hotels anywhere can match.
Taj Lake Palace
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Set in the middle of Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace is literally a “palace on the water.” Built in the 18th century as a royal summer palace for the Maharana of Udaipur, it now serves as one of India’s most iconic luxury hotels.
Typical Nightly Rate
Rooms and heritage suites often start around INR 55,000 and can soar past INR 85,000–1,00,000 for premium categories in peak season.
What Sets It Apart
- Arriving by boat — a grand welcome amid lake reflections and shimmering lights.
- Its timeless Mughal-Rajput architecture, antique décor, heritage paintings, and terraces that overlook serene water.
- Romantic ambiance especially at sunrise/sunset — often regarded as a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
For travelers wanting heritage luxury and old-world charm, Taj Lake Palace remains unbeatable.
Also Read: The Top 10 Most Expensive Houses in India: A Deep Dive into Luxury Real Estate
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Located just 600 meters from the mausoleum of Taj Mahal, Oberoi Amarvilas offers some of the most direct — and luxurious — views of one of the world’s most magnificent monuments. The hotel is designed such that almost every terrace or balcony faces the Taj, bathing the rooms in sunrise or moonlight hues.
Typical Nightly Rate
Premium rooms and suites range from INR 50,000 to 80,000+ in high season — reflecting its proximity to the Taj Mahal and the luxury it offers.
What Sets It Apart
- Spain-style courtyards, Mughal-inspired architecture, marble flooring, and opulent interiors.
- Personal butlers, candlelight dinners with Taj view, and spa treatments that reflect traditional wellness philosophies.
- The priceless advantage: wake up to the silhouette of the Taj — an experience money can’t truly price.
For history lovers and honeymooners alike, this hotel delivers unmatched romance and exclusivity.
The Leela Palace New Delhi
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Located in the upscale Chanakyapuri diplomatic enclave, Leela Palace Delhi blends traditional Indian architectural motifs with modern luxury. Lush gardens, marble exteriors, grand domes, chandeliers, and sprawling suites contribute to its top-tier pricing.
Typical Nightly Rate
Deluxe rooms often start around INR 28,000–35,000, but the luxurious suites and heritage-style rooms frequently cross INR 60,000–75,000 per night in peak season.
What Sets It Apart
- Spacious rooms with rich drapery, handcrafted furniture, and curated art.
- Renowned fine dining (Indian and global cuisines), exceptional spa, and butler-on-demand services.
- Proximity to central Delhi business districts, embassies, and major nightlife — makes it a favorite for high-profile travelers and corporate guests.
For those wanting urban luxury in the national capital, Leela Palace represents 5-star (and more) opulence at its finest.
The Oberoi Mumbai
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Set on the waterfront overlooking Marine Drive and the Arabian Sea, Oberoi Mumbai offers skyline and sea views, marble interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and unmatched service. It combines urban convenience with luxurious relaxation — a rare combination in a bustling metropolis like Mumbai.
Typical Nightly Rate
Rooms generally start around INR 30,000–40,000, while premium sea-view suites can go upwards of INR 70,000+. In peak season or during global conferences, prices can skyrocket further.
What Sets It Apart
- Magnificent sea and skyline views, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Five-star amenities: spa, infinity pool, restaurants offering multi-cuisine delicacies, and a calm, elegant ambiance despite city surroundings.
- Excellent access — close to business districts like Nariman Point, airports, and major city hubs.
For travelers wanting top-tier luxury in Mumbai’s heart, Oberoi Mumbai ranks among the most expensive hotel options — and is arguably a contender for the most expensive hotel in Mumbai.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive Cities in the India – Living Cost, Renting & Buying
The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
A legendary heritage hotel overlooking the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea, Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai combines colonial-era grandeur with modern luxury. With its iconic dome, sea-facing balconies, and rich legacy (hosting celebrities, dignitaries, royalty), its price reflects history as much as comfort.
Typical Nightly Rate
Luxury rooms and sea-facing suites commonly cost between INR 35,000 and 65,000; heritage suites and premium suites during lean or festive seasons sometimes go above INR 75,000–80,000+.
What Sets It Apart
- Historic architecture, period furniture, and timeless elegance — it’s one of the city’s oldest luxury hotels.
- Panoramic sea views, five-star amenities, multiple fine-dining restaurants, and central access near Colaba and tourist zones.
- A mix of old-world charm and modern comfort; it’s a favorite for both foreign travelers and Indian high-net-worth guests.
For many, a stay here isn’t just a hotel visit — it’s living a chapter of Mumbai’s history.
The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra – Pool Wing Suite (Premium Pool Wing / Princely Suites)
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Within the same property as #3 on this list, the Pool Wing Suites — sometimes referred as “Princely Suites” — offer added privacy, personalized butler service, private plunge pools, and even more lavish interiors. These are often the most expensive rooms across all Oberoi properties in India.
Typical Nightly Rate
Such exclusive suites can easily cross INR 90,000–1,20,000 per night in peak periods.
What Sets It Apart
- Privacy and exclusivity: separate wing, private pool or plunge pool, bespoke service.
- Interiors combining Mughal-era opulence with modern luxury — marble, plush fabrics, antique décor.
- Direct view of the Taj Mahal from the suite balcony or lake view, depending on orientation.
For discerning travelers seeking the ultimate Taj-view palace experience, this remains among the costliest stays — and arguably the priciest suite accommodation in India.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive Cities in the World – Living Costs, Renting & Buying
Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
This property blends modern architecture with lush landscaping, offering serene luxury amidst India’s “Silicon Valley.” High-end finishes, spacious rooms, executive club lounges, rooftop pool, and premium services make it stand out.
Typical Nightly Rate
Standard rooms may start around INR 25,000–30,000, but executive suites and high-end club rooms can reach INR 50,000–70,000 depending on demand.
What Sets It Apart
- Calm, green surroundings — a retreat from the city’s bustle while being close to business hubs.
- Outstanding service, modern amenities (spa, health club, rooftop pool), and international cuisine options.
- Ideal for business travelers, expatriates, and global guests looking for comfort and convenience in a modern Indian metropolis.
Though not heritage-based, the Four Seasons brand’s global luxury pedigree and high-end design make it a top contender among India’s priciest urban hotels.
JW Marriott Resort & Spa Goa
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
This coastal luxury resort sits amidst lush tropical landscaping, offering villas, suites, lagoon-style pools, spa, beach access, and tranquil surroundings — which command a premium price in a relaxed beach destination like Goa.
Typical Nightly Rate
Luxury suites and villas often start around INR 35,000–45,000, but during peak tourist season (winter, New Year, Christmas) they can escalate to INR 60,000–80,000 per night.
What Sets It Apart
- Beach-side tranquility with resort-style amenities — pools, spa, gardens, and laid-back luxury.
- A blend of Goan coastal charm and global five-star hospitality standards.
- A perfect getaway for couples, families, or those looking to combine relaxation with indulgence.
For a high-end coastal stay in India, this resort ranks among the priciest — especially when demand surges in peak season.
The Leela Palace Udaipur
Why It’s Among the Most Expensive
Perched on the banks of Lake Pichola and surrounded by Aravalli hills, Leela Palace Udaipur blends palatial grandeur with modern luxury. Grand corridors, chandeliers, marble floors, heritage-inspired interiors, and lake-view balconies make this hotel a high-end destination.
Typical Nightly Rate
Rooms often begin around INR 30,000–40,000; premium suites and heritage-style accommodations frequently cross INR 55,000–75,000 per night, especially during peak tourist season.
What Sets It Apart
- Lake-view balconies, evening lake serenades, and access to boat rides.
- Sophisticated interiors with a royal touch — combining Rajput-Mughal aesthetics with five-star comfort.
- Calm ambiance, panoramic views, and easy access to Udaipur’s historic sites — ideal for travelers craving heritage luxury.
As a five-star palace-style hotel, Leela Palace Udaipur rounds out the list — giving travelers another premium option in the lakeside city.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Beautiful Houses in the World in 2025 | Housiey
Which Hotel is Most Costly in India?
If we examine per-night rates, exclusivity, and overall luxury, the crown typically goes to The Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur) or premium suites at The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra). The latter’s Pool Wing Suites sometimes cross the INR 1,20,000 mark — making them arguably the most costly hotel rooms in India.
However, because hotel pricing fluctuates with demand and seasonality, “most costly” might shift depending on the time of year or room category. Still, these Oberoi properties consistently top the charts.
Which is the World’s No 1 Hotel in India?
If we interpret “World’s No 1 hotel in India” as a property boasting global standards, five-star amenities, unmatched service, and international acclaim, then The Oberoi Udaivilas stands out for its grandeur, settings, and service. Likewise, The Leela Palace New Delhi and Taj Lake Palace Udaipur are often regarded among the finest luxury hotels in India by global travel authorities and travelers alike.
That said — there’s no single universally accepted “No 1” hotel; preferences depend on what you value: heritage, privacy, view, location, or service.
Which was the First Luxurious Hotel in India?
The concept of luxury hotels in India dates back to the colonial era. Among the earliest hotels offering premium accommodation were colonial-style grand hotels established by British or Indian royalty in major cities or port towns.
Many historians suggest that early luxury accommodations in India began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in cities like Mumbai (then Bombay) and Kolkata (then Calcutta), catering to British officials and wealthy travelers. While exact records are patchy, heritage hotels that began operations in that era may be considered the first luxurious hotels. Over time, these evolved into modern-day 5-star and palace-style luxury stays.
Are There 7 Star Hotel in India?
The notion of a “7 star hotel in India” is more of a marketing or colloquial term than a formal classification. Officially, luxury hotels in India are classed up to 5-star or “5-star deluxe.”
Some hotels — often those with extra-luxurious amenities, palatial architecture, or ultra-premium suites — are informally labelled as “7 star” by travel marketers or guests because of their exceptional luxury. However, there is no officially recognized “7 star hotel in India” under any national or global hotel classification. Even the most opulent hotels follow 5-star (deluxe) standards.
Therefore, while you may hear people refer to a 7-star hotel in India, it remains a colloquial expression rather than an official designation.
Is There a 5 Star Hotel in India Worth Its Price?
Absolutely. All the hotels listed above — especially The Leela Palace New Delhi, The Oberoi Mumbai, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, JW Marriott Goa, and Leela Palace Udaipur — classify as 5 star hotel in India (or 5-star deluxe) and deliver value for their cost. Their world-class amenities, prime locations, fine dining, spa services, and personalized hospitality make them worth the price for travelers seeking luxury.
If you want urban convenience plus comfort and elegance, these 5-star hotels provide exactly that.
What Makes a Hotel Expensive in India? — Key Factors
To understand why these hotels command high nightly rates, we need to consider several contributing factors:
- Location & Surroundings
Hotels near iconic landmarks (like the Taj Mahal), lakes, or sea-facing views — or in major metropolitan areas — are naturally more expensive. Waterfront, heritage, or heritage-style properties add value automatically.
- Heritage & Architecture
Palaces, old royal estates, or buildings with historical significance tend to cost more due to preservation, architecture, and exclusivity.
- Amenities & Services
Private butlers, fine-dining restaurants, spa and wellness centers, private pools/jettys, personalized experiences (e.g. boat rides, private lawns, sunset dinners) contribute substantially to cost.
- Seasonality & Demand
Peak tourist seasons, holidays, and global travel trends drive hotel prices up. Some hotels almost double their rates during festivals or high-demand periods.
- Exclusivity & Privacy
Fewer rooms, private villas or suites, secluded dress code, and curated guest experience increase demand among affluent travelers and elevate pricing.
- Brand Reputation & Global Standards
International standards — like 24/7 concierge, in-house fine dining, wellness spas, elite staff ratios — make hotels attractive to global clientele, enhancing perceived value and cost.
Comparative Analysis: Urban vs Heritage vs Resort Luxury
| Type of Hotel | Strengths | Limitations / Who It’s Not For |
| Urban Luxury Hotels (e.g. Oberoi Mumbai, Leela Delhi, Four Seasons Bengaluru) | Easy access to city centers, business districts, airports; modern amenities; convenience | May lack heritage, natural surroundings — less romantic or retreat-like |
| Heritage / Palace Hotels (e.g. Oberoi Udaivilas, Taj Lake Palace, Leela Palace Udaipur) | Rich history, architecture, scenic views — ideal for romantic stays or heritage lovers | Higher cost, may require travel to remote locales, limited nightlife or city conveniences |
| Resort / Coastal Hotels & Villas (e.g. JW Marriott Goa) | Relaxed vibe, beach or nature access, resort-style leisure — ideal for vacations | Remote location may mean longer travel; seasonal weather may affect availability |
Depending on what you seek — business travel, romantic getaway, heritage dive, or beach retreat — you may choose accordingly. The top 10 give you a spread across all these categories.
Which Hotel is Most Expensive in Mumbai?
Mumbai, being India’s financial capital and a major tourist destination, hosts some of the priciest hotels. Among those, The Oberoi Mumbai and The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai stand out. The Oberoi, with its sea-facing suites and skyline views, often demands the highest nightly rates in the city — especially for its premium or sea-view suites. Therefore, one could argue that Oberoi Mumbai is the most expensive hotel in Mumbai at a given time.
That said, during festivals, events, or high demand — suites at Taj Mahal Palace may match or exceed those rates, depending on how packed the city is.
Are These Hotels Worth the Price? — Who Should Stay Here?
Yes, but it depends on what you want:
- If you are celebrating a milestone — wedding anniversary, honeymoon, milestone birthday — and want privacy, romance, and royal-level service, heritage/palace hotels like Oberoi Udaivilas, Taj Lake Palace, or Oberoi Amarvilas make sense.
- If you are on business travel or want comfort and convenience in a city, urban luxury like Leela Delhi, Oberoi Mumbai, or Four Seasons Bengaluru delivers value.
- If you want a relaxing getaway — a beach vacation or a resort-style retreat — coastal or resort properties such as JW Marriott Goa give premium beachfront or lagoon-style luxury.
- If you appreciate heritage, architecture, and legacy, staying in a palace-converted hotel adds intangible value — memories, stories, and unmatched aesthetics — often justifying the steep price.
For many, a single night in one of these hotels becomes a lifetime memory — which is why such stays continue to remain in demand despite high costs.
Are “7 Star Hotels in India” Real — Or Just a Marketing Gimmick?
As highlighted earlier: the designation “7-star hotel in India” is not official. Indian hotel classification typically goes up to 5-star or “5-star deluxe.” When travelers refer to a 7-star hotel, they usually mean a hotel whose amenities, opulence, and exclusivity — in their personal experience — felt beyond standard five-star expectations.
Some ultra-luxury suites in top hotels may offer such high levels of personalized service and grandeur that guests informally call them “7-star.” But officially — there is no recognized 7-star hotel in India.
Therefore, if a hotel is marketing itself as “7-star in India,” it is more of a promotional claim or branding exercise, not an official hotel classification.
What is a “5 Star Hotel in India” And How These Fit In
All the hotels mentioned above, including those in heritage palaces and modern skyscrapers, fall under the broader umbrella of “5 star hotel in India” (or 5-star deluxe). This rating typically indicates top-tier amenities, service levels, staff-to-guest ratio, cleanliness, and hospitality standards.
These hotels meet and often exceed such standards — from fine dining, spa and wellness centers, concierge services, luxury linens, and high-quality breakfasts — making them genuinely worthy of their star rating.
For travelers wanting reliable luxury, comfort, and world-class services, choosing one of these hotels ensures a stay that lives up to — or even surpasses — expectations.
Hidden Gems: When to Visit & What to Ask (for Best Value)
If you plan to stay in one of these hotels without paying over-the-top prices, here are smart strategies:
- Travel in shoulder seasons (just before or after peak tourist months) — you may find steep discounts.
- Book mid-week instead of weekends — often cheaper due to lower demand.
- Request non-peak or “garden view” / “city-view” rooms instead of lake or sea view — still luxurious but more budget-friendly.
- Watch for package deals — some hotels offer bundled stays with dining, spa, or sightseeing, which may reduce overall cost per value.
- Book well in advance — especially during festivals or holidays, when hotels raise rates or get fully booked early.
Using these strategies can make a luxury stay more accessible — while still giving you much of the opulence and service you expect.
Conclusion
India’s luxury hospitality landscape is diverse and opulent, from regal lakeside palaces to modern skyscraper suites, beach resorts to heritage havens. The hotels covered in this blog, from The Oberoi Udaivilas and Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, to Oberoi Amarvilas near the Taj Mahal, Leela Palace New Delhi, Oberoi Mumbai, Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, Four Seasons Bengaluru, JW Marriott Goa, and Leela Palace Udaipur, represent the topmost echelon of cost, luxury, and experience.
If you want the very best India has to offer in hospitality, whether for romance, celebration, business, or a dream vacation, these are among the few hotels that truly deliver. With their unmatched amenities, breathtaking views, and world-class service, they stand out not just as places to stay, but as destinations in themselves.
At Housiey, we believe experiences matter. If you loved this deep dive into India’s most expensive hotels, you’ll enjoy reading our blog on “mbappe house”, where we explore high-end residential opulence with the same depth and detail.
We invite you to check out that blog next for an equally engaging journey into the world of luxury living.
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